July 6, 2026
Contact: Sara Diedrich, diedrichs@missouri.edu
Photo by Abbie Lankitus
Looking for your next great read? The University of Missouri’s expert librarians have curated a summer reading list with recommendations for every reader — whether you need an audiobook for a long road trip or you’re settling into a hammock with a page-turner on a lazy afternoon.
ROAD TRIP EPICS
Cindy Bassett, director of the University of Missouri Law Library at Mizzou’s School of Law, has a couple of audiobook recommendations if you’re driving to a summer destination.
Her first pick is “Dungeon Crawler Carl” by Matt Dinniman.
The book features Carl and his prize-winning cat, Princess Donut, as they are sucked into an intergalactic game show where people from Earth must fight to survive against alien creatures in a video game-like fantasy dungeon.
“It is a hilarious, dramatic and thought-provoking fantasy for adults and older teens,” Bassett said. “You could read it in print, but the audiobook is amazing! It is read by Jeff Hayes, who is a master of voices.”
Another suggestion for families with older children is “The Murderbot Diaries” by Martha Wells.
If you have ever wondered if you could care — really care — about a robot, then this is the series for you. The Murderbot Diaries tell the story of a self-aware security robot, partially robotic and partially organic, in this futuristic sci-fi world of planetary exploration. This robot is not like all the other security units, and the fun of the series is in learning why and how he is different.
“There is no romance, some adult language and lots of exciting fighting, but it would be fine for middle schoolers on up,” Bassett said. “I highly recommend the graphic audio versions of the series for a fully immersive experience that makes you feel like you are in the story.”
STORIES THAT LINGER
Jara Anderson, research and instruction librarian for agriculture, food and natural resources at Ellis Library and liaison with MU Extension, suggests “The Seven Year Slip” by Ashley Poston.
The novel follows book publicist Clementine, who is content staying busy rather than facing the loss of her beloved aunt. Everything changes when she returns home to find a stranger in her apartment — and discovers she has slipped seven years into the past. This charming romance explores grief, second chances, perfect timing and the courage to embrace new beginnings.
“It will sweep you off your feet while also making you want to hug your loved ones a bit tighter next time you see them,” Anderson said.
You’ll get similar vibes from “The Correspondent” by Virginia Evans.
Each letter in this epistolary novel builds a quiet connection between the reader and Sybil, a retired woman who spends decades writing letters to family, friends and even celebrities. You will follow along as Sybil — bright and headstrong — confronts change, explores grief, patches relationships and finds new ways to connect with the people in her life.
“This book makes you feel like you discovered a box of long-lost letters written by a sharp, stubborn stranger whom you quickly grow to love,” Anderson said. “It will also remind you to take the time to reach out to someone in your own life.”
POWERFUL AND UNFLINCHING READS
Jenn Brady, head librarian at the College of Veterinary Medicine, also recommends tapping into your emotional side.
She recommends “American Dirt” by Jeanine Cummins, a powerful novel that explores the lengths people will go to save those they love. Cummins' story invites readers into the immigration experience through a gripping and deeply human narrative.
“After finishing this fictional account, I encourage readers to seek out nonfiction works that share the real stories and voices behind the issues portrayed in the novel,” Brady said.
“My Friends” by Fredrik Backman follows a similar theme as a raw, emotionally charged story about four teenagers whose friendship ends up changing a stranger’s life in the future. It’s a powerful story about relationships, memory and the people who shape us most.
“I save my five-star reviews for the rare books that truly move me — on a deeply personal and visceral level — and this is one,” Brady said. “It’s moving and had me laughing so hard I was crying.”
OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD AND FAST-PACED THRILLS
Jennilyn Wiley, head librarian at the Missouri School of Journalism Library, recommends picking up a copy of “The Martian” by Andy Weir.
Weir's first novel, “The Martian,” follows a stranded astronaut as he relies on humor, science and stubborn optimism to survive alone on Mars. “The Martian” was turned into a major motion picture, and Weir followed that up with another space adventure that became this summer’s blockbuster, “Project Hail Mary.”
“Summer is the perfect time to travel out of this world with a good space-themed book,” Wiley said.
Back on Earth, Wiley recommends “A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession and Shipwreck” by Sophie Elmhirst, a British reporter and author.
This true story is about Maurice and Maralyn Bailey, a couple stranded at sea after a whale sinks their boat. For months, they fight for their lives on a small raft, uncovering who they are and the strength of their love.
“Nothing is more delicious than a fast-paced, gripping thriller,” Wiley said. “And no one tells them better than investigative journalists.”
BOOK CLUB ENERGY
Kimberly Moeller, education and social sciences librarian at Ellis Library, recommends “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt.
The book explores an unlikely connection between a grieving widow and a clever octopus for a slow-burn mystery that ties them together. Van Pelt’s debut novel is also the official Columbia One Read selection this year, inviting readers to join community conversations and library events. A movie adaptation is currently streaming on Netflix.
“You can choose your favorite format from audiobook to ebook to print,” Moeller said.
“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman also tops her list of recommendations.
From the author of “A Man Called Ove,” which was turned into the movie “A Man Called Otto,” Backman tells the story of a failed bank robbery that turns into a surprising tale of strangers and connection.
“Backman is a master storyteller,” Moeller said, “weaving dialogue and imperfect characters into a beautiful perspective of humanity. I laughed, I cried, and I loved it so much I bought the book and the audiobook to share with everyone. If you’re a fan of audiobooks, the narration in this one is a treat.”
