I love a summer reading list.
Contrary to popular belief, I'm an introvert, and there are few things I enjoy more than alone-time with a good book. As a kid, I was the one who read two or three times the recommended summer reading. (I promise I'm not an overachiever—I just happen to be both enthusiastic and a little obsessive, which can look remarkably similar.)
One of my first jobs out of college was in PR at JP Morgan, where a wonderful colleague named Darin put together the firm's annual summer reading list. It was such a simple idea, but I loved what it represented: a reminder that adults deserve summer reading, too.
Now that I'm the master of my own domain, it felt only right for Tea & Oranges to have a summer reading list of its own.
Some of these are books I've read and wholeheartedly recommend. Others are books that have been recommended to me, gifted to me, or are patiently waiting on my nightstand. Either way, every title made the list for a reason.
And because this is Tea & Oranges, we couldn't resist pairing each book with an outfit of its own. After all, dressing for the occasion is half the fun.
Small Things Like These
By Claire Keegan
Why it's on the list: Read it, loved it. It's expertly edited, every word counts, and there are mountains of meaning between the lines. Tiny, powerful, unforgettable.
Who it's for: Anyone short on time who could use a REALLY good book.
The feeling: This book is about the ripple effect of the choices we make. A woman's decision to adopt an illegitimate child and raise him gave him an education, standing in the community, a business that created jobs, a family, and a life. In turn, he makes a single moral choice that will inevitably ripple outward, too. I'm pretty overwhelmed by the way small things can have such a lasting impact. I notice it in everyday life all the time—it feels both comforting and enormous.
Why this outfit: This outfit is built around small things that pack a punch. A Trovelore brooch that carries a memory. The sort of scarf that works with any outfit, any day, worn just about anywhere. A Yuzefi bag that's thoughtfully designed for daily life—easy to open, easy to close, easy to carry. A little blue Il Bisonte wallet that's bigger than it looks. A Monoki necklace that feels charmed, almost like a talisman.
The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven
by Nathaniel Ian Miller
Why it's on the list: Recommended to me by my friend Donna (owner of Little City Books in Hoboken), this book took me just far enough outside my comfort zone. Miller uses the real-life story of an Arctic trapper as the springboard for a work of fiction about an introverted outcast who leaves society behind for a solitary life in the Arctic Circle.
Who it's for: An extroverted introvert who's looking for an adventure.
The feeling: Cold on the outside, warm on the inside. It's quirky, funny, quietly heartbreaking, and full of wonderfully idiosyncratic characters. It also carries the comforting reminder that no matter how far we go in search of solitude, we never quite escape our need for human connection.
Why this outfit: Like the characters in the book, this outfit is made up of a collection of memorable individuals that somehow become even better together. The Tela top and pants are both bold colors that you might instinctively pair with a neutral. Instead, they play off one another beautifully. The Épice tote would make just as much of a statement with a white tee and jeans, but here it becomes part of an unlikely team. Unexpected on their own. Unforgettable together.
Red Dog Farm
by Nathaniel Ian Miller
Why it's on the list: I loved Miller's Memoirs of Stockholm Sven so much, I trusted him to take me on another reading adventure. I don't know where I'm going. I'm here for the uncertainty.
Who It's For: Anyone who's worked with family, has an ambivalent relationship with a parent (don't we all) or thinks farm tourism is a great idea.
The Feeling: Given that farming is the backdrop of this story, the idea that hard work pays off (in relationships, in all aspects of life) seems like a big theme. There’s something about commitment, patience, and doing the work that speaks to me, and I’m expecting this story to be full of that.
Why this outfit: I'm pretty sure this outfit is as colorful as the story will be, but it also feels grounded. It has plenty of personality while still being built for real life. The Vanessa Bruno top is a favorite silhouette, Momoni pants are always a reliable fit, and the Garza Marfa bag brings earthy color in a hard-wearing fabric built to last. Huma Blanco shoes keep you comfortable, grounded, and ready to keep moving.
This Dog Will Change Your Life
by Elias Weiss Friedman
Why it's on the list: Elias Friedman is The Dogist, the wildly popular "dogtographer" who's already filled the world with good vibes by sharing stories about the dogs he meets on the streets of New York. Our own dog, Mango, has brought a sweet, friendly energy to our family that we desperately needed. I'm ready to fill my bucket with more stories about the impact dogs have on us.
Who it's for: Anyone who's ever loved a dog—or anyone who needs to. If you're looking for a dose of positive energy, this should do the trick.
The feeling: This book celebrates the human-animal bond and the remarkable impact dogs have on our lives. They make us laugh, comfort us, challenge us, and somehow make the ordinary feel a little more joyful.
Why this outfit: The outfit is centered around Inoui's Toutou scarf—for obvious reasons (it's covered in dogs!). Everything else is built on user-friendly essentials that can be worn a dozen different ways, letting the scarf take center stage. It feels like a reminder to see the world from a dog's point of view and appreciate the joy they bring to everyday life.
Gershwin’s Bess
By Lisa Winkler
Why it's on the list: It's written by my neighbor (!!!), which is reason enough to put it on my list. It also tells a story about the love of music and the jazz age in New York City.
Who it's for: Anyone who loves theater, music, historical fiction, or stories about people who insist on charting their own path.
The feeling: This book follows an artist's growth, and there's always something inspiring about watching someone find their voice. Set during the Jazz Age, the main character, a Black woman, must do so while navigating the systemic racism of the time. I hope this story helps us think about people's journeys through the lens of where we've been, where we are, and where we're going.
Why this outfit: Main character energy, all around. A striking red Labo.Art dress sets the stage, Jimmy Fairly sunglasses add a little star power, an Épice mesh bag is ready to tag along wherever the story goes, and Huma Blanco silver flats are made for both starring roles and dancing.
