The Everyman's Summer Reading Recommendations

Summer is here and for many people that means making an effort to get some reading done. We asked a few of our contributors for their favorite book recommendations, and here are their picks!

Whether you mark it by the start of the Memorial Day weekend or the school year coming to an end, the Summer season is here! With it comes vacations and making plans to take a break from normal routines. Summer also used to be known as a season when people would catch up on their reading. While this idea was probably a marketing ploy by book publishers to coincide with summer reading assignments that were given out by schools over summer vacation, it nevertheless has remained common for bookstores and libraries to offer up their own summer reading recommendations.

Of course, ever since the ubiquity of touchscreens and the panoply of amusements they offer, reading books on paper now seems to have taken a back seat. This is not to say that there is anything wrong with ebooks or reading books on an ipad, but let’s face it, the dopamine-driven distractions of video games, on-line gambling, scrolling, and social media have lowered the attention spans of people low enough to make the activity of reading much more difficult. This has been borne out with recent reports of how little today’s students can actually read in terms of speed and comprehension. Compare that with the well-established and verified benefits of not just reading in general, but the reading of actual, physical books. From the feel of the book to its heft, to the physical turning of pages, and even the smell of it, these things all add to enriching our Sensorium that improves our lives in a whole host of ways. And of course, there is no doubt that it is a calming and enjoyable activity.

With this in mind, we asked some of our contributors at The Everyman to pick a few book titles for Summer reading recommendations. Books they were enamored with, books that helped them grow as a person, or books which are just so well-written or informative that they consider them as “must reads.” So whether you are staying home or heading out on a long trip for vacation, take a book with you and read, read, read!

Caroline Furlong

Gun Samurai by Matt Okuhara

Gun Samurai details former British infantryman Matt Okuhara’s work with the Matsumoto Castle Gun Corps. The Matsumoto Castle Gun Corps are cultural custodians who maintain and fire Japanese matchlock rifles; they teach the art of hojutsu, which is Japanese for “the Way of the Gun,” as it was practiced before the Meiji Restoration of 1868. In the story, Mr. Okuhara wished to join the Corps as a gunner and initially, he was given a half-role as an interpreter.

Over time, Okuhara begins melding with the group, finding his footing as interpreter and social media manager, while also adjusting to life in Japan. Working with the Corps to maintain the guns in the castle museum, as well as participating in their demonstrations, he translates for the foreigners in the audience. Eventually, Okuhara becomes a full-fledged member of the Matsumoto Castle Gun Corps. A worthy read for anyone who is interested in Japanese culture, and when you are done, there is much more to learn about the Corps through their website and YouTube channel.

But the best way to learn about the Corps is through the eyes of Okuhara-san in Gun Samurai!

Sword’s Edge Chronicles by L.S. King

Are you trying to encourage your teen to read, wishing all the while that you could sink your teeth into a decent series yourself? L. S. King’s Sword’s Edge Chronicles is a fantasy/sci-fi series that will appeal to Young Adult readers, teens, singles, and married couples alike. With four books, one novella, and one prequel in the series already, no one should be bored!

Travel with Tamissa “Tam” of the Ch’shalna clan through a palace coup, alien encounters and marriage, the laws and prophecies that govern her people, and finally a change in government. For those eagerly awaiting more action in the main series, there is an adventure with one of Tam’s uncles that will satisfy a desire for further exploration in this world – as well as a desire for true romance. Meanwhile, the prequel offers a personal view of how Tam’s world was settled in the far past, offering a greater understanding of why her people live as they do in the present.

Lovers of high fantasy with accompanying sci-fi elements, beware! This series is as addictive as chocolate!

The Words of the Night (Colors of Another Sky) by C. Chancy

Step into a world where magic and alternate history collide! Jason Finn is a history teacher with complex Post-Traumatic Stress trying to fight the black dog of despair after being “retired early” from academia. He is on his way to South Korea to make a new start in his life by teaching English while practicing archery. Maybe that will silence the dog.

But fate has other plans in store for Jason. The plane somehow ends up in the year 1618, after it is ripped out of the sky by a dragon. Thrown together with a young passenger named Mary Hart after being captured, Jason must find a way to ensure that they survive. But in a world filled with cannibalistic merpeople, real-live vampires, magic, and more, how can two cursed individuals maintain their sanity?

I interviewed C. Chancy for this book here. The Words of the Night is her best novel to date, one which non-anime watchers will be able to follow easily. If you like alternate history with a magical twist and a story that includes a bibliography for references, this book is for you!

