Fuel your imagination: Bioenergy Europe’s reading picks for an energetic summer
Welcome to Bioenergy Europe’s reading picks for an energetic summer! At Bioenergy Europe, we know the joy of curling up with a good book beside a cozy wood stove. Yet, enjoying a great read after setting up your out of office reply is not just a winter pastime.
This summer, Bioenergy Europe’s team invites you on a literary journey across continents, centuries and even planets. From sweeping historical tales and magical realism to sharp essays and unexpected journeys, our list will take you across the globe and beyond.
So, whether you’re by the beach, in the mountains, or simply relishing a quiet moment at home, these books are here to energise your mind and imagination. Fuel your imagination, discover Bioenergy Europe’s reading picks for an energetic summer. Grab a drink (and a book) and let the adventure begin.
"Inés of my Soul" is the story of Inés Suárez, the only woman involved in the conquest of Chile in the 16th century. It is a story of war, adventure and love, narrated by Inés herself on her dying bed. A passionate tale that will catch your breath!
Irene, Policy Director
"The Leopard (Il Gattopardo)” holds a special place in my heart, being Sicilian myself. It’s a powerful and poetic portrayal of Sicily during the unification of Italy — told through the eyes of a Sicilian prince witnessing the slow decline of aristocracy and the rise of a new social order. The book beautifully captures the complexity, contradictions, and cultural layers of the island and its people. It’s not just a story about Sicily, but change, identity, and the passage of time — themes that resonate far beyond the context of the novel.
Ennio, Senior Policy Officer
In "The 100-year-old man who climbed out the window and disappeared" a 100-year-old escapes a nursing home and stumbles into a wild adventure. His past reveals absurd run-ins with world leaders and historic events. Funny, unpredictable, and delightfully offbeat — perfect for summer.
Clara, Communications Officer
Careless People is a memoir by Sarah Wynn-Williams that gives you a front-row seat to Facebook, the decisions that have shaped world events in recent decades, and the people who made them. It is a deep look at the role that social media in our lives. The book reveals the truth about the leaders of Facebook: how the more power they grasp, the less responsible they become and the consequences this has for all of us.
James by Percival Everett is a re-imaging of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, but told in a sarcastic way from the perspective of Huckleberry’s friend, Jim, who is an escaped slave. The novel illuminates Jim’s agency, intelligence, and compassion as never before. It won the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
Dobromir, Marketing Manager at ENplus®
“What You Are Looking for Is in the Library” is an easy-to-read, heartwarming tale that follows five different people as they discover the magic of books and human connection. I loved how ordinary the characters are, which makes it easy to connect with at least one of them. Each of them grows in their own way, reminding us to keep moving toward our own goals.
Diandra, Marketing Assistant at ENplus®
"Coal", Coal was the main fuel at the onset of the industrial revolution, but its extensive use came with a heavy price, as you may feel again this summer when temperatures reach uncomfortable levels. The aim of this fascinating little book is to explore the historical role of coal in human societies, rather than technical aspects. By exploring aspects such as the evolving attitudes towards coal, air pollution issues with its use and ways to control them, and social struggles associated with the industry, this book can help readers develop a more nuanced view of the human aspects behind the energy transition.
Manolis, Membership and Business Development Director
"When I sing, Mountains Dance" pays homage to the wild landscape of the spanish Pyrenees. A poetic book in the genre of magical realism, and the perfect read for when you’re on holiday in nature!
Gaia, Graphic Designer
For an easy summer read, I’d recommend "Surrounded by Idiots". It explores the four DISC behaviour types (though not to be taken too seriously or as scientifically validated). Still, it’s a fun and engaging book, with the author sharing practical examples from his own experiences. It’s also a great opportunity to reflect on your own tendencies and better understand those around you. In the end, it’s a nice reminder that those who quickly label others as “idiots” are often just… lacking a bit of understanding.
Francisco, Business Development and Membership Officer
For a relaxing but interesting summer read graphic novels are a great option! "The Hard Switch” is a quirky and engaging graphic novel about the end of space travel. It’s light and short, but makes you think about how some natural resources are running out, and how unfairly they’re shared among people. The art is simple, with beautiful atmospheres and architectures.
Martina, Communications Officer
