The best 60 Education & Upbringing books

1
The Five Core Conversations for Couples

The Five Core Conversations for Couples

David Bulitt and Julie Bulitt
Expert Advice about How to Develop: Effective Communication, a Long-Term Financial Plan, Cooperative Parenting Strategies, Mutually Satisfying Sex, and Work-Life Balance
4.1 (25 ratings)

What's The Five Core Conversations for Couples about?

The Five Core Conversations for Couples (2020) examines the five important topics every couple should talk about. It offers expert guidance on the core facets of a relationship that can help you strengthen yours. 

Who should read The Five Core Conversations for Couples?

  • Young couples looking for relationship advice
  • Older couples wanting to fix and strengthen their marriage
  • Anyone in a relationship

2
Reinventing Your Life

Reinventing Your Life

Jeffrey E. Young and Janet S. Klosko
The Breakthrough Program to End Negative Behaviour...and Feel Great Again
4.3 (10 ratings)

What's Reinventing Your Life about?

Reinventing Your Life (1994) is a manual on how to pull yourself out of negative habits and improve your life. By identifying key stumbling blocks to growth – or “lifetraps” – and presenting ways to overcome them, it guides you toward sustainable personal growth and happiness.

Who should read Reinventing Your Life?

  • Anyone who feels stuck in the same old negative loop
  • People looking to understand themselves better
  • Psychology buffs

3
Care of the Soul

Care of the Soul

Thomas Moore
A Guide for Cultivating Depth and Sacredness in Everyday Life
4.5 (10 ratings)

What's Care of the Soul about?

Care of the Soul (2016) offers a Jungian approach to everyday life. It’s a guide for codifying our experiences into story and myth, recognizing and accepting the soulfulness and messiness of our experiences, and seeing the sacred in the ordinariness of life.

Who should read Care of the Soul?

  • Spiritual people
  • Those struggling with their mental health
  • Fans of Jung and Campbell

4
Scattered Minds

Scattered Minds

Gabor Maté
The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder
4.5 (301 ratings)

What's Scattered Minds about?

Scattered Minds (1999) takes aim at a well-established myth: that attention deficit disorder, or ADD for short, is an inherited illness. It doesn’t deny the biological foundations of the disorder – genes also play a role. But it urges us to widen our perspective and pay closer attention to psychological and social factors that may be contributing to the symptoms. ADD often develops within specific familial and societal contexts. Recognizing this isn’t just about correcting the scientific record – it offers a key to effective treatment.

Who should read Scattered Minds?

  • Science aficionados
  • People who have attention deficit disorder
  • Anyone interested in the connection between society and psychology

5
1-2-3 Magic

1-2-3 Magic

Thomas W. Phelan
Effective Discipline for Children 2-12
3.8 (20 ratings)

What's 1-2-3 Magic about?

1-2-3 Magic (1995) is a clear and thorough guide to one of the most difficult yet important aspects of parenting: discipline. By outlining essential parenting principles and demonstrating simple and immediately applicable techniques, it creates a roadmap for taking back control of your home and building a much more enjoyable relationship with your child. Whether your goal is to stop the bad behavior of a tantrum-prone toddler or encourage good behavior in your pre-teen, this revised sixth edition will give you the tools you need to discipline responsibly.

Who should read 1-2-3 Magic?

  • Overwhelmed parents of younger children who need to adopt a new approach to discipline
  • Exhausted carers of pre-teens who want to have more control over bad behavior
  • Anyone who feels like they spend more time fighting than having fun with their child

6
The Explosive Child

The Explosive Child

Ross W. Greene
A New Approach for Understanding and Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible Children
4.6 (20 ratings)

What's The Explosive Child about?

The Explosive Child (2021) is a groundbreaking and scientific guide to dealing with children who react extremely to routine situations. Drawing on neuroscience and child psychology, Greene lays out a conceptual framework focused on the cause of the behavior, rather than the behavior itself. This framework can serve as a guide for frustrated parents who want to understand and address their child’s severe outbursts.

Who should read The Explosive Child?

  • Frustrated parents who feel like they've tried it all
  • Caregivers and teachers who are concerned by a child's violent outbursts
  • Anyone looking for a fresh and compassionate perspective on children's problematic behavior

7
The Parenting Map

The Parenting Map

Dr. Shefali
Step-By-Step Solutions to Consciously Create the Ultimate Parent-Child Relationship
4.8 (30 ratings)

What's The Parenting Map about?

The Parenting Map (2023) by Dr. Shefali Tsabary offers a step-by-step guide to parenting healthy, happy, resilient, and grounded children by adopting a mindful parenting approach. In it, parents are encouraged to unlearn toxic parenting habits and replace them with moments of meaningful connection.

