The best 95 19th Century books

Take a journey back in time to the 19th century with this captivating book list. From the Industrial Revolution to the rise of imperialism, this era saw immense change and transformation. Explore the social, political, and cultural developments that shaped the world we know today. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about this pivotal period, these books provide a fascinating glimpse into the 19th century.

The best 95 19th Century books
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1
19th Century Books: Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg

Lean In

Sheryl Sandberg
Women, Work, and the Will to Lead
4.1 (274 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Lean In about?

Through a combination of entertaining anecdotes, solid data and practical advice, Lean In (2013) examines the prevalence of and reasons for gender inequality both at home and at work. It encourages women to lean into their careers by seizing opportunities and aspiring to leadership positions, as well calling on both men and women to acknowledge and remedy the current gender inequalities.

Who should read Lean In?

  • Anyone interested in understanding and remedying inequality at work
  • Anyone who struggles with the challenges and expectations of combining a career with family
  • Anyone – female or male – looking for solid career advice

2
19th Century Books: The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama

The Audacity of Hope

Barack Obama
Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream
4.5 (131 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Audacity of Hope about?

The Audacity of Hope is based on a keynote speech Barack Obama delivered at the 2004 Democratic Convention, which launched him into the spotlight of the nation. It contains many of the subjects of Obama’s 2008 campaign for the presidency.

Who should read The Audacity of Hope?

  • Anyone interested in American politics and international affairs
  • Anyone who wants to find out about Obama’s core values

3
19th Century Books: The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki

The Wisdom of Crowds

James Surowiecki
Why the Many Are Smarter Than the Few
4.4 (102 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Wisdom of Crowds about?

The Wisdom of Crowds explores why, and under which circumstances, groups of people can come up with better solutions to problems than any one person – even if that person is an expert. By analyzing the way individuals and groups make decisions, the book gets to the bottom of the wisdom of crowds, and shows how this wisdom can be used to make reliable decisions.

Who should read The Wisdom of Crowds?

  • Anyone who wants to know why a group of people can be wiser than individual experts
  • Anyone who wants to know which circumstances make groups’ decisions even more effective
  • Anyone who wants to know why working in groups makes sense in many situations

4
19th Century Books: Immigrants by Philippe Legrain

Immigrants

Philippe Legrain
Your Country Needs Them
4.0 (47 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Immigrants about?

Immigrants offers a compelling case for a total revamp of the way most people view immigration and immigrants. It provides a detailed description of the case against immigration, while providing solid evidence for the great benefits, both social and economic, that migration provides.

Who should read Immigrants?

  • Anyone concerned by migration
  • Anyone unimpressed by the notion of a more open world
  • Anyone trying to understand why anyone would want to leave their home country

5
19th Century Books: The Politics of Promotion by Bonnie Marcus

The Politics of Promotion

Bonnie Marcus
How High-Achieving Women Get Ahead and Stay Ahead
4.2 (41 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Politics of Promotion about?

The Politics of Promotion (2015) offers insights into the ways women can prime themselves for promotion in any line of work. Filled with actionable tips and strategic career advice, it provides the political savvy you need to maneuver within the workplace and secure your next promotion.

Who should read The Politics of Promotion?

  • Women who want to move up the career ladder
  • Anyone interested in the politics and dynamics of high-pressure workplaces

6
19th Century Books: Headscarves and Hymens by Mona Eltahawy

Headscarves and Hymens

Mona Eltahawy
Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution
3.7 (158 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Headscarves and Hymens about?

Headscarves and Hymens (2015) chronicles the many levels of abuse suffered by women in the Arab world and what brave feminist activists are doing about these injustices. These blinks describe the various forms of oppression women face, from child marriage to virginity tests, and call for a sexual revolution in Islamic nations.

Who should read Headscarves and Hymens?

  • Feminists of all colors, genders and religions
  • Political or social scientists interested in gender inequality in Arab countries
  • Anyone concerned about human rights.

7
19th Century Books: The End of Average by Todd Rose

The End of Average

Todd Rose
How to Succeed in a World that Values Sameness
4.2 (38 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The End of Average about?

The End of Average (2016) reveals how people are measured against an abstract and misguided conception of the average human being, and how their individuality is more or less ignored. Learn about the first misapplications of averages to human nature, and how your company or school can lead the way in recognizing and embracing individuality. And reap the rewards!

Who should read The End of Average?

  • Teachers and educators
  • Employers and HR specialists
  • People who want to realize their full potential

8
19th Century Books: The Glass Closet by John Browne

The Glass Closet

John Browne
Why Coming Out Is Good Business
3.7 (103 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Glass Closet about?

The Glass Closet (2014) details the struggles that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people face in the workplace and how these struggles can be overcome. Importantly, these blinks will show how coming out can change people's lives for the better.

Who should read The Glass Closet?

  • Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people
  • Entrepreneurs, managers and employees of corporations
  • Politicians and activists engaged in civil rights

9
19th Century Books: Reset by Ellen Pao

Reset

Ellen Pao
My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change
4.1 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Reset about?

In Reset (2017), Ellen Pao recounts the story of her legal battle against venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers for discrimination. Her high-profile case caused waves in Silicon Valley, and the bravery and honesty she displayed inspired many women all over the world to share their own experiences, furthering the fight for equality.

Who should read Reset?

  • Women who have experienced sexual harassment at work
  • Managers who want to ensure their workplace is free from discrimination
  • Anyone interested in powerful women bringing about change in the world

10
19th Century Books: Can You Learn to be Lucky? by Karla Starr

Can You Learn to be Lucky?

Karla Starr
Why Some People Seem to Win More Often Than Others
4.3 (144 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Can You Learn to be Lucky? about?

Can You Learn to Be Lucky (2018) explores how unseen biases dictate our personal behavior and world events in ways that are often quite predictable. By understanding the mechanisms behind seemingly lucky events, we can learn how to harness luck to our advantage.

Who should read Can You Learn to be Lucky??

  • Unlucky people waiting for their big break
  • Students of behavioral science
  • Anyone who’s ever wondered why some people seem born to succeed

11
19th Century Books: Power Up by Magdalena Yesil

Power Up

Magdalena Yesil
How Smart Women Win in the New Economy
4.0 (25 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Power Up about?

Power Up (2017) aims to empower women in the workplace with practical advice and heartfelt anecdotes from a Silicon Valley pioneer. Although primarily focused on the tech industry, it’s a guidebook that can be applied to breaking glass ceilings in all industries. From taking ownership of career choices to navigating sexist office politics, Magdalena Yesil offers a call to action for women who want appropriate credit for their hard work and a salary to match.

Who should read Power Up?

  • Women in business
  • Anyone working in the tech industry
  • Entrepreneurs and venture capitalists

12
19th Century Books: Difference Makers by Nicky Howe and Alicia Curtis

Difference Makers

Nicky Howe and Alicia Curtis
A Leader’s Guide to Championing Diversity on Boards
4.0 (82 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Difference Makers about?

Difference Makers (2016) makes a compelling case for the value of diversity at the top of today’s companies. Written by two leading champions of inclusive leadership, these blinks guide readers through personal and boardroom strategies to overcome bias, foster open dialogue and spark innovation by getting more voices to the table.

Who should read Difference Makers?

  • Founders and entrepreneurs
  • Team leaders, company managers and directors
  • Anyone interested in best business practices

13
19th Century Books: I'm Judging You by Luvvie Ajayi

I'm Judging You

Luvvie Ajayi
The Do-Better Manual
2.8 (29 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's I'm Judging You about?

I’m Judging You (2016) provides a uniquely humorous take on all the ways modern society can produce annoying, absurd and downright terrible people. Whether it’s misusing hashtags on social media or being an unbearable sexist monster, author Luvvie Ajayi is ready to call out their awfulness and provide readers with some pointers on how to avoid her judgemental wrath.

