Who says summer reads have to be light, frivilous pop-fiction? Here are a few books recommended by Brainery teachers that will stimulate your brain as you bake your body in the summer sun.

 Wabi-Sabi: for Artists, Designers, Poets & Philosophers by Leonard Koren

Why you should read it: The Japanese concept of wabi-sabi is intrinsic to everything I make, but especially kokedama. This book gives a beautifully detailed and thorough explanation of the very-hard-to-define concept, which is related to the appreciation of the imperfections of natural beauty.

Suggested by: Anna Macoboy

 From Beirut to Jerusalem by Thomas L. Friedman

Why you should read it: The book is essentially split into two parts. The first discusses the politics of the Arab world, particularly those of autocratic Arab rulers and how they rule domestically. The second discusses the politics of Israel and how it acts both internally and with its neighbors. Though somewhat dated, it is a great introduction to the sociology of Israel and Arab countries and explains the trends and societal factors at play. The particular lens of the book is through the Lebanon civil war, which is fascinating in and of itself.

Suggested by: Jordan Reimer

 Morning Glory: A Biography of Mary Lou Williams by Linda Dahl

Why you should read it: Mary Lou Williams was singular. The most important woman in jazz history, though her contributions are almost completely overlooked. This biography digs deep into her personal and spiritual life and rescues her reputation as one of jazz's most important composers and arrangers.

Suggested by: Christopher Bussmann

 Wild Urban Plants of the Northeast: A Field Guide by Peter Del Tredici

Why you should read it: This is a lovely color photo field guide to city weeds, or spontaneous urban plants, by botanist and lecturer Peter del Tredici, who argues in an inspiring and logical introduction that the plants ""naturally"" growing in a city are those requiring the least resources to maintain, the weeds. Del Tredici makes a case for cultivating beautiful, sustainable urban landscapes using the wildflowers already abundant around us, then curates an excellent field guide for identifying them.

Suggested by: Rae Winkelstein