Today begins a series of suggestions for reading material that should be packed alongside towels, hiking boots, kitchen utensils, or whatever else is required on a long-yearned-for summer break. The first list covers the subject MEMOIR & BIOGRAPHY, a genre of juicy escapism made even better because all said is true. Allegedly. The books below have been suggested by the readers and editors of FANTASTIC MAN, with both new works and old favourites. All are invited to share their opinions, and also make their own suggestions, in the comment field below.

•  CITY BOY by EDMUND WHITE (A worthy choice should it be taken to a shared rental this summer – the copy photographed above has already been read by four people. As a companion piece, also pack JUST KIDS by PATTI SMITH.)

•  EVER, DIRK: THE BOGARDE LETTERS by DIRK BOGARDE (Super-bitchy compilation of badly spelt missives – ideal for brief reads in between beach swims and snoozes.)

•  WILL WORK FOR DRUGS by LYDIA LUNCH (“Extremely compelling,” says Mr. CESAR PADILLA, before making the bold claim that “LYDIA’s command of the English language is rarely rivaled”.)

•  KISSING THE MASK by WILLIAM T. VOLLMANN (Obsessive ramblings about Japanese Noh theatre – a crazed must.)

•  DIARIES Vol 1 & 2 by CECIL BEATON (In which he describes GRACE KELLY as a “big bull puppy”.)

•  THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ALICE B. TOKLAS by GERTRUDE STEIN (A totally fruity romp through the early 20th century art scene in which STEIN takes on her long-term lover TOKLAS’s voice to praise herself. Contributor Mr. CHRIS PEDERSEN says “I’ve read it close to twelve times” – amazing!) Facebook  Twitter