Bloom’s 2026 Summer Reading List: Books to Inspire Better Leadership, Marketing, and Communication
Summer offers something many leaders struggle to find during the rest of the year: space to think.
The most effective leaders understand that growth does not happen by accident. It requires continuous learning, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge existing assumptions. Reading remains one of the most powerful ways to do that.
Consider Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. When he took over Microsoft, he helped shift the company’s culture from one focused on “knowing” to one focused on “learning.” That mindset has been widely credited as a key factor in Microsoft’s transformation and continued growth. The lesson is simple: leaders who continue learning are better equipped to adapt, innovate, and lead through change.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your leadership skills, better understand AI, improve communication, or spark new ideas, this year’s Bloom Summer Reading List offers valuable insights for marketers, business leaders, and lifelong learners.
Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI
By Ethan Mollick
Artificial intelligence is reshaping how we work, communicate, and make decisions. In Co-Intelligence, Wharton professor Ethan Mollick explores how individuals and organizations can work alongside AI to improve productivity, creativity, and problem-solving.
Why We Recommend It
Many business leaders are asking the same question: How can we use AI effectively without losing the human expertise that drives great decisions? Mollick provides practical guidance that is approachable, thoughtful, and immediately applicable.
Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection
By Charles Duhigg
Why do some people consistently build stronger relationships, earn trust, and influence others more effectively?
Charles Duhigg examines the science behind communication and explores how meaningful conversations are built.
Why We Recommend It
Communication sits at the center of leadership, marketing, sales, and client relationships. This book offers practical techniques that can improve conversations across every aspect of business.
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More than They Expect
By Will Guidara
Will Guidara shares how extraordinary customer experiences helped transform Eleven Madison Park into one of the world’s most celebrated restaurants.
Why We Recommend It
In increasingly competitive markets, experience often becomes the differentiator. This book provides valuable lessons on leadership, customer relationships, and creating moments people remember.
Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout
By Cal Newport
Modern work often rewards activity over impact. Cal Newport challenges that mindset and presents a different approach to achieving meaningful results.
Why We Recommend It
Many professionals are managing more meetings, more messages, and more competing priorities than ever before. Newport offers practical strategies for focusing attention where it matters most.
The Creative Act: A Way of Being
By Rick Rubin
Creativity is not reserved for artists. It is a skill that helps all of us solve problems, develop ideas, and think differently.
In The Creative Act, Rick Rubin explores how creativity can become part of everyday life and work.
Why We Recommend It
Innovation often begins with curiosity. This book encourages readers to look at challenges from new perspectives and embrace a more creative way of thinking.
One More Book to Watch For: Empathic Listening, Amplified by AI
By Laura Caggiano and Noreen Bifulco
This summer, we’re not only reading great books. We’re writing one.
The Bloom team is currently developing a book that explores how AI can help professionals strengthen listening skills, uncover deeper insights, and build stronger relationships in an increasingly digital world.
Many of the themes featured in this year’s reading list, including communication, leadership, decision-making, creativity, and the evolving role of AI, have influenced our thinking throughout the writing process.
Interested in being among the first to receive updates and access an advance copy when available? Contact Bloom to join our early reader list.
What’s on Your Reading List?
What books have influenced your thinking this year? We’d love to hear what’s on your summer reading list.
Share your recommendations with us on LinkedIn and join the conversation.
