Reading in Summer: Enriching the Mind and Soul During Vacation

After a long and exhausting school year, filled with hard work by students and the continuous efforts of parents to support them, the long-awaited summer vacation finally arrives. It brings with it family aspirations to spend quality time together, free from time constraints. Summer vacation is a great opportunity to encourage children to engage with books during their free time. The concept of enjoyment should not be limited to travel and entertainment—some of the best moments are those spent reading, turning the vacation into a source of knowledge. Therefore, reading should be linked to other activities to make it both enjoyable and beneficial, adding a new and delightful dimension to the reading experience.

Reading: A Fruitful Way to Enrich the Mind During Summer Vacation

A young woman spending her summer vacation reading books.

Human development specialist Lamiya Saber told Nadormagazine:

“Summer vacation is a golden opportunity for young people to use their time in a productive and enjoyable way. Reading is one of the most beneficial activities—books are the best companions. That’s why it's important to make the most of the summer vacation by choosing quality books. Whether it's novels, scientific books, or religious texts, reading enhances the mind and develops language skills. Young people can also join book clubs or discussion groups, benefit from public libraries and cultural events—such as World Book Day or international book fairs—to stay connected with the world of reading. This makes reading an integrated part of one’s activities, rather than just a seasonal habit that results in piles of unread books.”

Useful Books to Enjoy During Summer

“Laugh Every Day for a Better Life” by Lisa Sturge

We all need more laughter in our lives. This book guides you on how to achieve that, helping you enjoy your summer. Laughter releases endorphins in the body, creating joy and relaxation and relieving stress. The laughter training techniques in this book will help you laugh more easily—even when you’re feeling down—through exercises that get you to laugh from the heart. Instead of waiting for laughter to come, this book encourages you to initiate it yourself. It helps free you from behavioral constraints and encourages creative ways to bring laughter into your life, making it a conscious and joyful choice.

“The Body Language Handbook: How to Read Everyone’s Hidden Thoughts and Intentions” by Maryann Karinch & Gregory Hartley

This book is a practical guide to understanding body language and interpreting non-verbal signals. Featuring real-life photos of people in various situations, it compares their body language in states of ease versus tension. The book teaches effective reading of body language to improve communication and better understand others’ emotions. It also helps build confidence by teaching you how to control and use your own body language positively. This understanding can improve your interpersonal skills and help build stronger, more harmonious relationships.

“How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie

This book helps young people cope with anxiety and fear, promoting positivity. It’s a life-changing guide that transforms your thinking—not just with motivational words, but through practical application of Dale Carnegie’s effective principles. The author shares his experience in managing emotions and fundamental thoughts in a way that’s easy for readers to apply. The book improves individual capabilities and frees you from the anxiety and stress that rob you of a vibrant and happy life.

Novels to Enjoy During the Summer

“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

This inspiring novel follows a young Andalusian shepherd named Santiago on his journey to find a treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. His journey begins in Spain, where he meets the mysterious King Melchizedek, who tells him about the treasure. Santiago crosses the Strait of Gibraltar, travels through Morocco, and finally reaches Egypt. Guided by omens, he faces many obstacles along the way, learning how to overcome each. The core message of the novel is summarized in the king’s words to Santiago:

“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

“The Bamboo Stalk” by Saud Alsanousi

This novel tackles themes of identity, alienation, and self-discovery. It tells the story of a young man born to a Filipino maid who works for a wealthy Kuwaiti family. The only son of the family, Rashid, falls in love with her and secretly marries her. When his family discovers the marriage and child, they force him to abandon both, fearing social shame. The story addresses critical issues such as interracial marriage, social discrimination, identity crises in Gulf societies, and how religion and culture affect individual lives.

“The Beautiful Summer” by Cesare Pavese

One of Pavese’s most beautiful novels, The Beautiful Summer is part of a trilogy that won the prestigious Italian Strega Prize. It tells the story of a teenage girl discovering the mysteries and adventures of adolescence and her entry into womanhood. The author guides us, through the heroine, on a summer journey into the maze of teenage curiosity, blossoming femininity, first love, and the entanglement of dreams and disappointments.