Whether you’re planning a staycation in the UK or an exotic trip abroad, there’s nothing quite like relaxing in the sun with a book to make you smile.
But with endless social media ads, recommendations from friends, and a growing number of celebrity book clubs – such as Richard and Judy’s and Oprah Winfrey’s – the choice of summer holiday reads could feel overwhelming.
Luckily, we’ve done most of the legwork for you.
Read on to discover five feel-good books to add to your holiday packing list this summer.
1. Bill Bailey’s Remarkable Guide to Happiness by Bill Bailey
The loveable British comedian Bill Bailey has made a career out of making people laugh. So, his Remarkable Guide to Happiness feels like a natural progression.
Packed with Bailey’s characteristic wisdom and humour, this uplifting compilation of essays on happiness is a perfect holiday read.
Each chapter focuses on a different activity or experience that has brought the author happiness. From paddle-boarding on the Thames to performing on stage at a festival, Bailey’s stories are both funny and thought-provoking.
At just 224 pages long, broken into bite-sized chapters and filled with humorous drawings, you could easily devour this beautiful book on your summer holiday.
2. You Are Here by David Nicholls
David Nicholls is one of Britain’s best-loved authors. He achieved phenomenal success with the tear-jerker, One Day, which has since been made into a film and a TV series.
His new book, You Are Here, is a witty romance with warm characters and skilful dialogue.
Most of the story unfolds during a group walking holiday in the Lake District, where Marnie and Michael meet.
At home, Marnie works from her London flat as a copywriter while Michael is struggling to cope with his recent divorce.
Both are lonely and directionless.
When their paths cross, the stage is set for a crowd-pleasing tale of friendship and love.
3. Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucia by Chris Stewart
Driving Over Lemons is the first in a trilogy of autobiographical books written by the original drummer and a founding member of the band Genesis, Chris Stewart.
In 1988, Chris fell in love with an isolated sheep farm in Andalucia and bought it on the spot. Thankfully, his wife Anna greeted the news with delight and the couple promptly moved to Spain to start a new life.
However, upon arrival, the couple realised they had their work cut out for them. The farm had no running water, no electricity, and the former owner, Pedro Romero, refused to leave.
A perpetual optimist, Chris tells his story with modesty and humour. It’s such a wonderful book, you may want to pack the second and third instalments too!
4. Everything is Beautiful by Eleanor Ray
This funny and tender story centres around Amy Ashton, who we meet 11 years after her life comes crashing down around her.
Amy has learned to cope with her heartbreak by collecting items she sees as beautiful. Her home is now stacked with objects from floor to ceiling, and yet, Amy continues with her obsession.
When new neighbours move in next door to her home, a chance discovery leads Amy to confront her past and reconsider how she wants to live in the future.
While this has some poignant moments, Everything is Beautiful is a delightfully uplifting read.
5. The Joy of Small Things by Hannah Jane Parkinson
Filled with a selection of musings from Hannah Jane Parkinson’s popular column in the Guardian, this book is a charming celebration of the small pleasures in life.
From finding a sense of calm in solo trips to the cinema to luxuriating in the comfort of her favourite dressing gown, Parkinson shares the everyday experiences that bring her joy.
Funny, full of insight and utterly relatable, The Joy of Small Things is a beautifully written ode to the little moments of bliss we can all find in our daily lives.
Get in touch
When you’re rested from your summer holiday and feeling positive after reading these lovely feel-good books, it’s an ideal time to get your finances in order.
If you’d like to know how we can help, please email us at hello@intelligentpensions.com or call 0800 077 8807.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.