The 12 Books to Fire Up Your Brain This Fall

A sneak preview of my top new releases.

Move over, summer beach reads. My favorite new idea books for the fall are here, and they cover careers, change, connection, hope, and leadership.

Careers

1.      Likeable Badass by Alison Fragale

It’s the ultimate guide for women to achieve their goals. But it’s not just for women—it’s a must-read for anyone who wants to be a better colleague, mentor, parent, or partner to half the population.

2.      Job Moves by Ethan Bernstein, Michael Horn, & Bob Moesta

If you’re thinking about leaving your current role, this is the go-to resource for deciding when to leap and where to land.

Change

3.      The Small and Mighty by Sharon McMahon

A master class in making U.S. history fascinating and fun. America’s most influential government teacher highlights the unsung heroes who shaped our country and reminds us that we don’t need to be rich or famous to make a difference.

4.      Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell

It’s the 25-year anniversary of the book that put his name on the radar. It’s filled with riveting stories and illuminating ideas about contagion, and it made me rethink my aversion to nonfiction sequels.

5.      10 to 25 by David Yeager

A developmental psychologist distills the science of motivation for parents, bosses, coaches, and teachers who want to help young people reach their potential.

Connection

6.      Tribal by Michael Morris

A cultural psychologist challenges widespread assumptions about tribalism, revealing how our penchant to separate into groups can become a force for unity.

7.      Good Reasonable People by Keith Payne

Reflecting on the fault lines in his own family, a social psychologist explains why our politics have become so polarized and how we can find understanding without agreement.

8.      The Joy of Connections by Dr. Ruth Westheimer

The final book by the beloved therapist is filled with practical exercises for overcoming loneliness and building relationships.

Hope

9.      Hope for Cynics by Jamil Zaki

A social neuroscientist explores why refusing to see possibility makes it impossible to solve problems.

10.  Good People by Gabriel Reilich and Lucia Knell

For anyone feeling weighed down by all the negativity in the news, the team at Upworthy shares their favorite uplifting stories. They showcase the kindness of strangers, the joy in small things, and much more.

Leadership

11.  Over Work by Brigid Schulte (September)

A vital voice on the future of work offers a bold vision for fewer hours, less stress, and more meaning.

12.  This Is Strategy by Seth Godin

With his signature clarity and brevity, the marketing maven presents memorable, practical advice for making smarter plans.