Here are 90 books that The Thriving Solopreneur fans have personally recommended if you like The Thriving Solopreneur. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Magic Kingdom for Sale

Why am I passionate about this?

When I was very small, bedtime was the high point of the day; for that was when my parents read to me. My father favored adventure tales with knights and heroes, while my mother shared her own beloved Oz books with me. To this day, there is nothing so satisfying as finding a new story in which to be immersed. Although I enjoy reading many types of books, my first love remains fantasy; especially those stories with appealing characters and a defined world built from the author’s imagination. I hope these recommendations provide you with a gateway to discover new and enchanting reading experiences of your own.

Claire's book list on YA fantasy novels that reveal a hero’s quest and journey through new or newly-perceived worlds

Claire Shideler Why Claire loves this book

As a fan of fantasy books about quests, I was familiar with Terry Brooks’ Shannara series.

Since I enjoyed his writing and his characters, I picked up this one on the assumption that it would be similar. Instead, I encountered a story about Ben Holiday, who purchased a magic kingdom from a fancy gift catalog and traveled to a new world where he became the ruler.

The characters appealed; especially Abernathy, the court scribe turned into a soft-coated, wheaten terrier by the wizard, Questor Thews.

Although a mature man, Ben’s trials upon obtaining the throne and adjusting to the magic of his new home support the theme of a hero’s coming-of-age story. With a few wrinkles and twists of magic, and a humorous overtone, I recommend this book as a nice change of pace from more serious fantasy tales.

By Terry Brooks ,

Why should I read it?

9 authors picked Magic Kingdom for Sale as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Here in his first non-Shannara novel, Terry Brooks has written a gripping story of mystery, magic, and adventure—sure to delight fantasy readers everywhere.

Landover was a genuine magic kingdom, with fairy folk and wizardry, just as the advertisement has promised. But after he purchased it, Ben Holiday learned that there were a few details the ad had failed to mention.

The kingdom was in ruin. The Barons refused to recognize a king, and the peasants were without hope. A dragon was laying waste the countryside, while an evil witch plotted to destroy everything.

Ben's only followers were the incompetent Court…


If you love The Thriving Solopreneur...

Book cover of These Blue Mountains

These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas,

A moving story of love, betrayal, and the enduring power of hope in the face of darkness.

German pianist Hedda Schlagel's world collapsed when her fiancé, Fritz, vanished after being sent to an enemy alien camp in the United States during the Great War. Fifteen years later, in 1932, Hedda…

Book cover of Sing With Your Opera Voice: My Journey from Solopreneur to Entrepreneur

Christina Hamlett Author Of Office for One: The Sole Proprietor's Survival Guide

From my list on solopreneurs who want to chart their own course.

Why am I passionate about this?

From the time I first learned to write, I knew this was something in my blood I had to pursue and that I’d one day make a comfortable living at it. Writing is a solitary craft to be sure, and although I worked in other industries for a number of years, I knew I’d eventually have to take a leap of faith and pursue this professionally. I’m passionate about encouraging fellow wordsmiths and dreamers, and the business books I’ve written reflect my expertise in Audience Analysis and Message Design, a specialization I’ve also tapped for my novels and stage plays.

Christina's book list on solopreneurs who want to chart their own course

Christina Hamlett Why Christina loves this book

When I was growing up, my mother always criticized me whenever I tried to sing. “You’re terrible at this,” she told me. She also criticized my endeavors at dancing, writing, and the arts. It wasn’t until I was much older I realized just how insecure she was and how she feared my failure at any of the things I wanted to do would somehow reflect on her. What attracted me to this book was actually the title. In recent years I’ve taken professional singing lessons (including opera!) and discovered that the only thing holding me back was my lack of confidence in pushing the envelope. Everything is possible—including being your own boss (of anything!) as long as you don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed or listen to the naysayers more than to your own heart.

By Vicky Brown ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sing With Your Opera Voice as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Congratulations, you are a newly minted entrepreneur. You had a vision, and started a business. Now you are totally overwhelmed. There is just too much to do, all the time. The business isn’t growing as fast as you would like, and you’re beginning to have doubts that you have what it takes to build the business you imagined.

