Book a Holiday

Browse Newsweek staff's favorite books to read on vacation. There's something for everyone

- 

VACATION MEANS DIFFERENT things to different people. For those who love books, a holiday isn’t complete without tucking a book (or several) into their bag, or loading them onto an e-reader. But what makes the perfect holiday read? Some prefer something short to accompany busy days of sightseeing. Others want a long book that will entertain through hours on the beach doing little besides relaxing and the occasional drink or nap.

Don’t worry, Newsweek has you covered. Our expert staff has curated a list of highly recommended novels, memoirs and nonfiction to match whatever your vacation tastes. And to further help you along, we’ve rated them one, two or three hour-glasses (⏳) to better help you match your book choice to how much time you'll require to read it. Of course, any day can be a vacation with a good book, so no need to reserve a ticket or a hotel to select one of these reads.

Fiction

THRILLER

The Pact

by Sharon Bolton TRAPEZE

A slow burner that gradually tightens its grip before racing toward a chilling finale. Though I found every character thoroughly unlikeable, I couldn't look away. The story follows six privileged teens whose reckless dare ruins 18-year-old Megan's life, landing her in prison for 20 years.

When she's released, she calls in the debt they all owe her, sparking a tense, high-stakes reckoning.

Bolton masterfully explores guilt, privilege and justice in a story that's dark, unsettling and ultimately satisfying.

▸ Carrie Bremner, Art Director

STRONG WOMEN

By Any Other Name

by Jodi Picoult | BALLANTINE BOOKS