SHARE

Darien's Barrett Bookstore Serves Up Page-Turners For Summer Reading

DARIEN, Conn. — Although reading is sometimes deemed an academic endeavor, this hobby is also a great way to relax during the summer, while simultaneously challenging one's mind. The employees at Barrett Bookstore in Darien offer great choices for a relaxing book to read on the beach or while traveling.

Barrett Bookstore in Darien is a great place to pick out a summer read.

Barrett Bookstore in Darien is a great place to pick out a summer read.

Photo Credit: Alana Galloway
Barrett Bookstore in Darien is a paradise for a readers.

Barrett Bookstore in Darien is a paradise for a readers.

Photo Credit: Alana Galloway

They all agree that the most popular book this season is Harper Lee's "Go Set a Watchman." The novel was originally written in the mid-1950s, according to harpercollins.com. The manuscript was lost for over half a century, until it was rediscovered in 2014 and published on July 14.

Lee's new novel proves that even 55 years after the publication of her last book, "To Kill a Mockingbird," her voice, themes, and message remain timelessly inspiring. 

According to The Wall Street Journal, it sold 761,000 copies in only six days, and the novel continues to fly off shelves at a record speed. 

Marion Roe, a clerk at Barrett Bookstore, believes that book is doing so well is due to press and history. Lee made a bang in the book-selling industry with "Mockingbird," so it is not surprising that fans are excited to learn more about Jean Louise "Scout" Finch and where she ends up.

Following the theme of mystery, another bestseller this summer is psychological thriller "Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins. This novel tells the story of Rachel, who takes the same train and follows the same routine every day. One day, however, everything changes, and her world is turned upside down. 

Since its publication Feb. 1, the novel has sold over 2 million copies. Additionally, it remained the No. 1 bestseller on the UK hardback fiction list for over 20 consecutive weeks, according to express.co.uk, and is now referred to by fans as the next "Gone Girl."

Roe admits that it is interesting that these novels, which are so different, are all best-sellers right now. However, she agrees that most summer reads are relaxing, intriguing, and inspiring.

"I think in the summer people are definitely in the mood for something light, but still well written," Roe said.

Another popular read this summer is "Paper Towns" by John Green. Although the book was originally published in 2008, the release of the movie July 24 caused a rapid increase in sales.

"People are always buying books when they hear they are being adapted into movies," Roe said. "The same goes for 'The Martian' by Andy Weir."

to follow Daily Voice Darien and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE