Thursday, October 1, 2026
As temperatures rise and vacation season gets underway, summer reading lists are taking shape. For many, the season provides a chance to slow down and finally tackle the novels that have been sitting on their shelves for months. Whether you're looking for an emotional family story, an imaginative historical escape or a lighthearted romance, these three books offer compelling stories that are well suited for long days in the sun. These titles are available wherever books are sold or at the Baldwin Public Library.
1. “Sandwich” by Catherine Newman
In Catherine Newman’s bestselling novel, Rocky, a mother of two, returns to Cape Cod for her family’s annual summer vacation, a familiar tradition that begins to feel increasingly fragile as she confronts aging parents, grown children and the realities of a long marriage. The novel explores aging, motherhood, marriage and the often-overlooked challenges of middle age, balancing sharp humor with moments of heartbreak and self-discovery. Equal parts witty and heartfelt, “Sandwich” captures the tensions, joys and quiet griefs of midlife while exploring the ways families evolve — and endure — over time. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories and realistic portrayals of family relationships will find plenty to relate to in Newman’s 2024 novel.
2. “Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke
This historical fantasy-romance blends time travel with women's history. “Yesteryear” follows Natalie, a modern woman who unexpectedly finds herself transported to the 19th century, where she must adjust to a society with far fewer rights and freedoms she is accustomed to. As she navigates life in another era, Natalie is forced to reconsider assumptions about independence, opportunity and the role of women in society. Blending historical fiction, romance and time travel, the novel offers both an entertaining escape and a thought-provoking look at how much life has changed and how much remains the same. Fans of historical fiction and stories such as “Outlander” will likely find this 2026 novel especially appealing.
3. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry
A contemporary romance that has become a modern summer favorite. “Beach Read” centers on bestselling romance author January Andrews and literary fiction writer Augustus Everett, who unexpectedly become neighbors for the summer. Facing writer’s block, the two strike a deal to swap genres, challenging each other to step outside their creative comfort zones. What begins as a lighthearted writing experiment develops into a deeper exploration of grief, family relationships and second chances. With witty dialogue, memorable characters and an emotional core, the novel has become one of the defining beach reads of the past several summers.
