African-American themed books by black authors and about black subjects would make a great part of your summer/beach reading list for 2012. © Rob Byron - Fotolia.com

Whether you are looking for words of wisdom from a top chef or a former of secretary of state — or perhaps a little history, then a great love story — theGrio has your summer 2012 reading list covered. Check out our top picks by clicking the numbers below, then let us know what you’ll be reading on the beach, by the pool or wherever the warmer weather may take you in the comments below.