You chose a service business because you wanted to help others. Coaching, counseling, providing professional services. But each day so many things are coming at you from all directions, you’re finding it difficult to stay focused on your vision in the overwhelm.…


Book cover of Money-Smart Solopreneur: A Personal Finance System for Freelancers, Entrepreneurs, and Side-Hustlers

Christina Hamlett Author Of Office for One: The Sole Proprietor's Survival Guide

From my list on solopreneurs who want to chart their own course.

Why am I passionate about this?

From the time I first learned to write, I knew this was something in my blood I had to pursue and that I’d one day make a comfortable living at it. Writing is a solitary craft to be sure, and although I worked in other industries for a number of years, I knew I’d eventually have to take a leap of faith and pursue this professionally. I’m passionate about encouraging fellow wordsmiths and dreamers, and the business books I’ve written reflect my expertise in Audience Analysis and Message Design, a specialization I’ve also tapped for my novels and stage plays.

Christina's book list on solopreneurs who want to chart their own course

Christina Hamlett Why Christina loves this book

There’s a reason why people who want to become their own boss often test the waters while they are still drawing a paycheck from their 9-5. It’s a scary business wondering how you’re going to pay the rent, put food on the table, clothe your kids, pay taxes, etc. when you have always had the safety net of regular employment. Ms. Adams pulls no punches in encouraging readers to take a reality check regarding their finances, legal considerations, and even the long-term vision of whatever solo enterprise they want to launch.

By Laura D. Adams ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Money-Smart Solopreneur as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Build Your Business and Your Financial FutureAs a solopreneur, you can reinvent the way you work with much more freedom, fun, and financial security. There's never been a better time to earn more money by starting a full- or part-time solo venture. But being your own boss can be a challenge or feel scary when you don't have a roadmap. 

In Money-Smart Solopreneur, Laura D. Adams answers questions every aspiring and new entrepreneur has about creating a business and building a secure financial future. It's a complete guide for what to do, critical mistakes to avoid, and how to start…


If you love Janine Bolon...

Book cover of Coyote Weather

Coyote Weather by Amanda Cockrell,

Coyote weather is the feral, hungry season, drought-stricken, and ready to catch fire. It’s 1967, and the American culture is violently remaking itself while the country is forcibly sending its young men to fight in a deeply unpopular war.

Jerry has stubbornly made no plans for the future because he…

Book cover of Screw It, Let's Do It: Lessons in Life

Christina Hamlett Author Of Office for One: The Sole Proprietor's Survival Guide

From my list on solopreneurs who want to chart their own course.

Why am I passionate about this?

From the time I first learned to write, I knew this was something in my blood I had to pursue and that I’d one day make a comfortable living at it. Writing is a solitary craft to be sure, and although I worked in other industries for a number of years, I knew I’d eventually have to take a leap of faith and pursue this professionally. I’m passionate about encouraging fellow wordsmiths and dreamers, and the business books I’ve written reflect my expertise in Audience Analysis and Message Design, a specialization I’ve also tapped for my novels and stage plays.

Christina's book list on solopreneurs who want to chart their own course

Christina Hamlett Why Christina loves this book

While I don’t agree with his politics, Branson has been a force to be reckoned with in all of his endeavors. From the time he was a young man, he recognized that life was all about taking bold chances and leaping into the fray without a safety net or, in many cases, adequate finances. His words of wisdom can be applied to anyone who sees a need that has yet to be filled and has the chutzpah to assemble resources and make it a reality. There’s also an object lesson that not everything one attempts is destined for success and that’s all right as well.

