At The Shop, we love a good story, a sharp insight, or a book that makes us laugh out loud in public. That’s why we’re launching Subway Reads, a seasonal peek into what our team (and soon, our members) are reading right now.
There’s something intimate about seeing what someone’s reading on the subway. Whether it’s a dog-eared paperback, a sleek e-reader or a bright yellow self-help title held at just the right angle, a stranger’s book choice often says more than small talk ever could. From business reads with bite to page-turners you finish in one weekend, here’s what’s on our work bag rotation this summer.
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
Perfect for: Anyone managing people, building a team, or trying to give better feedback without feeling like a monster.
Why we love it: Kim Scott’s framework is deceptively simple, “Care personally, challenge directly,” but applying it is game-changing. Whether you’re leading a team or navigating office politics, this book gives you the vocabulary and tools to be honest and kind. Bonus points for making you want to have that tough conversation you’ve been putting off – in the best way.
Pairs well with: A long Q train ride and an iced coffee with a splash of oat milk.
Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara
Perfect for: Anyone obsessed with details, hospitality, or that feeling when someone anticipates what you need before you do.
Why we love it: This one has become required reading at The Shop. Will Guidara’s stories from Eleven Madison Park are less about fancy food and more about the art of making people feel seen. If Radical Candor is the leadership manual, Unreasonable Hospitality is the emotional blueprint.
Pairs well with: A packed train and your Notes app, because you’re going to want to write things down.
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
Perfect for: A little escape (and maybe a little cry)
Why we love it: Sometimes you just need a break from business books, and Winter Garden delivers. This multi-generational story of mothers, daughters, and long-held secrets is both beautifully written and deeply emotional. It’s the kind of book you read in stolen moments, five pages on the train, ten before bed and think about for days after.
Pairs well with: Dreaming of a snow day in a July heatwave and your comfiest hoodie.
Stand-Up Comedy: The Book by Judy Carter
Perfect for: Anyone who thinks they might have a tight five in them (or just wants to get better at storytelling)
Why we love it: Equal parts how-to manual and pep talk, this cult-favorite guide to writing and performing stand-up comedy is full of practical advice and genuine laughs. Even if you never touch a mic, the book helps you notice what makes things funny and how to own your voice in a room.
Pairs well with: A good pen, a subway transfer, and the Notes app open for one-liners.
That’s what we’re reading, now it’s your turn. Whether you’re curled up in a private office or riding the G train with a thriller in hand, we want to know: what subway reads are in your bag this season?