The Top 20 Leadership Books for 2024 (Plus Two Essential Bonus Reads)

As we head into the fall, leadership continues to be a crucial topic for professionals across industries. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just stepping into a leadership role, the right book can provide the insights and inspiration needed to excel. Here is a curated list of the top 20 leadership books that should be on your reading list this year, along with two bonus selections by John Maxwell.

1. “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown

• Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability and courage has transformed how we think about leadership. In “Dare to Lead,” she dives into how leaders can cultivate brave, honest work cultures.

2. “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek

• This book explores why some teams pull together and others don’t. Sinek explains the concept of the “Circle of Safety” and how it can create a more trustful and productive workplace.

3. “The Infinite Game” by Simon Sinek

• Sinek challenges leaders to move beyond short-term thinking and adopt a long-term, infinite mindset. A must-read for anyone looking to build a sustainable organization.

4. “Good to Great” by Jim Collins

• A classic that examines why some companies make the leap from good to great, and others don’t. Collins’ research is as relevant today as it was when the book was first published.

5. “The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership” by John Maxwell

• Maxwell’s laws of leadership are timeless principles that can be applied to any leadership situation.

6. “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek

• Understanding your “why” is essential for any leader. Sinek’s book explores how great leaders inspire action by focusing on purpose.

7. “Drive” by Daniel H. Pink

• Pink breaks down what truly motivates us at work, debunking old myths and offering a fresh perspective on leadership and motivation.

8. “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni

• Lencioni reveals the common pitfalls that can derail a team and offers strategies for building a cohesive and effective group.

9. “Radical Candor” by Kim Scott

• Scott teaches leaders how to provide feedback that is both caring and direct, helping to create a culture of transparency and continuous improvement.

10. “Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

• Written by two former Navy SEALs, this book emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility and leading by example.

11. “The Leadership Challenge” by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner

• This book is packed with practical advice on how to lead effectively and inspire others to reach their full potential.

12. “Multipliers” by Liz Wiseman

• Wiseman explores how some leaders make everyone around them smarter and more capable, while others unintentionally drain the intelligence and capability of their teams.

13. “Leadershift” by John C. Maxwell

• Maxwell discusses how leaders must be willing to shift their strategies and mindsets to stay effective in today’s fast-paced world.

14. “Team of Rivals” by Doris Kearns Goodwin

• This historical book offers leadership lessons from President Abraham Lincoln and his ability to lead a diverse group of strong-willed individuals.

15. “The Culture Code” by Daniel Coyle

• Coyle uncovers the secrets of highly successful groups and what makes them so effective.

16. “Emotional Intelligence 2.0” by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

• Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership. This book provides a deep dive into how you can improve your EQ.

17. “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg

• Duhigg shows how understanding and changing habits can lead to personal and organizational transformation.

18. “Primal Leadership” by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee

• This book links emotional intelligence with leadership, providing strategies for developing emotionally intelligent leadership.

19. “Leadership: In Turbulent Times” by Doris Kearns Goodwin

• Goodwin offers insights into how four U.S. presidents navigated the country through some of its most challenging moments.

20. “The First 90 Days” by Michael D. Watkins

• Essential reading for anyone transitioning into a new leadership role. Watkins provides a roadmap for those critical first three months.

Bonus Books:

21. “Developing the Leader Within You 2.0” by John C. Maxwell

• An updated version of Maxwell’s groundbreaking work on personal leadership development. This book delves into the core principles that can help anyone become a better leader.

22. “High Road Leadership” by John C. Maxwell

• Maxwell explores the concept of “High Road Leadership,” encouraging leaders to choose the ethical and principled path in every decision they make. This book is filled with wisdom on how to lead with integrity and character.

These 22 books provide a comprehensive toolkit for any leader looking to grow and thrive this year and into the future. Whether you’re looking for practical advice, deep insights, or historical examples, this list has something for everyone. Happy reading!