The best 55 Diversity & Inclusion books

Diversity and Inclusion play a crucial role in today's society, fostering understanding and acceptance among individuals from different backgrounds. Our carefully assembled book list on Diversity & Inclusion offers valuable insights into this significant subject, making it easier to navigate these complex issues.

Explore our collection to gain new perspectives, challenge biases, and promote inclusivity in your personal and professional life. Ready to broaden your horizons and embrace the richness of diversity? Start reading now!

The best 55 Diversity & Inclusion books
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1
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama

The Audacity of Hope

Barack Obama
Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream
4.5 (119 ratings)
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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

2
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki

The Wisdom of Crowds

James Surowiecki
Why the Many Are Smarter Than the Few
4.5 (81 ratings)
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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

3
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Immigrants by Philippe Legrain

Immigrants

Philippe Legrain
Your Country Needs Them
4.0 (38 ratings)
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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

4
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Politics of Promotion by Bonnie Marcus

The Politics of Promotion

Bonnie Marcus
How High-Achieving Women Get Ahead and Stay Ahead
4.1 (32 ratings)
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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

5
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Headscarves and Hymens by Mona Eltahawy

Headscarves and Hymens

Mona Eltahawy
Why the Middle East Needs a Sexual Revolution
3.7 (156 ratings)
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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.

6
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The End of Average by Todd Rose

The End of Average

Todd Rose
How to Succeed in a World that Values Sameness
4.1 (34 ratings)
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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

7
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Glass Closet by John Browne

The Glass Closet

John Browne
Why Coming Out Is Good Business
3.7 (94 ratings)
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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

8
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Reset by Ellen Pao

Reset

Ellen Pao
My Fight for Inclusion and Lasting Change
4.1 (15 ratings)
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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

9
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (134 ratings)
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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

10
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Power Up by Magdalena Yesil

Power Up

Magdalena Yesil
How Smart Women Win in the New Economy
4.2 (19 ratings)
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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

11
Diversity & Inclusion 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
3.9 (77 ratings)
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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

12
Diversity & Inclusion Books: I'm Judging You by Luvvie Ajayi

I'm Judging You

Luvvie Ajayi
The Do-Better Manual
2.7 (24 ratings)
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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

13
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Hacking Darwin by Jamie Metzl

Hacking Darwin

Jamie Metzl
Genetic Engineering and the Future of Humanity
4.4 (103 ratings)
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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

14
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (138 ratings)
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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

15
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Crippled by Frances Ryan

Crippled

Frances Ryan
Austerity and the Demonization of Disabled People
4.3 (15 ratings)
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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

16
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Humanity Works by Alexandra Levit

Humanity Works

Alexandra Levit
Merging Technologies and People for the Workforce of the Future
4.3 (66 ratings)
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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

17
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed

Rebel Ideas

Matthew Syed
The Power of Diverse Thinking
4.6 (231 ratings)
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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

18
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Lean Out by Marissa Orr

Lean Out

Marissa Orr
The Truth about Women, Power, and the Workplace
4.5 (94 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.

 


19
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Future Shaper by Niamh O'Keeffe

Future Shaper

Niamh O'Keeffe
How Leaders Can Take Charge in an Uncertain World
4.2 (87 ratings)
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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

20
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Stonewall by Martin Duberman

Stonewall

Martin Duberman
The Definitive Story of the LGBTQ Rights Uprising that Changed America
3.5 (127 ratings)
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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

21
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (198 ratings)
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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.

22
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (72 ratings)
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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

23
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (57 ratings)
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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

24
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Woke, Inc. by Vivek Ramaswamy

Woke, Inc.

Vivek Ramaswamy
Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam
3.9 (230 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

25
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (214 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

26
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Equity by Minal Bopaiah

Equity

Minal Bopaiah
How to Design Organizations Where Everyone Thrives
3.7 (159 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

27
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (152 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

28
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Disability Visibility by Alice Wong

Disability Visibility

Alice Wong
First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century
4.2 (88 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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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

29
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (134 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

30
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (309 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

31
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (187 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

32
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Inclusion on Purpose by Ruchika Tulshyan

Inclusion on Purpose

Ruchika Tulshyan
An Intersectional Approach to Creating a Culture of Belonging at Work
4.2 (31 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

33
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (289 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

34
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Remix by Lindsey Pollak

The Remix

Lindsey Pollak
How to Lead and Succeed in the Multigenerational Workplace
4.4 (11 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

35
Diversity & Inclusion 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
2.8 (30 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

36
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (441 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

37
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Workstyle by Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst

Workstyle

Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst
A revolution for wellbeing, productivity and society
3.8 (217 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.

