10 Books for Your Summer Reading List

Long summer days call for great books, especially when a long weekend is on the horizon. Whether it’s curling up on the porch, reading under a tree, or tucking in for a quiet evening, there’s something uniquely satisfying about a good summer read. This year, the Newport team shares a diverse and compelling selection of books — from moving historical fiction and eye-opening memoirs to fantastical escapes and thoughtful reflections.

Fiction That Stays with You

Silvia Ciobota is captivated by The Girls of the Glimmer Factory by Jennifer Coburn — a powerful story of young women navigating life and survival in Nazi-occupied Europe during WWII. “It reminded me of The Nightingale,” she says, “and it’s equally unforgettable — a deeply moving and humbling read.”

Andrea Whitehead’s fiction picks dive into fantastical realms. She’s excited about Guy Gavriel Kay’s Written on the Dark, a masterclass in world-building by the Canadian legend. Looking ahead, she’s also eagerly awaiting Katabasis by R.F. Kuang, a darkly clever novel about two grad students who must descend into Hell to rescue their professor’s soul. “Everything Kuang writes is pure gold,” says Whitehead.

Stephanie Norrie recommends Detective Aunty, the first in a cozy mystery series by Canadian author Uzma Jalaluddin. Kausar Khan is a refreshingly down-to-earth sleuth—determined, observant, and deeply rooted in her community. When her daughter is arrested for murder, Kausar returns to her old Toronto neighborhood to get to the truth, uncovering secrets and surprising connections along the way. “It’s an entertaining read that balances mystery with family and cultural nuance,” says Norrie.

Books for Personal Growth and Reflection

Erika Friesen is reading The Danish Way of Parenting. “It’s a great read for young families and explores how Denmark raises happy, resilient, and emotionally healthy children through a philosophy rooted in empathy, free play, and connection,” says Friesen. The perfect summer read for young families.

There are a few Newport folks who are diving into The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. “It’s simple but powerful,” says Laura Jacobs. “You can’t control others—just your response. It really makes you think about where you’re putting your energy.”

Steve Hafner is reading Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, a former FBI negotiator. “It’s not new, but it’s filled with actionable insights,” he says. “Books like this help me grow personally and professionally.”

Uprooted: A Season of Grief by Mary Ann Burrows is a poetic companion for anyone navigating loss. Written after her father’s passing, the collection moves through sorrow, memory, and healing with quiet grace. “It’s beautifully written and deeply comforting—I find myself returning to it often,” says Elizabeth Pizzinato. A gentle, reflective read for the heartbroken and hopeful alike.

Memoirs & Meaningful Non-Fiction

Kyle Smith is reading Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live by Susan Morrison. “As a lifelong fan who started watching Saturday Night live religiously while still in elementary school in the late 1980s, I have found it to be a fascinating read,” says Smith. Morrison, a New Yorker editor, was granted rare access to the famously private Lorne Michaels. From his Toronto childhood to early showbiz jobs in L.A. and his legendary career in New York, the book offers an insider’s look at the Canadian who helped shape comedy and entertainment for over 50 years.

Matt Reynolds is a fan of Brothers by Alex Van Halen, a compelling account of the Van Halen brothers’ journey from penniless Dutch immigrants in 1960s California to rock legends. Their close family bond and extraordinary talent—especially Eddie’s groundbreaking guitar work and Alex’s powerful drumming—fueled their rise from backyard gigs to global fame. “The story includes great tales from early tours—like opening for (and upstaging) Black Sabbath,” says Reynolds. A heartfelt tribute to Eddie and a celebration of their legacy, this memoir captures the soul of a band that defined a generation.

Mark Aloysius highlights Let’s Talk About Aging Parents by Laura Tamblyn Watts — a practical and often funny guide to one of life’s most important (and often avoided) conversations. “It’s the book you didn’t know you needed,” he says, “with real scripts to help families talk about elder care before crisis strikes.”

Whether you’re seeking personal inspiration, historical insight, or a fantastical escape, our team’s reading list offers plenty of options to keep your bookshelf — and your summer — full of discovery.

Happy Canada Day and happy reading!