A Boy Against the Boxers by Jacob Sharp

The year is 1900. The place is the International Legation Quarter in Peking (now Beijing), China. The month is June – and the Boxer Rebellion is in full swing. Young Eddie Donahue has only vaguely heard about the Boxers so far; at fourteen years of age, he is expected to run errands for his father and that is it. The most excitement that he has experienced comes when he watches the soldiers as they parade out to guard the various embassies and Western interests in the Quarter.

Eddie soon finds more excitement than he bargained for, though, when the Boxers arrive in Peking. As war comes to the very gates of the Legation, Eddie must grow up fast in order to help protect his parents and the rest of the innocents behind the walls. With 55 days until help will arrive, how long will their resistance hold?

Both history lovers and parents who want to encourage their children to study the past will love this story. This book is for the young at heart, not just the young in fact. Make sure your library purchases a copy!

The Vixen War Bride by Thomas Doscher

Did you ever wish that James Cameron’s Avatar franchise made sense? If so, The Vixen War Bride is the series for you! Join U.S. Ranger Captain Ben Gibson as he takes part in the occupation of the foxlike Va’Shen’s home world following their war with humanity.

Ben’s wife was killed in a Va’Shen attack. Their marriage was a matter of convenience, but they were still best friends, and now Ben must keep the peace on the world that the race which murdered her calls home. So when a young Va’Shen vixen appears and claims responsibility for her people’s war crimes, Ben takes her into custody. But soon he learns that she knows nothing about the atrocities for which she says she is responsible. If she didn’t do it, then why does she insist that she did?

It turns out that there has been a severe cultural miscommunication. Other miscommunications soon follow, weaving a deadly comedy of errors which the hero and heroine must safely navigate. Welcome to The Vixen War Bride series, which blends Global War on Terror reminiscences with military history and anime in one engaging sci-fi package!

Bradley Shumaker

The Good Shepherd by C.S. Forester (1955)

Under the heading of military fiction is this not-so-well-known and underappreciated novel. The book was adapted into a 2020 film entitled Greyhound starring Tom Hanks, and while I have not seen the movie, I can at least speak for the book. The main character is the commanding officer of a fictional U.S. Navy destroyer during World War II who is in command of an escort group. It is focused on anti-submarine warfare in a scenario where the commander is without support from anti-submarine aircraft. Without giving anything away, I can promise you that it will have you on the edge of your seat, and that the faith that is displayed by the main character will inspire you.

How Star Wars Conquered the Universe: The Past, Present, and Future of a Multibillion Dollar Franchise by Chris Taylor (2014)

Under the heading of popular culture history, this book is one of the best that I have read covering the background of a cultural icon. In my lifetime, nothing compares to the institutional franchise that was created by the release of Star Wars in 1977. As interest is currently waning in the franchise, this book will bring back a fondness for it through detailed background and discussions of all of the things that made it great. It is definitely a fun read, and I particularly enjoyed hearing about the origin of the names of many of the characters that we have come to know so well today. Similar to the background of the Harry Potter franchise, the story shows that Star Wars was not studio-created, but rather was the brainchild of a single perseverant individual who refused to take “no” for an answer.

Passport to Magonia: From Folklore to Flying Saucers by Jacques Vallée (1969)

Under the heading of folklore, the paranormal, and mystery, this book represents a seminal work on the topic of UFOs/UAPs, and is a must-read for an appreciation of the subject. The author was engaged as a consultant by Steven Spielberg for his 1977 movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and many may not be aware that the French-speaking character of Lacombe in the movie is in fact based on him. Vallée is perhaps best known for promoting the inter-dimensional hypothesis to explain UFO experiences (as opposed to the more conventional extraterrestrial hypothesis), which he tried to sell to Spielberg but was rejected on the basis of “that’s not what the public is expecting.” Proponents of the inter-dimensional hypothesis—which include J. Allen Hynek—argue that UFOs are a modern manifestation of a phenomenon which prior ages ascribed to various mythological creatures.

Only If God Says So! Finding Courage to Protect Life in a Pro-Choice World by Karen Black Mercer (2022)

Under the heading of biography and Pro-life, Karen Mercer Black is an underappreciated lifelong champion of both women and babies (the ultimate “feminist”) who has been involved in the Pro-life movement for over fifty years. Her courage won’t just surprise you, it will amaze you, and her faith in God will inspire you. The title of the book and her story is a perfect reminder for all of us as we work through the problems, challenges, and issues of our daily lives—that nothing happens on this earth unless God permits it.