Who should read The Parenting Map?

  • Expectant families looking for clear, compassionate parenting advice
  • Seasoned parents who’d like to feel more present for their children
  • Grandparents, caregivers, guardians, and anyone with special young people in their lives

8
The Origins of You

The Origins of You

Vienna Pharaon
How Breaking Family Patterns Can Liberate the Way We Live and Love
4.4 (29 ratings)

What's The Origins of You about?

Origins of You (2023) invites you on a transformative journey of self-discovery, guiding you through the process of uncovering your origin stories and healing emotional wounds. With powerful insights and practical tools, this invaluable resource empowers you to embrace your past, nurture your well-being, and cultivate authentic, meaningful connections.

Who should read The Origins of You?

  • People seeking self-awareness and personal growth
  • Couples aiming to enhance emotional connection
  • Therapists and coaches pursuing new insights

9
The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)

The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)

Philippa Perry
Sound parenting advice based on psychology
4.5 (551 ratings)

What's The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) about?

The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did) (2019) is exactly what it sounds like: a book on raising children and a trove of practical knowledge that you can’t help thinking your childhood would have benefited from. Spotlighting mental health and emotional development, this book takes an alternative approach to parenting that’s apt for our modern world.

Who should read The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)?

  • Parents who want to improve their kid’s childhood
  • Parents-to-be wishing to reduce the learning curve
  • Your inner child

10
The Drama of the Gifted Child

The Drama of the Gifted Child

Alice Miller
The Search for the True Self
4.2 (109 ratings)

What's The Drama of the Gifted Child about?

International bestseller and classic The Drama of the Gifted Child (1979) is about the ways in which our unhappy, repressed childhood memories come back to haunt us as adults. Everyone deals with negativity in their childhood, and if adults don’t confront these memories, they risk living unfulfilled lives or even passing their problems on to their children. Overcoming these suppressed emotions will set you free.

Who should read The Drama of the Gifted Child?

  • Anyone who’s ever felt “empty”
  • People struggling with depression or addiction
  • Parents and parents-to-be

11
The Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in the Rye

J.D. Salinger
A Coming-Of-Age Classic on Belonging and Teenage Alienation
4.4 (67 ratings)

What's The Catcher in the Rye about?

The Catcher in the Rye (1951) is J. D. Salinger’s classic coming-of-age novel, telling the story of the troubled young Holden Caulfield. Holden has just been expelled from school, and spends several days traversing New York City, sharing his opinions of the world around him.

Who should read The Catcher in the Rye?

  • Lovers of coming-of-age stories
  • Classic literature fans
  • People who dislike phonies

12
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families

Stephen R. Covey
Creating Powerful & Positive Relationships Within the Family
4.6 (361 ratings)

What's The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families about?

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families (1997) was written by Stephen R. Covey with, as he says, “such a passion . . . because family is what I care about most.” It’s a very personal book that talks about how the author, his wife, and nine children apply each of the habits in their family life. It can also be your guide to solving the problems you face in your family as you strive, individually and together, to become more effective.

Who should read The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families?

  • Self-improvement seekers who want to understand how effective families work
  • Couples who want to raise their family in a nurturing environment
  • Fans of The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People

13
Unlocking Parental Intelligence

Unlocking Parental Intelligence

Laurie Hollman
Finding Meaning in Your Child's Behavior
4.4 (223 ratings)

What's Unlocking Parental Intelligence about?

Unlocking Parental Intelligence (2015) explores childrens’ complicated behavior with a fresh mental toolbox to decipher why kids act the way they do. It outlines a five-step process with relatable case studies to help parents connect more deeply with their children, as well as anticipate their needs and actions.

Who should read Unlocking Parental Intelligence?

  • Parents of infants, young children, or teenagers
  • Grandparents and caregivers struggling with difficult situations
  • Soon-to-be parents who want to be prepared

14
Good Inside

Good Inside

Becky Kennedy
A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be
4.6 (376 ratings)

What's Good Inside about?

Good Inside (2022) offers hope to parents who feel helpless when it comes to managing conflict in their homes. More than parenting, it’s about loving yourself and extending that love to your children. Dr. Becky rejects traditional reward and punishment strategies, instead encouraging parents to seek understanding with their children while still maintaining healthy boundaries.

Who should read Good Inside?

  • New parents
  • Parents who are afraid it’s too late to change how they parent
  • People healing from emotional damage

15
Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers

Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers

Stephanie M. Kriesberg
Quiet the Critical Voice in Your Head, Heal Self-Doubt, and Live the Life You Deserve
4.7 (27 ratings)

What's Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers about?

Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers (2022) explores the ramifications of having a narcissistic parent, and what you as an adult can do to release yourself from your mother’s toxic hold. Its toolkit will help you manage the difficult feelings that come with being raised by a narcissist – like self-doubt, shame, and anxiety – so that you can start living on your own terms. 

Who should read Adult Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers?

  • Adults with controlling, manipulative, or domineering mothers
  • Those who have struggled with anxiety and insecurity since they were young
  • Anyone who has felt fundamentally flawed since they were a child

16
The Sleep Revolution

The Sleep Revolution

Arianna Huffington
Transforming Your Life One Night At A Time
3.9 (227 ratings)

What's The Sleep Revolution about?

These blinks are about the importance of a basic human necessity that we often brush aside: sleep. Getting enough sleep isn’t just about feeling better in the morning – it improves your work performance, health and even your personal relationships. Similarly, sleep deprivation isn’t a by-product of hard work; rather, it prevents you from reaching your full potential. The Sleep Revolution (2016) explains why sleep is so critical, and what you can do to get more of it.

Who should read The Sleep Revolution?

  • Anyone who gets sleepy at work or school
  • Parents and teachers who aren’t getting enough rest
  • Athletes wanting to reach their peak performance

17
Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents

Lindsay C. Gibson
How to Heal from Difficult, Rejecting, or Self-involved Parents
4.6 (339 ratings)

What's Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents about?

Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents (2015) exposes the negative impacts that many adults face as the result of growing up with distant, rejecting, or self-involved parents. From demystifying the behavior of emotionally immature caregivers to providing practical tools for personal growth, it’s a step-by-step guide to healing old wounds and embracing a more positive future.

Who should read Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents?

  • Adult children of emotionally immature parents
  • Parents who want to be more emotionally mature for their children
  • Anyone interested in the dynamics of family psychology

18
Hold on to Your Kids

Hold on to Your Kids

Gordon Neufeld & Gabor Maté
Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers
4.3 (23 ratings)

What's Hold on to Your Kids about?

Hold on to Your Kids (2008) is an important warning to parents on the danger of allowing peer influence to dominate children’s upbringings. Backed by research, it offers parents a path to rebuilding attachment with their seemingly lost children.

Who should read Hold on to Your Kids?

  • Parents (and people considering becoming parents)
  • Children’s family members
  • Teachers and social workers

19
The Yes Brain

The Yes Brain

Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
How to Cultivate Courage, Curiosity and Resilience in Your Child
4.3 (162 ratings)

What's The Yes Brain about?

The Yes Brain (2018) is a hands-on guide to teaching yourself and your kids to approach the world with openness, creativity and boundless curiosity. Packed full of useful tips, examples and ideas, this book shows parents how to model and cultivate the traits that let you say “yes” to the world: balance, resilience, insight and empathy. And that doesn’t just give children better self-control and awareness; it also puts them on the path to meaningful and successful lives.

Who should read The Yes Brain?

  • Parents worried about their child’s selfishness
  • Anyone who works with children
  • Anyone looking for a mindful solution to everyday problems

20
Simplicity Parenting

Simplicity Parenting

Kim John Payne and Lisa M. Ross
Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids
4.2 (134 ratings)

What's Simplicity Parenting about?

Simplicity Parenting (2009) teaches parents how to reduce the levels of stress experienced by their children. Parents can accomplish this by controlling their children’s environment, limiting their access to the adult world and providing them with a steady, rhythmic schedule. Taking these simple steps will improve family life for all involved.  

Who should read Simplicity Parenting?

  • Parents and parents-to-be
  • Child psychologists
  • Therapists

21
Smart Money Smart Kids

Smart Money Smart Kids

Dave Ramsey & Rachel Cruze
Raising the Next Generation to Win with Money
4.2 (172 ratings)

What's Smart Money Smart Kids about?

Smart Money Smart Kids (2014) guides parents – or anyone helping raise children – in teaching those kids to become financially smart. Review basics like the relationship between work and money and find actionable advice for instructing toddlers through teens to gain confidence with money.

Who should read Smart Money Smart Kids?

  • Parents or guardians who want to raise money smart kids
  • Anyone teaching young people how to be financially fit
  • Financially wealthy individuals wondering how to build generational success

22
The Emotional Lives of Teenagers

The Emotional Lives of Teenagers

Lisa Damour
Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents
4.9 (22 ratings)

What's The Emotional Lives of Teenagers about?

The Emotional Lives of Teenagers (2023) is a best-selling guide to navigating the highs and lows of parenting your child through adolescence. It dispenses honest, practical, research-informed advice aimed at helping parents understand, support, and connect with their teens in a way that honors the huge transition they’re experiencing.

Who should read The Emotional Lives of Teenagers?

