Here are 100 books that Bruce Lee Artist of Life fans have personally recommended if you like Bruce Lee Artist of Life. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Book cover of Man’s Search for Meaning

James Bernard Murphy Author Of The Art of Disagreement

From my list on learning how to talk and how to listen to your fellow citizens.

Why am I passionate about this?

The slander and abuse of current political discourse does not even rise to the level of disagreement. After all, disagreement is an opposition between opinions, not a fight between opinionators. I do not express my disagreement with your views by threatening to kill you. In my book, The Art of Disagreement, I offer a guide to a better political rhetoric by showing that storytelling can create the social trust necessary for political arguments to be productive. I am now Professor of Government at Dartmouth College, where I teach political philosophy. 

James' book list on learning how to talk and how to listen to your fellow citizens

James Bernard Murphy Why James loves this book

Victor Frankl was an Austrian psychologist who was sent to Auschwitz by the German Nazis because he was Jewish.

While in the camp, Frankl noticed that individual prisoners responded in totally different ways to the same appalling circumstances: some stole food from others, some hoarded their food, and some shared their food with others. He concludes that human freedom is ineradicable. He also learned from his camp experience that people want meaning in life as much as they want food or water. Human beings do not live for pleasure, but for the discovery of meaning.

loved this very inspiring and compelling book about how some people, like Frankl, can rise above the most horrendous suffering.

By Viktor Frankl ,

Why should I read it?

52 authors picked Man’s Search for Meaning as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

One of the outstanding classics to emerge from the Holocaust, Man's Search for Meaning is Viktor Frankl's story of his struggle for survival in Auschwitz and other Nazi concentration camps. Today, this remarkable tribute to hope offers us an avenue to finding greater meaning and purpose in our own lives.


If you love Bruce Lee Artist of Life...

Book cover of The Rosewood Penny

The Rosewood Penny by J.S. Fields,

2023 Queer Indie Award Nominee!

The dragons of Yuro have been hunted to extinction.

On a small, isolated island, in a reclusive forest, lives bandit leader Marani and her brother Jacks. With their outlaw band they rob from the rich to feed themselves, raiding carriages and dodging the occasional vindictive…

Book cover of Leonardo Da Vinci

W. Kenneth Tyler, Jr. Author Of Hunting the Red Fox

From my list on biographies of brilliant people written by literary giants and narrated by all-time greats.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve read more than a hundred biographies over the years, mostly because I want to know what makes great people great. In doing so, I have sifted through some real crap along the way. I don’t typically read many stories about losers.  Sad to say, and most people don’t want to hear it, but losers are a dime a dozen and unmotivating downers. My book list gives others the benefits of my 40-plus years of work in identifying books about brilliant, accomplished people written by first-rate historians and narrated by the ”cream of the crop.”

W. Kenneth's book list on biographies of brilliant people written by literary giants and narrated by all-time greats

W. Kenneth Tyler, Jr. Why W. Kenneth loves this book

I loved this book first and foremost for the completeness of the research done including supplemental materials such as sketches, artwork, etc.

How he was able to gather so much information about the roamings, seemingly on a daily basis, of a man that lived 500 years ago is beyond me. I also thought the choice of Alfred Molina to narrate was brilliant as his Italian phrasing and enunciation made all the difference in the world.

In the end, I felt I knew da Vinci on a personal level, which surprised me.

By Walter Isaacson ,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked Leonardo Da Vinci as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The #1 New York Times bestseller from Walter Isaacson brings Leonardo da Vinci to life in this exciting new biography that is "a study in creativity: how to define it, how to achieve it...Most important, it is a powerful story of an exhilarating mind and life" (The New Yorker).

Based on thousands of pages from Leonardo da Vinci's astonishing notebooks and new discoveries about his life and work, Walter Isaacson "deftly reveals an intimate Leonardo" (San Francisco Chronicle) in a narrative that connects his art to his science. He shows how Leonardo's genius was based on skills we can improve…


Book cover of On Becoming a Person: A Therapist's View of Psychotherapy

Michael Gervais Author Of The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying about What People Think of You

From my list on illuminating the path towards mastery.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a performance psychologist, I’ve spent my career supporting high-performers on their path toward mastery. I founded Finding Mastery, a high-performance psychology consulting agency. Our primary focus is helping leaders, teams, and organizations solve the most dynamic and complex human performance challenges.

Michael's book list on illuminating the path towards mastery

Michael Gervais Why Michael loves this book

I have always found profound inspiration in the teachings of Carl Rogers, who I consider a philosophical mentor.

His principle of 'unconditional positive regard' resonates deeply with me, both personally and professionally. This concept emphasizes the importance of offering unwavering support and acceptance to another person, which I believe is crucial in discovering, revealing, and unlocking the beauty and potential that lies just beneath the surface of conscious awareness.

