BORGARBÓKASAFNIÐ
Rut Ragnarsdóttir, Director of Reykjavík City Library’s Kringlan and Sólheimar branches, plans to read Educated by Tara Westover during her summer vacation.
What sparked your interest in this book?
“I had heard a lot of praise for Educated and was curious to read the true story of someone who grew up under such unusual circumstances yet still managed to achieve so much. I often find biographies and autobiographical books very interesting. I enjoy learning about the lives and experiences of people who have taken a completely different path in life than I have.”
Do you read different kinds of books in the summer than in the winter?
“Yes, during the summer I usually read more, and I often choose lighter books. My best reading memories are from summer vacations when I’ve found a book that I simply couldn’t put down. In the winter, I’m more likely to choose something a bit heavier or more challenging.”
Do you have any favorite literary genres?
“I love well-written standalone novels, but I also read a lot of adventure books, and I’m fond of gentle science fiction as well.”
Who is your favorite author?
“My favorite author is probably Dan Brown—a bit of a guilty pleasure! His books are exciting and fast-paced. I especially recommend his latest novel, The Secret of Secrets.”
Can you recommend any good books for the summer?
“Yes, I can mention a mix of both recent and classic ones. For example, The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls comes to mind. It’s an unforgettable story of a difficult yet extraordinary childhood and remarkable resilience.
Then there’s I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy. A candid, funny, and deeply moving memoir that became a major hit.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir is a thoroughly entertaining space adventure full of suspense, humor, and unexpected friendship. It has also recently been adapted into a film and is just as good on the big screen.
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch is a fast-paced thriller about parallel realities and the lives we might have lived.
Kaliane Bradley’s The Ministry of Time is an original and captivating story about time travel, love, and secrets.
Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel is a beautiful and thought-provoking science fiction novel that connects people and destinies across centuries.
On my bedside table right now is Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. It’s an engaging and entertaining time-travel novel about a young woman who travels into the past and discovers that life in “the good old days” was far more complicated than she had imagined.
They are all highly engaging reads and perfect for the summer holidays, whether you’re in a deck chair, a summer cottage, or on a plane.”