Books shaping the way I think, create, and lead.
We’re not even halfway through the year, and I’ve already come across several books that have challenged, inspired, and equipped me in unexpected ways.
Whether it’s about innovation, change, immersive storytelling, or rapid prototyping, each one has sparked something new in me. Maybe they’ll do the same for you.
Here are a few standouts from my 2025 reading list so far:
The Imagination Emporium by Duncan Wardle
“Innovation isn’t magic… it’s method.”
This book is a masterclass in making creativity accessible. Duncan gives you a method for unlocking innovation on your team, no matter what field you are in. What I loved most was how interactive the book is. You don’t just read it. You use it. It’s helped me refine how I lead creative sessions and build experiences that don’t rely on inspiration alone.
Reset by Dan Heath
“How do we change what’s not working?”
It’s one of the most practical books on change I’ve read—and one of the funniest. Dan Heath’s storytelling makes complex ideas feel simple. His framework for tackling stuck systems is something I’ve already begun applying. I found myself laughing out loud more than once, which isn’t something I usually say about business books.
The Art of Immersive Storytelling by Margaret Kerrison
“When we experience something meaningful, we remember it—and we long to come back.”
This book came to me at just the right time. Margaret has a gift for helping creators bridge the gap between narrative and lived experience. She shows us how immersive design isn’t just about spectacle—it’s about emotional resonance. Forsomeone working in games, curriculum, and immersive spaces, this was both affirming and stretching.
Click by Jake Knapp
“The most successful products change how customers see the world.”
If you liked Sprint, Click applies that same momentum to testing, iterating, and launching products that matter. The framework is lean, fast, and focused—and it doesn’t just save time and money. It gives you clarity. I’ve already recommended it to multiple teams working through idea overload or product paralysis.
Final Thoughts
Each of these books offers something different: a mindset, a method, a lens. Together, they’ve helped me rethink what it means to create something truly meaningful—whether it’s a story, a system, or an experience.
If you’ve read something recently that changed your thinking, I’d love to hear about it. I’m always looking for what to read next.