As you start thinking about your reading list for Summer 2016 and beyond, make sure these 16 titles — recommended by our friends at Nantucket Book Partners — are on your radar. From historical fiction to mystery and biography to young adult, these 16 books for 2016 have something for everyone.
1. The Unraveling: High Hopes & Missed Opportunities in Iraq
by Emma Sky
Nonfiction | Available Now | Buy
Emma Sky, who will be here on island for the 2016 Nantucket Book Festival, topped many book lists with her book about her own volunteer effort to rebuild Iraq after the overthrow of Saddam Hussein. If you haven’t yet gotten your hands on a copy of this insightful title, we suggest you do so now.
2. The Queen of the Night
by Alexander Chee
Historical Fiction | Available Now | Buy
We think this will be one of the more complete and well-rounded reading experiences you will have this year. History, mystery, the Opera, Paris, drama and intrigue all in one big, beautiful story.
3. Lady Midnight
by Cassandra Clare
Young Adult Fiction | Available Now | Buy
Cassandra Clare continues her “Shadowhunters” novels with the first in a new trilogy and one of THE most anticipated young adult/fantasy books for 2016. The perfect gift for the high school reader in your life.
4. Septimania
by Jonathan Levi
Fiction | Available April 5 | Pre-order
A personal and mythic story with big themes. And you can meet the author at Nantucket Bookworks for a special signing on Thursday, April 21st from 6 – 7 P.M.
5. Hamilton: The Revoltion
Performing Arts | Available April 21 | Pre-order
This Grammy Award-winning musical is ground-breaking with its smart lyrics, catchy tunes, and beautiful story. And this new book features the full libretto with writer Lin Manuel Miranda’s personal notes and perspectives.
6. Nantucket Grand
by Steven Axelrod
Mystery | Available May 3 | Pre-order
Local Nantucket author Steven Axelrod’s newest mystery takes place right here on our very own island and features Detective Henry Kennis as he works to crack a series of disturbing cases overtaking Nantucket.
7. How to Sauté
by Michael Ruhlman
Cooking | Available May 3 | Pre-order
Another master class from award-winning culinary expert and Nantucket Book Festival author Michael Ruhlman: how to cook on your stovetop, featuring accessible instruction and exceptional recipes sure to elevate the cooking of beginners and professionals alike.
8. Valiant Ambition
by Nathaniel Philbrick
Nonfiction/History | Available May 10 | Pre-order
Our beloved local historian and author of “In the Heart of the Sea” brings us a surprising account of the middle years of the American Revolution, and the tragic relationship between George Washington and Benedict Arnold.
9. Tribe
by Sebastian Junger
Nonfiction | Available May 24 | Pre-order
This new book from acclaimed author Sebastian Junger – who will be on island for this year’s 2016 Nantucket Book Festival – takes a critical look at post-traumatic stress disorder and the many challenges today’s returning veterans face in modern society.
10. The Island House
by Nancy Thayer
Fiction | Available May 31 | Pre-order
Local author Nancy Thayer is back with her newest Nantucket beach novel about a young woman torn between two places, lifestyles, and men she loves equally.
11. Here’s To Us
by Elin Hilderbrand
Fiction | Available June 14 | Pre-order
The queen of the summer novel returns with an emotional story about a grieving family that finds solace where they least expect it. Enjoy all the twists and turns of life with our beautiful little island as the backdrop.
12. The Girls
by Emma Cline
Fiction | Available July 14 | Pre-order
The hugely anticipated debut novel by Emma Cline takes you to 1960s Northern California for a remarkable retelling of the Manson Murders. With an unmatched understanding of human beings and a superb mastery of language, this is an absolute must-read.
13. Truly, Madly, Guilty
by Liane Moriarty
Fiction | Available July 26 | Pre-order
The author of “The Husband’s Secret” and “Big Little Lies” returns with a new novel this summer, poised to be her biggest hit yet. No beach bag will be complete without a copy of this book!
14. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
by Jack Thorne
Drama/Fiction | Available July 30 | Pre-order
Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, this play is first official Harry Potter story to be presented on stage. And you can be part of the magic at the Midnight Release Party on the night of July 30th (more information to come from Nantucket Book Partners).
15. Tracking the Wild Coomba
by Robert Cocuzzo
Nonfiction/Biography | Available August 1 | Pre-order
Local author – and N Magazine Editor – Robert Cocuzzo’s debut title tells the story of arguably the greatest adventure skier to ever live, Doug Coombs. Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline-seeking alpinist or someone with little to no mountain experience, this story will take you on an adventure you won’t forget.
16. Small Great Things
by Jodi Picoult
Fiction | Available October 11 | Pre-order
Jodi Picoult is known for tackling tough subjects, and this book is no exception. Racism and prejudice in America takes center stage in this author’s newest release with a gripping moral dilemma at its heart.
