A Novel Idea
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, there’s no better time to escape into the pages of a great book. we’ve handpicked two fabulous summer reads that are equal parts captivating and refreshing. Whether you're lounging poolside or soaking up the sun at the beach, these stories promise to whisk you away on unforgettable (health) journeys—no passport required.
In The Spirit of The Hamptons- Kelly Killoren Bensimon
As someone who knows and loves the Hamptons, Kelly Killoren Bensimon captures its magic with a personal and nostalgic lens in the Spirit of The Hamptons. A longtime East End insider and this issue’s radiant cover star, Kelly invites readers into the heart of this iconic coastal enclave where history, high style, and summertime traditions come together.
The book feels like a sun-soaked scrapbook: intimate, vibrant, and full of personality. Through curated images, thoughtful reflections, and charming local stories, Kelly pays tribute to the Hamptons' timeless appeal. From the cultural legacy of artists like Pollock to the simple joy of a beach day at Main Beach, every page reflects the spirit of the East End.
Whether you're a seasoned visitor or simply dreaming of your next getaway, In the Spirit of The Hamptons offers a beautiful glimpse into everything we love about life out East. It’s elegant, authentic, and infused with the effortless glamour Kelly embodies so well.
This is more than just a coffee table book—it’s an invitation to experience the Hamptons through the eyes of someone who truly calls it home.
Indie Author Spotlight
Dr. Michael Compton: Growing Smarter with Veggie Smarts
This summer, BELLA Magazine spotlights Dr. Michael Compton, an indie author who brings both medical expertise and hands-on farm wisdom to his new book, Veggie Smarts: A Doctor and Farmer Grows and Savors Eight Families of Vegetables.
A Columbia University psychiatry professor turned organic farmer in New York’s Hudson Valley, Dr. Compton blends science, storytelling, and personal insight to explore eight essential vegetable families—from Brassicas to Nightshades.
Already a #1 New Release on Amazon in Vegetarian Diets, Veggie Smarts is part nutrition guide, part farm memoir, and full of humor, heart, and practical tips. His “Eight on my plate” mantra inspires readers to eat smarter, live healthier, and maybe even grow a few veggies of their own.
As Dr. Compton puts it, “Vegetables are more than side dishes. They’re science, sustenance, and soul.” Veggie Smarts is the perfect summer read for food lovers, gardeners, and anyone craving a fresh take on what’s on their plate.
Learn more at DrCompton.Health.