How to Read Kate Cann's Beach Series
Kate Cann’s Beach series (also frequently referred to as the Holiday series) consists of four young adult novels. Because each book features a different protagonist and setting, they function as standalone stories. You do not need to read them in a strict sequence to understand the plot, though most readers prefer to follow either the publication order or the chronological setting of the books.
Publication Order of the Beach Books
If you want to read the series as it was released to the public, follow the publication order. Note that each book has been published under two different titles—an original UK title and a later 'Holiday' themed title:
- Footloose (also published as Grecian Holiday) – 1999
- Fiesta (also published as Spanish Holiday) – 2001
- Escape (also published as California Holiday) – 2003
- Sea Change (also published as Mediterranean Holiday) – 2007
Chronological Reading Order
Some reading lists arrange the books in a slightly different chronological order based on internal timelines and settings, although there is no overlapping story arc that makes this layout mandatory:
- Fiesta / Spanish Holiday (2001)
- Escape / California Holiday (2003)
- Footloose / Grecian Holiday (1999)
- Sea Change / Mediterranean Holiday (2007)
Where Should You Start?
Since the Beach books are self-contained, you can start with whichever destination appeals to you most. If you want the purest experience, we recommend starting with Footloose / Grecian Holiday to see how Kate Cann first established her signature atmospheric, sun-drenched YA style, or Fiesta / Spanish Holiday, which is one of the most beloved entries in the series.