I’m not sure why this playful, outdoor season evokes such a strong desire to read. Maybe it’s a harkening back to summer assignments from our English teachers or possibly the need to occupy our minds as we (finally) kickback and relax on the beach. Either way, summer reading lists abound this time of year so we thought we would share ours. What’s on your reading list?
 The Man From Beijing |
Kevin Stickney: Kevin has just finished The Man From Beijing by Henning Menkel, a translated book with a good global plot that reaches across cultures and history to create the story. Though it has a somewhat poor translation, he still found it a good overall read. |
 How Good People Make Tough Choices |
Angela Carter: Angela’s pick is How Good People Make Tough Choices by Rushworth Kidder, a book that explores “right vs. right” dilemmas. Recommended to her by a friend, she enjoyed reading the real life stories and outcomes. |
 Presentation Zen |
Mike Teixeira: As a designer, it’s no surprise that Mike has been reading Presentation Zen and Presentation Zen Design by Garr Reynolds, a light read that can serve as a Design 101 course. He recommends it for business people in order to help them think about their presentation style and delivery as well as give them the foundation to review and discuss their projects when they work with designers. |
 The Art of Possibility |
Jason Stickney: Jason is about to begin reading The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander. He is looking forward to reading this book, as it seems focused on everyday life and how to view the world in a slightly different perspective. He’s hoping it will be a useful and productive read and not the typical “self help” book. |
 Just Good Business |
Cathleen Williamson: My personal recommendation is Just Good Business by Kellie McElhaney. Whether you’re just starting your company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program or you’re looking for a way to give your current efforts more impact, this book is an excellent guide. As a CSR expert, McElhaney provides practical, easy-to-implement branding and communications strategies that will make your program soar. And while it includes essential strategies for development, planning, and measurement, its short chapters make is an easy read while waiting for the ferry to Nantucket or just before a catnap at the beach! |
Hopefully these titles will spark your interest and give you the extra incentive to hit up your local library or break out that Kindle you’ve been meaning to use. We’d love to hear what you’re reading as well, so make sure you share your top picks with us!
Also be sure to watch for an upcoming post about lessons learned from BP on managing and manipulating the media. Until then, enjoy your weekend, and pick up a new book!