Escape the Windy City Heat: Chicago Sun-Times’ Highly Anticipated Summer Reading List 2025

Summer in Chicago: the vibrant energy, the iconic skyline, and the inescapable heat. While exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and enjoying its world-class attractions is a must, there’s nothing quite like finding solace in a good book. That’s why the Chicago Sun-Times is thrilled to unveil its highly anticipated Summer Reading List for 2025 – a curated selection of captivating reads designed to transport you to different worlds, ignite your imagination, and beat the summer heat.

Fiction: Stories to Savor

This year’s fiction selection offers a diverse range of genres and styles, promising something for every reader. From gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances and thought-provoking literary fiction, our list is designed to keep you turning pages long after the sun sets.

• The Obsidian Mirror by Anya Petrova: A captivating fantasy novel that blends Slavic mythology with a compelling coming-of-age story. Prepare to be swept away by a world brimming with magic, mystery, and unforgettable characters.
• Beneath the Crimson Tide by Marcus Riley: A nail-biting thriller that unfolds in the depths of Lake Michigan. With suspenseful twists and turns, this page-turner will keep you guessing until the very end.
• The Last Bookstore in Chicago by Isabella Diaz: A heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and the enduring power of books. Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s vibrant literary scene, this novel is a celebration of community and resilience.
• Whispers of the Wind by Elijah Carter: An evocative historical fiction novel set during the Great Chicago Fire. Carter masterfully weaves together historical accuracy with a gripping narrative, bringing to life the city’s resilience and the human cost of tragedy.
• Seven Days in Santorini by Amelia Stone: Escape to the sun-drenched Greek islands with this romantic escape. This feel-good novel offers a delightful blend of romance, adventure, and stunning scenery.

Non-Fiction: Illuminating Insights and Inspiring Tales

Beyond the realms of fiction, our non-fiction selections provide insightful perspectives on a wide range of topics, from local history to global affairs. These books are designed to challenge your thinking, expand your knowledge, and leave a lasting impact.

• Chicago’s Hidden Histories by Professor Henry Miller: An exploration of Chicago’s lesser-known stories and secrets, this book is a must-read for any local history buff.
• The Future of Urban Farming by Dr. Evelyn Reed: An insightful examination of the growing urban farming movement and its potential to address food insecurity and environmental challenges.
• The Art of Resilience: Lessons from Chicago’s Strongest by journalist Sarah Chen: A collection of inspiring stories of Chicagoans who overcame adversity and emerged stronger.
• Global Climate Change and the Midwest: A Comprehensive Guide by environmental scientist Dr. Michael Davis: A timely and crucial read examining the impact of climate change on the Midwest region.

Memoir: Personal Journeys and Unforgettable Narratives

This year’s memoir selection offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of remarkable individuals. Prepare to be moved by their stories of perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection.

• From the South Side to Silicon Valley by entrepreneur David Johnson: An inspiring story of an individual who overcame challenges to achieve entrepreneurial success.
• The Art of Letting Go by artist and activist Maria Rodriguez: A deeply personal memoir exploring themes of loss, healing, and the importance of self-acceptance.

For the Young Adult Reader: Adventures Await

Our Young Adult section offers a fantastic selection for teen readers, with compelling narratives that explore important themes such as identity, friendship, and finding one’s place in the world.

• Echoes in the City by author Ava Sharma: A gripping mystery novel with twists and turns that will keep young readers on the edge of their seats.
• The Stars Above Us by author Ben Carter: A science fiction novel that transports readers to a distant galaxy filled with adventure and discovery.

Beyond the Books: Engaging with the Chicago Literary Scene

Summer is the perfect time to engage with the vibrant Chicago literary scene. Numerous bookstores, libraries, and literary festivals offer opportunities to connect with authors, participate in book discussions, and discover new works. The Chicago Sun-Times encourages readers to explore these opportunities and dive deeper into the world of literature.

We hope this Summer Reading List inspires you to pick up a book and embark on an unforgettable literary journey. Happy reading!