By Richard Branson ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Screw It, Let's Do It as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Throughout my life I have achieved many remarkable things. In Screw It, Let's Do It, I will share with you my ideas and the secrets of my success, but not simply because I hope they'll help you achieve your individual goals.
Today we are increasingly aware of the effects of our actions on the environment, and I strongly believe that we each have a responsibility, as individuals and organisations, to do no harm. I will draw on Gaia Capitalism to explain why we need to take stock of how we may be damaging the environment, and why it is up…


Book cover of Pitch Anything: An Innovative Method for Presenting, Persuading, and Winning the Deal

Paul A. Swegle Author Of Startup Law and Fundraising for Entrepreneurs and Startup Advisors

From my list on startup success from someone with startup wins.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have worked with startups since 2000, when I joined ShareBuilder, ultimately sold to Capital One in a $9.5 billion deal – one of my five successful startup exits to date. I am currently an officer of seven startups. Startups drive global job creation and problem-solving innovation. But 90% fail, often for preventable reasons. I am helping entrepreneurs beat those odds. I wrote Startup Law and Fundraising to help entrepreneurs build on a solid foundation, avoid common legal and regulatory mistakes, and fund their vision. My books are used globally in law and MBA schools, and I speak constantly on entrepreneurship-related topics, including recently to groups in Istanbul, Ramallah, and Tehran. 

Paul's book list on startup success from someone with startup wins

Paul A. Swegle Why Paul loves this book

Pitch Anything is an established work in the pitching and negotiation book categories. It is not perfect, but it is one of the best books for introducing entrepreneurs to the importance of pitching, selling, and negotiating persuasively. Entrepreneurs must pitch to attract co-founders and early team members, to obtain early stage funding, to close customers and other commercial partners, to close later stage funding rounds, and, ultimately, to go public or exit in a sale. While Pitch Anything is a good book, the brashness of some of its advice, particularly around what Klaff calls “frames,” do not fit all persons or situations. Some contexts require full-on Machiavellian tactics; others warrant more of a “Winning Friends and Influencing People” approach. Nonetheless, it is useful to understand which situation you are in and the available plays to run.

Armed with those caveats, I suggest readers of Pitch Anything read Chapter…

By Oren Klaff ,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Pitch Anything as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Gold Medal Winner--Tops Sales World's Best Sales and Marketing Book

"Fast, fun and immensely practical."
-JOE SULLIVAN, Founder, Flextronics

"Move over Neil Strauss and game theory. Pitch Anything reveals the next big thing in social dynamics: game for business."
-JOSH WHITFORD, Founder, Echelon Media

"What do supermodels and venture capitalists have in common?They hear hundreds of pitches a year. Pitch Anything makes sure you get the nod (or wink) you deserve."
-RALPH CRAM, Investor

"Pitch Anything offers a new method that will differentiate you from the rest of the pack."
-JASON JONES, Senior Vice President, Jones Lang LaSalle

"If you…


Book cover of Making a Living Without a Job: Winning Ways for Creating Work That You Love

Tama J. Kieves Author Of This Time I Dance! Creating the Work You Love

From my list on to help you stay true to yourself and your calling.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am moved by the deepest potential in all of us. Having graduated from Harvard Law School and working as an unfilled attorney, I finally left everything to follow my true desire to write. So, I know how vital it is to have support for our inspiration instead of our fears. That’s why I’ve written 5 books to champion visionary minds, creative souls, freedom junkies, and more. And as a TEDx speaker and USA Today featured visionary career coach, I am always reading for my own growth and for my students. I recommend these books because they helped me to trust in greater possibilities. I hope they support your dreams. 

Tama's book list on to help you stay true to yourself and your calling

Tama J. Kieves Why Tama loves this book

I recommend this book because it’s a crayon box of creative and practical ideas and insights. This is a great read for someone who wants to be entrepreneurial, l but isn’t yet in the I-have-to-dominate-the-market-and-own-Silicon-Valley- stage. I guess I’d call it approachable entrepreneurship. The author gives you ideas for how to be “joyfully jobless” including multiple profit centers and marketing on a shoestring. I love authors who can give you creative hope, no-nonsense ideas, and specific creative ideas like “find all the ways to put raspberry and chocolate together.”    

By Barbara Winter ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Making a Living Without a Job as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

For all of the millions of Americans who are out of work, soon to be out of work, or wishing to be freed from unrewarding work—here is the must-have book that will show you how you can make a living by working when, where, and how you want.

