Summer reading list
We curated a set of diverse reads by recommending our recent faves - plus some stellar suggestions from our community. There's something for everyone, we guarantee it.
Perfect for: when you want something whimsical to pair with your poolside escape
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Recommendation by: Our Instagram follower, Eliza!
What it’s about: A pair of magicians face off in a contest of spellbinding skill, amid the backdrop of an otherworldly circus. There’s romance, there’s magic, there’s a beautiful story told through multiple viewpoints - what more can you ask for?
Why is it meaningful to you?: The Night Circus has helped me escape multiple times whenever I need it - it’s intriguing, mystical, and transports you!
Recommendation by: Our newsletter reader, Vanessa!
What it’s about: In this darkly comedic thriller, a young woman takes revenge on her obnoxious and well-to-do family after they reject her and her dying mother. The novel’s tone sets it apart: large doses of irony and dry humour make it surprisingly digestible and lighter than you might think.
Why is it meaningful to you?: It’s a revenge story, which is a theme I love. The main character’s detached tone makes it quite entertaining and engaging, so it's an ultra-enjoyable read.
Recommendation by: Our newsletter reader, Lauri!
What it’s about: It’s a bestselling book that turns the trite advice to “do what you love” into tangible action. How? By providing a clear roadmap for discovering the intersection between what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what you can do with it.
Why is it meaningful to you?: In my own work, I’m very passionate about helping people make the most of their talents by finding the right roles, and I genuinely believe that everyone deserves to have more love for their work. This book is all about letting your talents take the lead, and I find it really inspirational.
Perfect for: when you’re facing that strange summertime hangover
My Mess is a Bit of a Life: Adventures in Anxiety by Georgia Pritchett
Recommendation by: Our Instagram follower, Ky!
What it’s about: This memoir by successful TV writer Georgia Pritchett (who’s worked on Veep, Succession, and more!) is funny, warm, and poignant in all the right places. It follows a strong woman who struggles with anxiety, taking us on a carousel ride through her amazingly fulfilling yet worry-packed life.
Why is it meaningful to you?: It made my feel I’m not the only one struggling, and that I can get through the tough days. I have trouble with anxiety as I care for my daughters and husband, but I needed something to do in the spare time I have. So I read this book, and I’m glad I did.
Perfect for: when you want to learn something… but you also want to keep it short and sweet
Notes on Camp by Susan Sontag
Recommendation by: Our staff writer, Julia.
What it’s about: This one’s actually an essay that’s been bound up into a pocket-sized 55-page book. Scholar Susan Sontag discusses all things “camp” - i.e. an aesthetic that’s all about intentional exaggeration, irony, and a twist on “bad taste.” Think RuPaul’s Drag Race or that one Met Gala.
Why is it meaningful to you?: I personally love camp - I take a perverse joy in revelling in the things that others might consider over-the-top or tacky. And this essay explains the cultural importance of camp so well that it’s become a classic. To me, its a must-read!
Recommendation by: A newsletter reader, Louise!
What it’s about: Leo Colston must come to terms with what happened all those years ago, when he spent a hot summer being the messenger between his friend’s older sister and her secret lover. Ideal for if your thing is a bit of scandal and forbidden love.
Why is it meaningful to you?: I read it when I was 17 during the long summer school holiday. It's an evocative story of illicit love across the class system and an innocent young boy caught up in the deceit.
Perfect for: revamping your look this summer when you don’t know where to start
Pretty Honest by Sali Hughes
Recommendation by: Our social media journalist, Fozz.
What it’s about: Pretty Honest is the ultimate beauty bible. The chapters offer practical tips, debunk myths, and muse on some of the more philosophical questions surrounding beauty.
Why is it meaningful to you?: My signature scent and skincare routine are all thanks to her. But most importantly, I read this book when I was struggling to look after myself and I’ll forever be grateful for that. It also taught me that I *must* wear SPF every day, all-year-round.
Perfect for: using your time off to explore new ideas
The Reset: Ideas to Change How We Work and Live by Elizabeth Uviebinené
Recommendation by: Our CEO, Lynn.
What it’s about: This short and snappy nonfiction must-read is about taking everything that’s changed during the pandemic and figuring out where we’re going to go from here. Starting with the notion that we need to shift our work culture to fit the massive changes we’ve undergone, Uviebinené’s point is gets a lot broader: our whole society needs to change too.
Why is it meaningful to you?: Elizabeth Uviebinené’s insights gave me a lot to think about concerning the world of work - something that’s very valuable to me as I reflect on how to best lead my company. I couldn’t recommend it enough!
Perfect for: when you’ve listened to Summertime Sadness too many times
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Recommendation by: Our Instagram follower, Shannon!
What it’s about: This nostalgic novel follows four characters who travel back in time to confront their pasts. Their reflections play out against the backdrop of a quaint Tokyo coffeeshop which transports them back to the moment they crave to do-over.
Why is it meaningful to you?: It reminds me to take advantage of the time I have with loved ones, because you never know when and if you are going to see them again. No matter what happens, you will always have those moments and memories, as well as happiness and solace in that relationship (be it a friend, family member, partner, sibling, etc).
Perfect for: reminding you that it’s always worth striking up a conversation with someone
Outline by Rachel Cusk
Recommendation by: Our co-founder, Holly.
What it’s about: The book follows a novelist who teaches creative writing for a summer in Athens and takes place across ten different conversations. Her discussions with the people she meets delve into their inner fantasies, anxieties, and regrets, forcing the narrator - and us as readers - to explore our feelings too.
Why is it meaningful to you?: I read this book on my first solo trip abroad to Italy this year. It was given to me by a friend and helped me embrace the joys of being alone and striking up conversation with strangers.