July 4th weekend is so close, you can almost see the fireworks. So what does this mean for your cerebral stimulation? Usually, absolutely nothing aside from the ability to keep track of the week based entirely on the nightly television schedule. While we agree, summer may not be the best time to tackle Infinite Jest or The Sound and the Fury (trust us, we’ve tried), we have a few options that won’t ruin your summer buzz, but will still make for great conversation starters and witty pop culture references when the times comes. Check out the top six books we aren’t running from.

1. Bossypants by Tina Fey

If you aren’t a fan in some way of Tina Fey, then kindly find yourself a sense of humor and ignore this suggestion. As the former head writer of SNL and the genius behind the Emmy Award winning show, 30 Rock, it is no wonder the New York Times called her first book “a spiky blend of humor  introspection, critical thinking and Nora Ephornisms for a new generation.” Get this for a laugh out loud beach read and some perfectly worded jokes for your next night out (comedic timing not included).

2. Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart

Normally, we hear “love story” and run the other direction for fear that something resembling a Danielle Steel novel lies within its pages. That is not the case for the author of the critically acclaimed, Absurdistan. We could describe it to you, but the book has an actual trailer on YouTube with a James Franco cameo that does a far better job.

3. Go the F**k to Sleep by Adam Mansbach with illustrations by Ricardo Cortes

Okay, we know what you’re thinking and yes, this is a children’s book for adults, but before you move along because you’re offended by the title, or worse, offended by the fact that we think a picture book is worth adding to a summer reading list for people we hope have at least a drivers license, hear us out. This book is hilarious. Outspoken honesty may be an understatement when describing Mansbach’s take on children’s sleeping rituals, but at least, after reading this, you know you’re not alone out there.

4. Room by Emma Donoghue

We were taught not to judge a book by its cover, but with Emma Donoghue’s Room, it was hard not to. Mystery and intrigue surround the colorful title smeared in child-like handwriting suggesting…well, we have no idea. What we do know is that it is a international best seller and a favorite among book critics and every day people alike. Described as a book that can literally not be put down, it sounds like a safe bet for the downtime in between SYTYCD episodes and play off games.

5. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

It’s not secret what a cultural phenomenon this book and its sequels have become. But, before you write us off for having no new ideas, the new, American-made movie starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara is coming to theaters. For those who haven’t indulged in the fast paced mystery thriller, now is your time. It is a quick and wildly entertaining read perfect for your morning coffee or time killing at the airport and, after finishing, you can join the snooty club that disagrees with every choice the director makes. After all, the book is always better than the film.

6. Tough Without A Gun: The Life and Extraordinary Afterlife of Humphrey Bogart by Stefan Kanfer

This biography of one of Hollywood’s most famous icons details the childhood, life and extraordinary influence Humphrey Bogart had over the film world during his hard worn career. A man for all ages, this book is “the definitive biography of one of the great movie icons of the twentieth century, and a wide-reaching appraisal of the actor’s singular legacy,” making it a perfect summer read for both men and cinephiles.

Also check out Jennifer Egan’s Pulitzer Prize winning novel, A Visit From the Goon Squad (if you haven’t already) or Jimmy Fallon’s, Thank You Notes for another laugh.

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