Newly revised and updated, Barbara J. Winter’s guide to successful self-employment is now more relevant than ever before. Drawing on the techniques and ideas of her popular seminars as well as her own thirty years of business expertise and that of other successful entrepreneurs, Winter offers the practical, proven way to launch…


If you love The Thriving Solopreneur...

Book cover of Temple of Dreams: A Novel of Now and Then

Temple of Dreams by Carolyn Mathews,

Homeless following the death of his adoptive parents in a car crash and the subsequent loss of their farm tenancy, Seb decides to enrol as a residential student at the Asklepios Foundation, a College of Natural Medicine, boasting a sanctuary modelled on an ancient Greek healing temple. Spending a night…

Book cover of The Profits Principles: The practical guide to building an extraordinary business around doing what you love

Heather Smith Author Of Xero For Dummies

From my list on small business owners.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m Heather Smith and I love writing. I love Accounting and AccounTech. I gratefully sit at the Ikigai inflection point, where my profession, passion, vocation, and mission intersect, and I can use my explanation skills to empower others in the accounting industry. Ikigai is a Japanese concept referring to something that gives a person a sense of purpose, a reason for living. Believing Accountants don't save lives, Accountants save livelihoods; I use my superpower of explanation to educate the accounting profession about accounting technology and modern accounting practices. I do this through many channels including my latest book Xero for Dummies, 5th edition. 

Heather's book list on small business owners

Heather Smith Why Heather loves this book

This book provides entrepreneurs with a practical, user-friendly guide to understanding their businesses' numbers. Being a Chartered Accountant, I often see entrepreneurs who have the drive, ideas, and passion for their businesses, but fall short when it comes to the numbers. I recommend this book to anyone who is working to create a business they love but needs a little help with the numbers. With no jargon, and easy-to-follow guidance, you'll discover how you can grow your business.

By Steven Briginshaw ,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

Break free from the 'time for money' treadmill and build a business that works for you!

Too many business owners work too many hours for not enough pay. They don't have time or the energy for family, friends, hobbies and relaxing. If they don't work, they don't get paid. You may think you own a business but, if these points ring true for you, chances are you actually own a job.

In The Profits Principles Steven Briginshaw draws on his vast experience as a chartered accountant and business mentor to show exactly what you need to do to...

Build a…


Book cover of Winning in Sports Business

Mark Beal Author Of Pursue Your Passions! Dream Big! Anything is Possible!

From my list on inspiring you to pursue your dreams and goals.

Why am I passionate about this?

After 30 years in marketing, I am a professor at Rutgers University, where I teach public relations and marketing courses. In each course, I consistently share an inspirational message with my students, which is the title of my new book – Pursue Your Passions! Dream Big! Anything Is Possible! I have taught approximately 4,000 students and have witnessed their journey from the classroom to career. Each of their unique career journeys is inspirational. My former students regularly return to my classroom and inspire my current students to pursue their dreams and goals. My purpose and passion today is to inspire my students and other job seekers to pursue and achieve their professional dreams and goals. 

Mark's book list on inspiring you to pursue your dreams and goals

Mark Beal Why Mark loves this book

From a young age, we are regularly asked what we want to be when we grow up. We all have contemplated our dream job, and most likely, our dream job has changed with time.

Michael Rasile’s dream was to work in the sports business industry, and he took one of the most innovative approaches to getting there. He launched a podcast called For the Love of Sports. Each week, he scheduled and interviewed leaders in sports business on his podcast. He grew his professional network in a meaningful way.

In the book, Rasile shares powerful and inspirational insights from his podcast interviews and bridges those in a way that they can apply to all of us on each of our unique career journeys.   

By Michael Rasile ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Winning in Sports Business as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Did you know that the movie Jerry Maguire ruined the sports agency business?

In Winning in Sports Business, Michael Rasile shares what the nuances of the sports business landscape are like, and what people need to do to get into it. He shares stories from the movers and shakers in the sports business and details many different areas of the sports business world that are still untapped.

This book will help answer these questions:

What are the types of jobs/career paths in sports?

Ever wonder where sports media is going?