Who should read I'm Judging You?

  • Anyone looking to get more woke
  • People fed up with racism and sexism
  • Readers who want a humorous take on American society

14
19th Century Books: Hacking Darwin by Jamie Metzl

Hacking Darwin

Jamie Metzl
Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity
4.4 (110 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Hacking Darwin about?

Hacking Darwin (2019) argues that humanity is on the cusp of a future beyond natural selection with the help of assisted reproductive technologies that will enable us to hack our genetic makeup. By mapping the history of genetics, technology and the implications of genetic engineering, it advocates for an informed adoption of the genetic revolution and suggests how to approach its political and ethical challenges.

Who should read Hacking Darwin?

  • Prospective parents interested in advanced reproductive technologies
  • Futurists, technocrats and sci-fi enthusiasts
  • Students of ethics and biology

15
19th Century Books: The Person You Mean to Be by Dolly Chugh

The Person You Mean to Be

Dolly Chugh
How Good People Fight Bias
4.0 (149 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Person You Mean to Be about?

The Person You Mean to Be (2018) offers an accessible guide to the complex world of unconscious biases. Unconscious biases are the assumptions and associations we all have about people who are of a different gender, race, sexual orientation or class than we are. Author Dolly Chugh explains how these unconscious biases work and what we can do to overcome them.

Who should read The Person You Mean to Be?

  • Students of human behavior and gender studies
  • Anyone who thinks they aren’t prejudiced
  • People who want to be more open-minded

16
19th Century Books: Crippled by Frances Ryan

Crippled

Frances Ryan
Austerity and the Demonization of Disabled People
4.4 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Crippled about?

Crippled (2019) examines the treatment of disabled people in Britain’s “age of austerity,” which began in 2010 during David Cameron’s time as prime minister. Journalist Frances Ryan combines devastating case studies with grim statistics as she explains the effects the government’s policies and cuts have had on the people most in need of support.

Who should read Crippled?

  • Equality-minded people interested in disability rights
  • Concerned citizens interested in government policy
  • Political campaigners

17
19th Century Books: Humanity Works by Alexandra Levit

Humanity Works

Alexandra Levit
Merging Technologies and People for the Workforce of the Future
4.3 (68 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Humanity Works about?

Humanity Works (2018) presents a critical examination of the future of work. Blending academic research with real-world examples, this forward-looking book explores how new technologies will augment human traits to transform even the most established industries.

Who should read Humanity Works?

  • Anyone interested in the future of work
  • Leaders of innovative and competitive organizations
  • Ambitious workers navigating the changing professional landscape

18
19th Century Books: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed

Rebel Ideas

Matthew Syed
The Power of Diverse Thinking
4.6 (270 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Rebel Ideas about?

Rebel Ideas (2019) explains why cognitive diversity is the fundamental ingredient for finding solutions to difficult problems, and how we can harness it to create positive change at work, in politics and when tackling global issues.

Who should read Rebel Ideas?

  • Managers seeking to optimize team performance
  • Innovators striving to arrive at better solutions
  • People wanting to diversify their thinking

19
19th Century Books: Lean Out by Marissa Orr

Lean Out

Marissa Orr
The Truth about Women, Power, and the Workplace
4.4 (104 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Lean Out about?

Lean Out (2019) is an impassioned critique of corporate feminism. Rather than “lean in” to the patriarchal structures and misogynistic systems of the corporate world, it suggests that women take a step back and stop trying to act like men in order to get ahead.

Who should read Lean Out?

  • Working women who are sick and tired of being told to “man up”;
  • Firms wondering why their top-tier employees all have a Y chromosome; and
  • Any employee who wants to do their bit for diversity.

 


20
19th Century Books: Future Shaper by Niamh O'Keeffe

Future Shaper

Niamh O'Keeffe
How Leaders Can Take Charge in an Uncertain World
4.2 (93 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Future Shaper about?

Future Shaper (2020) describes the challenges leaders face in an increasingly fast-paced and technologically driven world. It’s the ultimate manual for leaders seeking to improve their leadership skills, embrace new ideas and innovations, and prepare for the future.

Who should read Future Shaper?

  • Business leaders stuck in a traditional way of thinking
  • Novice entrepreneurs wanting to learn the ins-and-outs of leadership
  • Future leaders entering the business world on the cusp of the digital revolution

21
19th Century Books: Stonewall by Martin Duberman

Stonewall

Martin Duberman
The Definitive Story of the LGBTQ Rights Uprising that Changed America
3.5 (135 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Stonewall about?

Stonewall (1994) is the definitive history of the 1969 uprising that catalyzed the gay rights movement in the United States. By examining the lives of six gay and lesbian people involved in the movement, author Martin Duberman sheds light on the systems of oppression – as well as the incredible dedication and bravery – that led to mainstream society’s greater acceptance of the gay and lesbian community. 

Who should read Stonewall?

  • Activists
  • Those inspired by grassroots movements
  • Anyone interested in how communal action can lead to change

22
19th Century Books: Building an Inclusive Organization by Stephen Frost and Raafi-Karim Alidina

Building an Inclusive Organization

Stephen Frost and Raafi-Karim Alidina
Leveraging the Power of a Diverse Workforce
4.3 (217 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Building an Inclusive Organization about?

Building an Inclusive Organization (2019) offers a roadmap for leaders to create organizations that truly celebrate diverse perspectives in the workplace. The authors show that to become truly inclusive, workplaces need to work hard to overcome unconscious bias, create divergent teams where people challenge each other, and implement policies to create a psychologically safe environment for all. 

Who should read Building an Inclusive Organization?

  • Hiring managers who want to learn how to turn good intentions into action
  • Leaders wanting to make their companies more innovative and inclusive
  • Anyone who has suffered systematic discrimination and wants to understand how the system works.

23
19th Century Books: The Sum of Us by Heather McGhee

The Sum of Us

Heather McGhee
What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together
4.2 (77 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Sum of Us about?

The Sum of Us (2021) is a searing analysis of how white supremacy has devastated the American middle class. Public services have been decimated, millions of Americans have no healthcare, and lobbyists control political decision-making. But white Americans keep voting for politicians who make things worse while blaming immigrants and people of color for the nation’s problems. Only by tackling racism head-on can we begin to fight for economic equality for all Americans.

Who should read The Sum of Us?

  • White people wanting to educate themselves about the real costs of racism
  • Activists looking for inspiration about how to create powerful multiracial coalitions
  • Anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge of US history and how it affects politics today

24
19th Century Books: Lead from the Outside by Stacey Abrams

Lead from the Outside

Stacey Abrams
How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change
4.1 (66 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Lead from the Outside about?

Lead from the Outside (2018) is a handbook for outsiders who are seeking a seat at the table. Stacey Abrams outlines how the underrepresented and disenfranchised can harness their ambition and ingenuity to gain power, offering advice on money matters, overcoming fear, and hacking the system.

Who should read Lead from the Outside?

  • Women, BIPOC, LGBTQ+ folks, and anyone who’s been historically denied leadership roles
  • People interested in American society and politics
  • Anyone who wants to make a difference

25
19th Century Books: Woke, Inc. by Vivek Ramaswamy

Woke, Inc.

Vivek Ramaswamy
Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam
4.0 (255 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Woke, Inc. about?

Woke, Inc. (2021) explores how the ideology of wokeness has come to infect America’s corporate sphere. While paying lip service to various social-justice causes, major American companies are acting in ways that are anything but just –⁠ and generating major profit in the process. Aside from being a nefarious way for corporations to make money, this strategy is also doing lasting damage to American democracy in surprising ways, and it’s time to snuff it out.

