Summer Reading (and Listening) Picks from the Kimelman and Baird Team
As the school season finishes and summer begins, it’s the perfect time to slow down, soak up the sunshine—and maybe get lost in a great book or podcast. Whether you're headed to the beach, relaxing at home, or stealing a few quiet moments between busy days, there's nothing like a good read or listen to help you unwind.
To kick off the season, we are sharing our favorites. Our picks span a mix of fiction, memoir, history, and even financial insight, proving that a well-stocked bookshelf is as diverse as the people who build it.
Here are our team’s top recommendations for your summer list:
Sheila Baird, Founder & Chair
"Yes this is a rip-roaring tale about a legendary horse by a Pulitzer Prize winning author. Slavery, the Civil War and racism makes a fascinating backdrop."
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Harnett
"Don't be put off by the title! This is a dark comedy about a road trip embarked upon by an old guy seeking his high school sweetheart, two orphaned children, his daughter who is there to control the chaos and a cat who has been evicted from his residence in an old folk’s home because he can predict when someone is going to die. Delightful!!! And very funny."
Scott Kimelman, Partner & Co-Chief Investment Officer
The Technological Republic: Hard Power, Soft Belief, and the Future of the West by Alexander C. Karp
"A thought-provoking exploration of how Western democracies must recalibrate their technological ambitions and cultural convictions to compete in a shifting global order and provides sharp analysis and historical insight."
Yasmeen Mock, Partner & Chief Operating Officer; Head of Client Relations and Portfolio Administration
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
"Over a decade after reading it, The Glass Castle remains a favorite. I'm not usually drawn to memoirs, but this story grabbed me from the start. It follows the main character's growth from an unconventional and isolated childhood in rural Idaho into adulthood."
Sapan Vyas, Partner & Co-Chief Investment Officer
Podcast episodes: The Drive by Peter Attia, MD
Optimizing life for maximum fulfillment | Bill Perkins
Ric Elias: Earning the gift of life
"These two podcast episodes offer thoughtful perspectives perfect for summer reflection. One invites us to consider how to better align our resources—time, health, and money—with the goal of creating meaningful life experiences. The other shares a powerful story about perspective, purpose, and the kind of legacy that truly matters."
Joyce Chan, Operations Manager
This American Woman: A One-in-a-Billion Memoir by Zarna Garg
"I first discovered Zarna on social media, where her relatable and hilarious comedy immediately caught my attention. Her witty takes on parenting, especially her funny insights on raising kids to succeed in life, resonated with me."
Nicole Wilson, Client Relationship Manager
A Little Devil in America: Notes in Praise of Black Performance by Hanif Abdurraqib
"Hanif Abdurraqib truly has a way with words. In this book Abdurraqib showcases how Black performance is woven throughout American culture. I really enjoyed Abdurraqib’s blend of history, memoir, and cultural critique."
"As a longtime fan of Beyoncé and Solange, I was excited for the chance to learn more about their mother, Tina Knowles. It was refreshing to see her step into the spotlight, after so many years of being the steady force behind the scenes and the foundation of her daughters’ success."
"Toni Morrison’s first published short story. Who knew you could have so many thoughts and feelings for a 96-page story. Morrison really makes you examine not only societal structures but also our own personal biases."
Honorable mention: The Meaning of Mariah Carey by Mariah Carey
"Great audiobook! Mariah Carey sings some parts!"
Gabriela Bruzzo, Operations and Client Service Coordinator
The Memory Police by Yoko Ogawa
"This book is dark, eerie, and a little haunting, but there's also something very sweet & gentle about the main characters and their story. It’s a surreal story that stuck with me and made me think deeply about forgetting, loss, and what we end up holding on to (and letting go of)."
Thoughts Without a Thinker by Mark Epstein
"This book combines Buddhist philosophy with psychoanalytic principles to explore the self and emotional health. I started it before beginning my master's program and had to put it down when things got busy, but I'm excited to pick it back up this summer."
Armchair Explorer Podcast: Travel and Adventure Inspiration
"I started listening when I realized listening to a lot of True Crime was making me a little paranoid. This podcast still gives me that same sense of intrigue, thrill and escape, but in a way that feels exciting and inspiring instead of heavy."
Jack Vanneck, Research Analyst
"Gives you a good understanding of the stock market, macro events, politics, and other concerning events going on in the world."
We hope these recommendations spark some inspiration for your own summer reading list. From all of us at Kimelman and Baird, we wish you a relaxing and rejuvenating summer!
Disclaimer: Kimelman & Baird is not affiliated with any of the authors, speakers, or creators mentioned in this article. The views and opinions expressed in the referenced books and podcasts are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Kimelman & Baird. This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered as investment, legal, accounting, or tax advice. Please consult your professional advisor regarding your specific situation.