  • Parents looking for effective strategies to support their teen’s mental health
  • Educators and youth workers seeking clinically informed advice about the adolescent years
  • Anyone who wants to help the teenagers in their lives feel loved, supported, and heard as they transition into adulthood

23
Raising Men

Raising Men

Eric Davis
From Fathers to Sons—Life Lessons from Navy SEAL Training
3.9 (20 ratings)

What's Raising Men about?

Raising Men (2016) is a powerful exploration of life-changing military lessons, emphasizing the importance of boldness, accountability, and bonding. Via real-life stories from Navy SEALs, this captivating narrative will teach you how to build strong relationships with your son and raise him with discipline, leadership, and grace.

Who should read Raising Men?

  • Expectant fathers
  • Distant Dads
  • Military patriarchs

24
Parenting Outside the Lines

Parenting Outside the Lines

Meghan Leahy
Forget the Rules, Tap into Your Wisdom, and Connect with Your Child
4.5 (166 ratings)

What's Parenting Outside the Lines about?

Parenting Outside the Lines (2020) is an essential guide to forgetting everything you’ve ever learned about parenting – and following your intuition instead. As parents, we’re insecure and desperate to get it right. So we keep searching for the perfect book or workshop that will tell us how to raise our children. But, truthfully, there is no perfect method. The only thing we can do is learn how to tune into ourselves and our children, and respond to specific situations with flexibility and grace.

Who should read Parenting Outside the Lines?

  • Perfectionist parents wanting to learn how to forgive themselves for making mistakes
  • Parents of young children who are tired of being locked in continual power struggles
  • Parents and caregivers who want to have more fun with their children

25
Raising Good Humans

Raising Good Humans

Hunter Clarke-Fields
A Mindful Guide to Breaking the Cycle of Reactive Parenting and Raising Kind, Confident Kids
4.5 (303 ratings)

What's Raising Good Humans about?

Raising Good Humans (2019) is a mindful parenting guide that teaches you how to stop yelling and get grounded. It features healthy practices that can help you break generational cycles and be a better parent.

Who should read Raising Good Humans?

  • Parents who want to stop yelling
  • Teachers and parents who need better conflict management strategies
  • Caregivers interested in personal development

26
The Montessori Toddler

The Montessori Toddler

Simone Davies
A Parent's Guide to Raising a Curious and Responsible Human Being
4.5 (27 ratings)

What's The Montessori Toddler about?

The Montessori Toddler (2019) teaches parents how to better understand their toddlers and raise them according to the method developed by Italian physician and philosopher Dr. Maria Montessori. With its practical approach, it offers actionable advice that parents and grandparents can apply no matter whether they already have experience with the Montessori method or not.

Who should read The Montessori Toddler?

  • Parents who want to understand how toddlers communicate
  • Parents whose children are nearing the toddler stage and want to provide a supportive environment for them
  • Parents curious about the Montessori method and how they can employ it in their own homes

27
Why Love Matters

Why Love Matters

Sue Gerhardt
How Affection Shapes a Baby's Brain
4.5 (100 ratings)

What's Why Love Matters about?

Why Love Matters (2004) is a study of how our early years shape who we become later in life. But this isn’t about rehashing the old nature-versus-nurture debate. As we’ll see in these blinks, the weight of scientific evidence points to a much more fascinating conclusion: that we’re “co-produced” by genetics and social experience during babyhood. This means that many of the social and psychological problems that affect us as adults can be traced back to these formative years.

Who should read Why Love Matters?

  • Mental health professionals
  • Parents with babies or toddlers
  • Would-be mothers and fathers

28
Screamfree Parenting

Screamfree Parenting

Hal Edward Runkel
The Revolutionary Approach to Raising Your Kids by Keeping Your Cool
3.8 (116 ratings)

What's Screamfree Parenting about?

Screamfree Parenting (2007) is your guide to a better relationship with your children. From the space and boundaries that a child needs, to the trust and love you need yourself, these blinks shed light on the principles of screamfree parenting.

Who should read Screamfree Parenting?

  • Parents of children of all ages
  • All mothers- and fathers-to-be
  • People interested in the psychology of positive parent-child relationships

29
The Addiction Inoculation

The Addiction Inoculation

Jessica Lahey
Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence
4.1 (141 ratings)

What's The Addiction Inoculation about?

The Addiction Inoculation (2021) is a parents’ guide to raising kids who have the knowledge, support, and self-confidence necessary to steer clear of the twin dangers of alcohol and drug use. From peer pressure to self-efficacy, it examines the risks kids need to avoid, and the defenses they need to acquire, in order to live happy, healthy, and substance-free lives.

Who should read The Addiction Inoculation?

