The Summer Reading List 2026
“Marketing and operations are a love story; one does not work without the other.”
I believe that businesses are built by people first. The business owners, entrepreneurs, and teams we work with are a vital part of the marketing operations we help support and grow every day.
I also believe that one of the best ways to build better businesses is by building better humans — and learning is a big part of that process. That’s why I wanted to re-launch our annual Summer Reading List for 2026.
This year’s list spans AI, entrepreneurship, mindfulness, nutrition, and mental clarity, with selections that are equal parts practical, inspiring, and refreshingly human. This summer, we’re trading endless scrolling for more intentional learning, sharper thinking, and a little analog balance.
As technology continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, it’s no longer enough to simply read about innovation. It’s equally important to think critically about ethics, creativity, and how we care for our minds and bodies along the way.
“How to Think About AI: A Guide For The Perplexed”
by Daniel Susskind
A smart, accessible look at how artificial intelligence is reshaping business, work, and everyday life without the hype or fear tactics. My favorite insight do not allow AI Engineers to determine our future social culture. So participate and learn.
“The Silva Mind Control Method”
by José Silva
A classic personal development read. It was referenced in several books I had read. It focused on visualization, mental performance, intuition, and training your mind to work for you instead of against you. There are great exercises that you will need to do; so I suggest the audiobook on this one.
“The E-Myth Revisited”
by Michael Gerber
Required reading for business owners. Gerber breaks down why most small businesses struggle, and how systems, structure, and strategy create sustainable growth. He introduces the concept of the business franchise system. I suggest listening to the audiobook first and then reading the book.
“Food Rules”
by Michael Pollan
Short, sharp, and surprisingly powerful. Pollan simplifies healthy eating with practical rules that actually make sense in real life. This is the book to start your journey; no gimmicks, just great information.
“Mindfulness Coloring Book For Adult”
by YourNotes Publishing – click here
Part book, part summer mindset. This season’s challenge: spend a little less time scrolling and a little more time reconnecting offline. Go outside. Write something by hand. Color outside the lines. Have a conversation without checking your phone every three minutes. Because creativity, calm, and slowing down aren’t distractions from productivity — they’re part of it.
Support your local library. Try downloading and using the free APPs offered to give you access to your local library via your phone and other devices. I use HOOPLA.COM. All you need is a library card.
By logging in with a library card, patrons can read books, watch movies, and access learning platforms without paying subscription fees. [1, 2]
The most common apps used by public libraries include:
- Hoopla: Functions like a digital media hub. You can instantly borrow e-books, audiobooks, comics, movies, music, and TV shows without waiting for holds. It generally operates on a monthly checkout limit.
- Kanopy (or Kanopy Kids): A streaming app focused on cinematic, educational, independent, and classic films. It is commercial-free and available on most smart TVs and mobile devices.
- CloudLibrary: A digital lending platform for e-books and e-audiobooks.
- Flipster: An app specifically used for reading digital versions of popular magazines.
- Mango Languages: A language-learning app teaching over 70 world languages for free with a library card.
- The Palace App: An app used by many public libraries to consolidate multiple e-book providers into a single, easy-to-use catalog.
- BiblioCommons: Used by many major city library systems (such as the San Francisco Public Library) for their primary digital catalog, allowing patrons to track holds, manage physical accounts, and find curated reading.