What Marketing’s Top Bookworms Are Diving Into This Summer: Part 1
In an exciting new addition to the Agency Advice series, we’re unveiling a contemporary reading list curated by the most voracious readers in the advertising and marketing industries. As the world’s largest employers of creative minds, these industry veterans not only shape culture but also immerse themselves in it through reading.
While many reading lists from our field often highlight derivative pop science and less-than-stellar business tomes, this summer we’re turning the tide. We’ve sought out the truest book enthusiasts to share the literary gems they’re currently captivated by. So, grab your notebook and head to your favorite independent bookstore—it’s time to explore!
Rishi Dastidar: Poet and Brand Writer
"Two novels have captured my heart this spring," Rishi Dastidar shares. He was drawn to Fair Play by Louise Hegarty, initially for its striking neon green cover. What began as a cozy murder mystery quickly unfolds into an exploration of friendships and the complexities of human connection. This novel challenges us to ponder the question: How well can we truly know others?
Dastidar also recommends Perfection by Vincenzo Latronico. This book offers sharp insights into the lives of two digital nomads in early 2010s Berlin. “Latronico vividly captures the trappings of modern life,” he notes, adding that it was rightly nominated for the International Booker Prize 2025.
To round out his list, he revisited an old favorite: Conversations with My Agent by Rob Long, a scriptwriter for Cheers. This literary classic provides invaluable lessons on navigating the often-treacherous waters of the entertainment industry, serving as a reminder of the crucial role luck plays in creativity.
Nicole Allan: New Business & Marketing Director, MiMedia
Nicole Allan emphasizes the intimacy and complexity of human relationships in her recommendations. The Neapolitan Quartet by Elena Ferrante takes readers on a journey through the lives of two friends, Elena and Lila, set against the backdrop of 1950s Italy. The narrative masterfully examines friendship, growth, and the impact of one’s environment.
Next on her list is the Cazalet Chronicles by Elizabeth Jane Howard, a five-book series that navigates three generations of the Cazalet family amidst the turmoil of WWII and post-war Britain. Allan highlights its profound exploration of family expectations and the lingering effects of war.
She concludes with Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin, which humorously encapsulates the spirit of chosen families through the adventures of Mary Ann Singleton in vibrant 1970s San Francisco.
Ant Melder: Creative Partner, Cocogun
Ant Melder laments the shocking prevalence of creatives who shy away from literature. For him, reading is essential for personal and professional growth. He enthusiastically endorses All Fours by Miranda July, a poignant tale exploring identity and existential questions faced by a woman at a life crossroads.
He also raves about The Bee Sting by Paul Murray, which candidly portrays the chaotic life of adolescence and the confusing journey into adulthood. Melder describes this book as a perfect mirror for anyone grappling with the challenges of growing up.
Other recommendations include Beautyland and Limberlost, both of which delve into unique coming-of-age experiences, plus Someone to Love You in All Your Damaged Glory, a collection of short stories that will leave readers both laughing and reflecting on life’s absurdities.
Jo West: Planning and Buying Director, Posterscope
“Fiction keeps me sane,” asserts Jo West, who prefers physical books over e-readers. She praises The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell, a historical novel that reshapes her perspective on the genre. Set in 16th-century Italy, this captivating story challenges the reader’s views on love and ambition.
West also highlights Sandwich by Catherine Newman, which offers a hilarious yet touching portrayal of a multi-generational summer holiday in New England. One Ukrainian Summer by Viv Groskop rounds out her recommendations, offering a vivid memoir of life in post-Soviet Russia and Ukraine.
Graeme Fraser: B2B Marketing Consultant
Graeme Fraser prefers to avoid the AI buzz but found Jungle House by Julianne Pachio intriguing. This mystery explores AI through a lens of human traits, prompting readers to reconsider their understanding of technology’s role in society.
He also praises All My Precious Madness by Mark Bowles, which humorously critiques the marketing world, specifically calling out the absurdities that often accompany industry jargon. The High House and I Will Die in a Foreign Land are other highlights on Fraser’s list, both dealing with resilience and complex narratives amid turmoil.
Matthew Kilgour: Global Strategy Director, Fst
Matthew Kilgour juggles multiple books at once, with a standout being What In Me Is Dark by Orlando Reade. This clever exploration of how Milton’s Paradise Lost has influenced modern thinkers is not only enlightening but also entertaining, filled with humor and insightful commentary.
He also mentions Earthly Powers by Anthony Burgess, a rich narrative that explores themes of faith, morality, and existence, beguilingly woven through the life of an aging writer.
Join the Conversation
Are you a bookworm within the marketing realm? If you’d like to share your recommendations for our next summer reading installment, we’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with Sam Anderson at sam[dot]anderson[at]thedrum[dot]com.
Embrace the summer sunshine and let literature inspire your creativity! As our industry thrives on innovative ideas, nothing fuels the imagination quite like a great book. Happy reading!