The Orchardist
by Amanda Coplin
Why it's on the list: I love a book as a gift, and Alex picked this up for me while she was on a small vacation in California. I don't have a ton of travel on my calendar, so this can take me somewhere instead. The Pacific Northwest, the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a little farm life—I'm clearly nostalgic for my summers growing tomatoes and eager for the mental transport.
Who it's for: Someone who loves character-driven historical fiction or stories about the resilience of frontier life.
The feeling: This one feels honest. Life is hard, but if you're like me, the tough moments make the beautiful ones even sweeter. Get ready to help these characters carry some of their baggage.
Why this outfit: Denim and a straightforward button-down feel like the right uniform for tending an orchard. Le Jean jeans and a Frank & Eileen shirt are comfortable enough for the work but still feel special. The Yuzefi tote is ready to carry a load, just like the characters.
London Falling
By Patrick Redden Keefe
Why it's on the list: I read Keefe's article in The New Yorker when this sad story first broke, and it left me wanting more. I clearly wasn't the only one—he kept searching for answers and eventually wrote a book. Read it, couldn't put it down. Dani also gives it a big thumbs up.
Who it's for: Perfect for anyone who loves investigative journalism, true crime, or wants to explore London's less-genteel underbelly.
The feeling: This book is as much a true crime exposé as it is a compassionate story about a family navigating grief. Get ready to piece together history and intrigue—but be prepared for a few loose ends.
Why this outfit: It feels just as right for exploring London on holiday as it does for a PI chasing down shady leads. Comfortable Calleen Cordero shoes, a sleeveless Hartford linen shirtdress, and a no-brainer Yuzefi bag that's big enough for both snacks and clues.
You Better Be Lightning
by Andrea Gibson
Why it's on the list: I realized last year that I actually enjoy reading poetry after discovering Melissa Elder's The Mundane and Nostalgia. Nikki gave me Gibson's book for Christmas, and I'm about halfway through it. As a cancer survivor, I appreciate her work. With close family in the LGBTQ+ community, I appreciate it even more.
Who it's for: Who reads poetry? No one thinks they do. Did you love Shel Silverstein as a kid? If you did, give poetry another try with this book.
The feeling: If the Oscar-nominated documentary Come See Me in the Good Light left you wanting more Andrea Gibson, this is a great place to start. It feels like a blend of energetic sucker punches and radiant hope.
Why this outfit: The cover reminded me of a summer storm, so that's the direction we took with the outfit. The Samsoe Samsoe denim dress is my easiest summer staple, paired with comfortable Calleen Cordero sandals. Centinelle's tomato-print scarf and matching bag bring a burst of color that feels like summer in its happiest form.
Walking Red Flag
By Jared Fried
Why it's on the list: This one's part of my friend Heidi's book club, where she somehow always manages to host every author. This one is destined to be a fun night: a bunch of happily married women chatting with a comedian who wrote a hilarious, matter-of-fact book about modern dating. Read a chapter or read the whole thing—this one's here for the laughs.
Who it's for: Whether you're trying to understand modern dating for yourself or someone you love, this promises to be illuminating—and a good reminder not to take it all too seriously.
The feeling: Imagine sitting down for drinks with a really good guy friend who's willing to explain the mysterious (and often terrible) behavior that's wreaking havoc on your dating life. It's practical advice wrapped in humor.
Why this outfit: We're pretty sure this outfit is a walking red flag. Every piece is great on its own—a striped Rosie Assoulin dress, a buttery yellow Yuzefi bag, hot pink socks, and red Marion Parke heels. Together? They're making some questionable decisions. It's a good reminder that lots of great qualities don't automatically make a great match. The same goes for dating.
Between Two Kingdoms
By Suleika Jaouad
Why it's on the list: I was 21 when I was treated for cancer, and I try to hold that experience close to me. Recently, a friend (also a survivor) told me Jaouad's memoir of her first years after treatment sounded a lot like the way I've described survivorship. You know the comfort that comes from talking with someone who's walked a similar path? I'm hoping to find a little of that here.
Who it's for: Anyone grappling with life's uncertainties—whether that's a major illness, a big life change, loss, or simply figuring out what comes next.
The feeling: This feels like a book about resilience, community, and learning to embrace the messy middle. Sometimes the people who understand us best are the ones who've been there, too.
Why this outfit: Besides matching the cover beautifully, this outfit feels road-trip ready. A crossbody built for travel, versatile jeans, and a cheerful top create a simple formula that's ready for the long haul. Sometimes the journey is the whole point.
The Wager
By David Grann
Why it's on the list: I'm a fan of David Grann (Killers of the Flower Moon, The Lost City of Z), and his newest book doesn't disappoint. Did the subject sound interesting to me? No. Did I struggle to put it down? Absolutely. If you love great nonfiction, this one's a must.
Who it's for: History buffs, nonfiction lovers, or anyone who can't resist a good survival story.
The feeling: I originally bought this for my middle-school son because someone described it as "real-life Lord of the Flies," and middle school can feel like its own version of that. What surprised me most is how Grann makes history feel urgent, suspenseful, and impossible to stop reading.
Why this outfit: Between the raffia tote, the cotton voile dress, and sturdy sandals, this outfit feels ready to board a ship. The deep blue dress channels just enough dark-and-stormy energy, while the colorful scarf hints that maybe the voyage won't be all doom and gloom.
Whether you read one book or all of them, I hope one of them surprises you. If nothing else, I hope they remind you to make a little room this summer for curiosity, adventure, and an afternoon spent with a really good story. And if you happen to get dressed for the occasion? Even better.
Please consider supporting an independent bookseller. We've linked titles from a couple of our favorites: Little City Books in Hoboken and Words Bookstore in Maplewood.
