Has no one invented the perfect books-at-the-beach tote bag? We really wish someone would. Sturdy handles, definitely a zip top to keep them safe and sand free. Maybe even dividing sleeves inside if you’re carrying more than one, a little pocket for your book mark, a cushioned slot for sunglasses or reading glasses…
Well, meanwhile, what we do have for you here is the July installment of “Feed Your Read” — and boy oh boy, have we got the hot pages!
We’re back to one of our very favorite bookstores Finley’s Fiction (8 Grand Ave., Shelter Island, 203-650-7616) owned by the voracious page-turning Finley Fiction, who opened her tiny but mighty book selling spot in 2018 in the annex buildings of the Chequit just up the street, and hung a shingle outside her current location on Grand and Chase avenues a few years ago. It’s here all spring, summer and fall that she packs every square inch with great gifty offerings (some even locally made) and, of course, a bevy of books for a multitude of tastes and interests.
Here’s what’s on Shaw’s hit list for bountiful beach reading this month …
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid — “This love story is the perfect beach read. The epic novel’s backdrop is the early space shuttle program in the 1980s and focuses on two women and their connection and ‘forbidden love’.”
I Regret Almost Everything by Keith McNally — “I can’t wait to read this memoir about Keith McNally, restauranteur of Baltazar and Pastis. The book takes us from McNally’s gritty upbringing in London and his arrival in NYC. “I Regret Almost Everything” is also Finley’s Fiction August book club selection. The author will lead our Zoom discussion in late August!”
The Wishbone Kitchen Cookbook by Meredith Hayden — “I have had fun exploring new recipes this summer with my youngest daughter. Hayden’s instagram fame and her years of working as a chef in NYC and the Hamptons have inspired her new cookbook and recipes. She has been touted as the new Martha Stewart and her fun and easy to use recipes have gotten us back in the kitchen!”
Tender Is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald — “While I love reading new books in the summer, I am also trying to read a few classics. There is a beautiful edition of Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night (I’m obsessed with the cover) that includes an introduction by Amor Twoles. I’m excited to re-read this tragic romance and wish I was in the French Riveria!”
