Summer is right around the corner, and Fort Worth schools are sending their students off with summer reading assignments — but we’re not letting adults off the hook.
Here’s your official summer reading list, but don’t worry, they’re just suggestions + you won’t be quizzed.
“The Women” by Kristin Hannah
This historical fiction novel follows Frankie, a young woman who breaks away from her sheltered life in Southern California to follow her brother to Vietnam, joining the Army Nurse Corp. This book comes at the recommendation of Fort Worth Public Library readers — it was one of the most-borrowed titles of 2024.
“The Love Haters” by Katherine Center
Recommended by: Monkey and Dog Books
In a pursuit to save her career, Katie Vaughn sets off to profile handsome Coast Guard rescue swimmer Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson. Paradise proves to be messy in this fictional rom-com when Kate gets entangled with Hutch... and caught up in a few lies.
“Mistletoe Heights: A Centennial Neighborhood, Fort Worth, Texas” by Melanie Arrington Smith
Whether you’re a local history enthusiast or a longtime resident, you’ll learn a thing or two in this 600-page book covering the life stories of Mistletoe Heights residents from the past 100 years. Fun fact: The book was inspired by a 1988 letter from Dr. Arvel Ponton Jr., who described what life was like growing up at 1208 Mistletoe Dr. in the ‘20s and ‘30s.
“We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart
Recommended by: Leaves Book and Tea Shop
The suspense novel is the first installment in a set of three, which is also getting an original Prime Video streaming series. A distinguished family, a private island, a damaged girl, a passionate boy, a destructive friend group — and a mix of lies. What could go wrong?
“Cowtown Comfort” by Celestina Blok
Spice things up in the kitchen with this cookbook of 60 Fort Worth–based recipes. Blok serves some of the city’s most beloved dishes with a side of history, all while showcasing her adoration for the chefs, pitmasters, bakers, and makers whose recipes define her hometown.
“The Bright Years” by Sarah Damoff
Recommended by: Monkey and Dog Books
The author’s debut fiction novel, told from three points of view, explores four generations of a Texas family. After loss, addiction, and secrets tear them apart, they’ll find their way back to one another over time.
“The Marriage Lie” by Kimberly Belle
Recommended by: Leaves Book and Tea Shop
Following his untimely death, Iris is forced to come face-to-face with the lies her husband told in this bestselling psychological thriller. What she uncovers will shock her to her core.