  • Parents who want to raise drink- and drug-free kids
  • Teachers interested in the psychology of addiction

30
The Self-Driven Child

The Self-Driven Child

William Stixrud and Ned Johnson
The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives
4.5 (243 ratings)

What's The Self-Driven Child about?

The Self-Driven Child (2018) shows us how our instinct to control our children’s lives can result in stressed-out, uncooperative, and poorly motivated kids. Instead, the book argues, we should try to help our children come to informed decisions themselves – and trust them to make the big calls. 

Who should read The Self-Driven Child?

  • Parents of stressed, overworked kids
  • Child psychologists and pediatricians
  • Anyone interested in the complex dynamics between parent and child

31
Untangled

Untangled

Lisa Damour
Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood
4.4 (88 ratings)

What's Untangled about?

Untangled (2016) is a guide for mothers and fathers, for teachers and mentors – anyone who might be trying to better understand the life and struggles of teenage girls. It offers invaluable advice on how to recognize what they’re going through so you can avoid some common pitfalls and not make the situation worse.

Who should read Untangled?

  • Parents of teenage girls
  • Adults or teachers who regularly work with teenage girls
  • Students of psychology and sociology

32
Parenting

Parenting

Andy & Sandra Stanley
Getting It Right
4.7 (39 ratings)

What's Parenting about?

Parenting (2023) presents essential parenting principles in a format that is easy to follow and implement. By drawing on practical knowledge and experience, the authors illustrate the goals and steps required to raise a happy and healthy kid – whether you’re dealing with the sleepless frustration of a newborn or the emotional rollercoaster of a moody teenager.

Who should read Parenting?

  • Overwhelmed new parents who want a bit of direction in their chaotic lives
  • Frustrated moms and dads looking for a fresh perspective on classic problems
  • Expecting couples who want to have a solid foundation from the very start

33
The Blank Slate

The Blank Slate

Steven Pinker
The Modern Denial of Human Nature
4.5 (133 ratings)

What's The Blank Slate about?

The Blank Slate (2002) is about the huge role that evolution and genetics play in making us who we are. Steven Pinker makes a strong case against the belief that everyone is born a blank slate and influenced only by their upbringing, arguing instead that biology is a far more important factor in shaping our behaviors and personalities.

Who should read The Blank Slate?

  • Students of psychology, biology, and philosophy
  • Teachers and parents
  • Readers eager to understand human nature

34
Raising Human Beings

Raising Human Beings

Ross W. Greene
Creating a Collaborative Partnership with Your Child
4.8 (26 ratings)

What's Raising Human Beings about?

Raising Human Beings (2016) is part practical guide and part manifesto about the power of collaborative problem-solving. Using threats, bribes, and punishments doesn’t change children’s behavior sustainably. That’s because you just end up suppressing the symptoms of the problem, instead of addressing the root cause. Instead of engaging in power struggles, try asking your children what’s really going on, and brainstorming solutions together. Not only will you come up with better solutions – your relationship will improve dramatically.

Who should read Raising Human Beings?

  • Parents in the grip of a power struggle with their children
  • Prospective parents who want to learn to communicate constructively 
  • Educators and youth workers looking for new approaches to working with the children in their care

35
Voice Lessons for Parents

Voice Lessons for Parents

Wendy Mogel
What to Say, How to Say it, and When to Listen
4.4 (18 ratings)

What's Voice Lessons for Parents about?

Voice Lessons for Parents (2018) teaches parents not just what to say to children – but how to say it. When you’re communicating with children, your tone, volume, and choice of words are just as important as the message you’re trying to get across. Parenting expert Wendy Mogel shows how to get the most out of communication with your child, whether you’re dealing with a tone-deaf toddler or a defiant teenager. 

Who should read Voice Lessons for Parents?

  • Young parents wondering how to strike the right tone with their child 
  • Despairing parents of reticent or rebellious teenagers
  • Teachers, coaches, and other guardians who want to learn how to inspire

36
How to Raise an Adult

How to Raise an Adult

Julie Lythcott-Haims
Break Free of the Overparenting Trap and Prepare Your Kid for Success
4.5 (106 ratings)

What's How to Raise an Adult about?

How to Raise an Adult (2015) reveals the ways in which the most common parenting method today, helicopter parenting, is doing more harm than good, both for parents and kids. These blinks outline a better way to parent – one that actually raises children to become truly independent adults.

Who should read How to Raise an Adult?

  • Parents who want to raise stronger and more independent children
  • Parents who don’t want to give up their whole life just to raise their kids
  • New and expecting parents

37
What’s Going on in There?

What’s Going on in There?

Lise Eliot
How the Brain and Mind Develop in the First Five Years of Life
4.2 (37 ratings)

What's What’s Going on in There? about?

