Your Summer Reading List

CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE, Tomi Adeyemi
Don’t let the “young adult” category keep you away. This incredible West African-inspired world follows Zélie as she finds her place among those who hate her people, and murdered her mother, because of their affinity for magic. The story shifts to other points of view as the characters discover the truths – and the lies – that challenge their beliefs.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID, Joanne Lipman
We were enamored with Joanne when she kicked off our MBA Conference with her fresh take on diversity in the workplace. Women talk to each other all the time about what needs to change for gender equality, but the real impact will be made when men join the conversation.

THE HANDMAID’S TALE, Margaret Atwood
If the last time you read this book was in grade school or you’ve only seen the show, you’re missing the full experience of Margaret Atwood’s eeriely convincing story. In an alternate future, women are valued if they can have children for the leaders of the Republic of Gilead. Offred reflects on her past and struggles to follow the new rules where women have no control of their lives.

THE HOPE-DRIVEN LEADER, Libby Gill
Less a “warm-fuzzies” guide and more of a roadmap, Libby Gill shares the research behind a purposeful and productive workplace through hope theory. From communicating with your high-perfomance team to eliminating silos, you’ll find how strong leadership with an occasional “woohoo!” can have a lasting impact.

THE LITTLE BOOK OF LIFE HACKS, Yumi Sakugawa
This sweet little book is perfect for an afternoon on the beach or on the back deck. Yumi’s unique drawing style collects funny and unexpected tips for organizing the little things in life. Find some easy ways to brighten your home, home remedies to relieve itchy mosquito bites, and remember people’s names that you just met.

DAUGHTER OF FORTUNE, Isabel Allende
The Gold Rush of California opens the door to a new life of freedom and independence for the young Chilean Eliza, and her search for her elusive lover gradually turns into another kind of journey. Allende writes historically detailed stories filled with relatable characters – you can’t go wrong when you choose one of her novels.

HIDING IN THE BATHROOM, Morra Aarons-Mele
As it gets more socially acceptable to talk about anxiety, we all hear and share stories of what we avoid like the plague. It can create a daily tug-of-war between amibition and fear as we challenge ourselves to travel, network, or stop overthinking. Morra provides practical advice to suceed in your career, even if you want to stay home in your PJs. (My favorite advice: Adopt an extrovert. – BB)

THIS IS WHERE YOU BELONG, Melody Warnick
A new job, a new relationship, or a family situation can make us move to a new city with little choice. For others, a feeling of restlessness has us moving to new towns to find the perfect place. Melody provides interesting research and her personal experience that shows that the actions you take within your community is what makes it feel like home.