Five Must-Read Books for Your Summer Reading List

As the weather warms and schedules change, there's a natural urge to dive into a new book and savor the unhurried moments of the season. We surveyed Vanderbloemen’s most dedicated readers to discover their top picks. These recommendations guarantee your summer reading list will include gems handpicked by fellow book enthusiasts. 

Halftime by Bob Buford

Halftime, recommended by Account Manager Bryson Isom, guides readers how to find meaning and fulfillment in the second half of their lives. Author Bob Buford makes the argument that the later half of life can be greater than the first. If you find yourself wondering how to find that second wind in life, seek Buford’s wisdom in directing your life toward service to God.

Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown

Executive Search Recruiter Kamia Morris suggests reading Atlas of the Heart, which helps readers explore why they do what they do (or why they avoid what they avoid). This book helps equip readers with language to process their experiences. The mesmerizing full-color illustrations bring the message to life. Read a physical copy or listen to the audible version, which come highly recommended by Kamia. If you’re seeking to not just exist, but to live, check out Atlas of the Heart.

“Phenomenal,” Kamia says. “The audible version, narrated by Brene herself, feels more like a podcast than a book, and she adds commentary not written in the text.”

Thanks for the Feedback by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen

Vanderbloemen’s Likeable VanderUnicorn, Executive Search Consultant Eric Albert, is one of the team’s most devoted readers. He recommends an extremely relevant book for personal and work relationships. Thanks for the Feedback explains the importance of receiving feedback well, even when it’s delivered poorly. The authors offer a powerful framework for responding to criticism with grace. Everyone encounters difficult people, awkward conversations, and authoritative figures, meaning chances are this book is for you, too!

Letters to the Church by Francis Chan

Letters to the Church articulates that the body of believers has a commitment to the church, according to God's design.

“If you are looking for a book that provides a fresh outlook on the church and Biblical leadership, this is a great book for you,” Senior Executive Search Recruiter Emily Hernandez-Basquez says. “It serves as a reminder that the church is more than a building, and Sunday service is more than an event.”

Working in churches and ministries, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose sight of God’s big picture. Re-align your heart to God’s with this refreshing read.

Be the Unicorn by William Vanderbloemen

No summer reading list is complete without it!

Be the Unicorn is best described as a manual for personal success, backed by 15 years of research and 30,000 case studies. Written by Vanderbleomen Search Group’s CEO and founder, William’s lifelong expertise is captured for your reading and self-improvement. Be the Unicorn describes the 12 data-driven points that separate great leaders from the rest. As you read, you’ll discover your own strengths to amplify, and you’ll learn where you need improvement to become a greater asset to your team and a more marketable candidate for future employment. Order your copy of Be the Unicorn to become the irreplaceable “unicorn” that employers everywhere are searching for.