Locals Suggest Summer Reads

Most of us are at least halfway through summer 'break' by now. We hope that despite work and busy schedules, everyone is still getting a chance to take some time off to enjoy a good book—whatever their favorite genre. Elk Grove Patch asked some local residents for their recommendations for lazy poolside reads. Here's what a few of them said.

Who: Laura Mielenhausen, librarian, 

Book suggestion: Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Why: “Delirium has everything I love in a good teen book: a futuristic dystopian setting, family drama, a touch of romance, and a strong teen character who learns to think for herself and fight the system.”

Who: Steven Detrick, mayor of Elk Grove

Book suggestion: The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

Why: "The Power of Positive Thinking is my favorite book because your attitude towards life brings you an equal reward in return.” 

Who: Geri Keskeys, third-grade teacher, Joseph Sims Elementary School

Book suggestion: On Common Ground, edited by Rebecca DuFour, Richard DuFour and Robert Eaker

Why: “This book is great for teachers and educators—anyone who wants to look at school improvement. It’s really looking at the hard work we have to do to improve schools and strategies for improving the school setting. It’s about embracing learning rather than teaching.” 

Who: Teri Benson, employee,

Book suggestion: Anything by Janet Evanovich

Why: “I don’t have just one favorite. They’re laugh out loud funny books that don’t take much thought—they are perfect for the summer.”

Who: Laryn Haggard, 20-year-old Elk Grove resident

Book suggestion: Born to Run by Christopher McDougall

Why: “This book is just really good even if you’re not a runner. It’s really inspirational.”

Who: Evan Ponce, 11-year-old Elk Grove resident

Book suggestion: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Why: “I’m reading the first one right now. I like the fantasy.”