Books Every Man Should Read
Instruction & Inspiration For Becoming a Better Man
Masculinity & Relationships
No More Mr Nice Guy by Dr Robert Glover
Glover combines his expertise as a clinical psychologist with his personal experience as a reformed “Nice Guy” to succinctly explain why “Nice Guy” behaviour undermines attraction and leads to relationship breakdown. This book is the catalyst that has helped so many men understand and overcome flaws in their character that they mistakenly considered strengths, yet wondered why none of the women they found attractive would recognise them.
The Way of the Superior Man by David Deida
If, like me, you’re the kind of guy who is more comfortable at the hardware store than the self-help section of your local book shop, you might find Deida a bit “out there”, but this is all the more reason to check him out. Deida gets right to the heart of how women think and feel compared to men - breaking down the essences of masculinity and femininity every relationship needs to maintain its spark. He presents this as a set of instructions that every man can, and should follow.
48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
Understanding power and politics is essential regardless whether you seek your own power, or want to avoid falling prey to others who do. Greene presents a timeless set of lessons from historical events to illustrate how to cultivate and preserve power. I don’t recommend applying these lessons so much to dating and romantic relationships, however they are essential to understand the politics and power dynamics of the workplace and many other organisations.
The Nine Laws by Ivan Throne
Before returning to dating after coming out of a long term relationship, many men first need to come to terms with their loss and the seeming injustice of their predicament. The Nine Laws provides an excellent guide for men to overcome adversity, accept the fact that we must each take ownership of our own destiny and persevere in the face of the chaos that life throws our way.
Dating Communication Skills
Conversation Casanova by Dave Perrotta
In the era of online dating and social media, verbal communication skills have never been more important. In addition to providing helpful guidance on a whole gamut of dating skills, my favourite aspect of this book is the guidance it provides on learning how to flirt.
Sex & Intimacy
Urban Tantra by Barbara Carrellas
By far the most accessible, down-to-Earth book I’ve found on the subject of the Tantra. Barbara devotes the first half of the book to understanding how to get back in touch with your body in a way that even the most cynical and skeptical man can appreciate. If nothing else, these techniques will help you get out of your head and pay attention to sensations throughout your body. The second half lays out various practices for both solo and partnered exploration of the delicious intersection of mindfulness, sensation, energy and eros. I guarantee that even if you only embrace some of these lessons, you will radically transform both your own and your partners’ experience of sex.
Is there a book that you passionately believe needs to be on this list? Please let us know in the comments.