Kiva book club: need a good read?

Kiva employees are passionate, bold and curious - and so are our lenders like you! If you're looking for some great book recommendations, you've come to the right place. We've asked Kiva employees from all different departments to share their favorite reads. Bring any or all of these great reads to the beach or pool with you this summer! Happy reading!

The Prosperity Paradox: How Innovation Can Lift Nations Out of Poverty by Clayton Christensen

Ian Davis, Corporate Counsel: "Well-known for his research on innovation, Christensen applies his theories to developing countries in this book. He writes that we shouldn't try to "fix" poverty like we are just treating the symptoms of a disease. We need to address the root cause - which he writes can be done by developing innovations that are tailored to local needs and that create new and sustainable markets."

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Euri Park, Social Media Manager: “I read this book every year. It's a quick read and a good reminder that being happy and holding onto your personal sense of freedom is a simple thing to do (though not necessarily easy).”

The Map of Salt and Stars by Zeyn Joukhadar

Erin Drabicki, Community Support Intern: “I recommend it because it portrays the current refugee crisis around the world in a storytelling format with thoughts and feelings that could resonate with anyone, regardless of political background or country of origin.”

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman

Kari Derenzi, Review and Translation Program Associate: “One of the best books on differing cultural understandings and values.”

A History of America in 10 Strikes by Erik Loomis

Lindsay Fasser, Fellowship Program Intern: “It's essentially a candid, person-first, U.S. history lesson centered around labor movements/strikes. Killer read for any history buffs!”

Dopesick by Beth Macy

Sarah Klem, Review and Translation Program Intern: “It outlines the history and current state of the opioid crisis in the US with heart-wrenching and real stories from the diverse front-lines in hospital rooms, courtrooms, and living rooms.”

This is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel

Khaki Wade, Kiva US Intern: “It's about a little boy born into a big family who wants to wear dresses and wants to be a girl. It's a story about change and transformation and family. Very powerful! I cried, I laughed!”

Animal Vegetable Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver

Phoebe Conrad, Community Support Intern: “It’ll change the way you think about the food culture in America and show how much room there is for growth.”