Here are 100 books that Tiny Beautiful Things fans have personally recommended if you like
Tiny Beautiful Things.
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The central theme connecting the books on my list is the idea that our personal growth comes from creativity, straight talk, and honest reflection. All of these books are first-person accounts, which gives them credibility and authority, and they are quite inspiring. They encourage bravery, curiosity, resilience, and healing.
I wrote Morning Leaves as a way of processing the loss of my younger sister. I leaned into creativity and writing as a way of clarifying my thoughts, prioritizing, and ultimately healing from the grief. This collection of books taught me to trust my instincts, nurture my creative impulses, and find a path to joy.
This is one of the clearest books I’ve read on creativity.
Elizabeth Gilbert encourages both curiosity and discipline in writing. She also talks about the importance of timing and being ready to capture ideas when they come. Fear and self-doubt are always around, but one must be receptive and ready when the muse appears.
She tells great stories, which makes the book particularly fun and readable.
Readers of all ages and walks of life have drawn inspiration from Elizabeth Gilbert's books for years. Now, this beloved author shares her wisdom and unique understanding of creativity, shattering the perceptions of mystery and suffering that surround the process - and showing us all just how easy it can be. By sharing stories from her own life, as well as those from her friends and the people that have inspired her, Elizabeth Gilbert challenges us to embrace our curiosity, tackle what we most love and face down what we most fear. Whether you long to write a book, create…
This page-turner, thrilling adventure thoroughly immerses readers into a dramatic and isolated Tanzanian wilderness, where the author vividly recreates every sensory detail from her memory. You'll hear a lion's roar near your remote tent site, feel the jolts of fear when agitated hippos surround your inflatable raft, feel aching shoulders…
I’ve spent most of my life fascinated by what happens when women stop editing themselves. As a former television reporter, health educator, and memoirist, I’ve lived on both sides of the polished story and the private reckoning in my search for truth. Writing my own memoir forced me to confront how often women are encouraged to soften conflict, spiritualize pain, or tidy up the truth to make it more palatable. I’m drawn to books that refuse that impulse—stories where healing isn’t performative, and transformation isn’t neat.
I loved this book because it gave language to instincts I didn’t yet trust.
I read it long ago, and its stories stayed with me—not intellectually, but somatically. This book doesn’t explain women; it remembers us. Through myth and archetype, Clarissa Pinkola Estés reclaims the wild, intuitive self that so many women are trained to domesticate.
It taught me that messiness isn’t a flaw—it can be the sign of something alive trying to return.
First published three years before the print edition of Women Who Run With the Wolves made publishing history, this original audio edition quickly became an underground bestseller. For its insights into the inner life of women, it established Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes as one of the most important voices of our time in the fields of Jungian psychology, myth, and women's mysteries.
Drawing from her work as a psychoanalyst and cantadora ("keeper of the old stories"), Dr. Estes uses myths and folktales to illustrate how societies systematically strip away the feminine spirit. Through an exploration into the nature of the…
I've always been drawn to books that ask difficult questions instead of offering easy answers.
Growing up, I became fascinated by how quietly society shapes who we become—and how difficult it can be to figure out which parts are truly ours. Books have taught me to sit with complexity in a world that often wants everything to be black and white. The books I return to are the ones that make me question, reflect, and better understand human nature, society, and what it truly means to be unapologetically yourself. That's the kind of conversation I hope my own writing can contribute to.
Few books have made me question my own life quite like Untamed.
I didn't connect with this book because my life is anything like Glennon Doyle's—it isn't. I connected with it because she puts words to something I think many of us experience: the quiet pressure to become the person everyone else expects us to be. It made me ask myself a deeply uncomfortable question: Whose life am I actually living?
I found myself thinking about all the ways expectations can slowly shape who we are, often so quietly that we don't even realise it is happening. How much of who we are is actually us—and how much of it is the version we've learned to perform for everyone else?
I kept thinking about how much courage it takes to stop performing and start listening to yourself instead.
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • OVER TWO MILLION COPIES SOLD! “Packed with incredible insight about what it means to be a woman today.”—Reese Witherspoon (Reese’s Book Club Pick)
In her most revealing and powerful memoir yet, the activist, speaker, bestselling author, and “patron saint of female empowerment” (People) explores the joy and peace we discover when we stop striving to meet others’ expectations and start trusting the voice deep within us.
NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY O: The Oprah Magazine • The Washington Post • Cosmopolitan • Marie Claire • Bloomberg • Parade •…
After a suicidal attorney learns her self-critical father is dying of lung cancer, the two spend his final year playing golf, traveling, and in medical care as they find forgiveness and a fragile path back to her life on the back nine of his.
The central theme connecting the books on my list is the idea that our personal growth comes from creativity, straight talk, and honest reflection. All of these books are first-person accounts, which gives them credibility and authority, and they are quite inspiring. They encourage bravery, curiosity, resilience, and healing.
I wrote Morning Leaves as a way of processing the loss of my younger sister. I leaned into creativity and writing as a way of clarifying my thoughts, prioritizing, and ultimately healing from the grief. This collection of books taught me to trust my instincts, nurture my creative impulses, and find a path to joy.
