12 books that will make you want to be a kinder, more eco-conscious person
Hello bookworms, need some inspiration for your summer reading list? Here are our top picks for kind, eco-conscious reading as you soak up some sun.
Some of these books are new, some are not, but all of them have inspiring messages that will make you want to be a better, more conscious human.
12 must-read books for your reading list
1. How to Stay Human in a F*cked-Up World: Mindfulness Practices for Real Life
If you want to meditate, but you’re not sure where to start — you’re going to love this book by Tim Desmond. But even if you meditate every day for an hour, you’ll find relatable and thoughtful information about mindfulness and ways to keep your life together even when it feels nearly impossible.
2. Miracle in the Mundane: Poems, Prompts, and Inspiration to Unlock Your Creativity and Unfiltered Joy
You may or may not have seen Tyler Knott’s romantic poems on Instagram. (If not, be sure to check him out!) But this book isn’t really about romance. Instead, it centers around cultivating a sense of wonder for the world and noticing the beauty that exists all around us.
3. The Soul of an Octopus
This book by Sy Montgomery will make you fall in love with octopuses (if you haven’t already). With every page turn you’ll be reminded of the amazing connection between humans and animals, even the ones with blue blood and three hearts.
4. Plastic Purge: How to Use Less Plastic, Eat Better, Keep Toxins Out of Your Body, and Help Save the Sea Turtles!
We’re usually not ones to judge a book by its cover, but this title pretty much says everything we want to hear. The author, Michael SanClements, not only explains (in an understandable way) a lot of interesting information about plastic, but he also gives practical advice on ways to reduce plastic-use.
5. Memorials Matter
This book by Jennifer K. Ladino explores the environments of seven diverse National Park Service (NPS) sites in the American West. Let’s just say you’ll want to pack your bags and go on a road trip after reading it!
6. Flaneuse
Flaneuse by Lauren Elkin is a love letter to walking and women who walk. If you love exploring cities and have a fascination with the simple act of putting one foot in front of the other, you’ll have a hard time putting this book down.
7. Eating Animals
Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer reads like a combination of investigative reporting and memoir. It’s a deep dive into the origins of eating traditions and why humans justify eating animals. But no matter your eating style, reading this book will make you want to be a kinder person.
8. Big Magic
Big Magic is like a hug for the soul. Elizabeth Gilbert’s thoughtful and practical advice about ways to embark on creative projects — whether it’s a novel or a watercolor painting — will make you want to stop planning and start doing.
9. The Alchemist
Look no further than The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho for the ultimate lessons in life and love. The core message of the book: pursue your dreams and let your heart lead the way. Who doesn’t need to be reminded of that every once in a while?!
10. Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory
Deena Kastor won the US their first Olympic medal after a 20 year drought. In her book, Kastor describes how she got out of a rut, manifested more positivity in her life, and made big changes to achieve her goals.
If you’re feeling stressed, burned out, or have a big goal on the horizon, this book is for you.
11. A Man Called Ove
This book by Fredrik Backman will make you feel connected to a fictional character in ways you didn’t think was possible. It’s full of wisdom, heart, lovable characters, and oddly perfect metaphors. Plus, there’s a ridiculously lovable cat, so that doesn’t hurt!
12. Zero Waste Home
From making your own mustard to cancelling junk mail, this book by Bea Johnson gives you practical tips for ways to be kinder to yourself and the planet.
To find more summer inspiration, check out these posts!
Damn it, what a great list of books! Just ordered five of them! Thanks for the recommendations!