We are just about two weeks into the 2025 Summer Read Challenge. And for more on why Summer Reading is for everyone, check out this post from last year. In case you missed it, the theme this year is Level Up at Your Library! That means building up all your skills-reading, crafting, eating, and gaming. To help with the reading part, here is a list of books that will keep you on theme and help you complete those reading challenge logs.
- Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin- This novel follows two friends, Sam and Sadie, from childhood through 30 years of connection. The two friends develop a game that sends them into the stratosphere of fame and fortune. Unfortunately, success does not save them from having to navigate their real-world feelings and Zevin takes us along for the ride. Gaming is a backdrop to the character-driven story, but that only highlights the connections we make on and off screen.
- Video Game of the Year by Jordan Minor- What was the best video game in 1997? Well, Minor sets out to tell you in this fascinating history that covers video gaming from 1977 to 2022. The slick images add to the wealth of information along with Minor's descriptions of each year's title game as well as honorable mentions along the way. This book will have you looking for the nearest retro game emulator.
- The World of Critical Role: the history behind the epic fantasy by Liz Marsham- Go behind-the-scenes of one of the biggest names in tabletop roleplaying today. Follow along as a rag tag group of nerdy voice actors turned a home game into a multi-million-dollar juggernaut of the entertainment industry. The "Critical Role" brand has expanded beyond the table into fashion, gaming accessories, and obviously books. The most amazing thing might be how they have managed to consistently schedule their game between eight adults. IYKYK
- Heroes' Feast: the Official Dungeons & Dragons Cookbook by Kyle Newman- For those of you looking to up your game in the kitchen, try this official cookbook. Cook across lands and peoples from delicate elven soups to hearty dwarven sausages, and delicious homemade pie that would make any halfling proud. So, gather your party and enjoy the benefits of a hero's feast!
- Sunny Rolls the Dice- For those middle grade readers who might just be tipping their toes into the TTRPG world, they might enjoy this tale of outcasts and misfits. Sunny feels the pains of growing up and growing apart from her friends. She wants to play Dungeons & Dragons more than talk about boys and fashion with her friend Deb. When it's Sunny's turn to roll the dice, she doesn't worry about looking cool just about the spider standing in her way. Sometimes middle school can be tougher to navigate than a mad mage's mountain.
Borrow one of these books today, whether physically or as an ebook. Read more books and play more games!