Spring Break is fast approaching and besides a margarita permanently placed in my grasp, there is something else I’m looking forward to accompanying me on the beach.  And it is a good book.  There is really nothing like the feeling of placing your lounge chair up to the waves to tickle your feet, and slamming through drink after drink book after book.  Life gets pretty difficult when you mix hot sun with alcohol, and this is a fair remedy for a relaxing beach activity.

So here is a short list of books you can shove in your carry on, before you hit your fabulous beachy destination of choice this year.  And if you’re anything like a book-nerd like me, you will get through (almost) every single one of them.

1. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Alright, I’m a sap-I’ll admit it, and I can never get enough of those really gross romantic novels (so I tried to include only one of my personal favorites on this list).  Now, if you’ve seen the movie (just recently came out on video) pretend you never did.  In my opinion, the movie was painful, even with the charming help of Rachel McAdams. But the book? The book is a classic, and an exciting love story with a never-ending collection of twists and turns. To make a long story short (and without spoiling the ending) Clare Abshire falls in love with Henry DeTamble, a time traveler. If that doesn’t make things ‘complicated’ I don’t know what will. Although the book may get a little confusing at times, this story follows a straightforward love-story line with Clare and the ramifications that account to Henry’s time traveling curse.  You are constantly questioning whether Niffenegger’s accounts about time travel work with the book, but once you get past that, this novel is sweet and truly heartfelt. I highly recommend it.

2. I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell by Tucker Max

OK, before anyone starts yelling as me about how much of an a-hole the author is-hear me out.  I understand that he disregards social norms, gets drunk at inappropriate times, and ignores the consequences of his actions, but we get to read about them on the comfort of our own beach mat! This book contains the humorous and absurdly (honest) collection of Tucker Max’s true life stories from his life at law school. Tucker goes to Vegas, Tucker goes on a road trip, Tucker ends up in Texas, and Tucker writes one seriously funny book. And since (most of us) are in college, it is safe to say we can all relate to the crazy dialogue he and his college buddies hold throughout the adventures and his ridiculous take on life. BUY IT! I can tell you, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

Now, this recommendation comes from the more serious side of me.  This. Book. Is. Deep.  But on the other hand, it is a really simple read. The book is essentially about first impressions, how important they are to the human race, and how important they are in understanding the world around us.  The anecdotes about how the mind works are effortlessly fascinating.   The book grabs you right away and pulls you into such an influential scientific insight, you won’t be able to put it down.  I can’t imagine how equally amazing this book would have been if I was carting it around with me beach side – I read this in my 6 by 6 foot dorm room and could not get enough.  So I highly recommend you take the plunge into this seemingly intriguing read about our ability to make snap decisions and quick judgments. You won’t stop telling everyone what you’ve learned once you do!

4. My Horizontal Life by Chelsea Handler

I can’t express to you enough how out of control Chelsea Handler is. I’m sure you all are well aware of her popular late night comedy show, and her mild obsession with small people (Chuy, holla!), but if you aren’t familiar with her book sprinkled with stories, you must get reading. The way this women writes draws a swelling laugh through my chest, and it actually comes out of my mouth. Out loud. And I’m not even embarrassed. She is crude, raw, honest, and her collection of morning after stories are things you couldn’t even dream up yourself.

5. Anything by Chuck Klosterman (Sex, Drugs & Cocoa Puffs, Downtown Owl)

Nuff said.  You will tip over your lounge chair and the book may float away in the ocean once you finally stop laughing at the things this man has to say.

While I’m at it, since you have time to read up this Spring Break, why don’t you take this opportunity to read up on topics that pertain to your major, as well? As a college student myself, I know I would love to gain some insight about my field of choice, and what a better time than while your booty is planted in the sand!?

Time to get reading.

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