By Mercedes Korngut, Contributor, SmallBitsofHappiness.com
Picture this: school is out, you’re sitting outside, the sun is warming your skin, and you’re sipping lemonade. The only thing you’re missing? A good book! Not only does reading bring us a small bit of happiness, it also holds various health benefits. With summer here, let’s put the phones to the side, and dive into an enticing read. Whether your genre of choice is comedy, romantic, thriller, non-fiction, or cookbook, this books-to-read, summer reading list is for you! Explore the hottest releases, as well as some oldies but goodies that needn’t be disregarded. Take some time over the next few warm months to read something fresh, learn something new, or simple cuddle up and immerse yourself into a distant universe.
1. My Friends
By Fredrik Backman
18-year-old Louisa discovers a mysterious painting featuring three forgotten figures and embarks on a cross-country journey to uncover the story behind it. On this journey, she traces the painting back to a group of teens who once found love, laughter, and meaning on a quiet seaside pier. A perfect 2025 read, My Friends reminds us of the enduring power of connection, creativity, and finding light in unexpected places.
Credit: Simon & Schuster/Fredrik Backman
2. Paris: The Memoir
By Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton pulls back the curtain on her public persona to reveal the truth behind the headlines, sharing her journey from childhood, fame, and trauma, to empowerment and success. This book is a powerful reminder that reclaiming your narrative can be the most radical act of all.
Credit: Amazon/Paris Hilton
3. The Wishbone Kitchen Cookbook
By Meredith Hayden
Chef and content creator Meredith Hayden serves up a collection of seasonal, approachable recipes that blend everyday ease with a touch of luxury. From cozy weeknight meals to effortlessly elegant gatherings, her dishes are designed to make home cooking feel joyful, unfussy, and deliciously elevated. A must-have summer reading list item that inspires kitchen newbies and seasoned cooks to try new recipes and embrace a lifestyle of relaxation.
Credit: Amazon/Meredith Hayden
4. What Have You Done?
By Shari Lapena
A seemingly perfect town is shattered when a teenage girl is found murdered—and the once friendly, small town, turns into a group of not-to-be-trusted suspects. As secrets unravel and tensions escalate, the looming question of who is behind the murder continues. Twisty, addictive, and impossible to put down—this is Shari Lapena at her chilling best, perfect for fans of jaw-dropping suspense.
Credit: Amazon/Shari Lapena
5. How to be Enough
By Dr. Ellen Hendriksen
Clinical psychologist Dr. Ellen Hendriksen offers seven powerful shifts to help self-critics, overthinkers, and perfectionists trade relentless inner pressure for self-compassion and confidence—without losing their drive or ambition. With warmth, honesty, and science-backed tools, she guides you from self-doubt to self-acceptance, helping you feel like you finally belong to your own life.
Credit: Amazon/Dr. Ellen Hendriksen
6. A Beginner’s Guide to Breaking and Entering
By Andrew Hunter Murray
Al makes a living “borrowing” luxury homes while their rich owners are away—no harm, no foul—until one job goes sideways and someone ends up dead. Suddenly on the run, Al is caught in a high-stakes game of murder, secrets, and survival, all wrapped in razor-sharp wit and social satire. Funny, fast, and wildly clever, this book is perfect for fans of smart heists, messy friendships, and some classic mayhem.
Credit: Amazon/Andrew Hunter Murray
We hope that this summer reading list brings you a Small Bit of Happiness.
ABOUT THE TEENAGE AUTHOR
Mercedes Korngut, Co-Founder & CEO
Mercedes is a teen who is passionate about helping other teens find small happiness in daily life. She is the producer and co-host of podcast, Hack Your Happiness, and the editor of all Small Bits of Happiness media videos. In addition, Mercedes is a contributor to various magazines across North America, writing on the subject of happiness and parent-teen connection.