1. "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky
This is number one on the list because this is an ageless and relatable book that will teach you about being an outcast and how to find yourself. It isn't a long read for those who don't have a lot of time to read a good book, but it is one of the best coming of age stories I have ever read. You won't have a problem picking this book up to read time and time again. Bonus: The movie adaptation is stellar and Logan Lerman gave an amazing portrayal of Charlie.
2. "Wicked" by Gregory Maguire
I could go on for days about how amazing this book is. It's a personal favorite and one of the best twists on a classic. The book gives light to the Wicked Witch of the West's life before she became "evil." This book might take a while to read, but it will be hard to put down. The Broadway adaptation has won many Tony awards, and for a Bonus: it makes the flying monkeys WAYY less scary in the movie.
3. "Me Before You" by Jojo Moyes
As a person who finds romance novels to be repetitive and designed to give girls high expectations, this book changed my opinion. It's an unconventional love story that makes girls see that not every relationship involved guys that look like Zac Efron and girls who get everything they want. It's a true page-turner with a tear-jerking ending that will have everyone reaching for their tissues. Bonus: The motion picture is going to be released June 3, 2016.
4. "Into The Wild" by Jon Krakauer
If you've never read this book or seen the movie, you're seriously missing out. Christopher Johnson McCandless leaves his successful life behind to explore the Alaskan wilderness. Leaving behind all his worldly possessions, he gives himself a new name and life to completely be engulfed by the wild. Bonus: Emile Hirsch gives an incredible performance in the movie and totally makes you want to get lost in the wild.
5. "The Bazaar of Bad Dreams" by Stephen King
Stephen King is literally the King of thriller novels and this book just adds to his collection. This book is a compilation of 20 short stories that were either previously published or unpublished. If you have a love for thriller novels and need quick reads for the summer, this book will satisfy your craving. Bonus: While it's compiled of short stories, Stephen King has never been one to make anything "short." You can read a short story in between other books to allow your summer reading list to have variety.
6. "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" by J.K. Rowling
This is the eighth book in the "Harry Potter" series, set 19 years later. At this point, I'm sure J.K. Rowling only produces books made of gold, so this is sure to be a great read. It follows Harry Potter as a father and as an employee of the Ministry of Magic. This book has two parts, sure to make it lengthy book, but this just means you can indulge for that much longer. Bonus: This is the first "Harry Potter" book not to be turned into a movie, but turned into a play. You can watch it live on stage!
7. "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Rigg
This book follows an orphaned boy who finds himself at a very peculiar orphanage on a Welsh island. It is a fiction novel that will make you fall in love with the children the minute you're introduced. It's incredibly creative and has black and white pictures sprinkled throughout to give you a visual perspective on Miss Peregrine's home. Bonus: This motion picture is set to be released September 30, 2016, and was directed by Tim Burton.
8. "It's Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini
This is about a teenager trying to succeed in life, but succumbing to the pressures of his overbearing need to succeed. Craig Gilner struggles with anxiety and is eventually admitted to a mental hospital. Throughout his self-help journey, he meets unique characters along the way that help him cope with his anxiety and his grip on reality. Bonus: The motion picture is already released and it features Emma Roberts and Zach Galifianakis.
9. "Party Monster" by James St. James
This book, originally published as "Disco Bloodbath," is a far cry from ordinary. It is a real-life depiction of New York club kids and was written by and based on James St. James's life. It features sex, drugs, excessive drinking and a questionable murder, so this isn't a book for children. If you want a fun and crazy way to kick-off your summer reading, this is the way to go. Bonus : The motion picture is already released and features Seth Green and Macaulay Culkin.
10. The whole "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
I know I mentioned the eighth book in this series already, but if you read one thing at all this summer, let it be this series. THIS DOESN'T EVEN NEED AN INTRODUCTION. The "Harry Potter" series, written by J.K. Rowling, is for people of all ages and is a serious page turner. You follow Harry through all the twists and turns in his wizard life and it is truly enchanting. Bonus: You can have a weekend-long movie marathon after you finish all seven books!
