10 Best Leadership Books 2025 in the United States

Written by Stephen R. Covey, 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 30th Anniversary Edition' is a well-regarded leadership book. Covey, a respected author and educator, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in personal and professional development. The book focuses on building effective habits through principles of fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity, making it relevant not only for leaders but anyone looking to improve their life skills.

Its practicality is one of its strengths, offering actionable advice that readers can apply in various aspects of their lives. The writing style is clear and engaging, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Published in 2020, this anniversary edition includes updated insights that maintain its relevance in contemporary settings.

It has received positive reviews for its impactful content and is highly recommended by both readers and professionals alike. However, the book’s length (464 pages) might be daunting for some, and its somewhat traditional approach may not appeal to everyone. Nonetheless, its enduring popularity and the substantial, positive impact it has had on its readers make it a valuable addition to anyone's library.

Dale Carnegie's 'How to Win Friends and Influence People: Updated For the Next Generation of Leaders' is a refreshed version of the classic book that has influenced countless leaders since its original publication. Carnegie, renowned for his expertise in leadership and interpersonal skills, provides timeless advice that remains relevant, highlighted by the book's enduring popularity and high rankings in bestseller lists. The updated edition ensures the material resonates with contemporary readers, making the principles accessible to new generations of leaders.

The focus area is clear—enhancing social and leadership skills to build better relationships and influence others positively. The book is highly practical, offering actionable steps and real-world examples that readers can implement in their personal and professional lives. Carnegie's writing style is engaging and easy to follow, breaking down complex ideas into simple, relatable concepts.

Published in May 2022, this edition brings a modern touch to Carnegie's classic teachings, ensuring they are relevant in today's fast-paced world. The book, with a reading age recommendation of 17+, is suitable for young adults and seasoned professionals alike, making it a versatile addition to anyone's library.

This leadership audiobook by Doris Kearns Goodwin is designed to provide insights into leadership through historical narratives. Doris Kearns Goodwin, a well-respected historian and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, brings her extensive background to the table, ensuring a well-researched and credible examination of leadership. The focus of the book is on historical leaders, which offers a unique perspective by drawing lessons from the past. This can be particularly appealing to those interested in history and looking to understand leadership in a broader context.

The audiobook's length, at over 18 hours, suggests a thorough and in-depth exploration but might be daunting for some listeners. The narration by a cast including Beau Bridges and others adds a dynamic and engaging element to the listening experience. Released in September 2018 and published by Simon & Schuster Audio, it has garnered a respectable position in various best-seller ranks, indicating positive reception.

While the writing style is likely engaging and narrative-driven, typical of Goodwin's work, some readers might find it less focused on actionable advice. This audiobook is best suited for those who appreciate historical analysis and storytelling as a means to understand leadership.