Picked by Do Books fans

Here are 64 books that Do Books fans have personally recommended once you finish the Do Books series. Book DNA is a community of authors and super-readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

Book cover of Watchmen

Austin Grossman Author Of Crooked

From my list on set in alternate histories.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm a lot of things. I design games. I study literature and theater. I write novels that are messy fusions of literary and genre fiction. I'm endlessly curious. Each of my books starts with when I hear in my head, the voice of a character asking a question. It's always a silly question, and it's always the one that matters more to them than anything else in the world. "Why does being superintelligent make you evil?" became Soon I Will Be Invincible. "What are people who play video games obsessively really looking for?" became You. Answering the question isn't simple, but of course that's where the fun starts.

Austin's book list on set in alternate histories

Austin Grossman Why Austin loves this book

This is the book that forever changed how superheroes were written.  

In Watchmen, masked vigilantes started as a craze in the 1930s, and history got slightly bent in the process. We won the Vietnam War, Nixon stayed president, and...you'll have fun picking out all the bits of altered history in the background.

The heart of the book is its unforgettable characters - slightly over-the-hill superheroes brought out of retirement by the murder of one of their own, to face an ever-deepening mystery and their own midlife crises.

By Alan Moore , Dave Gibbons (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Watchmen as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A hit HBO original series, Watchmen, the groundbreaking series from award-winning author Alan Moore, presents a world where the mere presence of American superheroes changed history--the U.S. won the Vietnam War, Nixon is still president, and the Cold War is in full effect.

Considered the greatest graphic novel in the history of the medium, the Hugo Award-winning story chronicles the fall from grace of a group of superheroes plagued by all-too-human failings. Along the way, the concept of the superhero is dissected as an unknown assassin stalks the erstwhile heroes.

This edition of Watchmen, the groundbreaking series from Alan Moore,…


Book cover of V for Vendetta

Kawika Miles Black Author Of Saga of the Nine: Origins

From my list on dystopia that is more relevant than ever.

Why am I passionate about this?

For ten years I’ve been perfecting my own dystopian saga, and with that has come a great love for the genre as I’ve studied and dissected it. Having been involved in the political arena as well, the utopian language politicians have always caused some great concern for me, and through my study of dystopias, these great authors have not only seen dark futures of their respective countries and times, but they’ve always tried to bridge the gap between fiction and societal reality, which I am a great admirer of.  

Kawika's book list on dystopia that is more relevant than ever

Kawika Miles Black Why Kawika loves this book

Although technically a “graphic novel”, Moore’s novel has nonetheless been a relevant warning on both complacency and ignorance. Powerful entities not only use the “shove it under the rug” to their advantage, but they both incentivize and negatively reinforce behavior to promote this kind of mindset.

This is a story about re-empowering the individual, not only for their self-worth and pride, but to have the courage to stand against tyranny in order to choose true freedom over the chains of oppression. People should never be afraid of their governments, but rather the governments should remain fearful of their people.

By Alan Moore , David Lloyd (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked V for Vendetta as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In the near future, England has become a corrupt, totalitarian state, opposed only by V, the mystery man wearing a white porcelain mask who intends to free the masses through absurd acts of terrorism.


Book cover of 1984

V. Charles Ward Author Of The Hendrix Joplin Community

From my list on dystopian future which might actually happen.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a UK registered lawyer, I have spent most of the past 35 years writing about my work. But what has always excited me, from my childhood, is the science fiction worlds which state a truth which is yet to happen, The worlds of H.G Wells; Huxley; Aldous; Orwell; Bradbury; and Atwell. An individual's struggle against overwhelming odds. Not always somewhere where you would want to go. But from which you will always take something away.

V. Charles' book list on dystopian future which might actually happen

V. Charles Ward Why V. Charles loves this book

I'd heard about this famous book many years before I actually got around to reading it. What I loved about this book was its originality.

I am always reminded about Orwell's book whenever I hear phrases like ‘ thought police’ or ‘big brother’, which have become part of our everyday language. Probably one of the most influential books ever written. For me, the message of Orwell’s book is that the State will always win.

By George Orwell ,

Why should I read it?

