Summer Reading List for Professional and Personal Growth

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, there's no better time to dive into a good book. Whether you're seeking to enhance your professional skills, gain new insights for personal growth, or simply enjoy a captivating story, our team has curated a list of must-read books to enrich your summer. From professional development and leadership growth to heartwarming tales of friendship, our recommendations are designed to inspire, entertain, and intellectually engage you. We hope to help make your summer reading experience a rewarding one. Settle into your favorite spot with a refreshing beverage, and get started!

For Introspection with Practical Homework 
Emily Recommends: "Creative Acts for Curious People" by Sarah Stein Greenberg
What do a "rock-paper-scissors" tournament and asking a stranger for directions have in common? Both are exercises in breaking routine and engaging with the world, and both are featured exercises in this book. If you're feeling stuck or bored with any aspect of your life or work, this is for you. No matter what industry you're in, any and all of the 81 "acts" (or, as I like to call them, "side-quests") in this book will help you do what you do better. Each one is a unique challenge that demands introspection, observation, creativity, and a shift in perspective. Think of them as mini-adventures that push you to think deeply and open your mind to new possibilities. The instructions are clear and specific, guiding you to engage creatively and apply your newfound insights to practical scenarios. Plus, the book is beautifully illustrated and written in a super approachable tone—you definitely won’t be bored. This isn't just a book; it's a summer project worth undertaking. Whether you're looking for fun, a bit of profound growth, or a mix of both, the side-quests in this book will deliver. Trust me, your brain will thank you for the workout.

For an Adventure
Emily Recommends: "The Final Empire" by Brandon Sanderson
Yes, I'm late to this book series. After having about 20 people recommend this book to me over the past 15+ years, I finally decided to read it and was instantly furious with myself for waiting so long. Fantasy is a genre where you either have to learn an entire language and spend years studying fictional lore to understand what's happening (looking at you, Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, and Wheel of Time), or where magic is just a plot device that inexplicably does whatever the author needs it to. I'm intimidated by one and annoyed by the other. This book is neither of those. It has great world-building where choices made in the set-up actually have consequences. The characters are interesting and complex, communicating and evolving realistically over time. Plus, at its core, it's a heist story happening in a magical world—think The Italian Job meets Middle Earth. It's engaging, it's interesting, it's fun, it's philosophical, and it's not a difficult read. 

For Leadership Growth
Susan Recommends: Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know by Adam Grant explores the importance of rethinking and unlearning in a rapidly changing world. As a renowned organizational psychologist, Grant argues that the ability to question and revise our beliefs and knowledge is crucial for personal and professional growth. Grant uses compelling research, relevant anecdotes, and relatable examples to illustrate how individual rethinking focuses on the value of intellectual humility and the willingness to admit when we are wrong. He highlights how clinging to outdated beliefs can hinder progress and creativity, while being open to new perspectives can lead to better decision-making and innovation. He encourages interpersonal rethinking by reexamining our assumptions without triggering defensiveness. Grant provides strategies for engaging in productive debates, fostering a culture of learning in teams, and effectively communicating to change minds. As a higher education consulting firm, we have the pleasure of working with institutions to constantly improve their operations. The last part of Think Again looks at collective rethinking and how organizations and societies can benefit from a culture that prioritizes flexibility and continuous improvement. Grant emphasizes the importance of creating environments where questioning the status quo is encouraged and where psychological safety allows for experimentation and learning from failure. This book challenges readers to embrace the mindset of a lifelong learner, to value curiosity over conviction, and to see the act of changing one’s mind as a strength rather than a weakness. Too often, we default to judgment instead of understanding. By allowing ourselves the space to question and rethink our long-held beliefs, we open ourselves up to new perspectives, relationships, and opportunities. 

For an Emotional Journey
Susan Recommends: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
As adults, we spend so much time warning kids and other adults about the consequences of their actions. But we never stop to consider the repercussions of our inaction. Those times that we choose not to speak out against what we know to be wrong. When we turn our eyes away and rationalize our indifference. We push aside the guilt from not coming to someone’s defense because we have no obligation to act. The Kite Runner tells a poignant story about Amir, a young boy from a wealthy family in Kabul and his lighthearted-turned-complex relationship with Hassan, the son of his father’s servant. The story begins in the 1970s set against the backdrop of political upheaval in Afghanistan that follows Amir as he and his father flee to the United States following the Soviet invasion and subsequent rise of the Taliban. Hosseini tests the bonds of friendship and loyalty. He explores the complex and lifelong feeling of guilt following a devastating betrayal. But ultimately, the story is one about redemption and whether after our human mistakes—we can ever “be good again.” Sometimes, we repay loyalty with cruelty when we fail to take a stand because we allow our fear or cowardice to prevail. “It may be unfair, but what happens in a few days, sometimes even a single day, can change the course of a whole lifetime…”

