August vibes, and half of Europe's clearing out their offices—perfect time for a little brain tan, right? That's why our team shared their favorite summer reads—Whether you're chilling on a Mediterranean beach, eating tomatoes in the south that actually taste like something or enjoying the rare peace of an empty office, our summer reading list is here to mix up your sunny days with a splash of intellect and a dash of fun!
Deep Dive into Public Affairs & Policy:
- "This Is Not Propaganda" by Peter Pomerantsev - Explore the global influence of information warfare.
- "How to Stand Up to a Dictator" by Maria Ressa - Insights from a Nobel Prize-winning journalist on fighting for truth.
- "Recoding America" by Jennifer Pahlka - A visionary look at how digital solutions can reshape government.
- "Demokratiedämmerung" by Veith Selk - A critical examination of democracy theory.
- "How to Win an Information War" by Peter Pomerantsev - Tactics from historical information battles.
Light & Engaging Reads:
- Tom Hillenbrand's Xavier-Kieffer Series - Culinary crimes in Luxembourg, starting with "Teufelsfrucht."
- "Möchte die Witwe angesprochen werden" by Saša Stanišić - Witty reflections on life and death.
- "Fup" by Jim Dodge, translated by Harry Rowohlt - A quirky tale of a duck, a grandfather, and their peculiar life.
- "Häuptling Abendwind" by Johann Nestroy and Jacques Offenbach - A humorous play mixing absurdity and satire.
Inspiration & Insight:
- "Thinking Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahnemann - A Nobel laureate’s exploration of mind, intuition, and decision-making.
- "Hillbilly Elegy" by JD Vance - A personal story reflecting the social, regional, and class decline across America.
Notable Fiction & Non-fiction:
- "2054" by Elliot Ackerman and Admiral James Stavridis - A speculative glance at the geopolitical future.
- "The Ministry of Time" by Kaliane Bradley - Adventure through time with romantic twists.
- "Atlas Shrugged" by Ayn Rand - A philosophical novel emphasizing Rand's view of objectivism and self-interest.
- "The Art of Power" by Nancy Pelosi - A compelling narrative on wielding influence effectively.
Intriguing Reads on Social Dynamics:
- "The Coddling of the American Mind" by Jonathan Haidt - Exploring the consequences of overprotecting youth against psychological challenges.
- "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt - Unpacking how modern childhood is fueling mental health crises.
Bonus Pick:
- "Die Welt von Gestern" by Stefan Zweig - A poignant memoir reflecting the world before the upheaval of two world wars.
Caught in a quiet office this summer? Might be the perfect chance to catch up on some reading!
Let us know which books you pick up or if there are any you’d add to the list!