58 authors picked 1984 as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU . . .

1984 is the year in which it happens. The world is divided into three superstates. In Oceania, the Party's power is absolute. Every action, word, gesture and thought is monitored under the watchful eye of Big Brother and the Thought Police. In the Ministry of Truth, the Party's department for propaganda, Winston Smith's job is to edit the past. Over time, the impulse to escape the machine and live independently takes hold of him and he embarks on a secret and forbidden love affair. As he writes the words 'DOWN WITH BIG…


Book cover of Happiness by Design: Finding Pleasure and Purpose in Everyday Life

Matt Phelan Author Of The Happiness Index: Why Today's Employee Emotions Equal Tomorrow's Business Success

From my list on workplace happiness.

Why am I passionate about this?

I'm Matt Phelan, and I've always been fascinated by how people think and feel, especially in the workplace. That's why I co-founded The Happiness Index, where we use data to help organizations understand and improve their workplace culture. I love exploring the connection between happiness and performance, and I'm eager to share the insights I've gained along the way. 

Matt's book list on workplace happiness

Matt Phelan Why Matt loves this book

This book offers practical strategies and tools to boost creativity and foster a more fulfilling work experience by encouraging innovative thinking and problem-solving.

It promotes a human-centered approach, emphasizing empathy and understanding in the workplace. By applying design thinking principles, you can create a more enjoyable and productive environment for yourself and your colleagues.

By Paul Dolan ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Happiness by Design as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

How can we make it easier to be happy? Using the latest cutting-edge research, Professor Paul Dolan reveals that wellbeing isn't about how we think - it's about what we do. By making deliberate choices that bring us both pleasure and meaning, we can redesign our lives for maximum happiness - without thinking too hard about it.

'Outstanding, cutting-edge, and profound. If you're going to read one book on happiness, this is the one' Nassim Nicholas Taleb

'Bold and original ... what I wish for my grandchildren: a life that is rich in activities both pleasurable…


Book cover of Lost Connections: Uncovering the Real Causes of Depression – and the Unexpected Solutions

Chris Baréz-Brown Author Of Upping Your Elvis

From my list on get your energy right.

Why am I passionate about this?

It has always fascinated me how one person can enter a room, and they can change its temperature, and yet others remain unnoticed. Some feel unstoppable, whilst others struggle to get out of bed. Some create such a resonant, kind, and compassionate coherence in everything they do and all those that they touch; it feels like they are surrounded by blue birds and sunshine, and yet many of their colleagues will not be remembered. To be human is complex and magical. I've spent my life learning how we can get our energy right so that every day becomes extraordinary and Technicolor, and that's why I help businesses do the same.

Chris' book list on get your energy right

Chris Baréz-Brown Why Chris loves this book

I absolutely adore this book. This is a huge thing to say, but I'd probably rank it among my favorites of the last five years. Although the focus is heavily on anxiety and depression, it clearly sets out a fantastic strategy for keeping yourself well and energized. It’s beautifully written; each point is illustrated by a real and emotive story, bringing it to life. You feel your way through this book. I haven't recommended a book to so many people ever.

Johann Hari has a genuine connection to the topic, and it feels like he puts his heart and soul into every word. Rarely do I read something so educational and yet so gripping. It became my favorite conversation piece in any social situation, as it is so relevant to many of us struggling to help families and friends who are suffering from depression and anxiety. Simple, clear, and incredibly…

By Johann Hari ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Lost Connections as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER 'This amazing book will change your life' Elton John 'Brilliant' Matt Haig 'Wonderful' Hillary Clinton 'A game-changer' Davina McCall 'Brilliant for anyone wanting a better understanding of mental health' Zoe Ball A radically new way of thinking about mental health. What really causes depression and anxiety - and how can we really solve them? Award-winning journalist Johann Hari suffered from depression since he was a child and started taking anti-depressants when he was a teenager. He was told that his problems were caused by a chemical imbalance in his brain. As an adult, trained in the social…


Book cover of Story Proof: The Science Behind the Startling Power of Story

Beverley Glick Author Of In Your Own Words: Unlock the power of your life stories to influence, inspire and build trust

From my list on the power of telling your own story.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since my primary school teacher read out my essay about a friendly octopus to the whole class, I’ve known I was a storyteller. I went on to enjoy a long career as a journalist–first, writing stories about rock and pop groups for the music paper Sounds (where I coined the term ‘The New Romantics’), then as editor of the pop magazine Record Mirror, and subsequently as a writer/editor for national newspapers including The Observer and The Sunday Telegraph. After that, I became a coach, a public speaking trainer, and a book editor. However, my most enduring passion is helping people find and tell their most meaningful stories.

