Discover Some Good Books to Help You Compete in Lake Oswego’s 2025 Summer Library Challenge

The Lake Oswego Public Library has kicked off their Summer Library Challenge of 2025. Open to all ages the challenge runs from June 1st through August 31st and is filled with special events, fun challenges, reading tracking and drawings for prizes.

Register online and then visit the library to claim your free book (kids/teens) and registration packet (adults) just for signing up!  Drop-in family activities will be held every Wednesday in Rossman Park from June 18 through August 6 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

We’ve put together a recommended reading list to help you meet your summer reading goals. Enjoy!

The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugoni is a heartwarming novel about a boy born with red eyes due to ocular albinism, who faces bullying and exclusion but grows into a compassionate, principled man. The story follows his journey from childhood to adulthood as he grapples with faith, identity, and forgiveness, ultimately learning to embrace the very traits that once made him feel different.

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin is a charming and poignant novel about a grumpy, widowed bookstore owner whose life is transformed when a mysterious toddler is left in his store. Set on a small island, the story follows A.J. as he rebuilds his life through unexpected love, second chances, and the healing power of literature. Through quirky characters and literary references, the novel explores loss, redemption, and the meaningful connections books help us make with each other.

West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge is a heartwarming historical novel based on the true story of two giraffes who survived a hurricane and were driven cross-country to the San Diego Zoo in 1938. Told through the reflections of an old man looking back, the story follows a 17-year-old Dust Bowl orphan who finds purpose and unexpected friendship on this extraordinary journey. It’s a tale of adventure, resilience, and quiet heroism.

One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune is a poignant lakeside romance that follows Alice, a photographer who returns to Barry’s Bay to care for her injured grandmother. There, she reconnects with Charlie Florek, a man from a pivotal photograph she took as a teenager. As they spend time together, old memories resurface, and new feelings emerge, challenging Alice to step out from behind her lens and embrace the possibility of love and being truly seen.

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry is a witty, emotionally layered novel about two rival writers competing to tell the story of a reclusive heiress. As they uncover conflicting versions of her glamorous past, professional rivalry turns into unexpected romance. Blending mystery, ambition, and heart, it’s a compelling exploration of truth, storytelling, and love.

Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid follows Hannah Martin as her life splits into two parallel paths based on one simple choice—stay at a party with her ex or leave with her friend. Each timeline explores how that decision shapes her future, love life, and sense of purpose. It’s a compelling story about fate, choice, and the many possible versions of a life.

Waiting at Hayden’s by Riley Costello (yes, the one and the same as the Realtor Riley Costello) is a touching romance about childhood sweethearts who promise to reunite in five years at their favorite restaurant if their love lasts, while the restaurant owner faces her own relationship challenges. It’s a heartfelt story about timing, love, and destiny. You can find it on Amazon.

If your summer challenge is buying or selling your home, give us a call. We’d love to put our 30+ years of experience to work making your next move your best one!

Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801

Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205

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About lovelakeoswego

I feel pretty lucky—I live where I work and I love where I live. As a Realtor in Lake Oswego, I get to share that enthusiasm with clients every day. Through this blog, with the help of my freelance writer wife, Genita, I’d like to share that enthusiasm with you. The quality of life you’ll find in Lake Oswego belies its size—there is so much to experience here from a fireworks show over the lake on the 4th of July to the Festival of the Arts--one of the premier arts events in the region. So please check in each week for another reason why I love Lake Oswego and who knows—maybe you’ll fall in love too! If you’re interested in experiencing Lake Oswego personally, please feel free to contact me either on my cell at (503) 939-9801, via email at kevin.costello@cascadehassonsir.com or check my website by clicking the link in the "Contact me" section in the right-hand column. I would love to show you around.
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