Spring Read

Nothing puts a skip in my step quite like thinking about some R&R. Many of my friends are making the collegiate trek to Gulf Shores or Destin. My furry canine friend, Trey, and I will be hanging back to soak up the sun in the Lone Star State instead. Nevertheless, we all need a good read after we get bored from hearing the same love advice from Cosmo.

While they may not make the New York Times' list, they're fun and entertaining nonetheless. Here are some new and old beach reads:

1. Bergdorf Blondes by Plum Sykes

This should be on your nightstand year-round, right alongside other daily essentials.

2. Persuasion by Jane Austen

Considered an underappreciated Jane Austen novel, but reminds you that it's wonderful to be a girl--and courted by handsome men.

3. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Ritzy, fabulous, full of love and tragedy--and set during the warm months amongst New York's elite. It leaves you wishing you could be a fly on the wall during one of the many fabulous parties that Nick attends.

4. Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Sometimes silly, but Becky, the protagonist, speaks wonders by justifying every.single.purchase.

5. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
Tenfold better than the movie that came out a few years ago. Seeking revenge? Edmond, the main character, has some advice.

A Wiseman Once Said . . . Relax on vacation, but keep your mind active!