The 11 New Books to Brighten Your Spring

They span personal growth, parenting, change, memoir, and writing.

My recommended new releases this spring are both timely and timeless. They meet the moment with wisdom for the ages on personal growth, parenting, and change.

Along with my go-to categories of psychology, behavioral science, leadership, and work, I’ve also included some excellent memoirs and writing guides.

PERSONAL GROWTH

1. Me, But Better by Olga Khazan (March)

A journalist shatters the myth that personality is set in stone—and reveals how we can adapt our traits to achieve our goals.

2. Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman (May)

Warning: this book may help you become a better person. A historian challenges us to hold ourselves to higher standards and do more for others.

PARENTING

3. The Family Dynamic by Susan Dominus (May)

If you’ve ever wondered how multiple kids in the same family go on to achieve great things, this is a must-read. It’s a captivating book by a tenacious journalist on how our early roots shape our later success.

4. Hello, Cruel World! by Melinda Wenner Moyer (May)

One of my favorite voices on parenting delivers an evidence-based, practical manual for nurturing resilience, kindness, critical thinking, and well-being in kids.

CHANGE

5. Four Days a Week by Juliet Schor (June)

Drawing on her pioneering trials of the 4-day work week around the globe, a sociologist demonstrates that it’s possible to do more in less time.

6. Resurface by Cassidy Krug (June)

A powerful book by an Olympic diver about how to navigate transitions, move on, and bounce forward.

MEMOIR

7. The Tell by Amy Griffin (March)

This book broke my heart and still left me filled with hope. An entrepreneur and investor has turned her life-shattering trauma into a life-giving gift.

8. Brain and Heart by David Sandberg (May)

A pediatric neurosurgeon takes us into the operating room to see some of humanity’s most important and difficult work up close.

9. The Next Day by Melinda French Gates (April)

The philanthropist and businesswoman opens up about letting go of perfectionism, leaving her foundation, and starting her next chapter.

WRITING

10. The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad (April)

A talented author and artist curates a collection of wisdom and writing prompts from some of the world’s top authors.

11. Dear Writer by Maggie Smith (April)

Sage advice on the creative process—and a dose of inspiration—from a beloved poet and writing teacher.