Every August 9, we recognize all that literature has to offer by celebrating National Book Lovers Day.
Whether it’s an old classic or a short story, reading has a profound impact on our lives. Research shows reading improves memory, builds empathy and helps with a multitude of health challenges such as depression and stress.
In celebration of National Book Lovers Day, we asked our team for recommendations to share with you.
![]() Book: The One-Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard Why I enjoyed the book: I discovered this incredible book, written as an allegory, during my graduate school days. It was an epiphanal experience and forever changed how I lead and manage my teams, as well as myself. It is an easy, must-read for any aspiring manager. I re-read it often. |
![]() Book: Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse Why I enjoyed the book: You can read this book in one sitting, but you will find yourself contemplating the stories for years. I’ve read this book many times over and each time the meaning and themes have changed for me over the decades. |
![]() Book: The Cairo Trilogy by Naguib Mahfouz Why I enjoyed the book: I love this trilogy as it spans three generations of Cairene socio-political life through the life of one well-off Cairo merchant, his children and grandchildren. It is a penetrating overview of 20th century Egyptian thought, attitudes and social change. I love that it is written by an Egyptian making it feel truly authentic. His brilliant writing skills drew me in to the lives and thoughts of his characters and educated me on the politics and Egyptian Islamic culture spanning three eras. |
![]() Book: South of the Border, West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami Why I enjoyed the book: I love the way Murakami explores love and loneliness. He delivers an unassuming dream-like story, but there’s a profound sincerity to it. I enjoy this book so much because it’s a mystical escape and it puts me in contact with reality at the same time. |
![]() Book: Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling Why I enjoyed the book: I have read these books many times. I’ve always loved the inventiveness, imagery, and stories of friendship. I’ve appreciated them for the countless number of kids who became readers through these books. I’m currently reading these again, this time with my daughter. Being able to experience this incredible world while seeing her excitement and wonder is even better than reading them myself for the first time. |
![]() Book: 10% Happier by Dan Harris Why I enjoyed the book: With wit and humility, Harris openly shares his struggles with anxiety in his life and career. Harris is candid about his journey in meditation, why it’s good for you and how it helps relieve anxiety. |
On August 9, 2022, we awarded $838,704 in Opening the Outdoors grants to 24 nonprofit organizations that offer equitable access to outdoor spaces in San Diego County.
“San Diego Foundation is proud to once again support its partners committed to increasing community-driven efforts to enhance accessible outdoor space, encourage youth to learn more through hands-on education and create the next generation of environmental stewards in the San Diego region,” said Christiana DeBenedict, SDF Director of Environment Initiatives.
This year’s grantees will help address these inequities and enhance access to the outdoors throughout San Diego County.
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