38
Diversity & Inclusion 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.

39
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Saving Time by Jenny Odell

Saving Time

Jenny Odell
Discovering a Life Beyond the Clock
4.0 (387 ratings)
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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

40
Diversity & Inclusion 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 (27 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

41
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Divergent Mind by Jenara Nerenberg

Divergent Mind

Jenara Nerenberg
Thriving in a World That Wasn't Designed for You
3.9 (244 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

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Diversity & Inclusion Books: Pageboy by Elliot Page

Pageboy

Elliot Page
A Memoir
3.2 (35 ratings)
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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

43
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Alignment Problem by Brian Christian

The Alignment Problem

Brian Christian
Machine Learning and Human Values
2.9 (65 ratings)
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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

44
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond

Poverty, by America

Matthew Desmond
3.8 (177 ratings)
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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

45
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The Way Up by Errol L. Pierre with Jim Jermanok

The Way Up

Errol L. Pierre with Jim Jermanok
Climbing the Corporate Mountain as a Professional of Color
4.2 (11 ratings)
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What's The Way Up about?

The Way Up (2022) is a career guidebook that provides professionals of color with empowering advice on climbing the corporate ladder. Drawing on interviews and lived experience, it tackles topics like expanding networks, overcoming impostor syndrome, and securing executive mentors. With motivating wisdom and practical strategies, it shows how to navigate workplace challenges and fulfill your leadership potential.

Who should read The Way Up?

  • Professionals of color 
  • Managers wanting to support diversity 
  • Leaders from diverse communities 

46
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Gender Trouble by Judith Butler

Gender Trouble

Judith Butler
Feminism and the Subversion of Identity
3.1 (33 ratings)
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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
Diversity & Inclusion Books: A Passage to India by E. M. Forster

A Passage to India

E. M. Forster
3.5 (6 ratings)
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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

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Diversity & Inclusion Books: I'm Not Yelling by Elizabeth Leiba

I'm Not Yelling

Elizabeth Leiba
A Black Woman's Guide to Navigating the Workplace
4.5 (4 ratings)
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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 

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Diversity & Inclusion Books: Social Justice Fallacies by Thomas Sowell

Social Justice Fallacies

Thomas Sowell
3.7 (147 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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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
Diversity & Inclusion Books: DEI Deconstructed by Lily Zheng

DEI Deconstructed

Lily Zheng
Your No-Nonsense Guide to Doing the Work and Doing It Right
2.9 (95 ratings)
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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
Diversity & Inclusion Books: Take Back Your Power by Deborah Liu

Take Back Your Power

Deborah Liu
10 New Rules for Women at Work
3.8 (46 ratings)
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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
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

The House on Mango Street

Sandra Cisneros
3.5 (93 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 

53
Diversity & Inclusion Books: The End of Bias by Jessica Nordell

The End of Bias

Jessica Nordell
How We Change Our Minds
3.2 (45 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

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Diversity & Inclusion Books: Indivisible by Denise Hamilton

Indivisible

Denise Hamilton
How to Forge Our Differences Into a Stronger Future
3.5 (41 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

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Diversity & Inclusion Books: Untapped Leadership by Jenny Vazquez-Newsum

Untapped Leadership

Jenny Vazquez-Newsum
Harnessing the Power of Underrepresented Leaders
2.5 (2 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

Related Topics

Diversity & Inclusion Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Diversity & Inclusion book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard The Audacity of Hope as the ultimate read on Diversity & Inclusion.

What are the Top 10 Diversity & Inclusion books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • 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
  • Power Up by Magdalena Yesil

Who are the top Diversity & Inclusion book authors?

When it comes to Diversity & Inclusion, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Barack Obama
  • James Surowiecki
  • Philippe Legrain
  • Bonnie Marcus
  • Mona Eltahawy