The 10 Best Inspirational Books

Editor's Notes

October 31, 2019:

Each of us finds inspiration in different places, whether it's by reading stories of success and overcoming obstacles, practicing meditation and mindfulness, or simply hearing that others have faced similar difficulties in life as you. That's why you'll find titles on this list that take varying approaches. Just like with self-help books, these highly personal volumes may resonate with some but not with others, so don't be discouraged if you read one that doesn't speak to you.

If you like blunt, no-nonsense advice and support then you'll appreciate volumes like Unfu*k Yourself and Girl, Wash Your Face, both of which don't mince words to get their points across. If spirituality and religion guide you better, consider The Untethered Soul or Tattoos on the Heart.

Goal-driven folk will glean much from The Success Principles, while the personal reflections from Humans of New York: Stories, Educated: A Memoir, and Tuesdays with Morrie are ideal for drawing encouragement from others while fostering a sense of connection with humanity.

We decided to let go of Better Than Before due to some readers feeling set-upon or judged by the prose, and instead added Braving the Wilderness, a volume written by PhD-holding social scientist Brené Brown, who's well-researched writing is ideal for those who feel like social media and polarizing politics have disrupted their sense of well being and belonging.