Summer’s here, and so is your excuse to kick back with a good book, or five. Whether you’re lounging at the beach or stretched out in the shade, this Queen’s alumni reading list has everything from laugh-out-loud fiction to magical adventures for the kids – no heavy lifting required (unless it’s a hardcover). Each book was published over the past few years and written by a Queen’s grad, so you can feel extra good about supporting alumni talent while soaking up the sun.
Books for adults
“Searching for Richard Nixon: Finding Refuge and Making a Home in Prince Edward County”
Thomas Harrison, Artsci’89, Ed’92, Law’01, PhD’16
Ever hear the rumour about Richard Nixon sneaking off for a secret visit to one of Ontario’s ultimate summer destinations in 1957? Turns out it’s true, and Harrison uncovers Tricky Dick’s Prince Edward County itinerary – complete with barhopping and golf – in this meticulously researched book that also relates the author’s own journey of finding home in unexpected places.
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“Really Good, Actually”
Monica Heisey, Artsci’10
If you’re looking for a laugh while lounging, check out this debut novel from comedian, essayist, and award-winning screenwriter Monica Heisey. It’s all about Maggie, a 29-year-old newly single divorcee who insists she’s doing great (she’s not). Between 4 a.m. burgers, terrible dates, and existential spirals, she tries to figure out life, love, and herself. It’s sharp, hilarious, and painfully relatable.
“Ordinary Wonder Tales”
Emily Urquhart, Artsci’99
This beautifully written essay collection finds magic in the everyday. Blending folklore, science, and personal stories, Urquhart explores life’s mysteries – from ghosts to genetics, oil paintings to illness – with awe and insight. Shortlisted for the Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Nonfiction, it’s a thoughtful, lyrical summer read that lingers long after the last page.
“Bear with Me”
Dorris Heffron, Artsci'67, MA'69
Heffron’s sixth and final novel follows Clare, a wildlife photographer in a struggling marriage whose work takes her across Canada. On one voyage, she visits her veterinarian sister and takes a sled trip to the edge of the Arctic Ocean. Back home, she discovers something surprising about love in old age. The final pages bring a distinctly Canadian kind of fireworks.
“False Bodies”
J.R. McConvey, Artsci’02
Kraken rumours, cults, and corporate secrets swirl in this genre-blending noir-horror. It’s a squiddy, spine-tingling thrill ride that drops monster hunter Eddie “The Yeti” Gesner onto an oil rig off Newfoundland to investigate a mass death. Think Alien meets Come From Away – but with more tentacles. A weird and wild summer page-turner.
“Becoming Green Gables”
Alan MacEachern, MA’91, PhD’97
Another summer destination read, Becoming Green Gables tells the fascinating true story of the family who lived in the real house behind Anne of Green Gables. Through selections of the diary of owner Myrtle Webb – a cousin of Anne novelist Lucy Maud Montgomery – MacEachern gives readers a glimpse of life on PEI as the home became a national icon and both enriched and upended the Webb family.
Books for kids and youth
“After the Wallpaper Music”
Jean Mills, Artsci’78, MA’80
Twelve-year-old violinist Flora is torn between her loyal string quartet and a new rock band led by a grieving drummer. As a music competition stirs tension, she must navigate shifting friendships and big decisions. A heartfelt, harmony-filled story for ages 8 to 12 about growing up, taking risks, and finding your own sound.
“Once I Was a Bear”
Irene Luxbacher, Artsci’93
A little bear spends his days playing in the forest, surrounded by comfort and friends until one day everything changes. He wakes as a boy in a strange new world and must learn to feel safe again. A gentle, poetic story for ages 4 to 8 about change, identity, and belonging – perfect for quiet summer moments.
“Blood Like Magic”
Liselle Sambury, Artsci’13
Voya’s been tasked with an impossible choice: sacrifice her first love or lose her family’s magic forever. And there’s another problem – she’s never been in love. With time ticking and a genetic matchmaking program as her last hope, she must navigate love, legacy, and dark magic in this gripping urban fantasy for ages 14 and up that was shortlisted for a Governor General’s Award.
“Finding Us”
Linda Dawn Brown-Thomson, Meds'77
JJ has always felt different – until he meets Eli the elephant and Stretch the giraffe. Together, they leave the circus behind and set off on a magical journey to find family and belonging. Filled with wonder and friendship, it’s a great summer read for kids aged 7 to 8 who dream of big, brave adventures.
