The end of May means the beginning of summer (which officially starts on June 21 but who's counting), so that means it’s time to break out the bug spray, grill, and sunscreen.

It’s also time to figure out what your next pool or beach read is, so we’ve compiled six recently released reads by authors with ties to Louisville to get you started.

“Groundskeeping” by Lee Cole | A debut novel from a native Kentuckian, this love story is about a young writer who moves back to Louisville after the 2016 US election.
“From the Hood to the Holler” by Charles Booker | From a Kentucky State Representative + lifelong resident of Louisville's West End, this hopeful memoir tells the improbable story of Representative Booker’s journey from one of the poorest neighborhoods in the country to his current political career.
“Alexander von Humboldt” by Danica Novgorodoff | This illustrated children’s book by an author + artist from Louisville, which detailsthe incredible life of naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, is a perfect read for post-vacation storytime.
“Last Call At The Hotel Imperial” by Deborah Cohen | This nonfiction account from a prize-winning historian + Lousivillian chronicles a group of American reporters during the 1920s who interviewed dictators like Hitler and Mussolini.
“Waverly Hills Sanatorium: A History” by Lynn Pohl | Preorder your copy of this 112+ year history of Louisville’s famous (and haunted) sanatorium — written by the Filson Historical Society’s collections cataloger.

Bonus:

“The Fast Ride: Spectacular Bid and the Undoing of a Sure Thing” by Jack Gilden | While this author isn’t from the 502, the plot in his new book surrounds the epic and bizarre journey of the thoroughbred, Spectacular Bid, who was the 1979 Kentucky Derby winner.

Need more recommendations? Stop by Carmichael’s Bookstore or All Booked Up to get expert advice from Louisville’s local booksellers. 📚