Where does all the money go in sports?

Why is…


Book cover of 101 Ways to Rock LinkedIn

Debra Eckerling Author Of Your Goal Guide: A Roadmap for Setting, Planning and Achieving Your Goals

From my list on to read before attending a conference.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a goal-setting expert with a specialty in Event Outcome Optimization. Through speaking, workshops, and consulting, I help individuals and teams get the most value from the events they attend. Conferences are essential for professional development, whether in-person or virtual. And they can be more than just fun. When you set goals and approach them properly, conferences can be a bounty of new connections, education, and information!

Debra's book list on to read before attending a conference

Debra Eckerling Why Debra loves this book

Whenever you meet new people, you Google them, right? You check out their website and connect on LinkedIn. Guess what? They do the same for you.

Before you attend any event, make sure your digital presence is a positive reflection of who you are and how you help. 101 Ways to Rock LinkedIn is a comprehensive guide that helps you put your best digital foot forward.

Authors LinkedIn expert Viveka von Rosen and “Rock Star” entrepreneur Dayna Steele have made it easy to give your LinkedIn a likely overdue makeover that helps you stand out from the crowd.

By Viveka von Rosen ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked 101 Ways to Rock LinkedIn as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The year 2020 forced us to pivot, to understand the importance of our business and our personal brand, and to learn how to create virtual business. Not only has business changed, so has the entire world. So many more of us are working from home and/or are creating new home-based businesses. That means it’s even more important to create a strong personal brand, so that you stand out from your competition.

“LinkedIn is perhaps the most powerful social media platform for business today. Viveka von Rosen (considered among the world’s foremost experts on this platform) and ‘Rock Star’ entrepreneur Dayna…


If you love Janine Bolon...

Book cover of Marriage and Fatherhood in the Nazi SS

Marriage and Fatherhood in the Nazi SS by Amy Carney,

When I was writing this book, several of my friends jokingly called it the Nazi baby book, with one insisting it would make a great title. Nazi Babies – admittedly, that is a catchy title, but that’s not exactly what my book is about. SS babies would be slightly more…

Book cover of How to Write a Killer LinkedIn Profile

Mary S. Schaeffer Author Of 127 Best Practices for Accounts Payable

From my list on to build excellence in accounting and finance.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m obsessed with spreading the word about best practices when it comes to the accounts payable function. It’s a lot more complicated than you might imagine – if you want to avoid fraud, excess costs, duplicate payments, problems with the IRS, etc. I regularly speak at both online and live events. As the host of the AP Now YouTube channel, I’m able to share opinions, interview industry thought leaders, and share the latest business intelligence needed to run an efficient, cost-effective accounts payable and payment function. I’ve written over 20 business books, most of them focusing on various aspects of the accounts payable function.

Mary's book list on to build excellence in accounting and finance

Mary S. Schaeffer Why Mary loves this book

In today’s business environment, having a LinkedIn profile is essential. But just slapping some basic information up there is no longer adequate.

If you want to compete for the very best positions, recognized by those looking to hire without posting, and simply put your best foot forward when it comes to marketing yourself and networking, then you need some expert help – which Bernstein provides by the truckload.

By Brenda Bernstein ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked How to Write a Killer LinkedIn Profile as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

LinkedIn, owned by Microsoft, hosts the profiles of nearly 800 million people in over 200 countries and 2.8 million locales -- and up to 47% of them are active users. LinkedIn reports 97 million monthly unique visitors worldwide, 57% of whom log on via mobile devices. In the U.S., 27% of adults (180+ million users) have LinkedIn profiles. Over 30 million companies have company pages on LinkedIn. Furthermore, according to LinkedIn, there are executives from every Fortune 500 company using this social network, and 95% of those companies use LinkedIn's licensed recruiting software to search for job candidates.

LinkedIn is…


Book cover of Magic Kingdom for Sale
Book cover of Sing With Your Opera Voice: My Journey from Solopreneur to Entrepreneur
Book cover of Money-Smart Solopreneur: A Personal Finance System for Freelancers, Entrepreneurs, and Side-Hustlers

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