By Carl R. Rogers ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked On Becoming a Person as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A landmark book offering a therapist's perspective on psychotherapy—a must-read for anyone interested in clinical psychology or personal growth.

Carl Rogers, founder of the humanistic psychology movement, revolutionized psychotherapy with his concept of "client-centered therapy." His influence has spanned decades, but that influence has become so much a part of mainstream psychology that the ingenious nature of his work has almost been forgotten. New discoveries in the field of psychopharmacology, especially that of the antidepressant Prozac, have spawned a quick-fix drug revolution that has obscured the psychotherapeutic relationship. As the pendulum slowly swings back toward an appreciation of the therapeutic…


If you love Bruce Lee...

Book cover of Child of Vanris

Child of Vanris by Nikki McCormack,

At five years old, Kasiel was found with the pointed ends of his ears cut off. Despite that brutal start, he’s lived twelve peaceful years with the man who took him in. Keeping his hair long over his mutilated ears helps him hide the fact that he is Vanrian, a…

Book cover of Tao Te Ching

Isaac Getz Author Of Freedom Inc.: How Corporate Liberation Unleashes Employee Potential and Business Performance

From my list on transformational leadership books that will help you to practice it.

Why am I passionate about this?

One remarkable leader I've studied, Bob Davids, said that the greatest scarcity in the world is not oil or food but leadership. For two decades, I've been on a quest to uncover the essence of a transformational leader, someone who cultivates an environment where employees' needs are so well-addressed that they are eager to show up and give their best every day. This journey led me to study hundreds of leaders and books, all serving as the foundation for my thoughts and writings. I trust that these books will kickstart your own journey. Mine has guided me to play a pivotal role in the corporate liberation movement, involving hundreds of leaders who have transformed their organizations.

Isaac's book list on transformational leadership books that will help you to practice it

Isaac Getz Why Isaac loves this book

I admire this first-ever book stating the principles of authentic leadership. Written by the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu in the 6th century BCE, it comprises a collection of paradoxical, enigmatic, and profound teachings that laid the foundation of Taoism.

I love all of them, but here is one regarding leadership: “Why do the hundred rivers turn and rush toward the sea? / Because it naturally stays below them / He who wishes to rule over the people must speak as if below them.”

While delving into this book, I find myself astounded by the universality and timelessness of the truths it unveils about authentic servant leadership. This modest volume—which adorns my bedroom as a wooden scroll—has proven to be a revelation, offering continuous inspiration to me.

By Lao Tzu , Sam Torode (translator) , Dwight Goddard (translator)

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

The Path to Peace

The Tao Te Ching is a series of meditations on the mysterious nature of the Tao—the Way, the Light, the very Source of all existence. According to Lao Tzu (a name meaning "the old master"), the Tao is found where we would least expect it—not in the strong but in the weak; not in speech but in silence; not in doing but in "not-doing."

Compiled in China around 2,500 years ago, the Tao Te Ching is beloved by seekers all the world over. This edition is rendered in poetic language by Sam Torode, based on the…


Book cover of Striking Thoughts: Bruce Lee's Wisdom for Daily Living

Carl Phillips Author Of Simplify - from Inside Out

From my list on help you live a simpler life.

Why am I passionate about this?

The origin story on my blog reflects some of my story best. After a period of reflection several years ago, I realised I was accumulating more in my life. More things that didn’t matter. More commitments I wasn’t truly passionate about keeping. More friction! So, I started to take some action. That action has meant: I have made good on long-term threats to write and for the last 10 years I have been writing at my blog and authored an expanding list of short books full of big ideas (all under the umbrella of simplifying life). I have accumulated less material possessions but enjoyed more (travel and holidays, events, life experiences).

Carl's book list on help you live a simpler life

Carl Phillips Why Carl loves this book

Bruce’s work and words have had a lasting impact on me. He squeezed a lot of living and achievement into a relatively short life. I come back to this book again and again. My copy has been read and re-read.  Many pages and passages are highlighted. It's also one of those rarest of books that seems to teach you something new each time you pick it up.  

The book is broken down into various themes that deal with the human condition but there is a heavy focus on simplicity and seeking the straightest path. Bruce's genius was exploring and learning from many sources, formulating his own ideas, keeping what worked, and leaving the rest. Or to quote the man himself: "Absorb what is useful, reject what is useless and add what is uniquely your own"

Bruce seemed to live by this philosophy. What would happen if we tried to do…

By Bruce Lee ,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

"A teacher is never a giver of truth-he is a guide, a pointer to the truth that each student must find for himself. A good teacher is merely a catalyst."-Bruce Lee

Within the pages of Striking Thoughts, you will find the secrets of Bruce Lee's incredible success- as an actor, martial artist, and inspiration to the world. Consisting of eight sections, Striking Thoughts covers 72 topics and 825 aphorisms-from spirituality to personal liberation and from family life to filmmaking-all of which Bruce lived by.

