Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz are the founders of MALIN+GOETZ, a skincare apothecary and lab. The brand is best known for distinctive design and focus on creating simple but luxurious products. Before embarking on their brand, Malin had helped develop Prada’s beauty division and Goetz spent over a decade at design manufacturer Vitra.
Which three books would you recommend?
MiddlesexJeffrey Eugenides
Malin: This book is a favorite and inspiring work of modern literature. It offers a glimpse at an unconventional interpretation of love, immigration to the US, the American Dream, gender identity, general acceptance and forgiveness, and nostalgia towards New York and Greek and European heritage (I have Greek and Hungarian grandparents). So many ideas and topics are relevant, especially since this was written (20?) years ago. It is specific and understandable to anyone.
Giovanni’s RoomJames Baldwin
Andrew: It’s not possible for me to single out a particular book that changed my worldview, as so many books that I have read over the years have had a profound and lasting influence on the way I think and live. That being said, I think Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin is a book that I remember as being very liberating for me when I read it in my late teens.
In Cold BloodTruman Capote
Malin: It is an on-the-edge-of-your seat, can't-put-down but can't-go-on-reading exciting thriller of any time. It is certainly a master of words and story telling and oh-too-real. Again, an exciting piece of literature for anyone.
Bicycle DiariesDavid Byrne
Andrew: Anyone who is inspired by curiosity, and discovery; not to mention cycling. A delightful book about the joys of riding a bicycle in different cities around the world, and the things you discover and learn. A real joy.
The GoldfinchDonna Tartt
Malin: I recently read this book at the start of the pandemic back in March. As a New Yorker, moments in the city immediate grabbed my attention and memories of times and places. As a general reader, it is easy, fast and engaging from page to page. It is great story telling about interesting and complex individuals. And, everyone can relate to the love of one's mother and the difficulties of losing a parent or relative and simply being a teenager of angst.
Just KidsPatti Smith
Andrew: This is a wonderful nostalgic look back on New York, and how important creativity is to our lives. It’s a really very poetic story, filled with humour, sorrow, passion and perseverance. And of course there is alway’s Patti’s music in the background.
Whose reading list are you most curious about?
Matthew Malin: “NYTimes Book Review, Pulitzer Prize, Booker Prize, Andrew Goetz and many (beauty) editors that interview us for our business are often avid readers of interesting stuff.”
Andrew Goetz: “I regularly read both the New York Times Book Review and the The Weekend Edition of the Financial Times for reviews and recommendations.”