As the crisp stillness of May reminds us to reset, we invite you to lean into stories that heal, ground, and empower. This month, in partnership with Coco Loco Wellness, we're celebrating Wellness May with a curated booklist to help you slow down, reconnect, and remember who you are — one story at a time.
From Papua New Guinean classics to global wellness favorites, these audiobooks and reads are companions for quiet mornings, thoughtful walks, and soul-deep reflection.
ISLAND ROOTS: VOICES FROM PAPUA NEW GUINEA & THE PACIFIC
1. The Crocodile by Sir Vincent Eri
A literary classic that holds a mirror to colonial Papua New Guinea — a powerful story of identity, resistance, and change.
Listen here.
2. My Mother’s Daughter by Dr. Anne Nealibo
A personal narrative weaving together tradition, womanhood, and healing across generations. A must-read for daughters of the Pacific.
3. The Power of Perseverance by Paul Upham.
Available at SR Curio sister brand, Coco Loco Wellness and select CPL stores.
4. Land of the Unexpected by Brian Smith
Explore PNG’s diversity, history, and culture.
SLOW LIVING & SIMPLE WISDOM
3. Chasing Slow by Erin Loechner
A gentle reminder that “more” isn’t always better. This book is a poetic guide to doing life with less rush, more intention.
4. The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down by Haemin Sunim
A global bestseller from a Buddhist monk offering reflections on stillness, mindfulness, and clarity in everyday life
PRODUCTIVITY THAT HONORS YOUR ENERGY
5. Essentialism by Greg McKeown
The antidote to overwhelm. Learn how to do less, but better — and protect your energy.
6. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Clear’s voice is practical and empowering, showing how small changes build powerful outcomes.
7. Rest by Alex Pang
A radical take on rest as a productive act. A deeply affirming read for anyone burnt out by hustle culture.
HEALING & INNER WORK
8. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
A life-changing read on how trauma is stored in the body — and how we can heal from it. Essential for understanding personal and generational healing.
9. Ikigai by Héctor García & Francesc Miralles
Explore the Japanese concept of purpose and how it can reshape your health and happiness — especially meaningful for islanders reimagining the future.
10. Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
A powerful invitation to befriend yourself and surrender the chase for perfection.
LISTEN FOR FREE: Start with Audible
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We’ve partnered with Audible so you can listen to any of these titles for free with a 30-day trial.
👀❤️ - https://amzn.to/4jLavnp
Why We Read in May
Because books are more than information — they are medicine.
Because slowing down is an act of resistance.
Because your wellness matters, and it begins within.
Let us know which title resonates most with you — or share your own May read in the comments below.
With sincerity and gratitude,
Team SR Curio & Coco Loco Wellness
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