For Mindfulness
Andy Recommends: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius, isn’t that the old guy from “Gladiator”? Kind of! He also authored a timeless piece of stoic philosophy that remains incredibly relevant today. "Meditations" is a series of personal writings by Aurelius that delve into his reflections on life, duty, and the nature of existence. What makes this book particularly compelling is its accessibility; it's not a dense philosophical treatise, but rather a collection of practical, thought-provoking insights that anyone can read and sit with. Each meditation is a short observation or piece of wisdom that encourages introspection and growth. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a quick mental reset or a dose of ancient wisdom. This is especially helpful for those of us who like to read and think, but who also have a toddler who is currently rejecting her regular nap schedule. Plus, it’s a relatively short read, making it easy to pick up and put down whenever you need a little inspiration. Whether you're new to stoic philosophy (I am) or looking to deepen your understanding, "Meditations" offers valuable lessons that resonate across the ages.

For an Intriguing True Story
Andy recommends: The Billionaire’s Vinegar by Benjamin Wallace
Let’s be honest: we all enjoy a peek into the eccentric lives of the ultra-rich, especially when it involves a bit of scandal. "The Billionaire’s Vinegar" tells the very weird and true story of a bottle of 1787 Château Lafite Bordeaux—supposedly owned by Thomas Jefferson—that sold for an astronomical price at auction. What unfolds is a tale of mystery, intrigue, and deception in the world of fine wine. This book is for anyone who loves a good story about the quirks of human nature (or who likes to roll their eyes when people get too pretentious when talking about wine). As you move through this book, you’ll find yourself questioning the nature of authenticity and value, and maybe even smiling at the absurdity of it all. It's an entertaining and thought-provoking adventure—perfect for a lazy summer afternoon with a moderately-priced glass of wine in-hand.

For a Unique Summer Beach Book
Amy Recommends “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt
This book blends a compelling story, distinctive narrative style, emotional richness, and truly beautiful writing, making it a perfect summer read.
The plot centers on Tova, a widow working the night shift at an aquarium, and Marcellus, a remarkably intelligent octopus. It might sound strange (or even absurd), but trust me, Marcellus steals the show with his clever observations and insightful perspective on human life. The heartwarming and mysterious way their lives intertwine propels the story forward.
Marcellus’ unique point of view sets the book apart. I’ve never read a story partially told by an octopus!  Rife with wit and peppered with sass and understated sarcasm, Marcellus’ chapters create a refreshing and imaginative angle.

The novel has an emotional depth that builds as it touches on themes like the weight of loneliness, the importance of connection, and the process of healing after loss. Van Pelt explores these themes with sensitivity and care so that they resonate deeply and breathe life into the authentic and relatable characters. I couldn’t help but cheer them on throughout the book as I witnessed their triumphs and tribulations.
I got lost in Van Pelt’s prose with its vivid descriptions that bring the setting and characters to life. It’s the kind of writing that’s perfect for those summer days when you long to escape into a good book.

For Practical Wisdom
Amy Recommends: “Tools for Titans” by Tim Ferriss
Let me preface this recommendation by admitting that I do not typically read these kinds of books. At my husband’s suggestion, I picked up “Tools for Titans” by Tim Ferriss. It’s loaded with practical advice, life-changing insights, and wisdom compiled from hundreds of interviews Ferriss conducted on his podcast, “The Tim Ferriss Show.” It’s not your typical self-help book. It’s a collection of tips, strategies, and stories from a diverse group of high achievers—titans, if you will, including athletes, entrepreneurs, artists, and scientists. The format makes it ideal for picking up intermittently to glean pieces of wisdom here and there.

Ferriss’ book incorporates diverse advice about optimizing your health, boosting your productivity, and finding inspiration for your next project. He has a gift for distilling and extracting the most actionable advice from his guests like morning routines that set you up for success, exercise tips from experts, and meditation practices to help you stay centered. The insights are relatable and down-to-earth despite being sourced from titans!  The book’s  “Tactics, Routines, and Habits” section offers a glimpse into the lives of these titans and suggests practical steps for incorporating them.
I liked being able to skip around in Ferriss’ book, find sections that resonated with me, and then come back to other sections later. It’s a resource I could return to from time to time.