What’s Going on in There? (1999) delves into the cognitive and physiological development of young children. These blinks explain the most important milestones of a child’s development, exploring the shared influence of genes and parenting on children.

Who should read What’s Going on in There??

  • New parents or parents-to-be
  • Teachers and caregivers curious about infant psychology
  • Anyone who’s ever wondered what babies think about

38
Problem Solving 101

Problem Solving 101

Ken Watanabe
A Simple Book for Smart People
3.9 (112 ratings)

What's Problem Solving 101 about?

Problem Solving 101 (2009) is a short and snappy guide to problem-solving. Originally written to help kids become better problem solvers, it can help anyone who wants to improve their ability to resolve issues, no matter how big or small.

Who should read Problem Solving 101?

  • Schoolkids and young adults
  • Business owners and leaders
  • Anyone who wants to realize their dreams

39
The Psychology of Intelligence

The Psychology of Intelligence

Jean Piaget
A theory of intelligence and cognitive development between birth and adolescence
4.4 (106 ratings)

What's The Psychology of Intelligence about?

The Psychology of Intelligence (1947) outlines the pioneering psychologist Jean Piaget’s theory of intelligence and cognitive development between birth and adolescence. Originally delivered as a series of lectures in Paris, Piaget’s text provides a key to his highly influential research agenda and, by extension, to one of the twentieth century’s most important bodies of work on children’s psychology.

Who should read The Psychology of Intelligence?

  • Parents fascinated by how their kids’ minds work
  • Teachers and educators 
  • Theorists and thinkers

40
The Happiest Baby on the Block

The Happiest Baby on the Block

Harvey Karp
The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Baby Sleep Longer
4.1 (78 ratings)

What's The Happiest Baby on the Block about?

The Happiest Baby on the Block (2002) tackles one of the biggest issues new parents will face: the constant wails and tears of their baby. These blinks explain why your baby’s survival depends on your responding to its cries, and how, by triggering the calming reflex, you can make your baby feel calm and safe.

Who should read The Happiest Baby on the Block?

  • New parents feeling helpless in the face of their child’s cries
  • Readers interested in the psychology of babies
  • Anyone who’s expecting

41
Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen

Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen

Michelle Icard
The Essential Conversations You Need to Have with Your Kids Before They Start High School
4.0 (64 ratings)

What's Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen about?

Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen (2020) tackles the thorny subject of communicating with tweens – those adolescents between the ages of ten and fourteen who are beginning to pull away from their parents and close down lines of communication. This is the age at which “big” topics like sexuality, money, and life choices are more important than ever. But it’s also the age at which having a conversation with your child is harder than ever before. So what can parents do? Well, it’s time to learn a new way of talking with, and not at, your tween. 

Who should read Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen?

  • Relationship-builders struggling to talk with their tweens
  • Worriers who want the best for their kids
  • Parents of younger children preparing for the next step

42
The Fifth Trimester

The Fifth Trimester

Lauren Smith Brody
The Working Mom’s Guide To Style, Sanity, and Big Success After Baby
3.1 (35 ratings)

What's The Fifth Trimester about?

The Fifth Trimester (2017) is packed with advice and tips for new mothers on how to successfully return to work after their maternity leave. Covering important details like what clothes to wear, how to pick the best day care and how to feed your baby even when you’re not with it, the book draws on the author’s own experiences as well as interviews with other new moms. This is a practical and inspirational self-help guide for new mothers who may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of returning to their job.

Who should read The Fifth Trimester?

  • Pregnant women or new moms returning to work
  • Employers and managers who want to create a family-friendly working environment
  • New fathers who want to support their partners

43
Thrivers

Thrivers

Michele Borba
The Surprising Reasons Why Some Kids Struggle and Others Shine
4.4 (190 ratings)

What's Thrivers about?

Thrivers (2021) is a study of what it means to be a child in today’s fast-paced, ultra-competitive, and digital world. Kids are achieving more and more, but they’ve never felt so lonely and stressed. In our rush to prepare them for an uncertain future, we’ve taught them to strive for accolades but forgotten that there’s more to success – and happiness – than test scores and grades. What’s missing is an emphasis on helping them thrive.

Who should read Thrivers?

  • Parents worried about their kids’ futures
  • Teachers on the frontlines of our burnout-inducing education system
  • Psychologists interested in child development

44
Under Pressure

Under Pressure

Lisa Damour
Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls
4.3 (46 ratings)

What's Under Pressure about?

Under Pressure (2019) explores the particular challenges that school-aged girls face throughout their education, at home and in society at large. Drawing on her wealth of experience as a clinical psychologist, Lisa Damour explains how parents, teachers and mentors can help girls overcome the stress and anxiety that disproportionately affects young women.

