Best books of 2023: Discover the Most Recommended Books of last year.
In this post, we’d like to present each category's most recommended books in 2023.
One of the most useful features of The Mentoring Club is the public library. Each mentor and mentee can add book recommendations to their profile, making it easier to find the best mentoring matches and start meaningful conversations. Overall, we collected almost 2,000 books in 2023, making the library a true treasure of knowledge and wisdom.
Each book comes with a list of key facts and a detailed summary. For some, we added a video of a talk or interview with the author. Find out yourself.
In this post, we’d like to present the most recommended books in 2023 for
Leadership and Management
Software Engineering
Self Mastery
Finance
In the next post of this series, we’ll cover “Strategy & Business Development”, “Marketing & Growth”, and “Product Management”. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive recommendations like this.
Leadership and Management
In the dynamic field of Leadership and Management, 2023 has brought forth a treasure trove of wisdom through some really insightful book recommendations. These books, penned by renowned authors and experts in the field, offer a rich blend of insights and practical strategies for effective leadership and management. From Erin Meyer's culturally astute "The Culture Map" to the transformative communication techniques in "Nonviolent Communication" by Rosenberg and Chopra, each book provides unique perspectives on navigating the complexities of leadership in diverse settings.
The list also includes Julie Zhuo's invaluable guide for new managers, "The Making of a Manager," and Ray Dalio's profound "Principles," an amazing summary of his life and work philosophies. Rounding up this list is "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, a book that translates hard-earned lessons from the battlefield to the boardroom. Together, these books form a comprehensive resource for current and aspiring leaders, offering guidance, inspiration, and tools to excel in managing teams, communicating effectively, and making impactful decisions in today's fast-paced business world.
1. "The Culture Map - Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business" by Erin Meyer
In today's globalized world, understanding the subtle cultural nuances in business is crucial. Erin Meyer's "The Culture Map" is an essential guide for international business professionals seeking to navigate cultural differences' complex and often unspoken nuances. Meyer, an expert in organizational behavior, provides a systematic approach to decoding how cultural differences impact international business. The book has practical insights and real-world examples, making it a must-read for those aiming to excel globally.
2. "Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life - Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships" by Marshall B. Rosenberg and Deepak Chopra
Communication is the cornerstone of leadership, and "Nonviolent Communication" by Rosenberg and Chopra offers transformative tools for enhancing interpersonal interactions. This book goes beyond mere communication techniques; it delves into the heart of empathetic listening and expressing oneself honestly and clearly. The authors present an empathetic framework for understanding one’s needs and those of others, fostering harmony and productivity in personal and professional relationships. This book is a treasure trove for leaders aiming to build stronger, more collaborative teams.
3. "The Making of a Manager - What to Do When Everyone Looks to You" by Julie Zhuo
Julie Zhuo's "The Making of a Manager" is a candid and insightful guide for new managers. From her extensive experience at Facebook, Zhuo demystifies the path from being a team member to a successful team leader. The book is filled with actionable advice, addressing common managerial challenges and offering practical solutions. It’s particularly beneficial for those beginning their management journey, providing them with the tools and confidence needed to lead effectively.
4. "Principles" by Ray Dalio
Bridgewater Associates founder Ray Dalio shares the guiding principles that he’s learned over the course of his remarkable career in "Principles". The book combines personal anecdotes and practical philosophy, offering insights into effective decision-making, risk management, and systematic thinking. Dalio’s open-minded approach to problem-solving and emphasis on building a culture of radical transparency and realism in the workplace make this book a guiding light for current and aspiring leaders.
5. "Extreme Ownership - How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
"Extreme Ownership" by former Navy SEALs Jocko Willink and Leif Babin translates the leadership lessons from the battlefield to the business world. The book emphasizes the importance of leadership at every level, accountability, and decisiveness under pressure. Each chapter introduces a leadership principle, illustrated through military scenarios and its application in business contexts. This book is invaluable for those who wish to lead with courage, integrity, and unwavering determination.
Software Engineering
In the Software Engineering category of 2023's most recommended books, readers are presented with a diverse and enriching collection that addresses various aspects of this ever-evolving field. These books, authored by leaders and pioneers in software development, comprehensively explore the latest practices, theories, and methodologies shaping software engineering today.
