As summer rolls in, it’s time to unwind, relax, and indulge in some great reads, inspiring podcasts, and thought-provoking content. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or staying cool indoors, our curated Summer Hot Picks have something for everyone. Here’s what some of our MPs, staff and board members are reading, watching, and listening to this season.
The Hon Andrew Giles – Minister for Skills and Training
Reading: Intermezzo by Sally Rooney. This is Rooney’s fourth novel. It is a beautifully written book set in Dublin and rural Ireland. The novel follows two brothers in the aftermath of their father’s death and their troubled relationships with each other and the women in their lives.
The Hon Jason Clare MP – Minister for Education
Favourite this year: Pax by Tom Holland
Summer read: Say Nothing by Patrick Radden KeefeJason’s picks delve into the intricacies of history and justice. While Pax provides an insightful look at the Roman Empire, Say Nothing unravels the complexities of The Troubles in Northern Ireland.
The Hon Andrew Leigh – Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities & Treasury and Assistant Minister for Employment
Audio books and reading:
Andrew enjoys audio books while running as well as reading and shares his favourite booklist for 2024 which includes Ethan Mollick, Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI – The most engrossing book I’ve read on artificial intelligence. It’ll help you better understand this fascinating technology and suggest new ways of playing with it. Find out more here.
Senator Mehreen Faruqi – Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens
Cooking: Sofra
Reading: The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine and The Sunbird. Mehreen’s picks reflect her love for culinary adventures and her passion for justice. These books weave rich narratives of history and humanity.
Kathleen Priestly – ALA President
Reading: Songs for the dead and the living by Sara M Saleh.
I am looking forward to reading this book in my break between Xmas and New Year. It is written by a very talented author who is a writer, critical race and human rights lawyer and the daughter of migrants from Palestine, Egypt and Lebanon. This novel details the pain and journey of Jamilah who is part of a loving family who are exiled from their homeland. It is the family’s story of love, life, and Arab family dynamics. It is equally beautiful and heartbreaking.
Kirrily Loveday, ALA Board Member
Reading: Wolfpack by Abby Wambach
This empowering book offers eight transformative rules for leadership and self-belief. A quick, inspiring read perfect for summer.
Jenny Macaffer, ALA Chief Executive Officer
Reading: Sincerely – Further adventures in the art of correspondence from Women of Letters – curated by Marieke Hardy and Michaela McGuire
This collection of letters by noteworthy Australians (mostly women) revives the lost art of letter writing. It’s a heartfelt glimpse into wisdom and memories shared through personal connection.
Sophie Arnold, ALA Communications Coordinator
Reading: Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
This gripping novel intertwines music, love, and survival during a hostage crisis in South America. A masterpiece of storytelling that resonates deeply with the human spirit.
Sharmy Ramachandran, ALA Project Manager and Business Development
Podcasts: Mel Gibson Podcast and On Purpose by Jay Shetty
Book: Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Dr. Joe Dispenza
Between thought-provoking podcasts and an inspiring read on transforming your mindset, Sharmy’s recommendations encourage personal growth and self-discovery