Can May get anymore delightful? Here are five books I recommend to read either at the beach or in the comfort of your own home!
Seventeen years ago, Stockett published “The Help,” and some objected to her, as a white woman, appropriating Black speech patterns and cultural themes. In her very long and very twisty new novel, the author examines a Depression-era sterilization law in Mississippi, thereby connecting three white female characters. Meg, Birdie and Charlie are each in very different circumstances, but join forces in hopes of creating better futures for themselves.
By Lois Romano
Leave all “Oh, Mary!” jokes aside before you start this well-researched biography of President Lincoln’s complicated spouse. Yes, the bright young woman from Lexington, Ky., had challenges that included deep grief (she outlived three sons and her husband), but the author contends that her achievements as a political spouse have been overshadowed by negative press due to contemporary and even present-day misogyny.
Still reeling from the shock of being diagnosed with lupus, Nadia returns to Evergreen, the seaside town on the Jersey Shore where she has fond memories of summer vacations as a child. The trip turns even more interesting when she is set up — and has an amazing first date — with heartthrob and former actor Marco. The two agree to carry out a no-strings-attached fling for the month of May, but as their romance deepens, Nadia finds it harder to keep the truth about her illness from Marco.
Turning 30 has rattled Maggie May Wheeler and made her question where she truly belongs. When she discovers that her biological mother is planning to attend a beach wedding on Fire Island, Maggie decides to crash the event to do some reconnaissance on her biological family — but even with a handsome fake date in tow, will Maggie be able to find contentment with who she truly is? This heartwarming story of love and self-discovery is perfect for fans of Nancy Thayer.