Who should read Woke, Inc.?

  • Conservatives and centrists worried about the excesses of progressivism
  • Liberals who want to hear the other side’s perspective
  • Anyone interested in American social ills

26
19th Century Books: Anxiety at Work by Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton with Anthony Gostick

Anxiety at Work

Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton with Anthony Gostick
8 Strategies to Help Teams Build Resilience, Handle Uncertainty, and Get Stuff Done
4.2 (231 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Anxiety at Work about?

Anxiety at Work (2021) explores how the modern workplace contributes to our soaring anxiety levels. It outlines how organizations, and team leaders, can help alleviate their employees’ worries and concerns.

Who should read Anxiety at Work?

  • Anyone interested in organizational psychology
  • Stressed-out employees looking for some perspective
  • Managers hoping to give employee well-being a boost

27
19th Century Books: Equity by Minal Bopaiah

Equity

Minal Bopaiah
How to Design Organizations Where Everyone Thrives
3.7 (165 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Equity about?

Equity (2021) is your guide to building equitable systems in the twenty-first century. It was designed to help socially conscious leaders with the challenging task of creating fair and inclusive organizations that work for everybody.

Who should read Equity?

  • Leaders who want to embed their values into their business or nonprofit
  • Diversity officers tasked with promoting a diverse and inclusive office culture
  • Anyone who wants to be more mindful of bias in their thinking and behavior

28
19th Century Books: Just Work by Kim Scott

Just Work

Kim Scott
How to Root Out Bias, Prejudice, and Bullying to Build a Kick-ass Culture of Inclusivity
3.5 (164 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Just Work about?

Just Work (2021) reveals just how damaging unchecked bias and discrimination are in the workplace. Everyone has unconscious biases and prejudices that they bring with them to work. But if these aren’t confronted head-on they can create a toxic work environment with unhappy employees who can’t do their best. Tackling bias is a win for everyone.

Who should read Just Work?

  • CEOs wanting to create thriving workplaces
  • Anyone who’s experienced workplace harassment, and wants tools to address it
  • Workplace bullies who want to confront their prejudices

29
19th Century Books: Disability Visibility by Alice Wong

Disability Visibility

Alice Wong
First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century
4.2 (89 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Disability Visibility about?

Disability Visibility (2020) is a compilation of original essays by people with disabilities. There are too few stories about what it’s like to be a disabled person navigating environments designed for the nondisabled. This collection brings visibility to some of these diverse experiences, and shows how limiting our ideas about disability really are.

Who should read Disability Visibility?

  • Disabled people looking for stories that represent diverse experiences of living with disabilities
  • Nondisabled people interested in confronting their prejudices about what it means to be disabled
  • Activists wanting to strengthen their movements by making them more intersectional

30
19th Century Books: Beat Gender Bias by Karen Morley

Beat Gender Bias

Karen Morley
How to Play a Better Part in a More Inclusive World
4.0 (135 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Beat Gender Bias about?

Beat Gender Bias (2020) explores the beliefs and behaviors that underpin the glass ceiling and that stop women and girls from reaching their full potential. It explores the persistence of workplace sexism and explains how leaders can tackle it.

Who should read Beat Gender Bias?

  • Sociology buffs looking for a different perspective 
  • Feminists hoping to create change in their workplaces
  • Leaders seeking insights into equality and diversity issues

31
19th Century Books: Neurodiversity at Work by Theo Smith and Amanda Kirby

Neurodiversity at Work

Theo Smith and Amanda Kirby
Drive Innovation, Performance and Productivity With a Neurodiverse Workforce
4.4 (338 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Neurodiversity at Work about?

Neurodiversity at Work (2022) is a practical guide to recruiting neurodiverse employees and creating work environments that allow them to thrive. Thanks to the digital revolution, the world of work has changed dramatically over the last decades. Yet corporate culture has remained trapped in archaic hiring practices that don’t work for the neurodiverse. By updating these practices, you’ll create a more inclusive workplace, which will yield more successful and innovative teams.

Who should read Neurodiversity at Work?

  • Hiring managers seeking to attract neurodiverse candidates
  • Leaders looking to create a communicative, trusting workplace
  • Anyone who wants to learn how to advocate for themselves in a corporate environment

32
19th Century Books: The Leader's Guide to Unconscious Bias by Pamela Fuller & Mark Murphy with Anne Chow

The Leader's Guide to Unconscious Bias

Pamela Fuller & Mark Murphy with Anne Chow
How To Reframe Bias, Cultivate Connection, and Create High-Performing Teams
4.3 (212 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Leader's Guide to Unconscious Bias about?

The Leader’s Guide to Unconscious Bias (2020) is a guide to unconscious bias at work: how to identify it, and what to do about it. Leaders and managers have a particular responsibility to ensure unconscious bias doesn’t harm the careers of their team members.

Who should read The Leader's Guide to Unconscious Bias?

  • Workplace leaders who want to take good care of their teams
  • Workers curious about how unconscious bias affects them
  • People looking to deepen their understanding of bias

33
19th Century Books: Inclusion on Purpose by Ruchika Tulshyan

Inclusion on Purpose

Ruchika Tulshyan
An Intersectional Approach to Creating a Culture of Belonging at Work
4.1 (37 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Inclusion on Purpose about?

Inclusion on Purpose (2022) shows leaders how to foster a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity in the workplace. Putting the experiences of women of color front and center, it provides impactful inclusion strategies which don’t only benefit the marginalized but every employee in the organization.

Who should read Inclusion on Purpose?

  • Those wanting to use their privilege for good
  • Leaders of team and organizations
  • HR professionals

34
19th Century Books: The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety by Timothy R. Clark

The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety

Timothy R. Clark
Defining the Path to Inclusion and Innovation
4.3 (341 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety about?

The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety (2020) is a practical handbook for creating and maintaining psychological safety in the workplace. In order for employees to take risks, ask questions, challenge the status quo, and make mistakes – all while learning and growing – they have to feel included and safe. This book shows how leaders can reduce social friction while encouraging collaboration and innovation.

Who should read The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety?

  • Managers and CEOs trying to boost employee well-being and productivity
  • Leaders tired of dusty corporate hierarchies
  • Anyone interested in practical approaches to workplace inclusion

35
19th Century Books: The Remix by Lindsey Pollak

The Remix

Lindsey Pollak
How to Lead and Succeed in the Multigenerational Workplace
4.2 (15 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Remix about?

The Remix (2019) illustrates the importance of creating and maintaining a multigenerational workspace that is inclusive to all. Combining recent data, independent research, and case studies from Fortune 500 companies, it shows teams how to embrace diverse working styles and turn potential clashes into opportunities.

Who should read The Remix?

  • Career enthusiasts
  • College graduates transitioning into the workplace
  • Managers looking to improve their leadership skills

36
19th Century Books: “You Just Need to Lose Weight” by Aubrey Gordon

“You Just Need to Lose Weight”

Aubrey Gordon
And 19 Other Myths About Fat People
2.6 (39 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's “You Just Need to Lose Weight” about?

“You Just Need to Lose Weight” (2023) takes a deep dive into some of society’s most harmful myths about fat people. By revealing the facts behind these common misconceptions, Aubrey Gordon gives readers the tools to analyze their own internal biases, combat anti-fat discrimination, and support the goal of social acceptance for people of all sizes.

Who should read “You Just Need to Lose Weight”?

  • Anyone who wants to learn about the myths surrounding fatness
  • People interested in confronting anti-fat bias and discrimination
  • Supporters of fat activism

37
19th Century Books: The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine N. Aron

The Highly Sensitive Person

Elaine N. Aron
How to Thrive When the World Overwhelms You
4.2 (499 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Highly Sensitive Person about?

