Summer holidays do something magical to our brains. The inbox goes quiet, the calendar loosens its grip, and suddenly we can think again. Big thoughts. Brave thoughts. The kind of thinking that usually gets drowned out by meetings, notifications, and “just one more thing.”
That is why summer is prime time for business reading. Not the dense, nap-inducing kind. The good stuff. Books that stretch your perspective, challenge how you lead, sharpen how you grow, and quietly plant ideas that come back swinging in the new year. The right book read at the right time can change how you run your business, how you see success, or how you show up altogether.
This curated list brings together 25 business books that are genuinely trending right now. These are the titles business owners, leaders, and creatives are actually talking about, highlighting, and recommending, not dusty classics collecting shelf guilt. Grab one for the beach, one for the plane, or one for a slow morning with coffee. Your future self will thank you.
The Diary of a CEO – Steven Bartlett
Still everywhere for a reason. Raw leadership, mindset, money, health, and growth lessons without corporate fluff. Grab your copy here
Good Power – Ginni Rometty
A powerful read for leaders who want influence without losing their integrity. Get the book here
The Long Game – Dorie Clark
Perfect for anyone playing the long-term success game and tired of quick wins that burn out fast. Read it here
Leading Without Authority – Keith Ferrazzi
If you work with people rather than over them, this book will sharpen your influence instantly. Buy your copy here
Think Again – Adam Grant
A brilliant read for leaders and business owners who want to challenge their own thinking, stay adaptable, and avoid getting stuck in outdated beliefs. This book is all about the power of rethinking, unlearning, and staying mentally flexible in a fast-changing world. Get the book here
$100M Leads – Alex Hormozi
Straight-talking, practical and unapologetically direct. If you want more leads, start here. Get the book here
Company of One – Paul Jarvis
A brilliant reminder that bigger is not always better in business. Read more here
Profit First – Mike Michalowicz
If your business makes sales but your bank account says otherwise, this one is non-negotiable. Grab your copy here
The E-Myth Revisited – Michael E. Gerber
Still trending because people keep building businesses that run them instead of the other way around. Buy it here
Unreasonable Hospitality – Will Guidara
A masterclass in creating unforgettable experiences that keep customers coming back. Get the book here
Atomic Habits – James Clear
Small changes, massive impact. This book earns its hype. Read it here
Feel-Good Productivity – Ali Abdaal
Productivity that actually feels good. No burnout badge required. Find your copy here
The Mountain Is You – Brianna Wiest
Perfect for business owners doing the inner work alongside the outer growth. Buy it here
Hidden Potential – Adam Grant
A powerful reframe on growth, learning, and what really drives success. Get the book here
Four Thousand Weeks – Oliver Burkeman
A must-read if time always feels like it is slipping through your fingers. Grab your copy here
Build a Second Brain – Tiago Forte
Ideal for anyone drowning in ideas, notes, and digital clutter. Read it here
Show Your Work – Austin Kleon
Short, practical, and perfect for anyone building visibility or a personal brand. Get the book here
Brand Brilliance – Fiona Humberstone
If branding matters to your business, this one will change how you see colour and design. Buy your copy here
You Are the Brand – Mike Kim
Personal branding without the awkward self-promotion. Find it here
Storyworthy – Matthew Dicks
Because great storytelling is one of the most underrated business skills. Read more here
The Coaching Habit – Michael Bungay Stanier
A short, practical read that will immediately improve how you lead conversations. Get the book here
Dare to Lead – Brené Brown
Still a standout for leaders who value courage, clarity, and connection. Grab your copy here
Reinventing Organizations – Frederic Laloux
A thought-provoking read for anyone reimagining leadership, culture, and work itself. Buy it here
Work Clean – Dan Charnas
Unexpectedly brilliant for improving focus, flow, and how you work day to day. Find your copy here
Essentialism – Greg McKeown
If doing less but better sounds like your 2026 goal, start here. Read it here
Summer reading tip from your CEO sidekick
Do not try to read all 25. Pick 3 to stretch your thinking, 1 to calm your nervous system, and 1 purely because it feels fun. Business growth loves rest, reflection, and a good book by the pool.
