Summer 2025 Reading List

A curated selection of my favorite American literature and poetry

Many of my current and upcoming essays reference these works, so if you enjoy my writing then surely you will enjoy these recommendations. If you’re at all interested in nature conservation, the environment or just enjoy time outdoors, you’ll especially like the works of Transcendentalist authors Emerson and Thoreau. Enjoy!

Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass
Perfect for long days spent outside underneath a tree, Leaves of Grass is an easy to read masterpiece that weaves together a love of nature and zest for life. If you haven’t read it, I think you’ll find it uplifting and inspiring.

Henry David Thoreau, Walden
Thoreau’s account of two years spent living in solitude in a cabin on Walden Pond is thought-provoking, full of famous quotes and at times, very funny. If you haven’t read it, it will change your life.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nature
The fact that Walt Whitman referred to Emerson as his “master” should be proof enough that this book is worth reading! A beautiful account from a true nature lover that will shift your perspective and convince any skeptic of the divinity of nature.

Please note that all of these books have a lot of different versions of cover art, so don’t worry if you don’t find the version pictured in this article.

What are you reading (or re-reading) this summer?