Summer Reading: 12 Books That Will Open Your Mind
By Warren Wong
Summer is a time for growth, discovery, and a time to relax. What better way to spend it with some light summer reading. I fondly remember my teenage year summers.
There were piles of books on my desk that provided a gateway into different worlds; they were usually not required reading from my school teachers.
I created a short list of summer reading titles that I hope will give you inspiration and perspective.
Enjoy!
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
A memoir from the creator of Nike, Phil Knight, is a raw account of how Nike came to be the giant it is today. Through many trials and tribulations, “Just Do It”, is more than a pithy saying, but a mantra Knight lives by everyday. I can’t speak enough on how much insight and inspiration I found in this book. I finished this book within a few days.
The War on Normal People by Andrew Yang
Presidential 2020 hopeful, Andrew Yang lays out a telling story of how the future is here.Technology and automation is changing the landscape of labor and it affects all of us.
Also, if you were like me, and was curious about the much touted Universal Basic Income (UBI) and the reasoning behind it, then this book is for you.
The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman
I know, I know, it sounds corny, and you’re probably wondering why in the world would I read this book.
First and foremost, this book is about relationships and how to build lasting ones. If you want a book that will leave you rethinking the way you view love and relationships, then get this book.
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
Touted as a guide to spiritual enlightenment, this book serves to challenge how we examine our ego, and analytical mind, and to ultimately, leave it behind.
This book is for anyone that is trying to get a hold of their mind, thoughts, and to live a life with less background “noise”. I don’t know anyone that isn’t trying to do that, so please do yourself a favor and get a copy.
Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel by Rolf Potts
The book is definitely not as long as the title. It is an easy read, filled with travel anecdotes from famous writers, spiritual leaders, and the common college backpacker.
It has tons of tangible advice, and resources for anyone that is thinking of traveling, whether one week or 6 months.
All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque
Wow. An absolutely harrowing account of a young German soldier during World War I depicts the senseless brutalities of war. This book serves as a reminder that war should be the very last option, lest we send young men onto the battlefield to fight the wars of politicians.
If you thoroughly enjoy this book after reading it, I highly recommend, The Better Angels of Our Nature, by Steven Pinker.
City of Thieves by David Benioff
This novel is set during the siege of Leningrad, and tells of a funny, yet chilling story of two young men on an odd quest during such volatile times. Page turner and wisdom, a 2 for 1 deal.
Dune by Frank Herbert
This book really surprised me. It was recommended to me by a friend years ago, and I never got around to it. It is Science-fiction and just over 700 pages, but by god, it’s well worth the read.
Like a kid in candyland it sparked my childhood imagination and kept my attention for hours on end.
Dreams From My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance by Barack Obama
First book written by former President Barack Obama that I’ve read. His own personal account growing up to his early adulthood, and his “fragile” relationship with his father, the psychological battles he faces, serves as a friendly reminder that everyone, even a President, struggles.
His story is closely knit to the fabric of America, and contains nuggets of practical wisdom shown through his own dealings in his career and personal life.
The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter – And How to Make the Most of Them Now by Meg Jay
In a society that screams, “thirty is the new twenty” culture, Meg Jay flips the script and explains why our twenties matter, and how we can make the most of them.
As a 20 something myself, rounding the corner into my 30s, the takeaways from Jay’s book reinforces and provides practical advice to finish it strong.
Reinventing You: Define Your Brand, Imagine Your Future by Dorie Clark
This book was a gift I received at a corporate leadership summit. I got the chance to hear Dorie speak about career transitions and how hard they can be. In her book, she provides clear, and concise actions steps in order to shift your career and live the life you want.
This book fueled my own career transition and solidified the importance of developing my personal brand and created the framework of who I ultimately want to become.
If you’re thinking about changing career fields or afraid of pursuing what you really want, then this book is for you.
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport
This book is for all those that want to find success in a distracting world. Do you mindlessly scroll through Facebook, Instagram, and read emails and wonder where you day has gone?
Cal Newport does a fantastic job of showing us how you can produce massive results that will further your goals in life, by being methodical with what you consume and how you produce.
Transform your personal and career by doing “Deep Work”.
More Book Recommendations
If you still want more book recommendations, make sure to check out my full list of my all time favorites and my annual list here.
Enjoy!
Disclosure: There are some affiliate links on this site and I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post, but these are all products and services I highly recommend. I won’t put anything on this page that I haven’t verified and/or personally used.
