In my opinion you want a different type of book for a beach or a plane. You want something that will keep your interest but isn’t too heavy. You want something engaging but doesn’t require a lot of brain power. You want it to last a while but not be a long term commitment. You want something a little fun that you are excited to pick up again.
Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough is definitely not a new book. But I had a long trip from Guam across the United States and back again. Over 50 hours in the air. I wanted a book that would last and hold my attention. I was not disappointed! The Thorn Birds was a perfect choice. Set in 19th Century Australian outback (later turned into a mini-series) this story had me hooked.
The Guest List by Lucy Foley made almost every list in 2020. It is a well written easy to read mystery which is not my typical genre. But it was great for lying in the sun and just getting away from the world.
Code Name Helene by Ariel Lawhon was a COVID read but would have been fantastic on a beach or a plane. The story is based on the true story of a New Zealand resistance fighter in France during the war. Her life is fascinating and inspiring. And the book is a well written page turner.
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi was outstanding and follows the life of one woman in India during the 1950s and 1960s. You will be moved by her strength, humanity and resilience.
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen was an unexpected fun read. It was another book club book and one that I would have never picked up. The book is laid out into 3 parts. And each is a dramatic twist of events that makes you look at the characters and story in a new way.
Life Kinetic Travel Research 