On Vacation… Summer Reading List!

by Susan Cross | Posted: August 18th, 2010 | No Comments »

Summer vacation time!

It’s been Summer since June, but now I get two weeks with my family. Vacations always remind me of reading. A chance to unplug! A huge challenge for us as a nation. With all of our electronics it’s hard to relax.

Wellness of the soul, through quieting the mind is very important. These devices change our vibration and they don’t allow us to truly just be in the moment. Reading is great for the soul, it transports us, helps us to relax, reduces stress, and studies have shown that it makes us happy. The other great thing about reading? When you’re holding a book with both hands, you won’t be mindlessly snacking. Reading – the new healthy diet aid!

I have listed two children’s books as well, because of their important messages. How I wish these books existed when I was a girl.

EAT, PRAY, LOVE by Elizabeth Gilbert
You may have read this already. If not, try to read it before the film opens August 20th. It is the perfect Summer read. Even for those of you on a staycation – it promises to transport you. This is a wonderful coming of age piece. Most of us don’t come of age until at least our 30′s! This book blows the lid off our old-fashioned thinking and what society tells us should make us happy. It’s food for thought at its finest.

THE ALCHEMIST by Paulo Coleho
I included the Alchemist for all of you who can’t pick up and travel around the world. If you’ve read Eat, Pray, Love and think “great if I could go to all those places I would find myself too” – you may be surprised. This is the story of a poor shepherd boy named Santiago. Santiago believes that if he searches the world he will find riches, which will equal happiness. Surely the secret is out there. Well you may be surprised where, and how, Santiago finds enlightenment. So hold true to those dreams but make sure you’re looking in the right places.

PEACE LIKE A RIVER by Leif Enger
This may just be one of the finest books ever written. Mr. Enger is such a gifted writer, to say he is poetic, intelligent and lyrical, would not do him justice. The story is narrated by an 11 year old boy named Reuben, as he tells the story of his young life. This is a tale of loyalty, family and love – it’s also about redemption, justice, and miracles.

BROKEN, A LOVE STORY by Lisa Jones
This is a true story. Writer, Lisa Jones, is commissioned to write a story about a Horse trainer. Lisa attends his horse clinic, and this experience sets in motion a life transforming journey. The trainer happens to be an Arapaho tribal shaman, a horse whisperer, and a quadriplegic. Lisa, a non-believer, is so fascinated she asks to write a book on the healer’s life. Lisa’s life, and long held beliefs become forever changed in the process.

NO EXCUSES by Dr. Wayne Dyer
This is the story of a boy who knows what he wants to become when he grows up. As the boy begins to speak this vision out loud he is met with many naysayers. He believes them, and gives up on his dream, until he meets a positive force in his life. This book really explains to children how to holdfast to your dreams, believe in yourself and NEVER let excuses get in your way.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU GRUMBLE TOO MUCH by Dr. Dawn Huebner
A Kid’s guide to overcoming negativity. This book teaches kids to see the positive in everything. It is full of examples, exercises, and it’s fun. For all of you glass half-full people who know a glass half-empty person, you will love this book!

Happy relaxing, happy reading, and HAPPY SUMMER!!!