I love this book because it gave me the structure to start writing.
The practice of Morning Pages opened a door and allowed me to express myself without judgment. I enjoyed Cameron’s prompts and have gone through them multiple times over the years, which has allowed me to track how I am evolving.
Cameron shows us that creativity is a spiritual and healing act that all of us should pursue in order to feel truly human.
"With its gentle affirmations, inspirational quotes, fill-in-the-blank lists and tasks — write yourself a thank-you letter, describe yourself at 80, for example — The Artist’s Way proposes an egalitarian view of creativity: Everyone’s got it."—The New York Times
"Morning Pages have become a household name, a shorthand for unlocking your creative potential"—Vogue
Over four million copies sold!
Since its first publication, The Artist's Way phenomena has inspired the genius of Elizabeth Gilbert and millions of readers to embark on a creative journey and find a deeper connection to process and purpose. Julia Cameron's novel approach guides readers in uncovering…
The central theme connecting the books on my list is the idea that our personal growth comes from creativity, straight talk, and honest reflection. All of these books are first-person accounts, which gives them credibility and authority, and they are quite inspiring. They encourage bravery, curiosity, resilience, and healing.
I wrote Morning Leaves as a way of processing the loss of my younger sister. I leaned into creativity and writing as a way of clarifying my thoughts, prioritizing, and ultimately healing from the grief. This collection of books taught me to trust my instincts, nurture my creative impulses, and find a path to joy.
This book by Melody Beattie sits by my bed and is usually the last thing I read at night.
I love that it is structured as daily entries, and her topics help me think about subjects I might otherwise not have considered. The way she writes is both very personal and quite spiritual.
I feel that I have learned how to better express myself by listening to her voice. She is clear and open and powerful. I find her work to be grounding and centering, especially in times of stress and uncertainty. It's the perfect way to transition from busy days into more peaceful nights.
In the spirit of her bestselling "The Language of Letting Go", America's most beloved inspirational writer guides us on a sacred journey as we learn to expand our creativity, embrace our powers, and open our hearts. Writing with the same warmth, honesty, and compassion that has attracted such a loyal following, Melody Beattie now charts a new path toward spiritual growth and renewal. In 365 insightful and delightfully warm daily reflections, "Journey to the Heart" will comfort and inspire us all as we begin to discover our true purpose in the world and learn to connect even more deeply with…
The theme through all of the books on my list is that we can be in control of our health and happiness as long as we’re truly aware of this gift of life. Having been born into a modest family in England and leaving almost 60 years ago to live and work throughout the Caribbean, has opened my eyes to what creates happiness in this wonderful journey of life. From my years based in the Cayman Islands with its rich multicultural society, I’ve had a full life of working across both construction and cultural development, and with travel to more than 120 countries. It’s important to embrace the gifts I’ve both earned and received.
I loved this book because of the breadth of cultures covered by the authors.
I found the Dalai Lama’s exile from his own country and his forgiveness of all those that had persecuted him meaningful. Similarly, Desmond Tutu had forgiven all those that had racially persecuted his people in South Africa. Both were able to find “joy” and total happiness in meeting and laughing together.
The book’s relevance to so many of our Caribbean people over the years and the cultural work I’ve done here made this book an outstanding lesson for all of us to readjust our compass.
Two spiritual giants. Seven days. One timeless question.
'The ultimate source of happiness is within us.' DALAI LAMA
'We grow in kindness when our kindness is tested.' DESMOND TUTU
Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama have been friends for many, many years. Between them, they have endured exile, violence and oppression. And in the face of these hardships, they have continued to radiate compassion, humour and above all, joy.
To celebrate His Holiness's eightieth birthday, Archbishop Tutu travelled to the Dalai Lama's home in Dharamsala. The two men spent a week discussing a single burning question: how do we…
Ramon Ramirez’s Dog is a collection of essays written over the years about the adventures and misadventures, mostly outside but occasionally inside the diplomatic career of a U.S. ambassador. Common threads weaving the stories together are a desire for a life well-lived, balancing career with family and friends, keeping physically…
For several years, I’ve been on a journey of personal healing and transformation after a traumatic marriage and divorce. These incredible female writers helped stitch my heart back together and offered beautiful insights and inspiration on the healing path. These are books of timeless wisdom for women everywhere, but especially for women who have loved, lost, hurt, and overcome. We are reminded not just of our personal strength and resilience when we glimpse ourselves in the stories of others; but we remember that we are part of a powerful collective of teachers, leaders, luminaries, mothers, healers, and trailblazers. We are never alone.
Dr. Edith Eger, holocaust survivor, psychologist, and author of the best-selling memoir, The Choice, distills some of her biggest lessons into this incredible book.
A manual for finding freedom and healing, even after the unimaginable, Dr. Eger gives us a profound gift by asking us to look at our own thoughts, patterns, and behaviors that may cause suffering.
