Book lovers dream of spending countless hours paging through novels and non-fiction, talking about authors and plots with other readers. For Kimi Loughlin that fantasy became a reality during a global pandemic.

The arrival of COVID-19 uprooted the lives of people all over the world. Like many others, Loughlin lost her job last year, after working in theater for five years. What was at first a “devastating” blow became a blessing in disguise, when Loughlin landed a job at Buttonwood Books and Toys in Cohasset.

“I had always dreamt about working in a bookstore,” Loughlin said. “It truly is the most magical place you can be during a time of sadness.”

With better weather upon us, Loughlin wanted to share her knowledge of books to help everyone find their perfect match. Whether you are planning to tan at the beach, take a book break during a hike, or relax at home, a good book is a summer must-have. And Loughlin has some terrific recommendations.

Without a shred of hesitation, Loughlin places “Dial A for Aunties” by Jesse Q. Sutanto as her top pick. A book with a little bit of everything, “Dial A for Aunties” will make you laugh and cry at the same time.

“It is so fun,” said Loughlin. “It surprised me when I read it, which I love, and it will cover all your bases.”

The rest of her list offers books for every taste and genre. If you are one of the people looking for a light and fun summer reading, look no further than “Mary Jane” by Jessica Anya Blau. The book centers around the experiences of a young girl whose life views are challenged when she befriends a family radically different from her own.

Fantasy fans can find their match in “Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E. Harrow, a fun read that leads readers through magic doors and different worlds. For anyone looking for heavier and more challenging books, Loughlin recommended “Patsy” by Nicole Dennis-Benn.

Loughlin was careful to choose books people in the area could access easily, either by finding them at Buttonwood or by checking them out at the library. But accessibility was not all she thought about.

“When I was looking for books to recommend for a summer read segment, I wanted to list books that I really enjoyed that I think people should read, but also cover a range of different genres that people like to pick up during the summer,” said Loughlin.

She also recommends “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid, full of “drama, fun stuff, and Hollywood gossip.” For Massachusetts residents” Loughlin said “We Ride Upon Sticks” by Quann Barry is a must-not-miss. It centers around a local field hockey team whose members decide to use magic to win the championship. It's a story full of laughter, fun, and friendship. A more serious, but beautifully written story is the memoir “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner is about love, loss, and culture.