On the Demonic, compiled from the writings of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen and edited by Father Dave Tomaszycki (2024)

Under the heading of religion, Catholicism, and the supernatural, this is the book that (the Venerable, soon to be Blessed) Archbishop Fulton Sheen intended to write, but for various reasons never managed to complete. Father Dave Tomaszycki of Detroit compiled this work from Fulton Sheen’s writings on spiritual warfare and the strategies employed by the forces of evil, and includes some of Sheen’s never-before-published private writings. This book is relevant not only because of the current state of our society (which has continued its downward spiral since Fulton Sheen’s passing in 1979), but also in light of Sheen’s upcoming beatification on September 24, which will bring him one final step closer to sainthood. Although because of his innovative use of the media Sheen is often viewed as a “modern” individual, many are surprised to learn that he was born in the late 1800s (on May 8, 1895) and thus was clearly “ahead of his time.”

Vincent Weaver

The Variety Pack for Summer – So Many Books…So Little Time!

Inspired by an idea from one of my brothers, I’ve gotten into the habit of asking others who I see reading the following questions: “What are you reading?,” “What is your favorite book of all time?,” and “What would you recommend I read?” After several months of this, I now find that many people make recommendations to me unsolicited. Though a few of those end up being duds, most end up being unexpected joys. Because of that wide-open approach, I’ve developed a rather eclectic range of interest. I started in early 2022 logging and rating books that I’ve read. The books (and audiobooks) below are a select representation of only those I gave an “A+” rating. Whatever your interests, there’s probably something from this list worth a few hours of your summer. Enjoy!

My Visit to Hell by Dr. Paul Thigpen

A modern-day, Southern take on Dante’s Inferno. One of my all-time favorites.

The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen

An exceptional read. Generates tremendous introspection, particularly regarding the elder son; an easy, yet thoughtful read.

The Spirit of Catholicism by Karl Adam

Originally written in German in the 1920s, this version was released in 1935. Short but breathtaking from one idea to the next without skipping a beat. Requires careful reading to be sure not to miss many profound points about the nature of the Church. Probably the best book on apologetics that I’ve ever read.

Triumph: The Power and the Glory of the Catholic Church by H.W. Crocker III

Suggested by Brandon Vogt’s recommended books on Catholicism, it is outstanding. This should be used as a textbook for a Catholic Studies college course. Goes a long way toward undoing all of the Protestant propaganda that we have taken for granted over the last few centuries – especially in America.

The Fulfillment of all Desire by Ralph Martin

Possibly the best book on spiritual growth I’ve ever read. He pulls from eight or so major Saints’ writings and makes them very digestible. Well-organized thoughts with a powerful message throughout.

Cedar of Lebanon by John Cosgrove

This was probably my first foray into Christian/Catholic historical fiction – originally given to me by an acquaintance at church, though I still don’t know why he thought I should read it. The Holy Spirit, I suppose?!? Several of my kids and my wife have also read it and enjoyed it. Outstanding speculation on why Catholic Tradition and interpretation of Scripture makes perfect sense. Out of print, but can be obtained through various online websites. Probably my favorite book of all time!

The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl R. Trueman

An outstanding tool for understanding “how we got here” regarding sexual morality and untethering from societal norms and traditional mores. This book has become important background research in Family Honor presentations, as well as being mentioned by Fr. Longenecker in a few of his books. I recently discovered, too, that a colleague and friend of mine at GTC was a student of Mr. Trueman in seminary.

The Father’s Tale by Michael O’Brien

This is one I hadn’t heard of previously. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, despite it being nearly 1100 pages. I was easily able to stay interested all the way through, and the ending was satisfying. Basically a combination of The Prodigal Son, Finding Nemo, and The Brothers Karamazov.

J. Antonio Juarez

The Fourth Turning by William Strauss and Neil Howe

Even though I was not a regular listener of the show, I first heard about this book on the Rush Limbaugh show when it came out in 1997. This book is the source of what has become known as the “Strauss-Howe Generational Theory of History,” which explains how generational patterns have affected Anglo-American history. It states that we move along in a repeating cycle or saeculum containing four phases or “Turnings” which last roughly the span of a generation (20 years): 1) the high; 2) the awakening; 3) the unravelling; and 4) a crisis. The fourth turning crisis marks the end of one saeculum and the beginning of a new one. America’s last crisis period ended with the dropping of the atomic bomb and the end of World War 2 in 1945. So you add 80 years (4 turnings) from then and you get 2025! Which is why they wrote their follow-up book The Fourth Turning is Now in 2023. You may not buy the theory, but it is well sourced and constructed and it resonates at a very instinctual level. It is well worth reading because it helps give a bird’s eye view of history that proves the Biblical quote that “there’s nothing new under the sun” when it comes to understanding the past and predicting the future.

