Maile Hunt
I’ve always loved books—especially used ones. There’s something so fun about seeing the handwritten marks and personal notes left behind by other readers. Seeing what they found interesting is like a little clue into something that should be investigated. Growing up, my mom laughed at me when the first thing I did as I opened a book wasn’t read the title or scan the back cover but smelled the pages… and honestly at 51, I still have the same process for starting a good read! There’s something about that musty, dusty scent of well-loved pages that feels instantly comforting as it welcomes me back to my childhood days. When most people think of adventure, they picture heart-pounding, Indiana Jones-style escapes. Me? I’ve learned I’m more of a cozy-on-the-couch kind of adventurer. Books have become my magic carpet—carrying me to new places, old places, faraway places, undiscovered places, and sometimes places that exist only in imagination. It’s amazing how much adventure, knowledge, and feeling can be tucked between two covers. A good book leaves you with something: a cool fact, a fresh idea, a feeling you weren’t expecting—or all of the above. Summer can be busy, and let’s be honest, a spontaneous trip to Bora Bora isn’t always in the budget. So, our team put together a few book picks to match your mood and then paired each one with a tea from the Mill District Tea collection. Whether you’re craving a classic, a quick summer read, or something fun to share with the kiddos, we’ve got you covered.
"Just Haven’t Met You" by Sophie Cousens
Pair with Vitality Tea – minty and uplifting
A romantic comedy that explores the joy in finding real love instead of chasing a fairy tale, showing that the most meaningful connections are sometimes found in unexpected places.
"The Overstory" by Richard Powers
Pair with Rhythm Tea – sweet and earthy
A thought-provoking book that calls to action the urgent need to save the forests of the Pacific Northwest. It is a moving story about survival, true forest restoration, and the symbiotic ties between humans, trees, and every living part of the ecosystem.
"Little Women" by Beth Brower
Pair with Calm Tea – mildly floral and comforting
This timeless classic is a childhood favorite for a few of our team members, who now love watching the movie with their own kids. The book celebrates the importance of family and the strength it can provide when life brings hardship and adversity.
"Where the Mountain Meets the Moon" by Grace Lin
Pair with Sleep Tea – earthy and herbal
A beautiful written tale that intertwines Chinese folklore with a story about a young girl who goes on a quest to change her family’s fortune. This magical adventure is a must-read with kids.
"Spark of the Everflame Book One" by Penn Cole
Pair with Daily Tea – bright and refreshing
Strong-willed, empathetic, and deeply passionate, Diem Bellator is at the heart of this fantasy romance, and her journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance invites us to embrace who we are. Her story reminds us that sometimes recognizing how little we know is the first step toward truly understanding ourselves.
