Learning meets fun: part 1 of iilo’s summer reading list
Summer is here, and we’re upping our self/life/work balance! Our team is slowing down, swapping computer screens for sunscreen, and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
We know that taking time to rest and do the things we love fuels our creativity and energy for busy work schedules ahead. For many of our team members, this means digging into a good book!
Over two blog posts, we’ll share the iilo team’s summer reading list for 2025. In part 1, two iilo core team members share how they’re balancing fun and learning with their summer reads.
Cate’s book recommendations
Graphic designer Cate Arnold (she/they) can’t resist a romantic fantasy (also known as a romantasy). She’s currently reading Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros. It’s the third book of the Empyrean series, featuring magic, dragons, and dragon riders. Chock-full of plot twists, Cate warns, “You won’t be able to put this book down!”
Also on Cate’s summer reading list is Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally by Emily Ladau. Cate picked out this book from iilo’s library, a system we’ve set up so collaborators can sign out books to support their professional development. From learning how to identify ableism to developing more inclusive vocabulary, Cate recommends this book for anyone who wants to create a more accessible world.
Saj’s book recommendations
Project & marketing coordinator Saj Singh (he/him) is known for his love of reading. He recently ventured into science fiction and recommends Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. Saj describes it as one of the most beautiful, heart-warming, and funny stories he’s ever read. If you’re hesitant about picking up a sci-fi, know that it’s a standalone story (no need to commit to a long series) and features meaningful character development (not just nerdy space exploration)!
Another one of Saj’s top picks is How Not to Die: Discover the Foods Scientifically Proven to Prevent and Reverse Disease by Michael Greger and Gene Stone. This book explains how eating a whole-food, plant-based diet can help prevent the most common chronic diseases and promote a longer, healthier life. Saj especially appreciates that the content is well-organized and fact-checked. In fact, the last 20 per cent of the book consists entirely of citations!
Want to know what other iiloians are reading? Check out part 2 of our summer reading list for more book recommendations!