The Insight Book Club: everything we’ve been reading in June

by | 23 Jun 2023

Welcome to The Insight Book Club, your home for curious reads that uncover fascinating insights about the world we live in. Each month, we’ll share the books our worldly team have been reading – from recent page-turners to timeless classics. Want to share your own recommendations? Leave a comment for us at the bottom of the page.

LANDLINES – RAYNOR WINN

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‘This is about her walk along the Cape Wrath Trail in Scotland with her terminally ill husband, Moth. She writes about the healing power of nature and captures the variety of British landscapes beautifully.’ Cassie Pope, Web Content Manager

Author Raynor Winn can see her husband Moth’s health is getting worse. In the hope that nature can heal them once again, Raynor and Moth embark on an extraordinary thousand-mile journey through Britain’s glorious landscapes.

You may also like: 7 bonnie stops to inspire your trip to Scotland

COVENANT OF WATER – ABRAHAM VERGHESE

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‘I’m reading the Covenant of Water. It’s a beautifully written story of a family in South India.’ Aaron Crawford, Sales Manager

In this graceful story set amidst the serene landscapes of Kerala, a profound saga of love, faith and medicine unfolds across three generations of a remarkable family, who desperately pursue the answer to an extraordinary secret.

You may also like: Unexpected India – Insight staff stories

THE BLUE ZONES – DAN BUETTNER

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‘I read The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner back in college and found it truly insightful. Blue zones are areas in the world where people claim to live longer than average due to improved qualities of life. It takes a look into some of these communities and breaks down some of what makes them so special.’ Dakima Jones, Contact Center Consultant

Read the secrets to a longer, more vibrant life with the guidance of National Geographic Explorer, Dan Buettner. Through his worldwide expeditions, Buettner has unearthed the remarkable strategies for longevity found in the Blue zones—regions where individuals experience exceptionally long and fulfilling lives.

ON THE PLAIN OF SNAKES – PAUL THEROUX

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‘It’s curious, adventurous, old-school travel writing on contemporary Mexico that cuts to the meat of the place, rather than just skimming the surface.’ Alex Allen, Senior Editorial Manager

Legendary travel writer Paul Theroux drives the entire length of the USMexico border, then goes deep into the hinterland, on the back roads of Chiapas and Oaxaca, to uncover the rich, layered world behind today’s brutal headlines.’

Paul Theroux, legendary travel writer and novelist, dives deep into the beautiful and complex heart of Mexico. Driving the entire length of the US-Mexico border, and then deep into the hinterlands and back roads, he explores the true Mexico that sits behind the troubled headlines.

SEVEN SISTERS SERIES – LUCINDA RILEY

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‘Currently reading The Seven Sisters series. Each book follows the journey of one of the adopted sisters as they learn about their history & that of their birth family following the death of their adoptive father.’ Stephen Cowley, Sales and Operations Analyst

Lucinda Riley’s Seven Sisters series draws inspiration from the mythical tale of the Pleiades, enrapturing readers far and wide with its enchanting narrative.

CALL ME BY YOUR NAME – André Aciman

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‘Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman is a favourite book of mine. It’s a beautifully written story set in the Italian Riviera about a sudden romance that blossoms between two young men during the course of summer. It’s a completely immersive book that can be read in a day or two, perfect for a summer vacation.’ Minh Vo, Global Product & Knowledge Specialist

In this testament to the intricacies of intimacy, André Aciman masterfully captures the delicate dance of emotions that surround attraction. Poignant and unflinchingly honest, “Call me by your Name” is a classic tale of passion within a cosmopolitan family, all set in the stylish backdrop of the Italian Rivieria.

You may also like: Blossoming Romance: Why May is the best time to visit Italy

RED NOTICE – BILL BROWDER

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‘I am reading SUCH an interesting book at the moment – it’s called Red Notice: A True Story of Corruption, Murder and One Man’s Fight for Justice. It’s very political though so not sure if fitting for the blog but anyone that wants a riveting read you can’t put down, this is a winner!’ Gemma Myhill, Head of Partnerships & Special Projects

This real-life political thriller unravels the extraordinary journey of an American financier in Russia’s Wild East. What starts as a shrewd investment opportunity turns dark after the murder of Browder’s young tax attorney, fueling a mission to expose the deep-seated corruption that permeates the Kremlin. This gripping account offers an unflinching glimpse into the darkest corners of high finance, leaving an indelible mark on those who dare to unravel its compelling truths.

FIT TO BE TIED – BILL AND LYNNE HYBELS

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‘Currently reading Fit to be Tied by Bill and Lynne Hybels. It explores the highs and lows of their marriage from a religious standpoint as well as a personal one. Sort of a handbook before getting married.’ Paul Riba, Global Support

In this accessible and insightful guide to marriage, the authors, who are themselves married, draw upon their own personal experiences to illuminate the path towards a joyous, nourishing, and enduring partnership. With earnest counsel and genuine care, the Hybels empower readers to make discerning choices regarding their choice of life partner, while equipping them with the tools necessary to cultivate lasting love.

THE TEN THOUSAND DOORS OF JANUARY – ALIX E. HARROW

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‘I just finished The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E Harrow. A bit of a Frankenstein genre-wise – history, sci-fi, fantasy, romance – it’s got a little bit of everything. Travel and the power it has to expand our lives is right at the centre of the novel and the settings are beautifully built, but there are also really interesting conversations about language, what’s truly important to us, the relationships we have with one another and what drives change in the world around us.’ Kelsey Fitzgerald, Social Media Executive

January Scaller grows up in the grand mansion of her guardian, the wealthy Mr. Locke. Often, she feels as out of place as the peculiar treasures and oddities that fill the vast halls. But everything changes when she discovers a mysterious book: a gateway to other worlds. Through its pages, she embarks on a thrilling journey of love, adventure, and peril, unraveling truths help write her own captivating story.

I WILL TEACH YOU TO BE RICH – RAMIT SETHI

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‘I like this book and the workbook because it gives me motivation and a push to get back on track. I like that there are practical accountability tasks. My goal is to be able to take my children on a vacation and not return stressed out about money’ Chantelle Mcleod, Contact Centre Agent

Rethi cuts to the financial chase and has inspires readers to take positive action. Grounded in the four essential pillars of personal finance: banking, saving, budgeting, and investing, this book unveils the secrets to living a truly “rich life.”

I'm Jay – born in Italy, raised in South London. Having French sisters and Hungarian ancestors, I've always been fascinated with the world and its cultures, and I carry this curiosity into my writing for Insightful. My favourite destinations I've traveled to so far have been Italy, Peru, France and Brazil.

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