University of Miami

07/01/2025 | Press release | Archived content

Are these titles on your must-read list

People and Community

Are these titles on your must-read list?

Canes recommend books that made an impact on them.

By News@TheU 07-01-2025

News@TheU talked to several members of the faculty and literary community at the University, to hear what they were reading and watching this summer. Then, we asked all Canes to submit their favorite books. Browse the following list and check our previous lists (vol. 1, vol. 2, vol. 3, vol. 4, vol. 5, and vol. 6) to find more suggestions from colleagues.


'The Briar Club'
by Kate Quinn

"It's an engaging, inspiring, historical novel of women in a Washington, D.C., boarding house supporting each other and fighting for their dreams in the McCarthy/Red Scare era."-Jordan Levin, senior writer, Frost School of Music

Genre: historical fiction, thriller, romance novel, historical mystery, political fiction


'Call Me by Your Name'
by André Aciman

"'Call Me by Your Name' is a must on any summer reading list. It is sultry, tantalizing, and juicy, making you feel like you are living your best Italian life every time you crack open this book."-Lucie Mau, facilities operations control representative

Genre: romans novel, gay fiction, bildungsroman


'The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance-What Women Should Know'
by Claire Shipman and Katty Kay

"'The Confidence Code' was recommended to me by a colleague when I was feeling insecure at work. This book helped me examine where my confidence comes from. Through experts and researchers, the authors explore what exactly confidence is in people-is it learned, can you gain more of it, and why do women in particular sometimes struggle with it. It resonated so much with me, and I hope it can do that for others as well."-Demi Rafuls, associate director, development initiatives

Genre: self-help


'The Count of Monte Cristo'
by Alexandre Dumas

"If I had to choose one book to bring with me to a deserted island, it would be 'The Count of Monte Cristo.' Although it's a classic, it reads like a modern-day adventure tale of treasure hunts and revenge. I can imagine that upon each reread of this story, new layers will unveil themselves on the page. Hidden Easter eggs throughout the text will be readily discovered, and new perspectives on themes such as betrayal, redemption, and mortality will make it feel like you're reading this for the first time, every time."-Lucie Mau, facilities operations control representative

Genre: adventure fiction, historical fiction


'Delirium'
by Lauren Oliver

"This YA novel set in a coastal town in dystopian Maine has you questioning the dangers of love and the lengths people will go to for those they love. The story is set in a heat wave so oppressive, it almost rivals Miami's hot and humid hurricane season. Fun, easy, and gripping. 'Delirium' is the perfect book to bring with you to the beach this summer."-Lucie Mau, facilities operations control representative

Genre: novel, young adult literature, science fiction, romans novel, dystopian fiction


'Destination Unknown'
by Agatha Christie

"It's not your typical Agatha Christie murder mystery. 'Destination Unknown' is a spy thriller that follows a woman who has nothing to live for, who is asked to help find a missing scientist."-Arianne Collins, manager, College of Arts and Sciences

Genre: crime fiction, mystery, travel literature


'The Devil in the White City'
by Erik Larson

"The book masterfully interweaves the historical context of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and then delves into the chilling story of H.H. Holmes, America's first documented serial killer, who operated near the fairgrounds, creating a compelling and suspenseful read."-Aledys Gonzalez, manager, UHealth - University of Miami Health System

Genre: true crime biography


'Dog Whistle Politics'
by Ian Haney López

"This book breaks down the politics behind racist coded terminology and behavior that has evolved since the passing of the Civil Rights Act. It provides a lot of history and examines how people's behavior is racist while not being explicitly so. It also helps explain why people have voted the way they have and how coded language has worked as a dog whistle. The racist messaging is there, but only those tuned into it can hear and react to it. It's a great exploration on sociology from a political perspective."-Angie Villanueva, associate director, University Communications

Genre: nonfiction


'Educated: A memoir'
by Tara Westover

"This memoir tells a unique story about the struggles and complexity around self-growth and exploration when it deeply contrasts with established familial and societal expectations. It's eye-opening to understand the power of education when it isn't a given. It's a truly inspiring story about resilience and self-discovery."-Joie Meyer, business process and operations analyst, UHealth - University of Miami Health System

Genre: biography, autobiography


'Emma'
by Jane Austen

"I once missed picking up someone from the airport because I was reading this book and completely forgot!"-Patty Atkinson, research navigator, Clinical and Translational Science Institute

Genre: novel, fiction, romance novel, comedy, reference work


'Eternal'
by Lisa Scottoline

"I have read a lot of books that take place during World War II but never one set in Italy. This is the backdrop for a beautiful story of friendship that turns into a love triangle that must navigate the political vicissitudes of the rise and fall of Mussolini and Nazi occupation."-Meredith Camel, executive director, University Communications

