And now it is summer- welcome to it! Looking over NPR's list of Best Beach Books, I noticed that although they've put together a great list of reading choices, one of my all time favorite beach reads is not on it. Today I rectify that matter.

The book is Beaches by Iris Rainer Dart, and it is a wonderful combination of humor, touching personal moments, and sadness. When Cee Cee Bloom and Bertie Barron meet in 1951 on an beach in Atlantic city, it is the beginning of a friendship that will last a lifetime. Cee Cee has great talent and over the years works her way to the top of the show business world, while Bertie decides to focus on marriage, desperately wanting a child of her own. They keep in contact with letters and phone calls, and always seem to connect with each other near beaches, from Hawaii, to Malibu, to Sarasota. Despite their imperfect lives, personal discontent, and deep misunderstandings, the love of the friends lasts through good times, and bad.

The 1988 movie of Beaches stars Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey. It changes some things from the book, but the overall story and theme of friendship remains. And yes, I cried at the end.

It's summer reading time! I know summer doesn't officially start until June 21, but I know you're ready to start picking those vacation books now! Be a part of the Kenton County Public Library Summer Reading Club and get a chance to win $25 gift cards:


Adults 

*Earn one raffle ticket for every book read or program attended

*Raffle tickets available at all reference desks and programs

*One winner will be drawn every week

*Prizes will include $25 gift cards to restaurants and entertainment organizations

I found a list on the NPR website with some perfect titles. Check out Audience Picks: 100 Best Beach Books Ever, and then reserve them from KCPL. Now grab a book and enjoy the summer!