The Highly Sensitive Person (1996) improves our understanding of that one-fifth of the population whose nervous systems pick up signals the average person can’t register. With greater self-awareness and society’s understanding, people with heightened sensitivity can flourish.

Who should read The Highly Sensitive Person?

  • Highly sensitive people
  • Parents of highly sensitive children
  • Friends, colleagues, and anyone trying to understand a highly sensitive person

38
19th Century Books: Workstyle by Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst

Workstyle

Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst
A revolution for wellbeing, productivity and society
3.8 (312 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Workstyle about?

Workstyle: A revolution for wellbeing, productivity and society (2022) introduces the concept of workstyle: the freedom to choose when and where we work. By examining the outdated history of the standard 9 to 5 working week in the light of the modern digital age, the authors lay the foundation for an individualized and autonomous way of working. 

Who should read Workstyle?

  • Career-optimizers who feel that our current way of working is inefficient or unnecessary.
  • People with disabilities or challenges which exclude them from the regular 9 to 5.
  • Visionaries who dare to dream of a better world.

39
19th Century Books: The Urgent Life by Bozoma Saint John

The Urgent Life

Bozoma Saint John
My Story of Love, Loss, and Survival
4.0 (20 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Urgent Life about?

The Urgent Life (2023) is part-memoir, part-manifesto to the importance of showing up in your life, and being fiercely present – no matter the circumstances. Bozoma Saint John has experienced both highs and lows in the course of her life. Through it all, she has learned to stay true to herself and her dreams, and to live as if nothing is guaranteed. In The Urgent Life, she describes the events that have most impacted her, and shares how you, too, can live life with passionate urgency.  

Who should read The Urgent Life?

  • People who are hungry to live more boldly, 
  • Young professionals looking for inspiration on how to navigate the corporate ladder authentically. 
  • Anyone who has experienced loss, and is figuring out how to carry on.

40
19th Century Books: Saving Time by Jenny Odell

Saving Time

Jenny Odell
Discovering a Life Beyond the Clock
4.0 (409 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Saving Time about?

Saving Time (2023) takes a deep dive into the complicated concepts surrounding time and the multitude of ways it can be experienced. Combining historical research, philosophical ideas, and social commentary, it offers new approaches to perceiving time that can help us learn to truly live in the present while looking toward a more hopeful future.

Who should read Saving Time?

  • Anyone curious about the concept of time
  • People suffering from a lack of time or burnout
  • Fans of history, science, and philosophy

41
19th Century Books: Fool Proof by Tess Wilkinson-Ryan

Fool Proof

Tess Wilkinson-Ryan
How Fear of Playing the Sucker Shapes Our Selves and the Social Order — And What We Can Do About It
4.3 (28 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Fool Proof about?

Fool Proof (2023) explores how the universal human fear of being a sucker contributes to the social order and drives our actions and behaviors. By explaining how the “sucker’s game” permeates so many aspects of our lives, it shows us how we can recognize our fears and keep them from influencing our values and beliefs.

Who should read Fool Proof?

  • Anyone interested in the psychology behind the fear of being a sucker
  • People who want to learn more about how scams affect our lives
  • Fans of psychology and sociology books

42
19th Century Books: Divergent Mind by Jenara Nerenberg

Divergent Mind

Jenara Nerenberg
Thriving in a World That Wasn't Designed for You
3.9 (262 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Divergent Mind about?

Divergent Mind (2020) is a groundbreaking look at neurodiversity in women and girls, with a particular focus on the impacts of late diagnosis and the overall lack of clinical research.

Who should read Divergent Mind?

  • Those seeking more information on neurodiversity and the ways it can manifest 
  • Anyone who gets overwhelmed by external stimuli from smells to sounds to surroundings – and wonders why
  • Synesthetes and sensitives looking for practical ways to make their world more accommodating

43
19th Century Books: Pageboy by Elliot Page

Pageboy

Elliot Page
A Memoir
3.4 (38 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Pageboy about?

Pageboy (2023) plunges you into the candid and compelling world of Elliot Page's life. Navigate through stories of self-discovery, transformation, and fortitude that shaped his remarkable journey.

Who should read Pageboy?

  • Members of the LGBTQ+ community
  • Allies, advocates, and identity explorers
  • Fims buffs and cinemagoers

44
19th Century Books: The Alignment Problem by Brian Christian

The Alignment Problem

Brian Christian
Machine Learning and Human Values
2.8 (94 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Alignment Problem about?

The Alignment Problem (2021) is both a history of the development of AI as well as a prophetic warning about what is to come. From the inherent bias in training data to the extreme speed of progress, Brian Christian details the potential dangers of and solutions to the AI problem.

Who should read The Alignment Problem?

  • Science and tech enthusiasts
  • Those interested in AI
  • Students of history and technology

45
19th Century Books: Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond

Poverty, by America

Matthew Desmond
3.8 (195 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Poverty, by America about?

Poverty, by America (2023) delves into the paradoxical issue of poverty in the abundant country of the United States. It explores potential solutions to this pervasive issue, based on extensive research.

Who should read Poverty, by America?

  • Poverty abolitionists
  • Lawmakers
  • Corporate leaders and shareholders

46
19th Century Books: Gender Trouble by Judith Butler

Gender Trouble

Judith Butler
Feminism and the Subversion of Identity
3.7 (57 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Gender Trouble about?

Gender Trouble (1990) is a touchstone work of theory in gender studies. Notably, it introduces the concept of gender performativity, which has had a profound impact on feminist and LGBTQ+ scholarship and activism, and shaped contemporary ideas around gender. 

Who should read Gender Trouble?

  • Students of gender theory 
  • Feminists and LGBTQ+ activists 
  • Those keen to inform themselves about gender fluidity and performativity

47
19th Century Books: A Passage to India by E. M. Forster

A Passage to India

E. M. Forster
3.8 (112 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's A Passage to India about?

A Passage to India explores the complex dynamics between the British colonialists and the Indian citizens in the setting of Chandrapore, a fictional city in British India. It delves into themes of friendship, culture clash, and the quest for understanding across cultural divides.

Who should read A Passage to India?

  • History enthusiasts  
  • Fans of British literature  
  • Cultural studies scholars

48
19th Century Books: I'm Not Yelling by Elizabeth Leiba

I'm Not Yelling

Elizabeth Leiba
A Black Woman's Guide to Navigating the Workplace
4.7 (6 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's I'm Not Yelling about?

I’m Not Yelling (2022) is part memoir, part tactical guide for Black women navigating corporate America. Filled with anecdotes and statistical data, it highlights the unique challenges Black women face in the workplace, and offers a range of reflections, strategies, and affirmations to empower you to step into your full potential. 

Who should read I'm Not Yelling?

  • Black businesswomen and female entrepreneurs 
  • Anyone wanting to educate themselves on the Black experience in America 
  • Individuals of minority groups committed to reclaiming their voice in the workplace 

49
19th Century Books: Social Justice Fallacies by Thomas Sowell

Social Justice Fallacies

Thomas Sowell
3.8 (218 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Social Justice Fallacies about?

Social Justice Fallacies (2023) unravels the myths and misconceptions driving today's social justice movement. It turns out that many popular beliefs about how society should be improved often conflict with concrete facts. This exploration sheds light on the perilous path of good intentions paired with fallacious assertions.

Who should read Social Justice Fallacies?

  • Critical thinkers who find themselves questioning social justice movements
  • Enthusiasts of fact-driven political discourse
  • Anyone wanting to debunk widely accepted social narratives

50
19th Century Books: DEI Deconstructed by Lily Zheng

DEI Deconstructed

Lily Zheng
Your No-Nonsense Guide to Doing the Work and Doing It Right
3.0 (100 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's DEI Deconstructed about?

