Books for the beach

Jul 2016
We have been pondering what books we can take to the beach to keep the family entertained during a day out at the seaside.

What makes a really great beach read? Is it a gripping detective book, an adventurous historical novel or something with a dash of romance? The answer is all of the above and more.

Reading is a wonderful way to unwind and, with the sun shining and the summer holidays just around the corner, we have been pondering what books we can take to the beach to keep the family entertained during a day out at the seaside. Here are just a few suggestions for books for the family to read this summer.

The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith
This crime fiction novel is a wonderful book for mums and dads to get stuck into whilst relaxing on the shore. The author of this detective novel may not seem familiar, however, they are very famous. Robert Galbraith is in fact the pseudonym of the creator of the wonderful wizarding world of Harry Potter, J. K. Rowling. The book follows Cormoran Strike, a private investigator who is hired to uncover the suspect in a curious murder case. The book was praised by expects in the crime-fiction world, and its plot will take you through twists and turns whilst you ponder "Whodunnit"!

The Fault in our Stars by John Green
Another great read is John Green's novel The Fault in our Stars, which will sweep you up in an emotional rollercoaster journey with the main characters. This bittersweet love story follows the troubled lives of two sick young adults, as they go on a literary adventure and fall in love along the way. The story is sure to make you laugh and cry, and you won't be able to put the book down! We think this book is a perfect read for parents or young adults.

The Hobbit by J R R Tolkien
J R R Tolkien's classic adventure novel is the perfect story to capture a child's mind and imagination whilst they relax on the beach. The book follows brave Bilbo Baggins, a band of 13 dwarves and the wizard Gandalf, as they venture to the Lonely Mountain to reclaim the dwarves' treasure from the sinister dragon Smaug. The Hobbit is a great beach read for an adventure-loving reader, and will take them on a magical journey from the beach to Bag End and beyond.

Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Another wonderful book full of adventure that will engage and excite younger readers is Yann Martel's Life of Pi. The book follows Pi, a teenage boy, as he fights for survival for months whilst stuck on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger called Richard Parker. When Pi's family decides to immigrate to Canada and sell their zoo animals, their ship sinks in the Pacific Ocean and Pi finds himself the only human survivor in the aftermath. With only animals for company, Pi has to be smart and resourceful to survive the ordeal. Martel's wonderful book brilliantly explores the relationship between Pi, Richard Parker, and the ocean, and will provide a wonderful read for a younger reader.

If you're looking for inspiration for something to pack into your beach bag, the Kumon Recommended Reading List has 380 books that cover all genres and age groups. You could have a family theme for your books, be it fantasy or history, and discuss the books you've read at the end of the holiday. Reading provides a fantastic way to relax. A good book can expand your mind and excite your imagination. What better way to do this than whilst spending the day on the beach as a family? Happy holidays!