The summer is approaching, and there are many things that can occupy one’s time this summer.

It can be a summer vacation, a summer job or just being with friends that will make the summer entertaining. For those that will not have much to do for the summer, here is a list of five books that can entertain and stimulate you throughout the summer.

This is not a mandatory summer reading list that will drive you to tears. This book list appeals to almost anyone. These are books that I have read that I recommend. Get ready to take out your library card, Nooks or Kindles.

“The Catcher in the Rye” by J. D. Salinger

What is it about?: This 214-page story is about Holden Caulfield, a seventeen-year-old rebel in a mental institution in California talking about his life in a flashback. The story starts off in the 1950s about his being expelled from his school, Pencey Prep in Pennsylvania. He then recounts his exploring New York City where he encounters many characters that trigger thought processes on a number of things including sexuality, society, innocence and the “phony” people of the 1950s.

Why should you read it?: Holden Caulfield is the voice for most young adults and how they feel about the world. He is blunt and has a huge potty mouth that exclaims how he feels no matter what trouble he gets into. He obviously does not care for the rules enough to put himself in a mental institution in California. He is the person that pushes more than buttons but pushes the limits physically and mentally. If you are a person who likes a witty, profane character then this is the book for you. It is also a book that has been banned in several places because of its profanity and sexual connotations.

“Naruto” and “Naruto Shippuden” by Masashi Kishimoto

What is it about?: This Japanese manga series is about Naruto Uzumaki, a thirteen-year-old ninja who dreams of becoming Hokage, the Leaf village leader. He is shunned by most of the village because he has the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox sealed inside of him that killed many people in his village thirteen years ago. Naruto does not let the village’s ill feeling towards him stop him from achieving his goal and being better than all the previous Hokages. Naruto goes through a number of trials and journeys along with his new teammates Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno with team leader Kakashi Hatake. Naruto Shippuden is 3 years later with Naruto being sixteen years old still fighting for friends and his dream.

Why should you read it?: Naruto Uzumaki is a character who brings the best out of everyone that he encounters in the series. He is a character who never gives up even when he knows he is not the best ninja. He is a positive, goofy character who many would admire and love to read about. Even when Naruto does not look like he will make it, he always does. This is a book series that is quick to thumb through and has awesome graphics that the artist, Kishimoto, excels in for portraying emotions and action. I highly recommend this series.

“Snow Flower and the Secret Fan” by Lisa See

What is it about?: This novel, set in nineteenth century China, is narrated by the main character, Lily. She talks about her friendship with her laotong pair, lifetime sworn sister Snow Flower. Lily narrates the ups and downs of their friendship along with having her feet bound, being in an arranged marriage, having children and surviving the Taiping Revolution. It is a novel that talks about the old traditions that took place at this time. It also talks about Nu Shu, a form of women’s writing that is written on the fan that Lily and Snow Flower share.

Why should you read it?: This is a story about friendship and growing up in a time that was completely different than today. It is very thought-provoking to learn about Nu Shu and foot binding. This story sparked my interest in Chinese culture. It explains the trials and tribulations that the women had to endure. For people that are interested in learning more about Chinese culture, this is the book for you.

“Vampire Academy” by Richelle Mead

What is it about?: Rose Hathaway, a seventeen-year-old half-human/half-vampire girl, narrates this series about being a bodyguard for her Moroi, elite vampire and best friend Lissa Dragomir. Rose is guarding Lissa from the evil vampires called Strigoi at St. Vladimir’s Academy. Rose and Lissa return back to school after being away for a few months for an unknown reason. While there, Rose learns of her mysterious bond with Lissa that can cause the end to both of their lives.

Why should you read it?: Yes, this is yet another vampire story but it distinguishes itself from others. It is not just about vampires, but also about the struggles of a teenage girl that has dedicated her life to being the bodyguard of an elite vampire. These vampires are not your typical vampires. They do not shine in sun like some others, but they do die a slow death if the sun hits them. For those who cannot get enough of vampires and fantasy, this is a great book to read and discover the mystery behind Rose and Lissa.

“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

What is it about?: Nick Carraway narrates the story about Jay Gatsby, a mysterious man who hosts many parties in the 1920s in his new mansion in Long Island. Nick narrates the love story between Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan. Gatsby earns a great amount of wealth to impress Daisy and win her back even though Daisy is married to Tom Buchanan. Nick narrates all the drama and heartbreak that unfolds in this story talking about the American Dream.

Why should you read it?: This is a classic that people should read because it takes place in a time where it was all about celebration after World War I. There is much to learn from this novel dealing with the upper class, the American Dream and being an individual. This is a book that exploits the upper class and explores how far people will go for love.