Jul 2, 2025 - Things to Do
What to read this summer
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Now that you're itching to visit your local library, we're thinking you may need a couple of recommendations for summer reads from your favorite Axios Detroit co-authors.
Annalise's recs:
- If you're flying anywhere this summer, you've got to pick up "Less," a witty read about a depressed failed novelist who travels the world.
- A quick read for animal lovers that has very summer-like seaside vibes is "Remarkably Bright Creatures." I've never rooted so hard for an octopus.
- If you're looking for something innovative, try Rivers Solomon's "Sorrowland," a novel that threads together themes of horror, fantasy, religion, government and race. I wouldn't say it's a quick beach read, but you won't be able to put it down, and you'll come away with a lot of thoughts.
Joe's recs:
- For a breezy beach read with an edge, check out Fonda Lee's "Jade City," an action-packed fantasy novel with mafioso family drama (think "The Godfather") and magically powered warriors.
- Go back to the 1980s for acclaimed writer Alan Moore's "Saga of the Swamp Thing" graphic novel series. Moore's take on the classic antihero is complex, touching on topics like gun control, environmental issues and racism.
- For a gripping tale at sea, try "The Wager," David Grann's exhaustively researched account of an 18th-century shipwreck and the ensuing fight for survival.
Looking for something more local? Try this Curbed article with the 40 books about Detroit you should have on your bookshelf.