Genre: historical fiction, saga


'Fever Beach: A Novel'
by Carl Hiaasen

"Irresistible and scathingly hilarious political and social only-in-Florida satire from the master."-Jordan Levin, senior writer, Frost School of Music

Genre: mystery, thriller, suspense, humorous fiction


'The Five People You Meet in Heaven'
by Mitch Albom

"Mitch Albom is a family favorite author whom I grew up watching on The Sports Reporters. The quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, 'Every person that comes into our life comes for a reason; some come to learn and others come to teach,' has always resonated with me, and this book encompasses that idea. This book has a great way of making you think about all of the small encounters one has throughout their life, and just how important we all might be to someone else."-Jackie Frechette, senior Cane navigator, Office of the Provost

Genre: novel, psychological fiction, philosophical fiction, religious fiction


'Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance'
by Angela Duckworth

"Its contents will open your perspective on how to tackle everyday challenges, and it gives hope to all of us who live in this country and must be present, efficient, and on top of our game at all times."-Joselyn Garcia, senior program coordinator, School of Communication

Genre: self-help


'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue'
by V.E. Schwab

"The character goes through a centuries-spanning journey across history and continents as she struggles to leave her mark on the world despite her curse-she is forgotten by everyone she meets. The story shifts when, after nearly 300 years, she meets a man in a bookstore who remembers her name."-Aledys Gonzalez, manager, UHealth - University of Miami Health System

Genre: fantasy, fantasy fiction, historical fiction, historical fantasy


'I Shouldn't Be Telling You This: (But I'm Going to Anyway)'
by Chelsea Devantez

"It's incredible, compelling, funny, and touching."-Sabrina Casals-Garcia, manager, Development and Alumni Relations

Genre: humor, biography, autobiography


'James'
by Percival Everett

"So very different from any other book. It is a marvelous retelling of the Huckleberry Finn story from the enslaved perspective. Just magnificent."-Barbara Gutierrez, writer, University Communications

"This book is an inspiring, insightful reworking of Mark Twain's 'Huckleberry Finn.' It reveals the folly of racial prejudice."-Michael Malone, director editorial services, University Communications

Genre: novel, historical fiction, humor, satire, adventure fiction, humorous fiction


'The Martha's Vineyard Beach and Book Club'
by Martha Hall Kelly

"I've long enjoyed historical fiction, and I've been enamored by Martha Hall Kelly's storytelling since I read her first book, 'Lilac Girls.' Her latest novel takes place on Martha's Vineyard during World War II and introduces an element of U.S. history that I was excited to get lost in. A great read to enjoy by the pool or beach this summer!"-Megan Ondrizek, assistant vice president, University Communications

Genre: historical fiction


'The Mirror and the Light'
by Hilary Mantel

"Brilliant writing. Mantel's trilogy, which served as the inspiration for the PBS 'Wolf Hall' miniseries, exploring the influence of Thomas Cromwell in the reign of Henry VIII. It captures a historical moment with contemporary ramifications."-Michael Malone, director of editorial services, University Communications

Genre: historical fiction, political fiction, biographical fiction


'One Golden Summer'
by Carley Fortune

"Carley takes such a good twist on the typical summer romance reads, and I love learning about the region she places her stories in. 'One Golden Summer' takes place in a lake town outside of Toronto; the lake-goers are all somewhat intertwined with family secrets, former romances, and childhood memories on the lake. Alice, the main character, is going through major changes in her life at 33 years old and honestly needed this summer at the lake for a reset. Carley's style of setting the scene really puts you at the lake; you can picture the sun glistening off the surface of the water and hear the hum of boats in the distance, children laughing, and birds chirping. A great read if you're heading to the lake or snuggling on the couch imagining yourself there! She has three other summer-focused novels as well: 'Every Summer After,' 'Meet Me at the Lake,' and 'This Summer Will Be Different.'" -Nicole Curtin, manager, College of Arts and Sciences

Genre: romance novel, contemporary romance, coming-of-age story


'Pachinko'
by Min Jin Lee

"While fictional, this novel provides great historical insights into the experiences of Koreans in Japan during the 20th century through a multigenerational family saga. Following the characters' growth and development over the course of decades brings the story to life and will have you feel a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the novel."-Joie Meyer, business process and operations analyst

"It is a masterful, powerful story of a family in occupied Korea. It is heartbreaking and beautiful."-Barbara Gutierrez, writer, University Communications

Genre: novel, historical fiction, domestic fiction


'Pineapple Street'
by Jenny Jackson

"The Stockton family is incredibly wealthy and all reside in close proximity to one another on streets named after fruits in posh Brooklyn Heights."-Aledys Gonzalez, manager, UHealth - University of Miami Health System

Genre: urban fiction, domestic fiction


'Same As It Ever Was'
by Claire Lombardo

"Warm, beautifully written, deeply intelligent family saga of a couple and their four daughters over the decades; an insightful story of marriage, family, and women's lives."-Jordan Levin, senior writer, Frost School of Music