DEI Deconstructed (2022) bridges theory and messy reality with pragmatic insights to make your organization more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. Moving beyond ineffective strategies, it provides a detailed foundation and roadmap for driving systemic change within companies.

Who should read DEI Deconstructed?

  • Business leaders seeking systemic DEI change in their organizations
  • Managers aiming to build inclusive and diverse teams
  • Employees looking to improve DEI from within their companies

51
19th Century Books: Take Back Your Power by Deborah Liu

Take Back Your Power

Deborah Liu
10 New Rules for Women at Work
3.8 (54 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Take Back Your Power about?

Take Back Your Power (2022) is part memoir, part practical guide to making your mark as a woman in the workplace. Through a wide-ranging selection of anecdotes from women at the top of their fields, it offers ten rules for career success and shares the mindsets and strategies that make each possible.

Who should read Take Back Your Power?

  • Female business leaders and employees
  • People from underrepresented backgrounds looking to make their mark at work
  • Men committed to fostering equality in the workplace

52
19th Century Books: The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

The Fire Next Time

James Baldwin
4.3 (114 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Fire Next Time about?

The Fire Next Time (1963) explores the roots of racism and the possibility of change through two passionately argued essays on religion, justice, and the Black experience in America.

Who should read The Fire Next Time?

  • Students curious about the signature voices of the American civil rights movement 
  • Those seeking insight into the interplay of racism and religion in society
  • Anyone craving clarity and wisdom on issues of justice, faith, and reconciliation that still resonate today

53
19th Century Books: Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Brown Girl Dreaming

Jacqueline Woodson
3.0 (1 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Brown Girl Dreaming about?

Brown Girl Dreaming (2014) is a story of childhood as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s. It explores themes of family, identity, and belonging, set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights movement. The narrative weaves a rich tapestry of personal and historical moments, highlighting the struggles and joys of growing up in a time of social change.

Who should read Brown Girl Dreaming?

  • Students studying African American literature and history
  • Young adults exploring their racial and cultural identity
  • Anyone interested in memoirs and personal narratives

54
19th Century Books: The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

The House on Mango Street

Sandra Cisneros
3.6 (100 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The House on Mango Street about?

The House on Mango Street (1991) is a classic coming-of-age novel that tells the story of 12-year-old Esperanza Cordero, a Latina immigrant in Chicago who dreams of escaping poverty and rigid gender roles. Praised for its sparse but powerful prose, The House on Mango Street explores themes of identity, poverty, and community, offering a unique perspective on the adolescent search for belonging.

Who should read The House on Mango Street?

  • Young adult readers and aspiring writers
  • Those interested in Latinx culture and immigration narratives
  • Fans of feminist literature 

55
19th Century Books: The End of Bias by Jessica Nordell

The End of Bias

Jessica Nordell
How We Change Our Minds
3.2 (70 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The End of Bias about?

The End of Bias: How We Change Our Minds (2021) delves into the science of unconscious bias, its effects on society, and the ways we can address and overcome these ingrained prejudices. It explores how habitual biases, even those not consciously endorsed, influence behavior and perceptions, and presents strategies for changing these automatic patterns of thought.

Who should read The End of Bias?

  • Individuals interested in psychology
  • Diversity and inclusion advocates
  • Human resources professionals

56
19th Century Books: Teddy and Booker T. by Brian Kilmeade

Teddy and Booker T.

Brian Kilmeade
How Two American Icons Blazed a Path for Racial Equality
4.2 (70 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Teddy and Booker T. about?

Teddy and Booker T. (2023) tells the story of how President Theodore Roosevelt and Booker T. Washington, two wildly different Americans, faced the challenge of advancing racial equality in the early 1900s. When Roosevelt welcomed Washington into his circle of advisors in 1901, they confronted violent racist backlash, having risen to prominence in an era of increasing Jim Crow laws and lynching. Though coming from vastly different backgrounds, both men embodied the pioneering American spirit and believed progress was possible through collaboration. 

Who should read Teddy and Booker T.?

  • History buffs
  • Leadership readers
  • People looking to be inspired

57
19th Century Books: Indivisible by Denise Hamilton

Indivisible

Denise Hamilton
How to Forge Our Differences Into a Stronger Future
3.3 (181 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Indivisible about?

Indivisible (2024) explores the power of reevaluating the myths and narratives that shape our identities and beliefs, advocating for a truth-based inclusivity for societal unity. 

Who should read Indivisible?

  • Activists and community organizers
  • Social scientists
  • People interested in history

58
19th Century Books: Decentering Whiteness in the Workplace by Janice Gassam Asare

Decentering Whiteness in the Workplace

Janice Gassam Asare
A Guide for Equity and Inclusion
2.4 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Decentering Whiteness in the Workplace about?

Decentering Whiteness in the Workplace (2023) exposes how white-dominant norms, mindsets, and behaviors subtly perpetuate harms and constrain inclusion in policies, interactions, and cultures across organizations.

Who should read Decentering Whiteness in the Workplace?

  • Human resources professionals looking to tackle subtle biases hindering diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts
  • Organizational leaders seeking fresh perspectives on barriers facing marginalized groups
  • Employees seeking solutions to dominant cultural patterns in the workplace

59
19th Century Books: Untapped Leadership by Jenny Vazquez-Newsum

Untapped Leadership

Jenny Vazquez-Newsum
Harnessing the Power of Underrepresented Leaders
3.4 (124 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Untapped Leadership about?

Untapped Leadership (2023) explores the leadership strategies, capabilities, and contributions made by leaders of color and those from marginalized backgrounds. Sharing diverse stories and strategies, it argues that the insights derived from BIPOC leadership are universally applicable, offering valuable lessons for anyone interested in enhancing their approach to leadership and navigating complex professional and personal landscapes.

Who should read Untapped Leadership?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking personal and professional development
  • Managers aiming to enhance team performance and innovation
  • All those interested in diverse leadership strategies and perspectives

60
19th Century Books: Reconstructing DEI by Lily Zheng

Reconstructing DEI

Lily Zheng
A Practitioner's Workbook
2.7 (67 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Reconstructing DEI about?

Reconstructing DEI (2024) offers an in-depth guide for implementing effective diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies (DEI) in various organizational contexts. It provides readers with practical tools, exercises, and case studies to navigate and enhance DEI initiatives, aiming to foster more inclusive environments and equitable outcomes.

Who should read Reconstructing DEI?

  • HR professionals, corporate executives, middle managers, and small business owners
  • Nonprofit organizations focused on social justice and advocacy
  • DEI practitioners, and anyone responsible for implementing DEI initiatives at an organization

61
19th Century Books: The End of Race Politics by Coleman Hughes

The End of Race Politics

Coleman Hughes
Arguments for a Colorblind America
4.2 (41 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The End of Race Politics about?

The End of Race Politics (2024) challenges the doctrine of contemporary antiracism, arguing that fixating on race undermines the fundamental ideals of the Civil Rights movement. Drawing on personal experience and incisive analysis, it contends that race-based policies and a culture of resentment will only lead to further division, making the case for a return to the vision of a just society where race no longer defines us.

Who should read The End of Race Politics?

  • Readers interested in thought-provoking perspectives on race, politics, and culture
  • Civil Rights activists who desire a return to a colorblind approach to race
  • Intellectuals, philosophers, and social commentators interested in how to best address racial issues in America

62
19th Century Books: Bits and Pieces by Whoopi Goldberg

Bits and Pieces

Whoopi Goldberg
My Mother, My Brother, and Me
4.0 (10 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Bits and Pieces about?

Bits and Pieces (2024) takes you through the candid moments that shaped Whoopi Goldberg's life, from childhood adventures in New York to navigating the highs and lows of stardom. Experience her heartfelt reflections on family, friendship, and resilience. Dive into a deeply personal journey of love, loss, and the strength found in the connections that bind us.

