Whether you're diving into a summer beach read, knocking out your TBR (to-be-read) list, or getting the kiddos to do summer reading assignments, you can meet all of your reading goals this summer around Columbia.

From the Richland Library’s Summer Learning Challenge to curated picks from local bookstores like All Good Books and Queer Haven Books, we’ve rounded up reading recommendations for every kind of reader — plus a few book clubs and challenges to help you stay on track (or meet new literature-loving friends). When in doubt, you can always browse this guide, a full list of books written by local authors or authors who have local connections.

📚 Book recommendations

"The Women" by Kristin Hannah
This novel follows Frankie McGrath, a young nurse who joins the Army Nurse Corps during the Vietnam War and faces the brutal realities of combat. Kristin Hannah honors the forgotten stories of women who served, with rich characters, deep friendships, and emotional weight. This book comes at the recommendation of Richland Library readers — it's currently the most-borrowed book. See what other books the library's staff are reading this June.

"The Lion Women of Tehran" by Marjan Kamali
Recommended by: Julie from All Good Books
Set during 1950s Tehran, Iran, this story follows two young girls as they come of age and pursue their goals during a time of political turmoil. A beautiful story of friendship, forgiveness, and empowerment.

"The Corruption of Hollis Brown" by K. Ancrum
Recommended by: Queer Haven Books
This YA novel sits squarely at the intersection of thriller and romance, with writing that’s equal parts gritty and lyrical. Perfect for readers craving a twisty, small-town mystery with depth and emotion.

Read several books that come recommended by Queer Haven Books. | Photo via @kevbosheth

"Dangerous Learning" by Derek Black
Recommended by: Steve from All Good Books
Derek Black, an expert in constitutional and educational law, writes a fascinating history, beginning in the pre-Civil War 1800s, of America's continual efforts to stifle Black literacy. Sadly relevant in our era of book bans and government censorship against minority perspectives. What makes the book powerful is Black's focus on the human beings who both resisted and shaped these anti-literacy policies. Pro tip — this is a local author.

"Lavender House" by Lev A.C. Rosen
Recommended by: Queer Haven Books
A queer noir set in 1950s California, this bestseller follows ex-cop Andy Mills as he investigates a murder that’s anything but straightforward. A loving tribute to pulp detective novels with a contemporary voice.

"This is Happiness" by Niall Williams
Recommended by: Kathy from All Good Books
This novel, set in a village in Ireland that is about to undergo the profound change of the coming of electricity, is a touching and compassionate portrait of a place that soothes the soul. Both witty and heartwarming, it is a story of deeply affecting characters – their quirks and foibles, their yearnings and regrets. But more than anything, for me, it is Williams’ writing — just gorgeous, illuminating — that will bring me back to this book.

"Into the Pines" & "Into the Peaks" by Ryan Lill-Washington
Recommended by: Queer Haven Books
Short, punchy, and perfect for summer — this Charleston-based author delivers thrillers inspired by slasher films and true crime podcasts. Think: chills on a hot day. Our advice? Don’t read these alone at night.

"You Should Be So Lucky" by Cat Sebastian
Recommended by: Queer Haven Books
This sweet and layered romance begins in May 1960, when a reporter is assigned to cover a perpetually losing baseball team. Beneath the slow-burn tension are themes of loss, grief, and hard-won acceptance.

Join All Good Books' 2025 Summer Reading Challenge for kids and adults alike. | Photo by @all_good_books

📚 Summer challenges

Richland Library’s Summer Learning Challenge
Through Sunday, Aug. 31, Richland Library invites readers of all ages to track their reading and learning. Win prizes, attend free events, and discover recommended reads throughout the summer. Explore several ways to participate.

All Good Books' 2025 Summer Reading Challenge
Through Sunday, Aug. 31, AGB is giving out stickers and incentives just for reading — no pressure, just fun. Stop in to get your challenge sheet (for adults + kiddos) and meet fellow bookworms.

Bonus: AGB is also hosting several book club events over the summer. Here are the next meeting dates for their kids’ club, adult club, and the local collab book club with Piecewise Coffee Co. in Cayce.

Tuesday, June 10: Kids' Summer Book Club: "The Firefly Summer"
Tuesday, June 17: Summer Book Club with Julie + Lauren: "Before I Let Go"
Thursday, June 26: Piecewise Book Club: "Just for the Summer"