Marilyn G

Summer.

Fresh air, sunshine, surf and sand.

BBQs and G&Ts.

And of course, books.

I always read a Stephen King novel at the beach, the scarier the better. And it MUST be a second-hand copy, crinkled spine, pages yellowed from age and weather. This ‘tradition’ started a long time ago and is one I continue each year. 

My go to is any of King’s collection of short stories. One of my favourites is Skeleton Crew. It has the perfect mix of terrifying (The Monkey) creepy (Nona), and a generally good story (The Mist). In between stories you, can take a dip in the ocean or a short nap before reapplying sunscreen and diving into the next story.

In the evening, I like to read something that has my overactive mind seeing shadows in every corner, or a hand crawling out from underneath the bed.

I am a latecomer to the Australian author Bejamin Stevenson. Earlier this year I read Everyone in my family has killed someone, and I’ve just finished Other Side of Midnight. Both books are well-paced and engaging to read. Good summer reads that won’t keep you up all night with every noise. I’m looking forward to reading more of his books.

If you want something to read that is more involved, I will hand over a copy of The Bee Sting by Paul Murray. This book was shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2023. It’s the story of a family of four, told through the eyes of each family member as they traverse life changes. There is Dickie, the father of the family who has mismanaged the family car business. Dickie’s story includes a look at his past when he was at university and the choices he made to bring him to the present, where rather than dealing with the failing family business, he is building a doomsday shelter. Imelda, Dickie’s wife, tells her story with no punctuation. This was frustrating to read at times, but effective in bringing you into her state of mind. Cass, the eldest child, is in her last year of school and navigating friendships, relationships and change as the family business goes downhill fast. Finally, PJ who is looking for a connection with his family and almost falls prey to a dark fate. I did not find this an easy read, it took me a while to get through this book, but it’s worth the effort. 

My reads this summer: 

Beach – Salem’s Lot, Stephen King

Evening – Lessons in Chemistry, Bonnie Garmus

Bring on the summer holidays at the beach!

Copyright Marilyn G December 2024. All rights reserved; this intellectual property belongs solely to Marilyn G.