Genre: saga, domestic fiction


'The Shadow of the Wind'
by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

"This is one of the most beautifully written books I have read in a long time. It is an intricately woven story with surprising connections between characters, all of whom are linked through one boy's love of a favorite book. It is mysterious, charming, suspenseful, and poetic. It masterfully merges the macabre with a romantic honesty in a way I have seldom seen."-Meredith Camel, executive director, University Communications

Genre: novel, mystery, thriller, drama, gothic fiction


'The Silence of the Lambs'
by Thomas Harris

"A classic piece of literature that's as enthralling as it is unsettling. With ironic characters like Hannibal Lecter and Clarice Starling pushing the narrative forward, it's hard not to get wrapped up in the tension of the story."-Matthew Rembold, photographer, University Communications

Genre: novel, thriller, horror fiction, mystery


'Sophie's World'
by Jostein Gaarder

"It's a casual novel that delves into the history of philosophy."-Michelle Ley, Ph.D. student, Department of Biomedical Engineering

Genre: novel, philosophical fiction


'Summer People'
by Elin Hilderbrand

"If you're looking for a coastal summer story with romance, family drama, and the scenery of Nantucket, look no further. Hilderbrand has a way of weaving storylines together and keeping you turning the page wanting to find out how it all comes together. What I love about her stories is the dark or sad parts that she doesn't shy away from. Life is messy for everyone; no one has it all perfectly together, and she always encapsulates that. Hildebrand has a four-book arc starting with 'A Summer Affair,' if you want to escape for more than one book!"-Nicole Curtin, manager, College of Arts and Sciences

Genre: thriller, suspense, domestic fiction


'The Sword and the Spark: Book One of the Order of the Silver Sword'
by C.E. Groom

"It's like your geeky favorites ('Star Wars,' 'Firefly,' and 'Game of Thrones') had a baby with Shakespeare. Minus the iambic pentameter. You are also supporting an independent South Florida writer. The second book is just as good."-Arianne Collins, manager, College of Arts and Sciences

Genre: science fiction, fantasy fiction


'The Three-Body Problem'
by Cixin Liu

"Blends hard science fiction with deep human emotions. In what seems like a hopeless situation, you still want to follow along with these characters as the narrative twists and turns to new revelations."-Matthew Rembold, photographer, University Communications

Genre: science fiction, novel, hard science fiction, Chinese science fiction, speculative fiction

'Underneath'
by Robbie Dorman

"It's been getting hot out, so I figured what better way to cool off than with a creepy horror story set in a freezing Antarctic research station? Things go seriously wrong, and the chills definitely aren't just from the weather."-Kevin Corrales, art director, University Communications

Genre: horror fiction, thriller, suspense, psychological fiction


'Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty'
by Anderson Cooper and Katherine Howe

"It is very interesting to read about how the Vanderbilt family rose to riches during the Gilded Age."-Madeline Whittaker, administrative assistant, College of Arts and Sciences

Genre: biography


'The Wedding People'
by Alison Espach

"'The Wedding People' was an unexpected story about love, loss, and strangers coming together. Who knew crashing a wedding could be so emotional and weirdly healing?"-Leticia Tejeda, communications manager, University Communications

Genre: romance novel, humor, dark comedy, domestic fiction


'We are Legion (We are Bob)'
by Dennis E. Taylor

"This book examines what it means to be alive after a human's frozen brain is uploaded into a computer. The replicant (term for person in computer) is then responsible for saving the human species, since it can think like a human with access to all of the information available to humans, while engaging in space exploration, discovery of life outside our planet, and fighting off other replicants sent out by other nations before we nuked ourselves into planetary collapse."-Angie Villanueva, associate director, University Communications

Genre: science fiction


'White Teeth'
by Zadie Smith

"By turns funny and heartbreaking, 'White Teeth' follows the unforgettable stories of two men who served in World War II and then reconnected in London years later, along with the lives of their families."-Kyra Gurney, senior communications specialist, College of Arts and Sciences

Genre: novel, domestic fiction


'​Why We Sleep'
by Matthew Walker

"This book is amazing at explaining how our physical, psychological, and overall well-being is impacted by sleep. We sleep almost half of our lives and don't realize that the impacts of sleep deprivation can kill us. How well we sleep impacts how we learn and how well our bodies function. It also offers us ways to improve our sleep."-Angie Villanueva, associate director, University Communications

Genre: nonfiction


'The Women'
by Kristin Hannah

"Although not a light subject, this book brings a lot of awareness to the veterans of the Vietnam War, particularly the courageous and often forgotten women who served. The book offers a deeply moving tribute to their resilience and sacrifice."-Angelica Agati, senior manager of community and stakeholder engagement, Clinical and Translational Science Institute

Genre: historical fiction, war story, domestic fiction

Share your book recommendationsfor a chance to be included in our next roundup.

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