Are you an educator looking for a good summer read?
Throughout the school year I post recommendations for children’s books that I love and that will fit the curriculum or get kids excited about reading.
But with summer upon us, it’s time to share some of my very favourite reads for grown-ups! (although these books are also great for highschool readers). Is there anything better than to curl up with a good book? And the best books will have you so enthralled that you don’t even notice how much you learn while you read!
Bibliophile, An Illustrated Miscellany by Jane Mount is for booklovers of all ages. A lusciously illustrated book of 224 pages, this book celebrates all things biblio. Filled with fascinating facts and interesting information. You will recognize favourite authors and titles, find out about ones you never read yet, read about unique libraries and bookstores and find many great facts. The illustrations alone will make you fall in love with books all over again.
ISBN 978-1-4521-6723-7, Chronicle Books

The best read I can recommend to you for summer is The Seven Sisters series by Lucinda Riley. Amazingly, these books are not yet very well known in North America but all the rage in Europe. “50 million copies sold world-wide” states the final title in the 8 part series. Each book highlights one of seven adopted sisters as they trace their origins. Each reaches a different continent while meeting their ancestors through back flashes.
These fascinating stories seamlessly combine fiction with historical fiction and nonfiction. Many of the characters are actually real – sometimes well known, historical figures. The books take place in different era’s and in different cultures. I loved learning about Aboriginal artists in Australia, about life in Ireland, in Brazil and many other places.
The stories are well researched and skillfully written. The 8th and final book ties all stories together, explaining the family’s background and ties to mythology.
Lucinda Riley’s website complements the books with videos and information: https://lucindariley.co.uk/seven-sisters-series/
Happy summer reading!
Margriet Ruurs is a Canadian author who conducts school visits at International Schools around the world. Book now for the new school year: www.margrietruurs.com