Who should read Bits and Pieces?

  • Fans of Whoopi Goldberg's diverse career and humor
  • Anyone interested in personal stories of resilience and family bonds
  • Enthusiasts of behind-the-scenes Hollywood and celebrity life

63
19th Century Books: The Third Perspective by Africa Brooke

The Third Perspective

Africa Brooke
Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance
4.2 (78 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Third Perspective about?

The Third Perspective (2024) offers an insightful journey into the challenges of self-expression in a world shaped by societal expectations and personal fears. Here, you'll uncover how to navigate the complexities of speaking your mind in a landscape often dominated by social media scrutiny and cultural conformity. This exploration equips you to cultivate a maverick mindset that transforms everyday courage into authentic life experiences, enhancing both personal integrity and communal dialogue.

Who should read The Third Perspective?

  • Personal development enthusiasts
  • Social media influencers navigating the complexities of public expression
  • Mental health professionals interested in the effects of self-censorship

64
19th Century Books: The Energy of Belonging by Wendy Gates Corbett

The Energy of Belonging

Wendy Gates Corbett
75 Ideas to Spark Workplace Community
4.3 (142 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Energy of Belonging about?

The Energy of Belonging (2024) is an action-oriented guide for everyone who wants to help create a sense of connection, respect, and safety in the workplace, and how this can transform organizations. It focuses on practical strategies for employees at all levels to foster a culture of belonging, to boost productivity, creativity, and overall success. 

Who should read The Energy of Belonging?

  • Employees at all levels who want to contribute to a more positive work environment
  • Diversity and inclusion specialists or enthusiasts interested in fostering belonging
  • Anyone looking to integrate better into their teams, or promote success and wellbeing for everyone

65
19th Century Books: I Respectfully Disagree by Justin Jones-Fosu

I Respectfully Disagree

Justin Jones-Fosu
How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World
4.2 (91 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's I Respectfully Disagree about?

I Respectfully Disagree (2024) offers practical strategies for seeing beyond black-and-white thinking, embracing empathy, and fostering respectful dialogue. With engaging insights and real-life examples, it provides the tools you need to navigate conflicts with understanding and grace. 

Who should read I Respectfully Disagree?

  • Anyone who’s suffered silently through a family reunion
  • People who struggle with differing opinions
  • Diplomatic individuals eager to build bridges

66
19th Century Books: The Truth About Immigration by Zeke Hernandez

The Truth About Immigration

Zeke Hernandez
Why Successful Societies Welcome Newcomers
3.5 (142 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Truth About Immigration about?

The Truth About Immigration (2024) offers a fact-based, comprehensive, and nonpartisan look at immigration, debunking common myths and fears. It reveals the overwhelmingly positive impact of immigration on job creation, investment, innovation, cultural vitality, and national security, showing how newcomers benefit local communities and the nation as a whole.

Who should read The Truth About Immigration?

  • Policymakers shaping immigration laws
  • Community organizers advocating for social integration
  • Business leaders interested in workforce diversity

67
19th Century Books: Autism by Uta Frith

Autism

Uta Frith
Explaining the Enigma
4.2 (43 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Autism about?

Autism (1989) presents pioneering theories on how individuals with autism perceive and process information, revolutionizing our understanding of the autism spectrum and paving the way for more effective support and intervention strategies. 

Who should read Autism?

  • Parents, family members, coworkers, or friends of individuals with autism curious to understand more
  • Employers or managers interested in neurodiversity in the workplace
  • Anyone curious about  psychology or cognitive neuroscience

68
19th Century Books: Lovely One by Ketanji Brown Jackson

Lovely One

Ketanji Brown Jackson
A Memoir
5.0 (3 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Lovely One about?

Lovely One (2024)  tells the inspiring story of Kentanji Brown Jackson’s journey from a young girl dreaming of justice to becoming the first Black woman on the Supreme Court. Through candid reflections on her family and career challenges, she highlights the power of resilience and ambition. It is a heartfelt memoir that represents the intersections of identity, aspiration, and the pursuit of equality in America.

Who should read Lovely One?

  • Aspiring legal professionals
  • Social justice advocates
  • Parents and caregivers

69
19th Century Books: Living Resistance by Kaitlin B. Curtice

Living Resistance

Kaitlin B. Curtice
An Indigenous Vision for Seeking Wholeness Every Day
3.2 (129 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Living Resistance about?

Living Resistance (2023) redefines resistance as a universal, everyday calling rooted in connection, belonging, and holistic flourishing. Inspired by the sacred practices of the Potawatomi Nation and other Indigenous traditions worldwide, it empowers readers to seek wholeness and liberation within their own spheres of influence, emphasizing that every act of resistance contributes to collective well-being.

Who should read Living Resistance?

  • Activists and advocates who want to deepen their resistance practice
  • Community organizers with an interest in collective flourishing
  • Anyone ready to heighten their connection to themselves, their community, and the Earth

70
19th Century Books: I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica Guzmán

I Never Thought of It That Way

Mónica Guzmán
How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times
4.2 (31 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's I Never Thought of It That Way about?

I Never Thought of It That Way (2022) explores how curiosity can bridge deep political and ideological divides. It offers practical tools for engaging in meaningful conversations with people whose views differ from your own, promoting understanding and reducing polarization in a divided society. 

Who should read I Never Thought of It That Way?

  • Politically engaged individuals looking to improve their discussions
  • Curious thinkers seeking to challenge their own assumptions
  • Community leaders aiming to encourage constructive dialogue across divides

71
19th Century Books: Radical Inclusion by David Moinina Sengeh

Radical Inclusion

David Moinina Sengeh
Seven Steps to Help You Create a More Just Workplace, Home, and World
3.6 (31 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Radical Inclusion about?

Radical Inclusion (2024) tells the compelling story of a fight to guarantee the right of pregnant girls in Sierra Leone to attend school. It explores how exclusionary systems can be transformed and offers practical strategies for creating more inclusive and equitable communities. Through personal stories and global experiences, it will provide you with a blueprint for fostering a world where everyone truly belongs.

Who should read Radical Inclusion?

  • Community leaders advocating for social change  
  • Educators seeking inclusive teaching strategies 
  • Policymakers addressing systemic inequality and exclusion

72
19th Century Books: The Power of Bridging by john a. powell

The Power of Bridging

john a. powell
How to Build a World Where We All Belong
4.0 (21 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Power of Bridging about?

The Power of Bridging (2024) presents “bridging” as an approach to overcoming social division. Drawing on research that shows an overwhelming public desire to reduce divisiveness, it offers practical strategies for building connections in all areas of life, from communities and workplaces to friendships and family relationships.

Who should read The Power of Bridging?

  • Activists who need to build a coalition without neglecting core values
  • Educators supporting students to navigate a divided society
  • Community leaders whose work unites disparate groups and interests

73
19th Century Books: The Flexibility Paradigm by Manar Sweillam Morales

The Flexibility Paradigm

Manar Sweillam Morales
Humanizing the Workplace for Productivity, Profitability, and Possibility
3.5 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Flexibility Paradigm about?

The Flexibility Paradigm (2025) reveals how organizations can transform their workplace culture by implementing comprehensive flexibility beyond remote work arrangements. This practical guide shows leaders how to measure success, overcome resistance, and create lasting change that benefits both business outcomes and employee wellbeing. 

Who should read The Flexibility Paradigm?

  • C-suite executives and organizational leaders looking to modernize their workplace culture
  • Middle managers transitioning to leading remote and hybrid teams
  • Anyone guiding cultural transformations in their workplace or organization

74
19th Century Books: The Model Black by Barbara Banda

The Model Black

Barbara Banda
How Black British Leaders Succeed in Organisations and Why It Matters
4.5 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Model Black about?

