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Looking for your next great read to pack in your beach bag as you lounge under an umbrella? Or perhaps you simply need a page-turner to flip while sipping lemonade on the patio? Either way, these five books have a little something for everyone when it comes to summer reading in the Hudson Valley.
The Bulgarian Training Manual
Ruth Bonapace
Fiction
Price: $18.95
Find it on: Amazon or Barnes & Noble
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Kingston resident Ruth Bonapace surprises readers with this novel that seeks to inspire self-improvement and joy in readers. The story follows protagonist Tina as her ordinary life in New Jersey is turned around after discovering a mysterious book. Akin to a modern-day Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz, Tina is quickly swept off on a wild journey of self-discovery and friendship in this book that Elle included on its list of best new books to read this summer.
Franklin’s Trees
A.J. Schenkman
Children’s book
Price: $19.95
Find it on: Amazon or Barnes & Noble
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Who says kids can’t read for fun, too? This picture book by A.J. Schenkman takes place in the Hudson Valley – more specifically at Franklin D. Roosevelt’s historic home in Hyde Park. Introducing children to the former president’s love of nature, Franklin’s Trees also teaches about FDR’s impact on our country and the historical context surrounding his decisions. From planting over a million trees on his estate to the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps, even kids who aren’t too big on history will be absorbed by this verdant and informative story.
Hello, Higher Self
Bunny Michael
Self-help
Price: $25.86
Find it on: Amazon or Barnes & Noble
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Hudson Valley-based author Bunny Michael addresses everything from insecurities to self-doubt in their new self-help book, Hello, Higher Self. Michael dishes out advice from the perspective of an outsider, having experienced this position first-hand while being a newcomer in an art world dominated by social media and coming to terms with their queer identity. Get in touch with your higher self and learn to love yourself more as you navigate the tough world with this read.
Out There: A Camper Cookbook
Lee Kalpakis
Cookbook
Price: $22.32
Find it on: Amazon or Barnes & Noble
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From her camper in the woods of the Catskill Mountains, Lee Kalpakis brings us this well-informed camping cookbook that’s perfect for your summer reading list. As a lifelong Hudson Valley resident, Kalpakis has spent years perfecting her locally inspired dishes that are easy to whip up in the comfort of your RV or tent. With over 50 recipes, Out There goes beyond your typical hot dogs and s’mores, incorporating Kalpakis’ skills as a professional cook into its colorful pages and versatile meals.
Past Futures
Claudia Corneyea
Science fiction
Price: $19.95
Find it on: Amazon or Barnes & Noble
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Slip into the sci-fi world that is Past Futures this summer with Beacon-based Claudia Corneyea’s new novel. The story focuses on the Workman twins, who are newly 18 and therefore required to step into their future roles in society. The gripping dystopian tale unfolds in a future world ruled by a totalitarian regime following a climate crisis. With rigid social rules and strict laws, the twins have only each other to navigate how to fight for their freedom, family, and a better future.
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