Press "Enter" to skip to content

Top Road Trip Reads: UVA Library Staff’s Must-Read Book Recommendations

As the unofficial start to summer, Memorial Day often signals the beginning of road trip season for many Americans. Whether the destination is a sandy beach, a serene lake, or majestic mountains, a compelling book can make the journey more enjoyable.

A recent report from Enterprise, a car rental company, indicates that approximately two-thirds of Americans have plans for an overnight leisure trip. This opens up ample time for indulging in some good reads.

To assist with curating a reading list for these adventures, UVA Today turned to the staff at the University of Virginia Library. They suggested a variety of titles suitable for road trips, including both light beach reads and engaging audiobooks.

Kelly O. Graham, Director of Development

  • “Between Two Kingdoms” by Suleika Jaouad

    Kelly O. Graham describes “Between Two Kingdoms” as possibly the most beautiful and moving book she has ever encountered. This memoir, ideal for road trips, combines a physical journey with a deep emotional exploration as Jaouad recounts her 15,000-mile quest to reconnect with those who supported her during her cancer treatment in her early 20s. Graham particularly recommends the audiobook version, noting that Jaouad’s narration adds warmth, intimacy, and richness to the story.

  • “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls

    This memoir is a staple for many readers, capturing the perpetual motion of Walls’ early life. She vividly narrates her experiences growing up with her family across various landscapes, including deserts and cities, in a series of unstable homes. Walls was also a featured speaker at a recent UVA Library event, reminding readers to stay informed about upcoming library events.

  • “The Art Thief” by Michael Finkel

    “The Art Thief” offers a true account of one of the world’s most notorious art thieves, yet it reads like an exhilarating heist movie. With a fast-paced narrative and short chapters, Finkel’s book is perfect for travelers seeking to reengage with nonfiction or simply enjoy a gripping, plot-driven tale.

Read More Here

Comments are closed.