Who should read Under Pressure?

  • Parents hoping to brush up on their skills
  • Feminists looking for fresh insights into female psychology
  • Education professionals seeking to support female students

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Brainstorm

Brainstorm

Daniel J. Siegel
The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain
4.5 (89 ratings)

What's Brainstorm about?

Brainstorm (2014) is devoted to the many mysteries and secrets of the teenage brain. These blinks debunk lazy stereotypes about adolescents and paint a more positive picture. Our teenage years aren’t just a period of hormonal and cognitive disarray; they’re also a crucial phase in the brain’s development.

Who should read Brainstorm?

  • Parents and guardians
  • Teenagers tired of being told they’re wasters
  • Psychologists and educators

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Raising Cain

Raising Cain

Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson
Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys
4.1 (44 ratings)

What's Raising Cain about?

Raising Cain (1999) explains how boys have to navigate a society rife with misguided ideas about masculinity and filled with cruel classmates who are ready to pounce on any sign of weakness. Discover how these conditions can create emotionally stunted and suicidal young men, and find out what can be done to help remedy their situation before it’s too late.

Who should read Raising Cain?

  • Parents who are raising a young boy or male adolescent
  • Teachers and school counsellors coping with boys and their emotions
  • Men who would like to better understand and process their feelings

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How Children Succeed

How Children Succeed

Paul Tough
Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character
4.5 (102 ratings)

What's How Children Succeed about?

These blinks explore the reasons why some people struggle in school and later on in life, and why others thrive and prosper. Using scientific studies and data from real schools, the blinks dive into the hidden factors that affect the success of children.

Who should read How Children Succeed?

  • Anyone who is or is going to become a parent, grandparent or godparent
  • Anyone who works with children, especially teachers and coaches
  • Anyone who wants to develop oft-neglected skills that are just as important as cognitive skills to their future success

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The Connected Child

The Connected Child

Karyn B. Purvis
Bring Hope and Healing to Your Adoptive Family
4.5 (53 ratings)

What's The Connected Child about?

The Connected Child (2007) is an insightful guide for parents of adopted and foster children. Children from deprived or abusive backgrounds have unique needs. By taking a multipronged approach including behavioral interventions, good diet and exercise, and lots of nurturing, parents can play a vital role in helping their children heal. 

Who should read The Connected Child?

  • Parents who are considering adopting or fostering a child
  • Teachers or social workers who interact with at-risk youth
  • Anyone who’s ever had a showdown with a toddler in the cereal aisle

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Raising Leaders

Raising Leaders

Wendy Born
Using the principles of parenting at work to become a great leader and create great leaders
4.2 (54 ratings)

What's Raising Leaders about?

Raising Leaders (2020) is a thoughtful primer on contemporary leadership. This guide lays out the surprising parallels between raising strong, independent children and cultivating successful, productive teams.

Who should read Raising Leaders?

  • New parents seeking positive advice
  • Business leaders preparing to take on a new role
  • Anyone interested in raising the next generation of leaders

50
Potty Training in 3 Days

Potty Training in 3 Days

Brandi Brucks
The Step-By-Step Plan for a Clean Break from Dirty Diapers

What's Potty Training in 3 Days about?

Potty Training in 3 Days (2016) is a success formula for parents and caregivers who want their babies to start using the toilet. The plan involves recognizing when your child is ready for potty training, what to do during the three days of intense practice, and how to follow up for lasting results.

Who should read Potty Training in 3 Days?

  • Parents
  • Family members and caregivers who want to understand their role in potty training
  • Pediatricians and teachers

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The Big Disconnect

The Big Disconnect

Catherine Steiner-Adair
Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age
4.0 (38 ratings)

What's The Big Disconnect about?

The Big Disconnect (2013) is about the current generation of babies, toddlers and children growing up in the digital world. Digital media, from online games to social networking sites, have a profound impact on a child’s development, both intellectually and socially. These blinks outline the reasons why, and what parents can do to try to keep their children safe from these developmental hindrances.

Who should read The Big Disconnect?

  • Parents and parents-to-be
  • Teachers
  • Anyone interested in sociology, technology or education

52
The Optimistic Child

The Optimistic Child

Martin E.P. Seligman
A Proven Program to Safeguard Children Against Depression and Build Lifelong Resilience
4.4 (108 ratings)

What's The Optimistic Child about?

The Optimistic Child (1996) explores both the benefits of raising children to be optimistic and the dangers of pessimistic thinking. Drawing on psychologist Martin Seligman’s seminal research, this practical guide explains how parents can instill optimism in their children and equip them with a healthy way of thinking.

Who should read The Optimistic Child?

