12 Books All Men Should Read

I love books, and books about men and fathers. Here are my favorites.

May 04, 2025

I wanted to share my favorite books for fathers, and men in general. If you have a favorite book that's not on my list, please click reply and let me know!

Way of the Superior Man by David Deida

If you read it—or have read it—this is the most controversial book on the list. The book is a deep exploration of masculine and feminine energies. A big emphasis on discovering the importance of living with a clear purpose and direction to effectively guide and support your family.

Iron John by Robert Bly

This book is one of the first "male development" books I read. It offers a rich blend of fable and psychological analysis, shedding light on the 'wild man' archetype, emotional development, rites of passage, and our connection to nature.

Women Who Run With Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés

A deep dive into understanding the wild woman archetype. Why does that matter? If you want to tap into your wild man, you need to understand the wild woman. The book shows how the wild woman has been suppressed and demonized by society, and how it can be reclaimed to bring forth a more fulfilling life.

The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life by Boyd Varty

One of my favorites on this list! Varty weaves in his experience as a tracker with lessons on how to become trackers of our own gifts and mission in the world. The "first track" mindset is now a key part of how I think about my goals, vision, and purpose in life. This has become one of the books I gift most often.

Awareness by Anthony DeMello

An earth-shaking book for me. DeMello talks about presence of mind and spirit, removing labels from our thoughts and perspectives. His profound insights on presence, mind, and spirit will challenge your perceptions, encouraging a life lived beyond the confines of your thoughts.

Discipline Equals Freedom by Jocko Willink

"Do It" — this clear call to action cuts through the BS and excuses. As a man and father, personal discipline and extreme ownership will help you better serve your family and community. His other mantra of "GOOD" is the kind of stoic optimism blended with realism that fathers can latch on to.

The Hero Within by Carol S. Pearson

This is a more readable interpretation of Joseph Campbell's masterwork Hero with a Thousand Faces. Understanding the Hero's Journey and how it shows up in your life—both light and dark—is essential for a fulfilling life. It also helps you guide and cultivate a hero's mindset in your children.

King, Warrior, Magician, Lover by Robert Moore & Doug Gillette

Explore the four masculine archetypes and their significance from ancient times to their modern-day manifestations, offering a blueprint for personal development and understanding. Deep but important book that's worth reading at least once — it will add context to everything else.

The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter

Michael Easter's exploration of modern discomforts through research and personal experiences invites men to reconnect with their innate strength and resilience. The book explores boredom, silence, death, cold, nutrition, outdoor access, and more. A great book for men to start tapping into their wild selves.

Fire in the Belly by Sam Keen

A challenging book that encourages men to recognize and confront their inner struggles. Fire in the Belly encourages us to practice self-awareness and to be open to non-traditional approaches to personal growth. He says that a man's dignity lies not in exhaustive work but discovering his calling. Powerful.

He & She by Robert Johnson

This is actually two short books, so forgive the smuggle. He and She are similar to Iron John — the books are a mix of fables, myth, and psychological analysis. But they are much shorter and easier to read. Johnson also gives his understanding of gender dynamics and self-discovery.

Tribe by Sebastian Junger

A book about more than men, but they are at the center of the issue. Junger looks at how humans are wired to be social animals, and how it's essential to our well-being. By returning to our social bonds we strengthen our own lives and communities.

Each of these selections is more than just a book; it's an invitation to reflect, to grow, and to connect more deeply with yourself and those around you. As you explore these pages, we hope you find valuable insights and inspiration to lead your family with wisdom, courage, and love.

Thanks for reading,

Matt