Let’s read.

The Memorial Day holiday is a reference point for the start of the summer season. Conversely, Labor Day signals the onset of fall. In my professional life, I have a wonderful opportunity to be bombarded by information from all sources. Although the information barrage gets overwhelming and difficult to manage, the summer season is a traditional time for catch up on one’s reading.

I once lived in a community where the local newspaper had an annual column asking local leaders to list their choices for summer reading. It was interesting to see the responses. Some responses were surprising. One might proffer what we read tells a lot about us. Does it? The newspaper column always had me thinking -- What would I say if I were asked the question to list my summer reading choices?

I’ll admit, I don’t read much fiction. My disciplined-based colleagues in the humanities shake their heads at this, but when given time, I am not a “pleasure” reader; although, reading is pure pleasure. For me, holding a book – a physical book – is my preference. I can highlight and write in the margins. I’m not good at looking at a screen, let alone a portable electronic device – at least for now.

When I have the time to read I select topics that relate to the job I perform with the hope of gaining a new insight. I maintain a constant reading list. So, if asked, I can easily answer the reading list question. I always take several books with me when I travel because being without something to read when delayed in an airport could be catastrophic. I can’t stand to be idle.

Okay, after all of this, I better share a partial summer reading list with you. Although I could easily list a dozen, I’ll give you three:

Love Leadership, by John Bryant
Rework, by Jason Fried & David H. Hansson
Switch, by Chip & Dan Heath

What’s on YOUR summer reading list? Feel free to share your ideas by sending me an email: tcl@tcl.edu.

Reading stimulates. It’s exciting. It’s powerful.

Enjoy summer. Happy reading.