2024 was a year rich with powerful reads that challenged perspectives, sparked curiosity, and provided practical tools for growth. Here is a list of my favorite non-fiction books from the year, organized by themes to help you discover which ones might resonate most with you. Let me know if you add any of these to your 2025 reading list!
Emotional Intelligence and Well-Being
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Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown
Brown maps the vast landscape of human emotions with clarity and vulnerability, offering tools for deeper connections with yourself and others. (So great that I read it twice!) I've designed and piloted a stellar group exercise based on this book, but am not comfortable publishing it yet. Happy to share it though, so reach out if you are interested! -
The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
This philosophical dialogue inspires readers to overcome fear of judgment and live authentically. (So thought provoking that I read it twice, too!) I also read the follow-up book, The Courage to Be Happy, but didn't enjoy it as much. -
The Good Life by Robert Waldinger and Marc Schulz
Based on the longest study of human happiness, this book distills timeless lessons for living a fulfilling life. (Spoiler alert... it's people and connection!)
Leadership and Development
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Just Work by Kim Scott
Kim Scott explores how to create work environments that are free from injustice and bias, blending compassion with actionable strategies. -
The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson
Edmondson outlines how psychological safety drives innovation and performance, making this essential reading for leaders. -
Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
Newport’s antidote to hustle culture encourages intentionality and focus for sustainable achievement. If you haven't read his previous book, Deep Work, I highly recommend it, too. -
Right Thing, Right Now by Ryan Holiday
A masterclass in making ethical decisions under pressure, this book is a guide for principled leadership. I've read all of Ryan's books, and appreciate his modern and practical approach to stoicism. I think it is a critical skill to develop!
Culture and Society
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For the Culture by Marcus Collins
Collins examines how culture shapes behavior and decision-making, offering practical insights for marketing and leadership. -
Against White Feminism by Rafia Zakaria
Zakaria critiques the limitations of mainstream feminism and highlights the need for more inclusive approaches. -
On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed
Gordon-Reed’s personal and historical reflections illuminate the significance of Juneteenth in American history. I grew up just a couple of hours from Galveston, the birthplace of Juneteenth, but didn't fully learn its significance until 2019. In an era where many seek to erase crucial elements of our history (including the Texas legislation), it's vital to continually educate ourselves and advocate for truth. Understanding the legacy of slavery and ongoing systemic injustices is essential. I highly recommend Annette Gordon-Reed’s "On Juneteenth," an enlightening book by a fellow Texan who offers deep personal insights into the complexities of Texas history and its impact nationwide. -
They Came for the Schools by Mike Hixenbaugh
This investigative piece unveils the politics surrounding education and race, making it a vital read for advocates of equity in schools. Boy, did this one hit close to home! Texas is at the center of this book, as is the town of Southlake, a next door town to where I lived for 8 years while this was all happening.
Design and Social Change
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Design Social Change by Lesley Ann Noel
Lesley Ann Noel introduces participatory design methods that center marginalized voices, making this a must-read for those working at the intersection of design and equity. -
Ruined by Design by Mike Monteiro
Monteiro delivers a compelling critique of design’s role in societal harm and calls for ethical accountability. This book is essential for anyone shaping products, systems, or policies.
Understanding Young People
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The Emotional Lives of Teenagers by Lisa Damour
Damour sheds light on the often misunderstood emotional experiences of teens, making this invaluable for parents, educators, and mentors. -
Untangled by Lisa Damour
A practical guide to understanding teenage girls as they navigate adolescence, offering insights and strategies for support. -
How to Raise Successful People by Ester Wojcicki
Wojcicki’s approach to parenting emphasizes trust, respect, and independence, offering practical advice for nurturing resilience. The author's famous daughter, Susan Wojcicki, Former CEO of Youtube, passed away right as I was finishing this book, so I felt a loss in her passing after reading so much about her. -
10 to 25 Motivating Young People by David Yeager
Yeager’s research-driven guide offers strategies for inspiring youth and young adults to thrive during their formative years.
