Illustrated by Harry Haysom from Ikon Images, Harvard librarians unveil their top 27 summer book picks. Tenzin Dickie of Harvard Library Communications published the list on July 13, 2026, covering categories like Fiction, Science Fiction & Fantasy, and Nonfiction.
Among the fiction picks, Richard Russo’s ‘Straight Man’ stands out. It’s a humorous academic farce where William Henry Devereaux Jr. threatens to kill a duck daily to secure department funding amidst budget cut rumors. Claire Blechman praises its engaging plot and satirical take on academia.
Ben Lerner’s ‘Transcription’ delves into the intersection of technology and experience, using Harvard’s glass flowers as a central motif. According to Molly Hardy, it’s a profound and timely narrative.
Jennifer Croft’s ‘The Extinction of Irena Rey’ follows a renowned author whose translation project leads to chaos as she vanishes. Debbie Ginsberg finds it both riveting and amusing.
Ben Wickey’s graphic novel ‘More Weight: A Salem Story’ offers a deeply researched portrayal of the Salem witch trials and their historiography. Charlotte Lellman notes its impressive storytelling and historical insights.
In ‘Barkskins’ by Annie Proulx, readers traverse three centuries and four continents through the lives of two families, exploring themes like habitat loss and colonialism. Katarzyna Maciak highlights its emotional depth and relevance.
Tove Jansson’s ‘The Summer Book’ features whimsical, existential conversations between a grandmother and granddaughter on a Finnish island. Kai Miyabayashi McGinn describes it as a refreshing summer read.
‘Strange Houses’ by Uketsu, translated by Jim Rion, is a mystery involving a writer and architect investigating a house with a peculiar layout. Mitch Nakaue finds it a gripping tale full of unexpected twists.
Richard Powers’ ‘Playground’ intertwines multiple narratives linked to the ocean, reflecting on technological abundance versus natural wealth. Tricia Patterson appreciates its joyful exploration of environmental themes.
‘Hamnet’ by Maggie O’Farrell offers a rich depiction of 16th-century life, independent of knowledge about Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’. Madeline Sharaga assures it’s accessible to all readers.
Alan Hollinghurst’s ‘The Stranger’s Child’ is a Booker Prize-winning novel exploring hidden queer histories and the nature of memory. Steve Shutt admires its evocative storytelling and historical contemplation.
In the Science Fiction & Fantasy category, Martha Wells’ ‘All Systems Red’ is recommended by Robyn Rosenberg for its inclusion in a well-curated print collection.
Original Source: news.harvard.edu
