How Book Clubs Build Better Leaders—My Top Book Picks to Get Started

By Rebecca Valley

When I was first approached about becoming a team lead at OpenSesame, my immediate reaction was: “There’s no way I can do this.” I was a conflict-averse individual contributor with no experience supervising anyone (unless you count myself—and even that was debatable some days).

But after a few focused weeks in OpenSesame’s Emerging Leaders program, something shifted. As part of the program, I was part of a book club discussing The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo. It was honest, approachable, and filled with insights that made leadership feel less intimidating and more like a skill you could grow into.

Surrounded by other aspiring leaders who shared the same doubts and questions, I found myself thinking, “Maybe I can do this.” Not because I suddenly had it all figured out, but because I saw that leadership is learned—and I had what it takes to get started.

Adding a leadership book club to your learning and development (L&D) toolkit is a flexible, engaging way to support growth across a range of leadership skills. It gives employees like me space to reflect, connect with peers, and build their unique approach to leadership over time.

Whether you’re developing emerging leaders, encouraging innovation, or fostering a coaching culture, there’s a book for that—and we’ve got a few to get you started.

Books for emerging leaders

Transitioning into a leadership role for the first time can feel overwhelming. These reads help new managers and aspiring leaders navigate the leap with more confidence.

The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo

This book is one we use in OpenSesame’s Emerging Leaders program. Zhuo, a former Facebook design executive, shares practical advice for new managers in real-world situations. It’s honest, relatable, and encouraging.

The First-Time Manager by Jim McCormick

Now in its seventh edition, this classic covers foundational management skills—from setting goals to giving feedback. Great for first-timers or as a quick refresher.

Books to improve communication and collaboration

Strong communication is the foundation of high-performing teams. These books help leaders inspire trust and connection.

Extraordinary Groups by Geoffrey Bellman and Kathleen Ryan

A thoughtful look at the dynamics that make groups exceptional. Perfect for leaders focused on building trust-based teams.

Radical Candor by Kim Scott

With wit and candor, Scott advocates for “caring personally while challenging directly.” A must-read for leaders looking to foster open, honest feedback.

The Power of a Positive Team by Jon Gordon

Full of inspiring stories and actionable tips, this book shows how leaders can build unity, resilience, and optimism across their teams.

Books to foster innovation and creativity

Creativity thrives in intentional environments. These books offer fresh strategies for encouraging innovation.

The Art of Innovation by Tom Kelley

From the team at IDEO, this book explores creative problem-solving through human-centered design.

Sprint by Jake Knapp, John Zeratsky, and Braden Kowitz

Developed at Google Ventures, this five-day sprint method helps teams rapidly solve tough problems and test big ideas.

A More Beautiful Question by Warren Berger

An inspiring case for curiosity. Berger reminds us that great leaders don’t just have answers—they ask better questions.

Books for coaching—even if you’re not a people manager

Leadership isn’t just about job titles. These books are great for anyone leading through influence, support, and mentorship.

The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni

A practical framework for understanding your strengths (and frustrations) at work—and how to collaborate better with others.

Managing Up by Mary Abbajay

Leadership includes knowing how to work effectively with your manager. Abbajay’s guide is packed with practical strategies for every work style.

Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo

A motivational read for anyone stuck or struggling to move forward. Forleo’s message is simple: believe in your ability to figure things out—and help others do the same.

Start your own leadership book club

You don’t need a big budget or formal curriculum to launch a powerful leadership development program. Sometimes, all it takes is the right book and the space to talk about it.

Short on time? Briefly offers hundreds of leadership book summaries in 15–20 minute audio or text formats—perfect for busy learners. They’re available in nine languages and fit seamlessly into your existing L&D program.

Don’t see a title that fits your team’s unique needs? We can help. Request one by reaching out to your Customer Success Manager.

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