His ideas helped energize his life and career and made it possible for him to live…


Book cover of Tao of Jeet Kune Do

William R. Short and Reynir A. Óskarson Author Of Men of Terror: A Comprehensive Analysis of Viking Combat

From my list on to make your inner viking geek battle ready.

Why are we passionate about this?

In the Viking age, one could not escape destiny, and so it is with William and Reynir, men from two vastly different fields who met by chance and shared a passion for discovery. Their research on Viking combat has led to many groundbreaking discoveries and never before done testing. Their work has been accepted by leading museums, universities, and professional societies, and they regularly share their research findings in lectures, classes, and presentations at these venues. The National Museum of Iceland recently opened a special exhibit that features their research. In many ways, their work has changed our understanding of Vikings and shown a new approach to Viking research.

William's book list on to make your inner viking geek battle ready

William R. Short and Reynir A. Óskarson Why William loves this book

At first glance this book would seem to have nothing to do with Vikings at all, and it doesn’t. Regardless, this fascinating book is a classic when it comes to understanding approaches to researching combat in general. It shows how to break the mold of preconceived notions and ideas related to researching combat, a skill crucial for those studying any field of direct and dynamic violence.

By Bruce Lee ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Tao of Jeet Kune Do as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Compiled from Bruce Lee's notes and essays and originally published in 1975, Tao of Jeet Kune Do is the best-selling martial arts book in the world. This iconic work explains the science and philosophy behind jeet kune do—the art Lee invented—and includes hundreds of Lee's illustrations. Topics include Zen and enlightenment, kicking, striking, grappling, and footwork. With introductions by Linda Lee and editor Gilbert Johnson, Tao of Jeet Kune Do is essential reading for any practitioner and offers a brief glimpse into the mind of one of the world's greatest martial artists.


If you love Bruce Lee Artist of Life...

Book cover of Resonant Blue and Other Stories

Resonant Blue and Other Stories by Mary Vensel White,

The first collection of award-winning short fiction from the author of Bellflower and Things to See in Arizona, whose writing reflects “how we can endure and overcome our personal histories, better understand our ancestral ones, and accept the unknown future ahead.”

In “Driftwood,” a woman in a sleepy desert…

Book cover of Tao Te Ching

Carl Phillips Author Of Simplify - from Inside Out

From my list on help you live a simpler life.

Why am I passionate about this?

The origin story on my blog reflects some of my story best. After a period of reflection several years ago, I realised I was accumulating more in my life. More things that didn’t matter. More commitments I wasn’t truly passionate about keeping. More friction! So, I started to take some action. That action has meant: I have made good on long-term threats to write and for the last 10 years I have been writing at my blog and authored an expanding list of short books full of big ideas (all under the umbrella of simplifying life). I have accumulated less material possessions but enjoyed more (travel and holidays, events, life experiences).

Carl's book list on help you live a simpler life

Carl Phillips Why Carl loves this book

Along with Bruce Lee's Striking Thoughts - Wisdom for the Way, the Tao Te Ching is one of the most re-read books on my shelves. It teaches me something new or gives me a fresh perspective on life every time I make time to read it. How many books can claim the same? Not many in my experience.

It's a concise book that punches above its relative weight. A gift that keeps giving. At first glance, it is a simple read with simple lessons to share. However, when you read the words there is a deepness to them, which often means you will read a page or passage and sit with it before moving on. Trying to absorb what you have read. There is wisdom in these pages.  

Whether you believe Lao Tzu was one man or many, isn't the point for me. There is a treasure in these pages.…

By Lao Tzu , Stephen Addiss (translator) , Stanley Lombardo (translator)

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

This translation captures the terse and enigmatic beauty of the ancient original and resists the tendency toward interpretive paraphrase found in many other editions. Along with the complete translation, Lombardo and Addiss provide one or more key lines from the original Chinese for each of the eighty-one sections, together with a transliteration of the Chinese characters and a glossary commenting on the pronunciation and meaning of each Chinese character displayed. This greatly enhances the reader's appreciation of how the Chinese text works and feels and the different ways it can be translated into English.


Book cover of The Three Ninja Pigs

Lori Degman Author Of Cock-a-Doodle-Oops!

From my list on humorous pictures in rhyme.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always written funny, rhyming poems so, when I began reading picture books to my kids, I decided to give writing one a try. I now have seven published books (six are in rhyme). I love creating humorous, alliterative stanzas – I think that’s what makes rhyming picture books so much fun to read aloud! Here's an example from my book Cock-a-Doodle Oops: “I know that I’m quiet, but I’d like to try it. Here goes said a shy little sheep. / Her cock-a-doodle baaaa didn’t travel too faaaa. In fact, she made barely a peep.” I hope you enjoy reading the books I’ve listed and other humorous, rhyming picture books!

