6 New business books every entrepreneur should read

In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of entrepreneurship, knowledge is one of the greatest assets you can possess. Bold entrepreneurs are constantly seeking fresh ideas, innovative strategies, and inspiring stories to fuel their journeys. The right books can provide invaluable insights, spark creativity, and equip you with tools to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

This article spotlights six of the most compelling new business books that cater to forward-thinking entrepreneurs. Each title is packed with actionable lessons and transformative concepts, making them must-reads for anyone looking to scale their vision and make a lasting impact.

1. The Innovation Stack: Building an Unbeatable Business One Crazy Idea at a Time by Jim McKelvey

Written by Jim McKelvey, the co-founder of Square, this book breaks down the concept of an "innovation stack"—a series of creative solutions that combine to solve complex problems and outpace competitors. Using real-world examples, including Square’s battle with Amazon, McKelvey illustrates how resilience and unconventional thinking can disrupt industries.

Key Quote: "Innovation is about solving problems others can’t—or won’t—solve."

Why entrepreneurs need this book:

• It encourages thinking beyond conventional business models.
• Offers insights into overcoming challenges posed by bigger competitors.
• Provides actionable steps to build a competitive advantage through creativity.

2. Think Bigger: How to Innovate by Michael W. Sonnenfeldt

Michael Sonnenfeldt, an accomplished serial entrepreneur, lays out a roadmap for innovation in this inspiring guide. The book delves into real-life examples of transformative ideas and teaches entrepreneurs to think outside the box to create solutions with global impact.

Key Insight:

Sonnenfeldt stresses that innovation isn’t just about ideas—it’s about executing them effectively in a complex, competitive world.

Why entrepreneurs need this book:

• It emphasises the importance of a visionary mindset.
• Teaches how to approach problems with creativity and resilience.
• Provides strategies for turning bold ideas into tangible results.

3. The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World by Dorie Clark

Dorie Clark challenges the current obsession with instant success and argues for the value of long-term planning and persistence. This book is packed with strategies to help entrepreneurs balance their immediate goals with their bigger vision.

Key takeaway: "The most successful people are those who resist the allure of shortcuts and stay focused on their larger mission."

Why entrepreneurs need this book:

• Offers practical advice on cultivating patience and focus.
• Helps you avoid burnout while building sustainable success.
• Inspires strategic thinking beyond the day-to-day grind.

4. No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention by Reed Hastings and Erin Meyer

This inside look at Netflix’s culture of innovation and agility is a masterclass in breaking the rules to stay ahead in a competitive landscape. Co-written by Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, the book explores the company’s practices that encourage creativity and independence among employees.

Real-life application: Netflix’s decision to move from DVD rentals to streaming services is a testament to the power of reinvention and adaptability—qualities every entrepreneur can learn from.

Why entrepreneurs need this book:

• Learn how to build a culture that fosters innovation.
• Understand the value of taking calculated risks in business.
• Gain insights into empowering teams while maintaining accountability.

5. Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

Kim Scott’s bestseller, now updated with new insights, is a go-to guide for creating a workplace culture based on trust, communication, and collaboration. It helps leaders navigate the fine line between being too harsh and too empathetic, offering tools to deliver honest feedback effectively.

Key lesson: "Leadership isn’t about giving orders—it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe to challenge each other and share ideas."

Why entrepreneurs need this book:

• Teaches how to build trust within teams.
• Encourages open communication that fosters innovation.
• Provides strategies to navigate difficult conversations without damaging relationships.

6. Build: An Unorthodox Guide to Making Things Worth Making by Tony Fadell

Tony Fadell, the inventor of the iPod and co-creator of the iPhone, shares lessons from his extraordinary career in this candid guide. Build is not just a book about product development; it’s a handbook for entrepreneurs on everything from hiring to scaling ideas.

Key takeaway: "The key to making great products is to obsess over the details that others overlook."

Why entrepreneurs need this book:

• Offers practical insights into creating products people love.
• Shares unfiltered advice on overcoming challenges in the innovation process.
• Inspires readers to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.

Entrepreneurship is a journey of constant learning and adaptation. These six books not only provide insights into overcoming challenges but also equip you with strategies to innovate, lead, and thrive. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical tools, or a fresh perspective, these reads will help you take your business to the next level.

Pro tip: Start with the book that resonates most with your current challenges, and don’t just read—apply the lessons to your entrepreneurial journey. Bold moves start with bold ideas, and these books are full of them.