The Ultimate Summer Reading List: 14 Incredible Books I’m Reading (that you should read too)
My summer reading list includes 14 books. I plan to read them in 13 weeks, which means approximately one book a week from the beginning of June to the end of August.
Twelve are nonfiction books in different genres, such as business, economics, personal development, history, and narrative nonfiction, while the other two are fiction books.
Please note that I am not reading these books in chronological order as listed. I am spacing out the challenging nonfiction books throughout the summer to avoid information overload or brain fatigue.
Table of contents
Business and Psychology Books
Noise by Daniel Kahneman, Oliver Sibony, and Cass Sunstein
Noise explores how random chance affects our lives and decision-making. By combining storytelling with psychological research, the Authors explore how inconsistency in judgments, known as “noise,” can result in errors in fields such as medicine and criminal justice.
The Black Swan by Nassim Taleb
Taleb analyzes the impact of highly improbable events, arguing that these “black swan” events have profound and unpredictable consequences, shaping history, markets, and our perception of risk.
Personal Development Books
Stolen Focus by Johann Hari
Hari explores the impact of modern technology on our attention spans and mental well-being. Through personal anecdotes and scientific research, Hari reveals how digital distractions reshape our brains and offers insights on reclaiming our focus in an age of constant connectivity.
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
A thought-provoking exploration of time management and the pursuit of meaningful living. Burkeman challenges the conventional wisdom of productivity culture, advocating for a more balanced and mindful approach to maximizing our limited time on Earth.
History and Economics Books
Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemoglu & James Robinson
Using historical analysis and case studies, Acemoglu and Robinson posit that a nation’s success depends on its political and economic institutions.
A Brief History Of The Middle East by Christopher Catherwood
This book offers an overview of the Middle East’s history, exploring its cultural, religious, and political dynamics from ancient times to the present.
Good Economics for Hard Times by Abhijit Banerjee & Esther Duflo
Through rigorous analysis and accessible storytelling, the Nobel laureate authors present evidence-based solutions to issues like inequality, immigration, and climate change, providing a roadmap for creating a fairer and more prosperous world.
Economic Facts and Fallacies by Thomas Sowell
A comprehensive examination of common misconceptions and myths surrounding economic issues. With clarity and depth, Sowell dismantles popular fallacies about income inequality, government regulation, and race relations, offering readers a clearer understanding of the complexities of economic policy.
Note: I plan on reading ‘Iran’ by Abbas Ammant throughout the summer. The book is 1,000 pages long, so I didn’t include it in my list as I can’t guarantee that I will finish it by September.
Narrative Nonfiction Books
Einstein by Walter Isaacson
Offers a comprehensive portrait of one of the greatest scientific minds in history. Isaacson reveals Albert Einstein’s personal and professional journey through research and engaging storytelling, showcasing his revolutionary ideas and legacy in physics and beyond.
Note: Second book by Walter Isaacson. I’m excited to read more of his work this year!
Bomber Mafia by Malcolm Gladwell
Delves into the innovation and moral dilemmas surrounding the American bombing campaigns during World War II. Through captivating storytelling and historical analysis, Gladwell explores the visionary ideas of a group of military innovators and their impact on the evolution of warfare.
Note: I’ve read all of Gladwell’s books except this one. But he just announced that he is publishing another book in October, titled “Revenge of The Tipping Point,” which I’m stoked for!
Sharpening My Skills: Writing and Learning
Writing To Learn by William Zinsser
Emphasizes the power of writing as a tool for comprehension and discovery across all academic disciplines. Zinsser advocates for active engagement with writing to clarify thoughts, deepen understanding, and foster intellectual growth.
The Art and Business of Online Writing by Nicolas Cole
Assists aspiring writers navigating the digital world to craft compelling content, establish thriving online platforms, and monetize their writing.
Fiction Books
To Have and Have Not by Ernest Hemingway
It follows the struggles of a fisherman-turned-smuggler in the Florida Keys during the Great Depression, exploring themes of poverty, survival, and moral ambiguity.
Note: I read Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises” last summer and loved it. I was excited to read more of his work.
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Delves into themes of race, identity, and beauty standards through the story of a young African American girl growing up in 1940s Ohio.
Note: I want to read The Bluest Eye, a banned book, and find out why it’s controversial (it has been banned in a few States within the States). This will be my first time reading a book by Morrison, although I’ve previously enjoyed her short story “Recitatif.”
Conclusion
I think this is going to be my best summer reading list yet. I’ve recently taken a particular interest in Economics and History, so I’m excited to read more books about the two subjects.
I would love to hear your thoughts if you’ve read any of these books. Some of the books I plan to read are challenging, so please reach out via Instagram if you have any tips on additional resources or how to approach certain books.
If you’re interested in purchasing any of the books mentioned, I have created a folder on my storefront where you can shop for them. To shop, click here.
