Father’s Day Book Recommendations (That Dads Will Actually Enjoy)
Father’s Day is coming up, and if you’ve got a dad in your life, or you are one, this list is for you. Whether you’re looking to grow as a father, sharpen your leadership, or just dive into a great read, here are some personal recommendations that have made a real impact on me.
Feel free to browse and find the right fit. These aren’t all parenting books. Some are about becoming the kind of person your kids will look up to. Some are just really good stories. All of them are worth your time.
Books About Becoming a Better Father
The Expectant Father
Let’s start with a book for those who are about to become a dad. I’ve read a few “new dad” books and this was by far the best. Each chapter covers a month of pregnancy so you’re not overwhelmed, and it helps you know what’s happening, how to support your wife, and what’s coming next. If you’re someone who likes to be prepared, this book is gold.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Raising Emotionally Strong Boys by David Thomas
A practical, heartfelt guide for raising emotionally healthy boys. This book gave me tools I didn’t have growing up and showed me how to pass them on to my son. It even helped me reshape some of my own emotional habits. I haven’t read Raising Worry-Free Girls by Sissy Goff yet, but it’s on my shortlist.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
The Intentional Father by Jon Tyson
This book gave me a trajectory for fatherhood. My son is seven, but reading this helped me see where we’re headed and what to focus on in the years to come. It’s especially helpful for the teenage years, but also walks you through working on your own story so you’re ready when that season arrives.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
When Work and Family Collide by Andy Stanley
I read this before becoming a parent, and I’m so glad I did. It helped me think about aligning my schedule with my values. For me, that’s looked like working 7 to 3 so I can handle pickup and be present for my family in the afternoons. This book helps you figure out what that looks like for you.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
This might be the most important book I’ve read this year. Haidt lays out why kids today are struggling with anxiety and how modern tech and culture contribute to it. It’s eye-opening and incredibly practical, offering ways to rethink how we parent in this digital age. I’d almost say this is a must-read.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
What book would you add to this list?
Books That Shape the Way You Lead and Live
These books aren’t directly about parenting, but they will shape how you show up as a father, husband, and man of faith. They’re also great books to read along with your older children that can teach them leadership, character, and courage.
New Morning Mercies by Paul David Tripp
This is my favorite daily devotional. I often use it to journal. Each entry ends with a scripture that sparks deeper reflection. It’s gospel-centered, honest, and has consistently given me the words I didn’t know I needed.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Get Your Life Back by John Eldredge
This isn't Eldredge’s best book, but it’s the best introduction to him in my opinion. It’s incredibly practical and felt like a breath of fresh air in a culture that pushes us to be constantly on. I appreciated how clearly he named the struggle and gave tools to push back.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Wooden by John Wooden
Coach Wooden’s approach to leadership is timeless. This book is full of simple, powerful principles I want to pass on to my kids. It’s classic, clear, and full of wisdom earned through years of mentoring young men with integrity.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
What You’re Made For by George Raveling and Ryan Holiday
George Raveling was Michael Jordan’s mentor and an Olympic gold medal basketball coach. I’d call this the modern version of Wooden. It’s packed with wisdom and perspective, and I can already see myself reading it with my son someday. It’s that good.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
A Tale of Three Kings by Gene Edwards
A short, beautiful book about leadership, brokenness, and trust. It’s not about parenting, but it helped me reframe how I lead when things are hard. This one sticks with you.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Biographies That Inspire and Challenge
Sometimes the best way to grow is by watching how others lived. These biographies are long but worth the time.
Bearing the Cross [Martin Luther King Biography] by David Garrow
One of the things I love about biographies is seeing the humanity behind the legend. Martin Luther King Jr. was brilliant and brave, but also flawed. That honesty made me admire him more, not less, and helped me believe that real change comes from real people.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Jim Henson: The Biography by Brian Jay Jones
Henson was wildly creative and had no mental boundaries on what was possible. His story inspired me to think more freely and dream bigger. Like MLK, he wasn’t always the most present father. That was hard to read, but also a good reminder to learn from that too.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Bonhoeffer by Eric Metaxas
Bonhoeffer was a German theologian who became part of a real-life plot to assassinate Hitler. His life was complex, courageous, and deeply rooted in his faith. This book is dense but inspiring and worth every page.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Books I’ve Loved Reading With My Kids
Reading aloud with your kids is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to bond, spark imagination, and build empathy. I have a rule with my son: we read the book before we watch the movie. It’s led to some great reads and even better conversations. These three are some of our favorites so far.
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
This was our most recent read and we loved it. The kids were hooked by the story, and their reactions made it so much fun to read together. It’s thoughtful, adventurous, and surprisingly emotional.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
We knew the movie, but reading the book first flipped the script for us. My son was completely pulled into this strange, magical world. Pure fun from start to finish.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
This one grabs your heart. It follows a porcelain rabbit who keeps getting lost and has to learn how to love through it all. It's deeply moving, beautifully told, and stays with you long after the final page.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Just for Fun
Here are a few reads that are just plain enjoyable. Sometimes resting well is part of leading well.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
This book had me laughing and on the edge of my seat. It’s smart, fast-paced, and full of heart. I read it, but I’ve heard the audiobook is one of the best out there.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Packed with nostalgia and futuristic fun. The movie didn’t come close to capturing the book’s energy. If you haven’t read it yet, don’t let the film fool you. This one’s a blast.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
The River of Doubt by Candice Millard
Teddy Roosevelt’s wild expedition down the Amazon. It’s a survival story, a leadership story, and a great reminder of what courage and grit look like under pressure.
Book | Kindle |Audiobook
Final Word
I hope this list helps you discover something new, whether you’re picking up a book for yourself or finding a gift for someone else. These books have shaped how I think, lead, rest, and parent. They’re worth passing along.
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