Summer offers a unique opportunity to either unwind with a compelling story or finally tackle those intellectually stimulating books you’ve been putting off. To help you build your reading list, we’ve compiled a diverse selection of summer reading recommendations from dedicated readers and academics. These picks range from relaxing page-turners to complex literary works, reflecting the varied interests of the academic community at The University of Western Australia.
Whether you’re interested in Australian literature, international fiction, or exploring themes of academia and culture, these suggestions provide a perfect starting point. For prospective students and book lovers alike, this list offers a glimpse into the intellectual curiosity fostered within the vibrant academic environment at UWA.
Revisiting Classics and Exploring New Genres
Summer reading can be a time for both comfort and discovery. Some readers return to beloved classics, while others use the break to explore new genres or authors. This curated list reflects that balance, offering something for every type of reader.
A Bittersweet Story from the Gulf of Finland
Professor David McCooey from Deakin University recommends revisiting Tove Jansson’s The Summer Book. This bittersweet and funny story about a girl, her grandmother, and her father spending a summer on a tiny island is a perfect fit for the season. With a film adaptation on the horizon, now is the ideal time to experience the novel’s unique charm. For those who enjoy a touch of mystery, Professor McCooey also suggests diving into the works of Belgian writer Georges Simenon and his famous detective, Inspector Maigret.
Page-Turning Rural Noir for a Lazy Holiday
For readers seeking an energetic page-turner, Professor Sue Turnbull, an expert in crime fiction from the University of Wollongong, points to Tim Ayliffe’s Dark Desert Road. This novel shifts from political thrillers to the territory of rural noir, featuring a burnt-out cop searching for her twin sister who has become involved with a dangerous survivalist cult. It promises to be an engaging and fast-paced read for a relaxing holiday.
Contemporary Fiction and Academic Satire
Modern literature often provides sharp commentary on contemporary life and social structures. The following recommendations highlight authors who skillfully blend smart, up-to-the-minute observations with compelling narratives.
Breaking Taboos with Patricia Lockwood
Kevin Brophy, emeritus professor of creative writing at the University of Melbourne, praises Patricia Lockwood for her ability to reshape thought and break taboos. After being impressed by No One is Talking About This and her memoir Priestdaddy, he looks forward to her new post-COVID novel, Will There Ever Be Another You. Lockwood’s work is known for its unique voice and incisive look at modern life, making it a thought-provoking choice for summer.
A Curated List of Novels About Academia
For those who appreciate a structured reading list, Joseph Steinberg, a postdoctoral fellow at The University of Western Australia, has a specific plan. His summer will be spent exploring the idiosyncrasies and hypocrisies of academia through fiction. His list includes classics like Mary McCarthy’s The Groves of Academe and Vladimir Nabokov’s Pnin, alongside newer works such as Alison Lurie’s The War Between the Tates and Elif Batuman’s The Idiot. This collection is perfect for anyone fascinated by the inner workings of university life.
The Perfect Pairing: Book and Film
Some stories are so powerful they transcend a single medium. Exploring a book and its film adaptation can be a rewarding experience, offering different perspectives on the same narrative.
A Meditation on Loss and Longing
Kate Cantrell, a senior lecturer at the University of Southern Queensland, returns every summer to Jeffrey Eugenides’s novel The Virgin Suicides and Sofia Coppola’s film adaptation. Set in 1970s Michigan, this elegiac story follows the tragic fates of the Lisbon sisters. It’s a powerful exploration of adolescence, memory, and the decay of the American Dream, capturing the hazy, dreamlike quality of a long summer.
A Flourishing Scene of Australian Romantic Comedies
There has been a significant increase in the publication of local romantic comedies, a trend that delights both writers and readers. This summer offers a wealth of new Australian rom-coms to choose from.
A Local Beach Read
Jodi McAlister, a senior lecturer at Deakin University, highlights the recent spate of excellent Australian rom-coms. Her beach read for the summer is Brooke Crawford’s Better Than the Real Thing, a story about a Melbourne teacher who finds a reclusive rock star’s childhood diary. This recommendation showcases the vibrant and growing market for Australian romance fiction.
Connecting with the UWA Community
These recommendations from academics and dedicated readers reflect a shared passion for literature and intellectual exploration. The University of Western Australia fosters a community where such curiosity is encouraged and celebrated. For prospective students, this list offers a window into the intellectual life at UWA, where experts in various fields engage with culture and ideas both inside and outside the classroom.
Exploring these books is a great way to connect with the academic spirit that defines institutions like UWA. Whether you are preparing for your studies or simply looking for your next great read, these selections provide valuable insight and inspiration.
Further Your Reading Journey
As you prepare for the summer months, consider these diverse and engaging titles. They represent the kind of thoughtful inquiry and passion for knowledge that is central to the academic experience at leading Australian universities.
Discover Your Next Chapter at The University of Western Australia
These reading recommendations offer a glimpse into the intellectual curiosity and diverse interests that thrive at The University of Western Australia. If you are inspired by the academic expertise and vibrant community showcased here, consider exploring what UWA has to offer.
From world-class Arts and Humanities programs to a dynamic campus life, UWA provides an environment where you can pursue your passions and develop your critical thinking skills. Explore study options at UWA and take the first step toward shaping your future.
Join the Conversation
What are you planning to read this summer? Share your own recommendations and thoughts on these picks in the comments below. Engaging with literature is a journey best shared.
Ready to explore the academic world of UWA?
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