Stanford University faculty members have compiled a list of 25 recommended books for summer reading, focusing on themes of sustainability and environmental issues. This selection spans various genres including magical realism, poetry, political analysis, science writing, and essays.
Jane Willenbring, an associate professor at Stanford’s Earth and Planetary Sciences department, suggests “Wild Dark Shore: A Novel” by Charlotte McConaghy as a captivating read set in Antarctica. Steve Davis recommends “Abundance” by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson for its critique of liberal governance affecting innovation. Stephen Palumbi endorses “The Ocean’s Menagerie” by Drew Harvell for insights into marine biology.
Jonathan Payne recommends “Bite by Bite: Nourishments and Jamborees” by Aimee Nezhukumatathil for its blend of autobiography and social commentary through food stories. James Holland Jones highlights “The Future: A Novel” by Naomi Alderman for its exploration of society’s future challenges.
Madalina Vlasceanu suggests “The Language of Climate Politics” by Genevieve Guenther as an essential read on climate change communication. Elliott White Jr. emphasizes the importance of understanding socio-environmental impacts with “The Children of Katrina.”
Other notable recommendations include Mohsin Hamid’s “Exit West,” Robert M. Sapolsky’s “Behave,” Leah Cardamore Stokes’ analysis in “Short Circuiting Policy,” Rosanna Xia’s insights in “California Against the Sea,” Stephen Markey’s novel “The Deluge,” Katherine Rundell’s historical perspective in “Vanishing Treasures,” Matthew Booker’s history in “Down by the Bay,” Zoë Schlanger’s examination in “The Light Eaters,” Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s concept in “Antifragile,” Robert Macfarlane’s inquiry in “Is a River Alive?”, Dan Davies’ management study “The Unaccountability Machine,” John McPhee’s narrative “Assembling California,” Craig Childs’ exploration in “The Wild Dark,” Ted Kooser’s reflections in “Raft,” Daniel Kahneman’s psychological insight in “Thinking, Fast and Slow” and Paul R. Ehrlich et al.’s conservation message in “Before They Vanish.”
Noah Diffenbaugh also recommends Abby Reyes’ memoir, while William Barnett suggests Orhan Pamuk’s translated work.
This compilation is intended to spark curiosity and inspire critical thinking about sustainability during summer adventures.