Communism by Richard Pipes

A short by concise examination of Communism since Karl Marx and Freidrech Engels first published their Communist Manifesto in 1848. The first chapter goes into brief history of the kind of thought which led to the publication of the Manifesto and explains very specific terms and definitions of what Communism is, and what it is not (compared to say, Socialism). The remainder of the rest of the books tells how Marx and Engels’ ideas worked out in the various countries in which it was tried, such as the Soviet Union, China, Cuba, Nicaragua, etc. The last chapter to me is key, as it takes all the preceding information and demonstrates why, time and again, Communism fails everywhere it is implemented. By reading this book you will be able to refute people like Bernie Sanders when they attempt to pull the “real Communism has never been tried” line. Pipes shows that if you were to put Marx and Engels’ plan for a Communist utopia into five steps, nations that try implementing them will always get stuck on step two. As Pipes brilliantly demonstrates, Communism’s unworkability is a feature, not a bug.

Honorable Mention- If you are looking for a great book that delves into the life of Karl Marx himself and how it shaped his views on Communism, but one that is also not afraid to look at the spiritual aspects of Marx and Communism, try The Devil and Karl Marx by Paul Kengor.

The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Great Depression and the New Deal by Robert P. Murphy

Years before I sought fame and fortune...ok, what I meant to say was that years before I sought a modicum of notoriety from writing (still waiting on the fortune!), I was a small business owner in lawn and landscaping. But then the 2008-10 mortgage crisis hit and I began hemorrhaging customers who cancelled their services when they couldn’t afford their mortgage payments. I lost everything. In order to understand the crisis I read Meltdown by Thomas E. Woods Jr., and it was there that I learned about the Austrian school of economics. I began to read Thomas Sowell, Walter E. Williams, along with a colleague of Woods name Robert P. Murphy who wrote The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Great Depression and the New Deal. Here in one book is not only a primer on Austrian economics that even a middle schooler could understand, but Murphy applies its tenets to a period of American history that every single American student has already previously learned about. After reading this book, you will realize that most of we have been taught (and our kids are still learning) about the Great Depression and the New Deal is one big ideological fabrication!

The Compendium of Theology by St. Thomas Aquinas

Unlike a lot young people who go to college and end up losing their faith, and since I had already “jumped the Barque” with my Catholicism in high school, I found that I didn’t have much to lose. So it was a shock (albeit a joyful one) to encounter some intelligent, moral and fervent Catholic professors in college who threw me a lifeline back to the faith. I fell in love with St. Thomas Aquinas and his Summa Theologica, Summa Contra Gentiles, Catena Aurea, and his various other commentaries. As you may know, these are all massive sets of books which make it hard for casual reading. For those who are pressed for time, St. Thomas did write a smaller version of is Summa Theologica called The Compendium of Theology (also published as The Light of Faith by Sophia Press) which is written in the style of the Summa but is still highly readable and offers an informative summary of the Catholic faith.

God’s Dog Series Jonathan & Matthieu Pageau

Lest I be thought of as someone who is overly-studious with no sense of imagination, I thought I should include at least one fiction title. While I don’t read as much as I used to (or would like to), I have always been partial to fantasy, science fiction, some horror titles, as well as works of historical fiction. Consequently, my fiction pick is the graphic novel series God’s Dog written by Jonathan and Matthieu Pageau, illustrated by Cord Nielson and colored by Felipe Cartin. The series started out as a Kickstarter campaign by Jonathan Pageau who is an Eastern Orthodox Christian, icon carver, an expert in symbolism and also the host of The Symbolic World podcast. God’s Dog is a retelling of an old Christian legend of St. Christopher (sometimes drawn as a dog-headed saint) who was a powerful beast looking for the most powerful lord to serve. When he finds out the lord he serves fears the Devil, the beast goes in search of the Devil, but when he finds out that the Devil fears Christ, the beast goes in search of Christ. The graphic novel is wonderfully illustrated and great read, one that is rich in symbolism and may take some time to digest. Two of the novels have been released, God’s Dog: Monster and God’s Dog: Warrior, with three more planned.

Photo Credits- Ignite Lab UCSF and Amazon.