Lori's book list on humorous pictures in rhyme

Lori Degman Why Lori loves this book

When asked to bring his favorite book to school, I had hoped my grandson would bring one of mine, but instead he brought Three Ninja Pigs because it was his favorite! The rhyme and meter are amazing, and it’s loaded with tons of ninja-related words to add extra depth! Dan Santat’s illustrations are fantastic!

By Corey Rosen Schwartz , Dan Santat (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Three Ninja Pigs as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

Practice makes perfect in this kick-butt fractured fairy tale.

Why does this wolf think he can come to town and blow all the houses down? These three little pigs just aren't going to take it from that bully anymore! The first starts aikido lessons—he'll make mincemeat out of that wolf! His brother learns a little jujitsu—he'll chop that guy to pieces!

But when the wolf actually appears, it turs out these two pigs aren't quite ready after all. Good thing their sister has been training every day to master some serious karate moves that save the day. KIYA!

Corey Rosen…


Book cover of Winning Not Fighting: Why you need to rethink success and how you achieve it with the Ancient Art of Wing Tsun

Cath Bishop Author Of The Long Win: The Search for a Better Way to Succeed

From my list on reframing success to sustain high performance.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been fascinated by the question of ‘what does success look like’ throughout my life: from growing up, to becoming an Olympic rower, to working as a diplomat in high-pressure situations and conflict-affected environments, to becoming a parent, and now my current work as a leadership and culture coach in organisations across business, sport, and education. History and social conventions have led us to define success in ever narrower ways; I wanted to help us understand that and redefine success more meaningfully, for the long-term. I think it’s a question in all our minds - I hope you enjoy the books on this list as you reflect on what success looks like for you!

Cath's book list on reframing success to sustain high performance

Cath Bishop Why Cath loves this book

John Vincent, co-founder of restaurant chain Leon, gives us an up-close insight into how a clear ethos rooted in values and an infinite mindset that is developed through ongoing martial arts practice can be a great foundation for leading a business, and reaching sustainable levels of high performance in your personal and professional life.

Normally the two worlds of martial arts and business don’t overlap, but Vincent shows how powerfully they can interconnect and shares his first-hand, real-life business experience of bringing martial arts philosophy into the world of business.

By John Vincent , Sifu Julian Hitch ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Winning Not Fighting as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'A wholly new perspective to finding balance and success' - Nir Eyal

'I highly reccommend it' - John Maeda, Chief experience officer, Publicis Group and author of How to Speak Machine: Laws of Design for a Digital Age

Smash your targets * Annihilate the competition * Choose your battles

Have you ever wondered why we use metaphors derived from war and conflict so often at work? What impact does that have on how we conduct business, our culture, our stress levels and ultimately our ability to succeed?

For too long war has cast a spell on how we think about…


If you love Bruce Lee...

Book cover of Let Evening Come

Let Evening Come by Yvonne Osborne,

After her mother is killed in a rare Northern Michigan tornado, Sadie Wixom is left with only her father and grandfather to guide her through young adulthood. Miles away in western Saskatchewan, Stefan Montegrand and his Indigenous family are displaced from their land by multinational energy companies. They are taken…

Book cover of Iron & Silk

Brett Dakin Author Of Another Quiet American: Stories of Life in Laos

From my list on books about living abroad in Asia.

Why am I passionate about this?

Right after college, I lived abroad in Asia, in the small, landlocked country of Laos. A key theme of the book is the role of the U.S. in the world. During the Vietnam War, Laos was subject to a massive bombing campaign by the U.S., and decades later, the country was still coping with the effects. As unexploded bombs continued to kill people every year, how would my colleagues and neighbors react to an American living among them? The book is mainly about the joys of navigating another culture, and while Laos is unique, I’ve read a lot of books about living abroad in Asia, and common themes certainly emerge.

Brett's book list on books about living abroad in Asia

Brett Dakin Why Brett loves this book

Another inspiration for me was Mark’s first book, about his experience in the 1980s teaching English and studying martial arts in China. One of the first books to explore life in China after the reforms that followed the excesses of the Cultural Revolution, this book has become a classic.

A few years after this book was published, he even starred in a film adaptation! I’m a little old to do that now.

By Mark Salzman ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Iron & Silk as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This large print edition recounts the true adventures of a young martial arts student in China. Told as a series of lightly sketched episodes, the book allows the reader a glimpse of Chinese culture largely unaccessible to foreigners.


Book cover of Man’s Search for Meaning
Book cover of Leonardo Da Vinci
Book cover of On Becoming a Person: A Therapist's View of Psychotherapy

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,343

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in martial arts, quantum physics, and French travel?

Martial Arts 29 books
Quantum Physics 111 books
French Travel 42 books