Culture

Summer reads with ties to Lakeland

Make your summer reading list Lakeland-themed with these newly released reads by local authors.

June 17, 2024 • 
Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto, Amelia Grooms
A selection of books are shown on tables and bookshelves in a local bookstore.

Stop by Pressed for Lakeland literature with a side of lattes.

Photo by @pressedlkld

Summer starts on Thursday, June 20, which 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. Get started with these recently released books by authors with ties to Lakeland.

  • “Even When It Wasn’t You” by Kayla Tirrell | This local author’s newest romance follows one young woman’s journey of finding love while facing her past.
  • “Thank You for Applying” by Kristen Grafton | Lakelander Kristen Grafton’s debut novel is a self-proclaimed “love letter to high school” as main character Jorie navigates the ups and downs of her senior year.
  • “Color Lakeland” by Bump Galletta | Mix up your summer reading by breaking out the colored pencils to fill in this Swan City-themed coloring book.

Need more recommendations? Stop by one of Lakeland’s local bookstores or check out this list of more books by Lakeland authors.

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