With the temperatures soaring this month, some people are starting to talk about the “Dog Days of Summer.”  But where did that term originate?  And what does it have to do with our canine friends?

The term Dog Days of Summer refers to a stretch of time in July and August when the Sun is in the same region as the star Sirius (or the dog star), the brightest star that can be seen from Earth. During this time, Sirius will rise and set with the Sun. Back in Ancient Roman times, they believed that since the bright star was being seen with the Sun, it was making the weather hotter. The Ancient Romans called this time diēs caniculārēs, or “dog days.”

So, with the hottest days of the year fast approaching, you’ll need to look for ways to stay out of the heat. These books will give you the best excuse to stay home and stay cool, but keep that summer fun going.