From the groundbreaking insights in "Accelerate" by Gene Kim, Forsgren, and Jez Humble, which delve into the transformative power of DevOps, to Will Larson's "An Elegant Puzzle," offering a deep dive into the complexities of engineering management, each book caters to a specific area of software engineering expertise. The updated classic "The Pragmatic Programmer" by David Thomas and Andrew Hunt continues to guide developers in their journey to mastery, while "Domain-driven Design" by Eric Evans offers a strategic approach to tackling software complexity.
Completing the list, "User Story Mapping" by Jeff Patton and Peter Economy provides an innovative approach to understanding and meeting user needs in software development. Together, these books enhance the technical skills of software engineers and enrich their understanding of the broader context in which they operate, making them indispensable for professionals looking to stay at the forefront of the industry.
1. "Accelerate" by Gene Kim, Forsgren, Jez Humble
"Accelerate" stands out as a pivotal read in the Software Engineering landscape of 2023. Authored by Gene Kim, Forsgren, and Jez Humble, this book delves deep into the integration of DevOps into the software engineering process. It presents compelling research and statistics highlighting DevOps's impact on software delivery performance. The authors provide a clear roadmap for enhancing software development and delivery, making it a critical guide for teams and organizations aiming to thrive in the competitive tech space.
2. "An Elegant Puzzle - Systems of Engineering Management" by Will Larson
Will Larson's "An Elegant Puzzle" offers a comprehensive look into the complex world of engineering management. Larson combines his extensive experience with a thoughtful approach to tackling common challenges faced in software engineering leadership. This book offers insights on balancing competing priorities, building and mentoring engineering teams, and creating effective engineering processes. It's an indispensable guide for engineering managers and those aspiring to lead engineering teams.
3. "The Pragmatic Programmer - Your Journey to Mastery, 20th Anniversary Edition" by David Thomas and Andrew Hunt
The 20th Anniversary Edition of "The Pragmatic Programmer" by David Thomas and Andrew Hunt remains as relevant today as when it was first published. This book is a gem in the software engineering world, offering practical advice, programming best practices, and philosophical musings. It covers a wide range of topics from code craftsmanship to career development, making it an essential read for programmers at any stage of their career journey.
4. "Domain-driven Design - Tackling Complexity in the Heart of Software" by Eric Evans
Eric Evans's "Domain-driven Design" is a revolutionary book tackling the complexity of software development. This book presents a methodology for aligning software design closely with business goals, a concept that has become increasingly vital in today's business-centric tech environment. Evans' approach helps developers and business professionals collaborate to create software that meets business needs. It's a foundational read for those looking to bridge the gap between technical implementation and business strategy.
5. "User Story Mapping - Discover the Whole Story, Build the Right Product" by Jeff Patton and Peter Economy
Jeff Patton and Peter Economy's "User Story Mapping" is a critical addition to the software engineering body of knowledge. This book provides an effective framework for understanding and translating user needs into functional software products. Through user story mapping, teams can visualize the user journey, prioritize features, and build products that align closely with user requirements. It's an invaluable resource for teams focused on delivering user-centered software solutions.
Self Mastery
The "Career Advice & Self Mastery" category of 2023's most recommended books offers a rich array of personal and professional development insights. James Clear's "Atomic Habits" provides a practical guide to building good and breaking bad habits, emphasizing the power of small, consistent changes for long-term success. Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" challenges traditional self-help narratives, advocating for a more realistic approach to choosing what truly matters in life and work. Finally, Dale Carnegie's enduring classic, "How to Win Friends and Influence People," remains as relevant as ever in teaching the art of effective communication and relationship-building. These books collectively serve as a valuable toolkit for anyone looking to enhance their professional life, improve interpersonal skills, and navigate personal growth confidently and clearly.
1. "Atomic Habits - An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones" by James Clear
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear stands out in the 2023 selection for Career Advice & Self Mastery. This insightful book delves into the transformative power of small, consistent changes in our daily routines. Clear's approach is rooted in practicality and backed by scientific research, offering readers a clear path to developing positive habits and breaking negative ones. His strategies for habit formation are particularly relevant for professionals striving to enhance their productivity and achieve long-term career goals.
2. "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck - A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life" by Mark Manson
Mark Manson's "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" offers a bold, unorthodox approach to personal development. This book challenges conventional self-help wisdom, advocating for a more grounded and realistic perspective on life. Manson emphasizes the importance of understanding our limitations and focusing on what truly matters. His book is a powerful reminder for professionals and individuals alike to prioritize their values and find meaning in their personal and professional pursuits.
