Now that our favorite season has *officially* sprung, we’re ready to start creating the spring bucket list of our dreams. Along with testing out Starbucks’ new springtime cups and growing a mini-garden in cute AF spring planters, we’re making it a priority to get in some relaxing reading time on a sunny patio (cosmos aren’t required, but are definitely recommended). So to make sure our springtime book goals become reality, we’re highlighting some of the hottest new adult reads out this April that’ll take you from spring break to your mid-week hammock sesh.
1. What It Means When a Man Falls from the Sky by Lesley Nneka Arimah ($26): Everyone in the book world is talking about this collection of short stories by debut author Lesley Nneka Arimah, and it’s not hard to see why. Including stories about a father struggling to empower his daughters, three generations of women who are haunted by memories of war, and the shocking repercussions from experts trying to “fix the equation of a person,” this is the type of book you’re going to want to tweet about a lot. We guarantee it.
2. Miss You by Kate Eberlen ($26): If you’re looking for a hopelessly romantic love story to read by the pool this spring, we highly suggest checking out Kate Eberlen’s latest must-read. Telling the story of young Tess and Gus, who get to know each other through a series of chance meetings spanning over a decade, it’s a love story that definitely rivals some of our favorites (we’re looking at you, Nicholas Sparks).
3. No One Is Coming to Save Us by Stephanie Powell Watts ($27): This reimagining of The Great Gatsby by debut author Stephanie Powell Watts has been in our Amazon cart for *forever.* Set in the contemporary American South, this fantastic new adaptation is a heartfelt literary phenom that’ll have you hooked from the very first page.
4. Beartown by Fredrik Backman ($27): Even though many fear that the small community of Beartown is about to be lost for good (the town is literally losing acreage by encroaching trees), hope is sparked through the community when their junior ice hockey team makes the national semi-finals. Don’t worry; you don’t have to be a sports fan to enjoy this wonderfully written novel.
5. The Stars Are Fire by Anita Shreve ($26): When a fire breaks out on the coast of Maine, five-months-pregnant Grace and her best friend Rosie must protect their children as they watch their houses and communities turn to ash. It’s a harrowing story of resilience, bravery, and learning to survive that every girlboss should read, pronto.
6. Every Body Yoga by Jessamyn Stanley ($17): This phenomenal woman, whom we had the pleasure of interviewing last February, is all about breaking down stereotypes and living her best life, no matter what her haters say. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, this inspirational and handy book will help you learn 50 different yoga poses and gain the confidence you need to slay the mat every damn time.
7. The Night the Lights Went Out by Karen White ($26): When a young, single mother finds herself trying to start over in a small Georgia town, she quickly realizes that she doesn’t quite fit in with the rich super-moms in her new community. Full of small-town charm, dangerous secrets, and shocking sins, this epic read is definitely one to watch out for this spring.
8. No Easy Target by Iris Johansen ($28): Margaret Douglas was born with the incredible ability to understand and communicate with animals. But this gift comes with a cost: There are many dangerous people lurking in the shadows who want to use her power to their advantage. Combining the worlds of fantasy and suspense, Iris Johansen’s latest tale is one you need to binge-read STAT.
9. Sunshine State by Sarah Gerard ($16): This collection of short essays explores the state of Florida through the economic issues, social problems, and environmental perils that are haunting America and beyond. If you can’t read enough news about this sometimes-pretty-damn-weird state, add this to the top of your list.
Are any of these books on your to-read list? Tweet us by mentioning @BritandCo.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
(Featured photo via Getty)