With summer around the corner, people are getting ready for poolside afternoons and beach vacations. The perfect companion for summer relaxation by the water is a satisfying beach read.
Now, what exactly is a “beach read?” The term was first used in 1990 as a blanket term for go-to summer blockbuster books. It has been used by publishers, journalists, and booksellers ever since to perfectly encapsulate the “vibe” of a summer book hit – the perfect marketing tool. You may even see a “Beach Reads” section at your local bookstore.
When you think “beach read,” summer imagery immediately comes to mind, which made us ponder: What characteristics make for a good beach read?
1. Easy to devour
Beach reads are not typically tedious to read and are easy to consume. A great beach read will leave you content to lounge, while being engrossed enough to keep turning the page.
2. Summery setting
There’s nothing quite like reading a book that mimics your own setting, so it’s no surprise that many successful beach reads take place…well, at the beach! Now, this is by no means a requirement, and many bestselling beach reads may take place during the summer months, but not necessarily at a beach location.
3. A little romance
Since women make up the majority of readership in America, it’s also no surprise that romance continues to be a popular genre amongst bestselling beach reads. Romance books also tend to have happier endings, keeping the subject matter light. Beach reads are not solely romantic books, though. Many people opt for true crime or investigative thrillers as their go-to beach reads!
4. Carefree with low stakes
Speaking of keeping it light, a good beach read is usually not too heavy in subject matter. There can always be emotional elements, of course, but sometimes, something a little more trivial where there isn’t a lot at stake for the characters is ideal for a lounge-y read.
5. Escapism
At the end of the day, summer vacations are an escape from the grind of everyday life, so people want to see that same energy reflected in what they are reading. Reading can be the ultimate escapism – a powerful landmark of a successful beach read.
Speaking of summer, our Writing Contest: Summer Vacation is in full swing! If you have a summer story you want to share, submit your story by August 1, 2023 for a chance to win a self-publishing package or money off your next order with 48 Hour Books!
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