Local Books: must-read books about Martha's Vineyard and/or by Martha's Vineyard writers

If you’re a book lover, this post is for you! We’ve compiled a list of Martha's Vineyard authors and books that take place on Martha's Vineyard. Some of these authors live on the island, while others visit and write about the island. Martha’s Vineyard has the power to enthrall visitors and authors alike, captivating their senses and thousands of words surge from their trips, their experiences, their island moments. For the authors that live on island, they come from a variety of different worlds, but all come together with love for this island. Which will you be adding to your summer reading list this year? All books are available to purchase on-island at Bunch of Grapes Bookstore in Vineyard Haven; Edgartown Books in Edgartown; or online at Amazon. 

Geraldine Brooks, author of “Caleb’s Crossing”
In 1665, a young man from Martha's Vineyard became the first Native American to graduate from Harvard College. Author Geraldine Brooks takes us on a journey through the “crossing”, with emotions soaring for all corners. ​
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Thomas Dresser, author of “Hidden History of Martha’s Vineyard”
Popular local historian Thomas Dresser uncovers the little-known stories that eventually became part of the fabric of Martha’s Vineyard and its community. Thomas is an island personality and you can catch him around town or during one of his many talks he gives to locals and visitors. Dive into the rich history this island has and discover the Vineyard through a new set of eyes. 
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Crispin Haskins, author of “Pretty Vineyard Girls”
Nothing like a local mystery to get you enthralled in a book and that’s what author Crispin Haskins achieves - you’re hooked from Chapter One. The way the author creates that image in your mind, whether you’ve visited the island or not, is incredible. A story that takes you straight to OB, where a group of friends open a shop right on Circuit Avenue. Little do they know what awaits around the corner. 
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David Kinney, author of “The Big One”
An incredibly popular tourist destination, where hundreds of thousands of people come to enjoy the beaches during the summer month, becomes the ultimate fishing destination for locals on island come September. The tourists are mostly gone and the island’s obsession with the annual fishing derby comes alive. Anyone can win and the competition will have you face teenage girls, retired veterans, and everyone in between! 
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Susie Middleton, author of “Simple Green Suppers”
If you’re looking to create more plant-based, vegetable forward meals, this is the book for you! Local author Susie Middleton showcases how to make seasonal vegetables shine and divides her book into sections like noodles, grains, beans, greens, toast, tortillas, eggs, and broth. 125 recipes make up this book of delightful vegetarian meals - the perfect cookbook to get before spring produce is all around and ready to be cooked! 
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Holly Nadler, author of “Haunted Island: True Ghost Stories from Martha’s Vineyard
A hugely popular summer visitor destination, the local ghost authors might wonder if the tourists know of the haunted spots on island. From whaling captains that never made it home to ghosts of years past, Holly Nadler, a longtime resident of the island and ghost story teller, shares with us some haunting tales that will only make your vacation even more interesting! 

Lara O’Brien, author of “Chesca and the Spirit of Grace”
An Irish tale of talking animals, a magical mountain and galloping sideways - it’s a great children’s book by local author Lara O’Brien. A story of determination and imagination, it will captivate not only your little ones, but you as well! 
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Nelson Sigelman, author of “Martha’s Vineyard Outdoors: Fishing, Hunting, and Avoiding Divorce on a Small Island”  
Before there was Jaws and US Presidents visiting the island, there was a combination of outdoor activities that the locals took part of, whether it was fishing or hunting, a focus on small communities and how to survive them was the theme. Written by former Martha’s Vineyard Times editor, it’s a must read even if you’re not a lover of the outdoors. 
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Amelia Smith, author of "Chronicles of the Last Days" (Book 5 of Anamat/Dragonsfall series)
For the science-fiction/fantasy lovers, local and year-round author Amelia Smith has you covered. Her Anamat / Dragonsfall series consists of five books, so there’s plenty to dig into while visiting Martha’s Vineyard or beyond. She has over 10 published books, and is married to a legit Irish swordmaker in real life - so this local author epitomizes cool.

Sarah Waldman, author of Feeding a Family: A Real-Life Plan for Making Dinner Work
Local nutritionist and mom, Sarah Waldman shares with readers the tips, tricks, and tools you’ll need to get dinner on the table every night, inspiring you to get creative with the seasons, despite juggling your work, family, and home.  Picky eaters? No worries, Sarah also tackles those and along with tips on feeding the youngest of babies. Recipes like Slow Cooker Indian Butter Chicken with Sweet Peas and Lemon-Pecan Shortbread Cookies are perfect as she gives you an entire menu for a complete meal to serve up! 
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Catherine Walthers, author of “Kale, Glorious Kale”
Jumpstart your season by cooking from this local cookbook all about Kale! A hardy green that became popular a few years ago and is still increasing in popularity. Recipes like Kale Granola bring excitement into the kitchen and with 100 recipes in total, it’s a must for those that want to consume more greens, in more creative ways. 

For more reading material, check out the Martha’s Vineyard Times Books Archives. http://www.mvtimes.com/category/books/