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IPR's 2026 summer book guide

Iowa Public Radio | By Natalie Dunlap,
Caitlin Troutman, Charity Nebbe
Published May 28, 2026 at 5:16 PM CDT
The covers of recommended books, including 'Whistler,' 'Poets Square' and 'Strangers.'
Iowa Public Radio

With longer days comes more time to dive into a good book. These are the best new fiction and nonfiction books to keep you entertained on your next road trip, beach vacation or staycation.

Books recommended by:

  • Jan Weismiller, co-owner of Prairie Lights
  • Tim Budd, buyer at Prairie Lights
  • Linzi Murray, owner of Reading in Public
Arts & Culture
Natalie Dunlap
Natalie Dunlap is an award-winning digital producer and writer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Iowa. Since 2024, Dunlap has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's digital audience.
See stories by Natalie Dunlap
Caitlin Troutman
Caitlin Troutman is an award-winning talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from William Jewell College. Since 2022, Troutman has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
See stories by Caitlin Troutman
Charity Nebbe
Charity Nebbe is the host of 'Talk of Iowa'. She also hosts IPR's podcasts 'Garden Variety' and 'Unsettled'. Since 2010, Nebbe has interviewed, conversed with, and shared ideas from guests of all backgrounds and locations, and has helped listeners better understand, appreciate, and explore their state and the world around them. Nebbe has a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University.
See stories by Charity Nebbe