The Model Black (2022) explores the experiences of successful black British leaders navigating predominantly white workplaces. It highlights the challenges they face, the strategies they use to succeed, and the systemic barriers that persist. By sharing these insights, it aims to foster more inclusive and equitable organizational cultures.

Who should read The Model Black?

  • Ambitious black professionals striving for career advancement
  • Diversity and inclusion advocates driving systemic change
  • Anyone interested in race, leadership, and workplace equity

75
19th Century Books: Shame on You by Melissa Petro

Shame on You

Melissa Petro
How to Be a Woman in the Age of Mortification
4.2 (10 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Shame on You about?

Shame on You (2025) investigates how patriarchal systems weaponize shame against women, making them feel fundamentally unworthy while paradoxically punishing them for internalizing this unworthiness. Through investigative reporting, scientific research, and personal stories, it exposes shame's toxic impact on women's relationships, careers, and self-perception, while also offering a blueprint for becoming shame-resilient.

Who should read Shame on You?

  • Women struggling with perfectionism
  • Feminst activists
  • Parents of daughters

76
19th Century Books: Bad Friend by Tiffany Watt Smith

Bad Friend

Tiffany Watt Smith
How Women Revolutionized Modern Friendship
2.6 (5 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Bad Friend about?

Bad Friend (2025) explores the fascinating and understudied subject of female friendship throughout history. This survey of friendships between women introduces the reader to Victorian schoolgirl attachments, Depression-era workplace confidantes, feminist consciousness-raising circles, and more. It also offers an incisive analysis of the way mainstream culture has alternately ignored, policed, and celebrated this specific bond.

Who should read Bad Friend?

  • History lovers who want to uncover untold stories of female friendship
  • Feminists ready to learn how female friendship has shaped resistance and revolution
  • Anyone who is, or has, a female friend

77
19th Century Books: The Gift of Not Belonging by Rami Kaminski

The Gift of Not Belonging

Rami Kaminski
How Outsiders Thrive in a World of Joiners
4.6 (341 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Gift of Not Belonging about?

The Gift of Not Belonging (2025) introduces and defines the concept of the “otrovert” –⁠ someone who is socially skilled yet persistently detached from group identities. It differentiates otroverts from introverts and extroverts and shows how “not fitting in” isn’t a flaw but a form of freedom that enables original thinking, deeper individual connections, and a self-defined life.

Who should read The Gift of Not Belonging?

  • People who have felt socially “offbeat” or out of place in groups
  • Creatives who feel at odds with conventional workplaces or groupthink
  • Anyone who doesn’t fully identify with standard personality categories

78
19th Century Books: Curative Culture by Douglas K. Shaw

Curative Culture

Douglas K. Shaw
Stepping Away from a Toxic Workplace
4.5 (40 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Curative Culture about?

Curative Culture (2025) explores what it means to create a workplace that not only avoids harm but actively restores and strengthens people. It introduces the concept of a “curative culture” – an environment in which each individual is valued first as a human being, then as a contributor. Drawing from the religious principle of Imago Dei, or “image of God,” it invites leaders to shape cultures that recognize the inherent worth of every coworker.

Who should read Curative Culture?

  • Team leaders facing burnout or high staff turnover
  • Managers shaping culture in mission-driven organizations
  • Executives ready to rethink what “healthy” truly means

79
19th Century Books: Black AF History by Michael Harriot

Black AF History

Michael Harriot
The Un-Whitewashed Story of America
4.2 (38 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Black AF History about?

Black AF History (2025) offers an in-depth look at the documented stories of American history that reveal it through the perspectives of the Black Americans who built the original colonies, the national economy, and the country’s infrastructure long before the United States was even a country. It also tells the tale of the centuries that followed, through Civil War, Reconstruction, backlash, and progress to uncover the resilience and self determination of Black Americans.

Who should read Black AF History?

  • History buffs craving an inside look into the personalities and events that have shaped America as it is today
  • Those curious about the deep background for current events and politics
  • Anyone wanting a more comprehensive history of the world, and a more complete picture of those who have made a difference

80
19th Century Books: Nobody's Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre

Nobody's Girl

Virginia Roberts Giuffre
A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice
4.4 (44 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Nobody's Girl about?

Nobody’s Girl (2025) is an intimate memoir by a central figure in the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, recounting her years of abuse and sex trafficking by Epstein and his co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell. It details the lifetime of abuse she suffered first in her family, and later by a host of criminals, as well as her escape and eventual advocacy to bring these crimes to light, and support victims of sex crimes internationally.

Who should read Nobody's Girl?

  • News hounds curious about the stories occupying the headlines globally
  • History fans looking for the inside story from important figures behind current events
  • Anyone curious about the real costs of abuse, the abuse of power, or the ravages of sex trafficking on the young and vulnerable

81
19th Century Books: The Atlas of Christmas by Alex Palmer

The Atlas of Christmas

Alex Palmer
The Merriest, Tastiest, Quirkiest Holiday Traditions from Around the World
3.8 (24 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Atlas of Christmas about?

The Atlas of Christmas (2020) explores how Christmas is celebrated around the world, highlighting customs ranging from the cozy and heartwarming to the bizarre and surprising. It presents a country-by-country tour of festive foods, rituals, characters, and legends, showing how different cultures reinterpret the same holiday in unique ways.

Who should read The Atlas of Christmas?

  • Curious holiday enthusiasts seeking quirky global Christmas traditions
  • Culture-loving travelers interested in festive customs worldwide
  • Festive-minded people looking for new seasonal inspiration

82
19th Century Books: Make Work Fair by Iris Bohnet, Siri Chilazi

Make Work Fair

Iris Bohnet, Siri Chilazi
Data-Driven Design for Real Results
4.5 (22 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Make Work Fair about?

Make Work Fair (2025) offers a data-driven alternative to ineffective diversity training by showing how to redesign workplace systems themselves. It demonstrates how measuring patterns, removing structural barriers, and building accountability into daily work creates organizations that are both fairer and more effective.

Who should read Make Work Fair?

  • People who run meetings, mentor colleagues, or influence workplace processes
  • Those curious about why traditional diversity efforts frequently fail
  • Anyone who wants to understand how systems create invisible advantages and disadvantages

83
19th Century Books: Sticking Points by Haydn Shaw

Sticking Points

Haydn Shaw
How to Get 5 Generations Working Together
4.6 (21 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Sticking Points about?

Sticking Points (2013) explores what happens when up to five generations work side by side. It shows how shared goals at work are often undermined by everyday misunderstandings rooted in different generational experiences, habits, and expectations. The central message is practical and optimistic: these tensions are normal, manageable, and solvable when we learn how to work with differences instead of fighting them.

Who should read Sticking Points?

  • Managers leading age-diverse teams
  • HR professionals
  • Anyone frustrated by generational misunderstandings at work

84
19th Century Books: Be Yourself at Work by Claude Silver

Be Yourself at Work

Claude Silver
Show Up, Stand Out, and Lead from the Heart
4.6 (42 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's Be Yourself at Work about?

Be Yourself at Work (2025) demonstrates how authenticity becomes a strategic advantage in modern workplaces. It tackles the burnout that stems from endless performance and pretense, revealing how genuine self-expression actually drives connection, innovation, and meaningful results. It also provides you with actionable strategies for building inclusive teams where people belong and feel genuinely valued.

Who should read Be Yourself at Work?

  • Managers and leaders building better team culture
  • Exhausted professionals seeking authentic belonging
  • Anyone wanting to discover their authentic power

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19th Century Books: We the Women by Norah O'Donnell

We the Women

Norah O'Donnell
The Hidden Heroes Who Shaped America
4.7 (13 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's We the Women about?

