Sprout`s Summer Reads
Whether you’re soaking up the sun at the beach or enjoying a relaxing staycation, these reads are sure to add some spice to your summer days!
- “In the Weeds: Around the World and Behind the Scenes with Anthony Bourdain” by Tom Vitale (Roxana Bahar)
Synopsis: This memoir chronicles Vitale’s years as a producer and director on Anthony Bourdain’s travel shows, revealing behind-the-scenes details and ethical dilemmas of making a popular show about food in some of the most volatile and impoverished places in the world. Vitale also delves into the intense and complicated relationship he and Bourdain developed over their years working together and documents his struggles to come to terms with Bourdain’s death and legacy.
- “Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter” (Laura Meade)
Synopsis: Very insightful biography chronicling the life the oldest Kennedy daughter. Rosemary had intellectual disabilities, which was kept secret by the Kennedy family. The book describes the often-desperate arrangements the Kennedys made to keep her away from home, culminating in the decision to have her lobotomized and the family’s complicity in keeping the secret. The Kennedy siblings didn’t understand what had happened to Rosemary until much later, which inspired them to direct government attention and resources to support those with disabilities.
- “Beach Read” by Emily Henry (Sarah Clifford)
Synopsis: Dive into the world of romance and self-discovery with this delightful read. A tale of two writers, each facing writer’s block in their respective genres. They decide to swap places and find inspiration in unexpected ways while spending the summer at neighbouring beach houses.
- “To My Sisters: A Guide to Building Lifelong Friendships” (Justina Tol)
Synopsis: Discover the power of friendship and sisterhood through this heartwarming guide. Filled with insights and personal anecdotes, this book offers valuable advice on cultivating meaningful and lasting friendships.
- “The Fall of Civilizations” (Podcast) (Lina Eliasson)
Synopsis: For those who love immersive storytelling, you will be captivated by this thought-provoking podcast. Each episode explores the rise and fall of various civilizations throughout history, shedding light on the factors that contribute to their downfall.
- “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig (Rachel Cotter)
Synopsis: In this enchanting novel, journey with the protagonist as they discover a mysterious library that houses infinite parallel lives. Each book represents a different choice made or opportunity missed, and the protagonist must navigate these alternate realities to find their true path.
- “Uneasy Money” by P.G. Wodehouse (Christina Jackson)
Synopsis: A classic comedic novel. Set in the 1920s, the story follows the amusing misadventures of a young man who unexpectedly inherits a fortune, leading to a series of hilarious escapades.
- “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver (Anna de la Motte)
Synopsis: Demon Copperhead is set in the mountains of southern Appalachia. It’s the story of a boy born to a teenaged single mother in a single-wide trailer, with no assets beyond his dead father’s good looks and copper-coloured hair, a caustic wit, and a fierce talent for survival.
- “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown (Yuzana Khine Zaw)
Synopsis: In this empowering book, Brené Brown explores the concept of shame and the power of embracing vulnerability to live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
- “Ex-Wife” by Ursula Parrott (Kara Giannone)
Synopsis: In this captivating novel, you will be transported to 1920s New York City and follow the story of a woman suddenly divorced. The book explores themes of independence, resilience, and empowerment as the protagonist navigates the challenges of her new life.
