July Reading List 2026

Books for the Summer:

1/ Lois Pryce – Revolutionary Ride: In Search of the Real Iran

The true story of a woman who was left a note on her motorbike inviting her to visit Iran, considered so dangerous a trip nobody backed her. Undeterred she travels by bike to Iran and crosses the country alone. It’s a tale of adventure and beauty through one of the oldest civilisations in the World. Beautiful and inspiring.

 

 

 

2/ Gonzalo Baro – Vegan Recipes From Spain

Spain is enjoying a renaissance and the food is no exception. This book has some exquisite recipes like Pastas de Te con Membrillo (Quince Jelly Biscuits), Horchata de Chufa (Tiger Nut Milk) and Cold Almond and Garlic Soup. Potatoes with Papaya Mojo is the business, as is Mushrooms with Mango Ceviche and Avocado Cream. This is Summer dinner party stuff.

 

 

 

3/ Haruki Murakami – What I Talk About When I Talk Abut Running

As with everything written by Murakami, this is a beautiful book that is part travelogue, part philosophy and part reflection. It’s inspired so many people to run and to attempt marathons. As a dedicated runner, it made me want to put on my running shoes more and turn training into a mindful, present practice.

 

 

4/ Jiddhu Krishnamurti – The Beauty of Life: Krishnamurti’s Journal

Touted as the World Leader, Krishnamurti rejected the spotlight in favour of quietly teaching people how to live with truth, love and compassion. His teachings are second to none and inspire me daily. This is a beautiful book that you can dip in and out of. It contains daily reflections & wisdom to elevate you.

 

 

5/ Kakuzo Okakura – The Book of Tea

Written over 100 years ago, this book explores the Japanese tea ceremony, mindfulness and Zen Buddhism. It reveres imperfection and imbuing everything with a sense of the divine. It’s a tiny book, an essay, but the sort of book you can go back to time and time again. A classic.