We the Women (2026), published in the year of America’s 250th anniversary, profiles 35 women whose roles in the country’s history have been largely overlooked. Spanning the Revolutionary era to the present, it reframes the American story as one built as much by women as by the men who dominate the official record.

Who should read We the Women?

  • American history buffs looking for new perspectives on lesser-known figures
  • People who want a fuller, more complete account of the national story
  • Anyone curious about the origins of the rights Americans take for granted today

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19th Century Books: The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

The Woman in White

Wilkie Collins

What's The Woman in White about?

The Woman in White is a gripping Victorian mystery novel that tells the story of a young art teacher who becomes entangled in a web of deception and madness. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, the novel explores themes of identity, love, and the power of the human spirit. It is a timeless classic that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read The Woman in White?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful and mysterious novels
  • People interested in Victorian literature and the gothic genre
  • Individuals who appreciate well-developed characters and intricate plotlines

87
19th Century Books: Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman

Leaves of Grass

Walt Whitman

What's Leaves of Grass about?

Leaves of Grass is a collection of poetry by American poet Walt Whitman. First published in 1855, it is considered one of the most important and influential works in American literature. The poems celebrate the beauty of nature, the human spirit, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Whitman's free verse and unconventional style challenged traditional poetic forms and themes, making it a groundbreaking and timeless work.

Who should read Leaves of Grass?

  • Readers who enjoy insightful, introspective poetry
  • Individuals seeking a deep connection with nature and humanity
  • Those interested in exploring themes of identity, democracy, and individuality

88
19th Century Books: Hedda Gabler by Henrik Ibsen

Hedda Gabler

Henrik Ibsen

What's Hedda Gabler about?

Hedda Gabler is a play written by Henrik Ibsen that delves into the complex and tragic life of the title character, Hedda Gabler. Set in 19th century Norway, the play explores themes of power, control, and societal expectations as Hedda navigates her unhappy marriage and the constraints placed upon her as a woman. With its gripping plot and thought-provoking dialogue, Hedda Gabler is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences.

Who should read Hedda Gabler?

  • Individuals intrigued by complex and morally ambiguous characters
  • Readers interested in psychological dramas set in 19th-century society
  • Those who appreciate exploring themes of marriage, identity, and societal expectations

89
19th Century Books: Billy Budd by Herman Melville

Billy Budd

Herman Melville

What's Billy Budd about?

Billy Budd is a classic novel by Herman Melville that tells the story of a young sailor who is falsely accused of mutiny and sentenced to death. Set aboard a British naval ship during the Napoleonic Wars, the novel explores themes of innocence, justice, and the corrupting influence of power. It is a gripping tale that raises thought-provoking questions about morality and the nature of good and evil.

Who should read Billy Budd?

  • Readers interested in exploring themes of morality and justice
  • People who enjoy literary works with complex character development
  • Those looking for a thought-provoking and impactful read

90
19th Century Books: Daisy Miller by Henry James

Daisy Miller

Henry James

What's Daisy Miller about?

Daisy Miller is a novella by Henry James that tells the story of a young American girl named Daisy Miller who travels to Europe and becomes entangled in a scandal due to her unconventional behavior. The book explores themes of social class, gender roles, and cultural differences, and offers a critique of the rigid social norms of the time. It is a compelling and thought-provoking examination of the clash between American innocence and European sophistication.

Who should read Daisy Miller?

  • Readers who enjoy exploring the complexities of human behavior
  • Those interested in the clash between American and European cultures
  • People looking for a thought-provoking and introspective reading experience

91
19th Century Books: Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev

Fathers and Sons

Ivan Turgenev

What's Fathers and Sons about?

"Fathers and Sons" is a novel by Ivan Turgenev that explores the generational divide between fathers and their sons in 19th century Russia. Through the complex relationships and contrasting beliefs of the characters, the book delves into themes of nihilism, tradition, and the changing social and political landscape of the time. It offers a thought-provoking examination of the tensions and misunderstandings that can arise between different generations.

Who should read Fathers and Sons?

  • Readers looking for a timeless classic with deep and complex characters
  • Those interested in exploring the themes of love, generational conflict, and intellectualism
  • People who appreciate thought-provoking literary works that offer cultural and historical insights

92
19th Century Books: Human, All Too Human by Friedrich Nietzsche

Human, All Too Human

Friedrich Nietzsche

What's Human, All Too Human about?

In this philosophical work, Nietzsche explores the complexities of human nature and the inherent flaws and contradictions within us. He delves into topics such as morality, religion, and society, offering thought-provoking insights and challenging traditional beliefs. Through a series of aphorisms and essays, Nietzsche invites readers to question their own assumptions and embrace a more nuanced understanding of what it means to be human.

Who should read Human, All Too Human?

  • Curious individuals seeking a deeper understanding of human nature and the complexities of human behavior
  • Philosophy enthusiasts exploring the works of Friedrich Nietzsche
  • Readers interested in thought-provoking reflections on humanity, societal norms, and individuality

93
19th Century Books: Notes from the Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

Notes from the Underground

Fyodor Dostoyevsky

What's Notes from the Underground about?

"Notes from the Underground" is a novel by Fyodor Dostoyevsky that delves into the inner thoughts and feelings of an unnamed narrator living in 19th-century St. Petersburg. Through a series of fragmented and philosophical musings, the book explores themes of alienation, free will, and the nature of existence, offering a profound and thought-provoking examination of the human condition.

Who should read Notes from the Underground?

  • Readers who enjoy introspective and philosophical literature
  • Individuals who are intrigued by human behavior and psychology
  • Those who appreciate thought-provoking and deep exploration of the human condition

94
19th Century Books: Notes from the Underground by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Notes from the Underground

Fyodor Dostoevsky

What's Notes from the Underground about?

Notes from the Underground is a novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky that delves into the mind of an unnamed narrator living in isolation. Through a series of disjointed thoughts and reflections, the book explores themes of free will, alienation, and the nature of humanity. It offers a profound and thought-provoking examination of the inner workings of the human psyche.

Who should read Notes from the Underground?

  • Readers who enjoy philosophical and introspective literature

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and society

  • People who appreciate thought-provoking and psychologically rich narratives


95
19th Century Books: On The Genealogy of Morals by Friedrich Nietzsche

On The Genealogy of Morals

Friedrich Nietzsche

What's On The Genealogy of Morals about?

On The Genealogy of Morals by Friedrich Nietzsche is a thought-provoking examination of the origins of our moral values. In this book, Nietzsche challenges the traditional notions of good and evil, and delves into the history of human morality to reveal its underlying power dynamics and contradictions. Through his unique and controversial perspective, he invites readers to question their deeply held beliefs and reevaluate the foundations of our ethical systems.

Who should read On The Genealogy of Morals?

  • Individuals seeking to understand the origins and complexities of morality

  • Philosophy enthusiasts interested in exploring Nietzsche's critical analysis of society and culture

  • Readers looking to challenge their preconceived notions and expand their intellectual horizons


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19th Century Books
 FAQs 

What's the best 19th Century book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Lean In as the ultimate read on 19th Century.

What are the Top 10 19th Century books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
  • The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama
  • The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
  • Immigrants by Philippe Legrain
  • The Politics of Promotion by Bonnie Marcus
  • Headscarves and Hymens by Mona Eltahawy
  • The End of Average by Todd Rose
  • The Glass Closet by John Browne
  • Reset by Ellen Pao
  • Can You Learn to be Lucky? by Karla Starr

Who are the top 19th Century book authors?

When it comes to 19th Century, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Sheryl Sandberg
  • Barack Obama
  • James Surowiecki
  • Philippe Legrain
  • Bonnie Marcus