Baltimore Reads:
Best Books for Summer
The lazy days of summer are upon us. As our life slows down, and we spend time at the beach, by the pool or near the lake, there is nothing like a great book to help us escape.
We asked local Baltimoreans what they recommended for this summer and this is what they suggested:
Jessica Fink, Executive Director, The Jewish Library of Baltimore
The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. When a skeleton is discovered in Chicken Hill, Pennsylvania, in 1972, a tight-knit community harbors a decades-old secret. In this novel, James McBride weaves a gripping tale of hidden truths and the town’s fight against the shadowy forces of its white establishment. Interested in reading this book? Check it out from The Jewish Library of Baltimore.
Barak Hermann, CEO, JCC
I really like Why do Jewish? by Zack Bodner. Zack Bodner offers a compelling roadmap for the future of Jewish life. By sharing personal stories and deep insights from Judaism’s greatest thinkers, he answers the burning question of how the Jewish people can thrive in the modern world. As a JCC, we strive to ensure we are doing our significant part in establishing and sustaining Jewish community in Baltimore and Zack offers provocative approaches that need our consideration!
Harriette Wienner, Chair, Women’s Engagement and Philanthropy
I recently read two books that I love. The first is The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. The book is based on the extraordinary life of Belle deCosta Greene. Belle was an African American woman passing as white who was the personal librarian to JP Morgan, and eventual Director of the Morgan Library. It’s a fascinating tale of how Belle’s skill and perspective not only provided for her family but also propelled her into a society that would never have accepted her if her secret was revealed.
My other selection is If You Tell by by Gregg Olsen. When you’re reading this book, keep reminding yourself this is a completely true story. It’s a harrowing story of abuse, murder, manipulation and family. It will keep you shaking your head at the main character’s ability to shock you. Read more about Harriette Weinner.
Alexis Braun, Member of the Young Adult Division
Friday the Rabbi Slept Late by Harry Kemelman is a classic mystery novel (originally published in 1964) that I wish more people had read (and am constantly recommending)! The hero of the book is a young rabbi in suburban Massachusetts. After the body of a strangled woman is found at the temple where he leads his congregation, Rabbi Small uses his Talmudic training to help the Irish local police chief solve the crime. Kemelman wrote 11 Rabbi Small novels, so if this is your cup of tea, there’s plenty to keep you reading for a while! This is the book for someone who likes mystery but doesn’t want one that’s too contemporary or dark. Check out more book recommendations from Alexis.
Diana Solomon, Senior Director, 4Front
The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer. If you are a fan of historical fiction and World War II books like me, then you’ll love this powerful book. A story that bounces between past and present, the story takes readers to Poland to uncover the nearly lost family history and secrets left buried in the past. It’s a beautiful and heart-wrenching story of love, resiliency, bravery, and the bonds of family that will keep you glued to the page.
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