3. "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie
Dale Carnegie's timeless classic, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" remains pivotal in self-improvement and career success. First published in the 1930s, its principles remain relevant today, teaching the art of effective communication and relationship-building. Carnegie’s book is filled with practical advice for enhancing interpersonal skills, crucial for navigating professional environments and creating positive, influential connections. It's an essential read for anyone looking to improve their social acumen and build a strong network.
Finance, Accounting & Controlling
The Finance category of 2023's most recommended books combines a diverse and insightful collection of works catering to a wide spectrum of financial interests and expertise. From Robert T. Kiyosaki's classic "Rich Dad, Poor Dad," which challenges traditional views on wealth and investing, to the innovative approaches in "Monetizing Innovation" by Madhavan Ramanujam and Georg Tacke, these books offer a wealth of knowledge for both personal and professional financial growth.
Key themes include the fundamentals of investing, as seen in Simran Kaur's "Girls That Invest," and the intricate strategies of stock trading in Jack D. Schwager's "Stock Market Wizards." The selection also features works like Tony Robbins' "Unshakeable," which provides comprehensive guidance on achieving financial freedom, and William J. O'Neil's pragmatic investment strategies in "How to Make Money in Stocks."
1. "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Robert T. Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" remains a seminal work in personal finance literature. This book challenges conventional notions about money and investing, emphasizing the importance of financial education, investing, and entrepreneurial thinking. Kiyosaki's insights into the different mindsets of his "rich dad" and "poor dad" provide readers with a new perspective on wealth creation and management. It's a must-read for anyone looking to understand the fundamentals of financial independence and wealth building.
2. "Supercoach - 10 Secrets to Transform Anyone's Life: 10th Anniversary Edition" by Michael Neill
While not strictly a finance book, Michael Neill's "Supercoach" offers valuable insights applicable to financial success. In this 10th Anniversary Edition, Neill presents 10 transformative secrets that can empower individuals in various aspects of their lives, including financial decision-making. His approach combines life coaching techniques with practical strategies, making it a unique resource for personal development with implications for financial well-being.
3. "Monetizing Innovation - How Smart Companies Design the Product Around the Price" by Madhavan Ramanujam and Georg Tacke
"Monetizing Innovation" by Ramanujam and Tacke is a crucial read for entrepreneurs and business leaders. This book focuses on the intersection of product development and pricing strategy, offering insights into how successful companies design products with monetization in mind. It’s an invaluable resource for understanding the financial aspects of innovation and product development.
4. "Girls That Invest - Your Guide to Financial Independence through Shares and Stocks" by Simran Kaur
Simran Kaur's "Girls That Invest" breaks down the barriers of the traditionally male-dominated investment world. This guide is tailored for women seeking financial independence through stock market investing. Kaur provides a comprehensive introduction to shares and stocks, making it accessible and empowering for beginners, especially women, looking to start their investment journey.
5. "Stock Market Wizards - Interviews with America's Top Stock Traders" by Jack D. Schwager
Jack D. Schwager's "Stock Market Wizards" provides an in-depth look into the minds of some of America's most successful stock traders. Through interviews, Schwager extracts valuable lessons and insights from these financial experts, offering readers a rare glimpse into their strategies and philosophies. This book is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the intricacies of stock trading.
6. "Unshakeable - Your Financial Freedom Playbook" by Anthony Robbins, Tony Robbins, and Peter Mallouk
"Unshakeable" by Tony Robbins and Peter Mallouk is a comprehensive guide to achieving financial security and freedom. This playbook offers practical financial wisdom, covering everything from investment strategies to managing fears about money. It's designed to help readers develop an unshakeable mindset in personal finance.
7. "The Investor's Guide to Hedge Funds" by Sam Kirschner, Eldon C. Mayer, and Lee Kessler
This guide is essential for understanding the often misunderstood world of hedge funds. Kirschner, Mayer, and Kessler provide insights into hedge fund investments' strategies, risks, and rewards, making it a valuable resource for novice and experienced investors.
8. "How to Make Money in Stocks - A Winning System in Good Times or Bad" by William J. O'Neil
William J. O'Neil's book offers a comprehensive system for successful stock market investing. Combining a discussion of market trends with a detailed strategy for stock selection and investment, O'Neil's approach is grounded in an understanding of market dynamics, making it a practical guide for both good and bad economic times.
In the next post, we’ll cover “Strategy & Business Development”, “Marketing & Growth”, and “Product Management”. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive recommendations like this.