One of my favorite quotes: “What a beautiful reminder that the things that interrupt our lives, that stop us in our tracks, can also be catalysts for the emerging self, tools that show us a new way to be that endow us with new vision. This is why I say that in every crisis, there is a transition. Awful things happen, they hurt like hell. And these devastating experiences are also opportunities to regroup and decide what we want for our lives. When we choose to respond to what’s happened by…
'An incredible human being with an extraordinary story to share' Dr Rangan Chatterjee
'A beautiful, life-changing manifesto' Brene Brown
'I will be forever changed by Dr Eger's story' Oprah
'Her story is a testament to our true human potential. She's a gift' Nicole LePera
Each moment in Auschwitz was hell on earth. It was also my best classroom. Subjected to loss, torture, starvation and the constant threat of death, I discovered tools for survival and freedom that I continue to use every day.
In her darkest moments, Edith Eger discovered that the most damaging prison was the one in her…
For several years, I’ve been on a journey of personal healing and transformation after a traumatic marriage and divorce. These incredible female writers helped stitch my heart back together and offered beautiful insights and inspiration on the healing path. These are books of timeless wisdom for women everywhere, but especially for women who have loved, lost, hurt, and overcome. We are reminded not just of our personal strength and resilience when we glimpse ourselves in the stories of others; but we remember that we are part of a powerful collective of teachers, leaders, luminaries, mothers, healers, and trailblazers. We are never alone.
A short meditative passage to be read for every day of the year.
Brianna’s writing is soulful, inspired, and hits the bones like only the truth can. The perfect read for a huge life change or transition, especially divorce, this book is a divine guide. And while I love this one specifically for its daily inspirations and insight, all of Brianna’s books are incredible.
The book begins: “I hope that this is the year you change your life in only the way that you can, with the power only you have. I can’t do it for you. The words can’t do it for you. They can only encourage and guide you like an old friend, a message from far beyond and deep within.”
Amazon #1 Best Seller • An international bestseller translated in more than a dozen languages
"She speaks to your soul.”– Hoda Kotb, in People Magazine
This year-long guide will be a helpful companion for anyone who needs an extra dose of motivation...it might just help you finish that project or land that new job by encouraging a different way of thinking.”– Harper's Bazaar
“Wiests' collection of everyday meditations, one for each day of the year, drew us into her world and compelled us to remain long enough to start to understand how to elicit more from yourself than you perhaps…
I’m Jackie Kurtz, author of Kindness Heroes and founder of Matt’s Kindness Ripples On, a nonprofit I created after losing my son, Matt, in 2017. Matt lived with a natural, effortless kindness that touched so many lives, and after he died, I knew I had to carry that forward. What began as a way to honor him became a mission to recognize and encourage kindness in others. Through sharing stories, giving grants, and now writing this book, I’ve seen how even the smallest acts can create powerful ripple effects. That’s why I’m so passionate about kindness—it changes lives, often in ways we may never fully see.
This is a short, simple read, but it delivers a surprising amount of wisdom.
I loved how it takes small, everyday habits, like starting your day by making your bed, and shows how those little actions can build discipline, confidence, and momentum over time.
Each chapter shares a story from Admiral McRaven’s Navy SEAL experience and connects it to something practical you can actually use in your own life. The lessons are straightforward, relatable, and make you stop and reflect on how you handle challenges, treat others, and pursue your goals.
It’s the kind of book you can read in one sitting, but its message of resilience, hope, and small victories stays with you long after. It reminds you that real change can start with the smallest routines.
Make a new start in 2022 with positive daily habits for a healthy mind, from the incredible No. 1 New York Times bestseller
THE INCREDIBLE NO. 1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
'SUPERB, SMART, AND SUCCINCT' FORBES ______
Struggling to find structure? Finding yourself lacking motivation?
Start by making your bed.
Maintaining routine and structure is more important than ever in the age of home working, flexi-time and the general chaos of life.
In Make Your Bed, Admiral William H. McRaven shares 10 life lessons he learned during his Navy Seal training that helped him overcome challenges not only in his…
I spent my first decade in business assuming the game was chess: play well, win. It took an embarrassingly long time to notice most rooms run on rules nobody wrote down. Power, persuasion, what breaks teams, who you measure yourself against. Each book here named a rule I was losing to without knowing it existed. And the deepest unwritten rule of all was the ladder itself: do the junior work, get trained, move up. Nobody questioned it because it had always held. I build AI tools for a living, and I can see it coming apart. Which is probably why I wrote a book about what replaces it.
The rule I actually applied was the one about competing with who you were rather than the people around you.
I had been watching colleagues as comparison rather than research, and it dragged me down without helping any of the businesses. Reading it felt like having a teacher in semi-real time: each rule mapped onto something I was dealing with that week.
It falls apart in small edge cases, and people love to use edge cases to dismiss a whole book. The one I disagree with most is finding and living your personal truth, because those truths shift as your life does. I doubt there is a single one you hold forever.
Penguin presents the CD edition of 12 Rules for Life written and read by Jordan B. Peterson
Jordan Peterson's work as a clinical psychologist has reshaped the modern understanding of personality, and now he has become one of the world's most popular public thinkers, with his lectures on topics ranging from the Bible to romantic relationships drawing tens of millions of viewers. In an era of polarizing politics, echo chambers and trigger warnings, his startling message about the value of personal responsibility and the dangers of ideology has resonated around the world.