Beverley's book list on the power of telling your own story

Beverley Glick Why Beverley loves this book

This book should be called "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Storytelling but Were Afraid to Ask."

I love the fact that it asks and answers the fundamental question, "So, what is a story?" and explains why humans tell stories, what happens in our brains when we listen to them, and how we instinctively follow story structures.

It gave me a solid introduction to the neuroscience of storytelling and explains why we are predisposed and even designed to think in stories.

By Kendall Haven ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Story Proof as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Like Stephen Krashen's important work in The Power of Reading, Story Proof collects and analyzes the research that validates the importance of story, story reading, and storytelling to the brain development and education of children and adults. Accomplished researcher and storyteller Kendall Haven, establishes the need for understanding the research findings in neural psychology and brain development and the value of a common definition of story if one is to fully grasp the importance and necessity of story to the development of the human mind. To support his case, he reviews a wealth of research from storytellers, teachers, and others…


Book cover of Writing For Your Life: Discovering the Story of Your Life's Journey

Beverley Glick Author Of In Your Own Words: Unlock the power of your life stories to influence, inspire and build trust

From my list on the power of telling your own story.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since my primary school teacher read out my essay about a friendly octopus to the whole class, I’ve known I was a storyteller. I went on to enjoy a long career as a journalist–first, writing stories about rock and pop groups for the music paper Sounds (where I coined the term ‘The New Romantics’), then as editor of the pop magazine Record Mirror, and subsequently as a writer/editor for national newspapers including The Observer and The Sunday Telegraph. After that, I became a coach, a public speaking trainer, and a book editor. However, my most enduring passion is helping people find and tell their most meaningful stories.

Beverley's book list on the power of telling your own story

Beverley Glick Why Beverley loves this book

I fell in love with this book through one quote that I underlined several times: ‘In the process of writing, of discovering our story, we restore parts of ourselves that have been scattered, hidden, suppressed, denied, distorted, forbidden, and we come to understand that stories heal.’

I went on to underline many, many more passages in this book, which is a treasure trove of wisdom about the power of personal storytelling and beyond into archetypes, fairy tales, and myths.

It’s also packed with brilliant writing prompts to help you dive into your life story. 

By Deena Metzger ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Writing For Your Life as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In the tradition of Annie Dillard and Natalie Goldberg, this resource for writers and non-writers alike shows the act of writing to be a dynamic means of knowing, healing, and creating the body, mind, and spirit.


Book cover of The Healing Art of Storytelling: A Sacred Journey of Personal Discovery

Beverley Glick Author Of In Your Own Words: Unlock the power of your life stories to influence, inspire and build trust

From my list on the power of telling your own story.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since my primary school teacher read out my essay about a friendly octopus to the whole class, I’ve known I was a storyteller. I went on to enjoy a long career as a journalist–first, writing stories about rock and pop groups for the music paper Sounds (where I coined the term ‘The New Romantics’), then as editor of the pop magazine Record Mirror, and subsequently as a writer/editor for national newspapers including The Observer and The Sunday Telegraph. After that, I became a coach, a public speaking trainer, and a book editor. However, my most enduring passion is helping people find and tell their most meaningful stories.

Beverley's book list on the power of telling your own story

Beverley Glick Why Beverley loves this book

I love a deep dive, and this book goes to profound depths to explore different aspects of storytelling, from the personal to the universal.

I found it eye-opening and moving to consider storytelling as a healing spiritual practice and to link my own story to ancient story-sharing traditions such as the ‘ladder to the moon.’

A perfect accompaniment for balmy evenings when you’re sitting around a campfire, honouring your ancestors and sharing life stories. 

