There is something special about sitting on a beach in Maine, listening to the roaring waves wash up onto the shore and reading a novel that moves you. I have had a passion for reading since I was young, always eager to visit the MacArthur Library in Biddeford and take part in their Summer Reading Challenge.
Reading has been a constant companion through all phases of my life. In college, I mostly read for classes and rarely read for enjoyment. Now, I can read often and enjoy a wide variety of genres. As an avid reader, my list of recommendations is long, and my TBR (to be read) is even longer. However, I’ve narrowed down my summer recommendations to two of my favorites.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
This unexpected journey is one I will always continue to go on, even after reading it multiple times. It is a great summer read, detailing Bilbo’s journey traveling across Middle-Earth with the Dwarves. Tolkien’s storytelling takes you from the rolling hills of The Shire to the Lonely Mountain, where the Dwarves seek to reclaim their kingdom from the great dragon Smaug. Every time I read it, I discover something new.
We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
Set off the coast of Massachusetts,
We Were Liars follows Cadence Sinclair Eastman, who suffers a head injury and can’t recall one of her past summers. Two years later, she returns to piece together the truth. This story has strong themes of friendship and feels like you’re watching a coming-of-age movie. This book has been adapted to an Amazon Prime series, which premiered on June 18, 2025.
Looking to Dive Deeper Into Summer Reading?
If you’re looking to dive deeper into reading this summer, joining a book club is a great way to explore new titles and share your thoughts with others. Fortunately, there are several wonderful local options nearby. Our Saco and Biddeford Savings Old Orchard Beach (OOB) branch is within walking distance to the Libby Library, where you’ll find a monthly book club and a weekly discussion of book recommendations which they call the Brown Bag Book Bunch.
Saco’s Dyer Library will begin its own book club in September 2025 and Biddeford has a monthly book club at Banded Brewing. Many of Southern Maine’s local libraries also offer free summer reading programs. There are also virtual options, like joining a book-of-the-month club, where you get to choose a book from a selection of new releases in different genres.
If you prefer to embark on your reading journey solo, consider visiting one of the many Free Little Libraries across Maine, including in neighboring towns like Old Orchard Beach and Kennebunk. These small, community-driven book exchanges help foster a love of reading by making books easily accessible to all residents and visitors, encouraging sharing and discovery in neighborhoods across the state.
Spending even just a few minutes a day reading will bring lasting, positive effects. Reading can is versatile and can be an experience tailored to your own comfortability. It may seem like an independent hobby to some, but to others it can be a great way to connect with people. Joining a local book club can connect you with new books and great friendships.
If you stop by the OOB branch of SBSI for your banking needs, please feel free to share your book recommendations with me! Whether you're flipping pages on the beach or diving into a discussion at a local book club, I hope this summer brings you stories that stay with you long after the last chapter.
