Summer Vibes

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Hello my fellow bookworms!

It's finally summer! Depending on where you live, that could mean you are able to go out and enjoy some sunshine, or it could mean that you may still have limited hours to be out. It is still a weird time for all of us, but at least we are a bit closer to all going outdoors and being social again.

I have some book news for you:

• Just in time for summer, the ice cream company Salt & Straw is hosting new flavors based on children's books. You can buy a pint for yourself (online) and enjoy reading the book it is based off at the same time! (Smile: Words & Pictures sounds like a delicious flavor to me!)
  

• If you feel up to it, Buzzfeed Books is hosting a Summer Reading Challenge. Read through six different categories and enter to win a tote bag, candle, and six books!
  

• The New Adult Scavenger Hunt is no more. I am sad to read this, but am glad that it was around for as long as it was (it was held annually since 2014). See the final post by Kelsey Ketch, the host of the hunt, here, before it is deleted, along with the website.
  

• Do you  have a Costco membership? If so, there is a "hidden benefit" where Costco hosts book signings and events! They also offer signed books to purchase at their store, as well. You can view the upcoming author events here. Though the events calendar is empty at the moment (at least, it is for my area of the world), I imagine it will fill out as places start reopening again. 
  

• Are you tired of reading the same old stories and need diversity, different points of view, and books of color, but do not know where to start? Try LibraryReads, a website that hosts the monthly nationwide library staff picks list for adult fiction and non-fiction that aims to be inclusive of all races, genders, viewpoints, etc. If you are a librarian, you can nominate a new and upcoming book to the monthly list, as well!
  

• The Smithsonian Magazine has a list of books to read in honor of Pride Month, showcasing overlooked stories and new books to dive into. 
  

• Book Riot has a list of free audiobooks for children to listen to. It may be of some fun to listen to this summer, whether you have children or are a child at heart!
  

• I know I mentioned it in my previous post, but the First Chapters Contest is live and up until July 18th! Try your hand at writing a compelling first chapter to win $3,000, publication, and a consultation with an agent!
  

• If you live in the UK or in France, there is a book titled Le Trésor de l'Entente Cordiale® that will lead you on a treasure hunt between the two lands. If you can solve all the clues and gather the key fragments, you will be led to an actual treasure: a golden casket! 

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I hope you have a happy, healthy, and fun summer! What books are you looking forward to reading? Let me know! I have a stack of books that I am aiming to read, so I will update on that next time. :)

 Happy Reading!

Summer is on the way!

Hello my fellow bookworms!

This month has been one wild ride. I have been busy non-stop and hope I can catch up on some relaxation in June! I apologize for the delay in book reviews.

In the meantime, I do have some book related news for you:

• Voyage is hosting a Young Adult First Chapters Contest, open until July 18, 2021. First prize is $3,000 plus an hour long literary consultation!
  

• Penguin House is hosting a "How-To: Make Your Life Better" series with a series of emails sent to your inbox containing tips on wellness, home, or food and drink. You choose which category you would like to start with. You can switch to a different category after a few weeks, if you choose. 
  

• Penguin House also has a literary horoscope, to which you can receive a novel based on your birthday. Try it here!
  

• Did you know John Steinbeck wrote a werewolf-themed mystery novel? No? Neither did I! But, I learned that he did this week and that his estate is not releasing the book to the public at the present. Fans are calling for its release, but don't expect to see it any time soon.
  

• Haven't been able to visit the museums yet? The Smithsonian recently posted HABITAT, an online exhibition that you can view here.
  

• Have you read Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard before? I really enjoyed this young adult trilogy. Royalty, magical abilities, love, betrayal - it is one dramatic series that will keep you reading until the end! It is set to have a drama on Peacock, with Elizabeth Banks to direct and play a supporting role. 
  

• Book Riot released a list of great online book clubs/podcasts for you to join, if you do not have any in your area. I cannot wait to check them out!
  

• If you need ideas for plans this summer, Barnes & Noble released a list of Summer Reading books to devour, reference, and find some fun ideas from!
  

What are your plans for summer? Any good books on the horizon that you can't wait to dive into?  

Until next time!

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