Summer Reading List

Colson Whitehead picks Autobiography of Red by Anne Carson

It's a novel! It's a book of poetry! It's a novel and a book of poetry! And like all sturdy volumes, it can also serve as a coaster on a hot summer afternoon. The "Red" of the title is Geryon, red-winged monster and minor player in Greek mythology, struck down by Herakles during one of his labors. As this modern Geryon awakens to all the possibility of the world — romantic, erotic, artistic — Carson's playful and mind-bending reinterpretation is never less than bewitching. Do yourself a favor and get in touch with your inner red monster.

Whitehead's most recent novel is Sag Harbor

Listen to the extended interview: Colson Whitehead talks to TIME about his summer reads