By Richard Stone ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Healing Art of Storytelling as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Over the years, television and other cultural forces have robbed us of storytelling as a tool of communicating, learning, and healing. In The Healing Art of Storytelling, professional storyteller Richard Stone describes this crisis and its devastating effects, and then offers a step-by-step guide for creating a storytelling tradition that we can use to transform our families, our friendships, and ourselves. This ancient art offers us a fresh approach to issues such as coping with death and grieving, building esteem in ourselves and our children, finding courage in the face of uncertainty, and discovering the miraculous in the everyday. With…


Book cover of Storycatcher: Making Sense of Our Lives Through the Power and Practice of Story

Beverley Glick Author Of In Your Own Words: Unlock the power of your life stories to influence, inspire and build trust

From my list on the power of telling your own story.

Why am I passionate about this?

Ever since my primary school teacher read out my essay about a friendly octopus to the whole class, I’ve known I was a storyteller. I went on to enjoy a long career as a journalist–first, writing stories about rock and pop groups for the music paper Sounds (where I coined the term ‘The New Romantics’), then as editor of the pop magazine Record Mirror, and subsequently as a writer/editor for national newspapers including The Observer and The Sunday Telegraph. After that, I became a coach, a public speaking trainer, and a book editor. However, my most enduring passion is helping people find and tell their most meaningful stories.

Beverley's book list on the power of telling your own story

Beverley Glick Why Beverley loves this book

I feel deeply connected to this book because it helped me navigate the break-up of my marriage.

It puts into beautifully poetic words what I was feeling on an intuitive level about the transformative power of telling our own stories and the importance of ‘storying out’ unarticulated experiences.

Becoming a "storycatcher" and taking ownership of my story pulled me through a dark time and set me on the path toward a more empowering narrative. 

By Christina Baldwin ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Storycatcher as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Story is the heart of language. Story moves us to love and hate and can motivate us to change the whole course of our lives. Story can lift us beyond our individual borders to imagine the realities of other people, times, and places. Storytelling — both oral tradition and written word — is the foundation of being human. In this powerful book, Christina Baldwin, one of the visionaries who started the personal writing movement, explores the vital necessity of re-creating a sacred common ground for each other's stories. Each chapter in Storycatcher is carried by a fascinating narrative — about…


Book cover of It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want to Be

Chris Baréz-Brown Author Of Upping Your Elvis

From my list on get your energy right.

Why am I passionate about this?

It has always fascinated me how one person can enter a room, and they can change its temperature, and yet others remain unnoticed. Some feel unstoppable, whilst others struggle to get out of bed. Some create such a resonant, kind, and compassionate coherence in everything they do and all those that they touch; it feels like they are surrounded by blue birds and sunshine, and yet many of their colleagues will not be remembered. To be human is complex and magical. I've spent my life learning how we can get our energy right so that every day becomes extraordinary and Technicolor, and that's why I help businesses do the same.

Chris' book list on get your energy right

Chris Baréz-Brown Why Chris loves this book

The only time my old agency gave everybody a book it was this one. It was incredibly popular because it was so short, punchy, and beautiful. It was the book that inspired me to write my second about how to survive and thrive in work.

Paul Arden was the creative director at Saatchi's, and he has the most wonderful gift of communicating. The book has no wasted words or square millimeters of design space. It really was created magnificently.

Yes, the content is clear and accessible, but the way it's presented is beyond sublime. The advice that I got from the book was immediately implemented, as it was practical and clear. But the way this book made me feel as I read it was like no other. Everything was possible, and this whole life is the most fantastic adventure.

Writing long books is incredibly simple; writing short ones full of…

By Paul Arden ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want to Be as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want to Be is a handbook of how to succeed in the world: a pocket bible for the talented and timid alike to help make the unthinkable thinkable and the impossible possible.

The world's top advertising guru, Paul Arden, offers up his wisdom on issues as diverse as problem solving, responding to a brief, communicating, playing your cards right, making mistakes, and creativity - all endeavours that can be applied to aspects of modern life.

This uplifting and humorous little book provides a unique insight into the world of advertising…