The Introspective Summer Reading List
Simplicity. Expansive. Healing. These are a few words to describe my summer vibe and reading is that one activity that is the gift that keeps on giving.
Reading books has been my way to unwind, to learn and expand the mind. The more I read books that nurture my soul, the more something magical happens - I begin to observe my own transformation as a woman, mother, partner, coach, sibling and friend. Reading is everything.
I'm excited to share my go-to books for your summer reading list. Wherever you are, I hope you enjoy this brief summer reading collection:
Five Books…The Introspective Summer Reading List
You Belong: A Call for Connection by Sebene Selassie
My friend Sebene Selassie, a celebrated meditation teacher, poured her heart and soul into this inspirational book. A sense of belonging often evaded me and one day talking with Sebene, I realized we both felt the same way despite our vastly different experiences…me as a mixed girl from Long Island, her as an Ethiopian/Eritrean immigrant who was raised in Washington DC. In “You Belong,” Sebene reveals that understanding and feeling a sense of belonging can heal ourselves and the world around us. It’s important work shared through ancient Buddhist teachings, multidisciplinary research and great stories.
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
This national bestseller from 1963 is pure poetry. It’s heartbreaking. It’s infuriating. James Baldwin is actually funny at times, while he is dropping science. Books on race and anti-racism by black authors are all the rage now due the Black Lives Matter/George Floyd movements, but James Baldwin is a master whose eloquent words are never old. His work is a must. Nearly everything he is talking about in The Fire Next Time is relevant today. This fact is desperately disturbing, but as Americans, it’s important to know this, to feel this, to understand our real history, not the lies we have been taught in history. At some point the wool over our eyes has to be uncovered. The New York Times Book Review describes this classic of literature as "sermon, ultimatum, confession, deposition, testament, and chronicle...all presented in searing, brilliant prose.”
"Basically the finest essay I’ve ever read. . . . Baldwin refused to hold anyone’s hand. He was both direct and beautiful all at once. He did not seem to write to convince you. He wrote beyond you.” —Ta-Nehisi Coates
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Honest and uproarious, insightful and tender. Untamed is both an intimate memoir and a wake-up call. It is the story of a woman learning to fully live, to show up, to connect to the inner knowing and embrace her own evolution. It stands out to me because of its beautiful writing paired with her honest expression of what it means to be human, even in the messy, ugly and beautiful moments. Glennon Doyle’s vulnerability is truly inspiring, plus she’s funny. Loved this so much.
Karma: A Yogi's Guide to Crafting Your Destiny by Sadhguru
This latest book from the New York Times bestselling author and world-renowned spiritual master Sadhguru. I’m always interested in karma, past lives and the like. The wisdom that is expressed through Sadhguru’s teachings can be astounding, yet so simple. What I thought I knew about karma was actually inaccurate and this book breaks down the history through ancient spiritual teachings and actions steps as well. Sadhguru is considered among India's 50 most influential people and his teaching will flip the script on how you think about the concept of karma and elevate your consciousness to live out our divine right destiny.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Looking to go deeper into your creativity and inner artist this summer? This is the read for you! With profound empathy and radiant generosity, Elizabeth Gilbert, one of my favorite authors, offers potent insights into the mysterious nature of inspiration. She asks us to embrace our curiosity and let go of needless suffering. She shows us how to tackle what we most love, and how to face down our inner most fears. Gilbert discusses the attitudes, approaches, and habits we need in order to live our most creative lives. This book was a game changer for me, as one always searching for my creative spirit.
Let me know which one of these books you've enjoyed or are getting ready to check out. Remember, books and stories are a gift to yourself! May you enjoy these magnificent writers and teachers. There are soooo many more I could’ve shared.
Don’t forget to support independent black-owned bookshops. YES, I am still on that tip and it’s not dying just because no one is talking about it anymore. They all need your support. I no longer buy books from Amazon despite how crazy easy it is. If you can’t go to your local bookstore, then try bookshop.org where you can choose a bookstore to purchase from. Here is a list of a few black-owned bookstores in NYC that you can look up on bookshop.org and contribute to them through your book purchase. Enjoy.
