Best Inspirational Books

Frankl's survival and the logotherapy he built from it. The most substantive inspirational book because its conclusions are tested against the worst circumstances.

Skip this if: Skip this if you want warm encouragement rather than philosophical testimony — this earns its optimism through Auschwitz.

Doyle's memoir of leaving her marriage, falling in love with a woman, and choosing herself over the life she was supposed to want. The most widely read inspirational book for women in recent years.

Skip this if: Skip this if you want arguments rather than testimony — Untamed is personal declaration, not reasoned argument.

A shepherd follows omens toward a treasure. Coelho's allegory about personal destiny is the most widely translated novel in history. Simple and warm without being manipulative.

Skip this if: Skip this if you want literary sophistication — The Alchemist is deliberately simple.

A guide to stopping self-sabotage and creating the life you want. Sincero's voice is confident and funny rather than preachy. Best for readers who want a kick in the pants rather than a framework.

Skip this if: Skip this if you want philosophical depth — Sincero writes motivational energy, not argument.

A therapist goes to therapy after a romantic crisis and the parallel narrative of her own treatment and her clients' treatment illuminates what therapy actually does.

Skip this if: Skip this if you want pure inspiration over clinical insight.