Photographers from The New York Times visited beaches, parks and cafes across the U.S. to capture bibliophiles indulging in a timeless pleasure: reading outside. Their pictures are a reminder of the magnificence and magic of enjoying words and nature at the same time. Reading a book alfresco is one of summer’s simple, iconic joys, right up there with running through a sprinkler and spotting the evening’s first firefly. And it’s almost just as satisfying to step outside and spot someone else lost in a book. You have the thrill of recognizing a kindred spirit; the impromptu eye test of deciphering a title from afar; and the potential of having a new mystery, biography, memoir or graphic novel to add to your own list. So what makes reading in the great outdoors more memorable than cracking a book in the privacy of your own home? The answers depend on a Choose Your Own Adventure of tiny decisions: Beach towel or chair? Barefoot or flip-flops? Most importantly, what book will you bring along for company? Tap the link in our bio to see these bookworms in action. Photos by @jimwilson125, @michelleagins, @fremson, @hiroko.masuike, @haiyunjiang and Ethan Jones for The New York Times