  • Educators looking for a fresh perspective
  • Parents seeking new insights
  • Anyone suffering from depression and anxiety

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Small Animals

Small Animals

Kim Brooks
Parenthood in the Age of Fear
4.1 (142 ratings)

What's Small Animals about?

Small Animals (2018), explores how parenthood has become an exercise in fear, anxiety and constant intervention. Drawing from the author’s own parenting experiences, it explores how our perceptions of risk have become so distorted that we intervene, meddle, watch and manage our children’s lives at the cost of their freedom, fun and health.

Who should read Small Animals?

  • Parents who value their children’s independence and freedom
  • New parents
  • Anyone interested in how fear and moral judgments are entwined in today’s society

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The Family Firm

The Family Firm

Emily Oster
A Data-Driven Guide to Better Decision Making in the Early School Years
4.1 (53 ratings)

What's The Family Firm about?

The Family Firm (2021) explores the latest research on pre-teen child development. It explains how parents can make data-driven decisions on important parenting decisions like a child’s school, bedtime, diet, and extracurricular schedule.

Who should read The Family Firm?

  • Parents of children ages five to twelve
  • Educators looking for a fresh perspective
  • Psychology buffs seeking new insights

55
All Joy and no Fun

All Joy and no Fun

Jennifer Senior
The Paradox of Modern Parenthood
3.6 (22 ratings)

What's All Joy and no Fun about?

All Joy and No Fun (2014) is a book about the trials and tribulations of raising kids. Senior examines the challenges of parenting while keeping us cognizant of the pleasures and rewards that come with it.

Who should read All Joy and no Fun?

  • People planning for parenthood
  • Anyone who has children
  • Those struggling with the stress of raising children

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The Strength Switch

The Strength Switch

Lea Waters
How The New Science of Strength-Based Parenting Can Help Your Child and Your Teen to Flourish
4.1 (29 ratings)

What's The Strength Switch about?

The Strength Switch (2017) demonstrates how parents can employ strength-based parenting in family scenarios. It shows that children can blossom and flourish if parents switch their focus onto their child’s strengths rather than being overly critical.

Who should read The Strength Switch?

  • Parents
  • Teachers
  • Psychologists

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Habits of the Household

Habits of the Household

Justin Whitmel Earley
Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms
4.4 (22 ratings)

What's Habits of the Household about?

Habits of the Household (2021) offers a meaningful way for families to connect with God through daily routines. Through reflections and stories, you’ll learn how to implement simple habits that will help you find deeper meaning amid the chaos of family life.

Who should read Habits of the Household?

  • Busy Christian parents
  • Fans of the Lord’s message
  • Church tool kit shoppers

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Selfish Reasons to Have More Kids

Selfish Reasons to Have More Kids

Bryan Caplan
Why Being a Great Parent Is Less Work and More Fun Than You Think
3.6 (27 ratings)

What's Selfish Reasons to Have More Kids about?

Selfish Reasons to Have More Kids examines the demands of modern parenting and why people today are choosing to have fewer and fewer kids. The author argues that this trend is due to modern parents placing too high expectations on themselves, even when a far more relaxed style of parenting would get the job done just as well and make the whole experience more enjoyable.

Who should read Selfish Reasons to Have More Kids?

  • Anyone considering whether or not to have children
  • Anyone who has children and is wondering whether to have more
  • Parents who feel exhausted and worry about the adequacy of their parenting

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How to Raise a Wild Child

How to Raise a Wild Child

Scott D. Sampson
The Art and Science of Falling in Love With Nature
4.2 (26 ratings)

What's How to Raise a Wild Child about?

How to Raise a Wild Child (2015) will help your family reconnect with nature. With helpful hints and clever strategies, these blinks will ensure your kids can enjoy the scientifically proven benefits of growing up in the great outdoors.

Who should read How to Raise a Wild Child?

  • Parents who want their children to love nature
  • Teachers who want to educate their students to appreciate and respect nature
  • Nannies who want to spend more time with kids in nature

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Wean in 15

Wean in 15

Joe Wicks
Up-to-date Advice and 100 Quick Recipes
4.5 (12 ratings)

What's Wean in 15 about?

Wean in 15 (2020) is a practical guide to helping your baby become a healthy, enthusiastic eater. Based on up-to-date guidelines and data from the UK’s National Health Service, the World Health Organization, and various researchers and dietitians, it offers a step-by-step plan – including recipes – for how to wean your baby. At the same time, it acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all method, and it encourages you to adapt the plan to your individual parenting style and your baby’s specific needs.

Who should read Wean in 15?

  • New parents wondering how to wean their baby
  • Prospective parents thinking ahead
  • Anyone with a hungry baby in their life

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