As a husband of 19 years and a father to a rambunctious 7-year-old, I’ve learned that a strong, happy marriage takes constant work, empathy, and a willingness to grow. Over the years, I’ve turned to countless books for husbands to help me become a better partner, father, and overall human being.
The books mentioned here are not all because you have ‘marital problems’ or you’re not a ‘good husband,’ they are here on this list to make your very life better than now. Reading good books on family and relationships is a great way to upgrade yourself for your wife and awesome kids. You’re investing in yourself.
In this fun guide, I’m excited to share 35 of the most impactful, thought-provoking best books that have transformed my life and my own marriage. Whether you’re looking to deepen your emotional connection, reignite the spark in the bedroom, or simply become the exemplary husband that you know you can be, this list has different types of books for every husband.
So grab a pen and paper, and get ready to elevate your relationship to new heights. This straightforward guide is guaranteed to inspire, challenge, and equip you with the practical ideas you need to build the marriage of your dreams and help you in different ways.
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Best Book Recommendations For Husbands
Strengthening Your Marriage Bond
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
The first book on my list and great for all married couples. This book by Gary Chapman helped us understand each other on a much deeper level. It also helped us discover practical ways to better meet each other’s emotional needs. It’s a must-read for any couple looking to strengthen their connection.
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Vulnerability is the key to true intimacy, but it’s not always easy to embrace. In this powerful book, This New York Times best-seller explores how cultivating courage, compassion, and connection can transform our personal and professional lives. It’s a game-changer for couples who want to break down the walls and build a more authentic, fulfilling partnership.
Fair Play by Eve Rodsky
As a busy husband and father, I often felt overwhelmed by the never-ending household responsibilities. This wonderful book by Eve Rodsky opened my eyes to the importance of equitable division of labor. It also provided a practical framework for my wife and I to have honest conversations about our roles and responsibilities. It’s an excellent read for any couple navigating the challenges of modern-day life.
The Secrets of Happy Families by Bruce Feiler
This unique book by Bruce Feiler is a treasure trove of strategies for making the most of your time together as a family. From rethinking family dinners to fighting smarter, it’s packed with actionable tips. This book has helped us create more joy, connection, and memories in our home.
Becoming a Better Man and Father
Atomic Habits by James Clear
As an over-thinking but productive man, I’m always striving to improve my habits and become the best version of myself. This book by James Clear has been a blessing! It’s been great at providing a simple, evidence-based approach to building good habits and breaking bad ones. This book must be on every man’s to-read bucket list. The real-life examples are perfect if you need a little help to move forward.
The Self-Driven Child by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson
Raising a confident, resilient child is no easy feat, but this book by Stixrud and Johnson has been a lifesaver. It’s helped me understand the importance of giving my son more control over his own life and fostering his sense of autonomy. As a result, our relationship has deepened, and I’ve seen him blossom into a more self-assured, motivated boy.
Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds
As a father to a beautiful mixed-race boy, it’s crucial that I educate myself on the complex issues of race, bias, and social justice. This excellent book by Kendi and Reynolds has helped me have more meaningful conversations with my son. It also opened my eyes and made me more conscious of racism. It’s a good book for any husband and father who wants to create a more just, equitable world or simply live in a multicultural home.
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
This captivating memoir by Nike’s founder, Phil Knight, has been a tremendous source of inspiration for me as an entrepreneur. It’s a powerful reminder that with grit, determination, and a willingness to take risks, you can turn your wildest dreams into reality. It’s a great book for any husband who aspires to leave a lasting legacy.
Enhancing Your Intimate Connection
Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski
As a husband, it’s crucial that I understand the complexities of my wife’s sexuality. Also how to create a fulfilling, mutually satisfying intimate life for both of us. This groundbreaking book by best-selling author Emily Nagoski is great, providing science-backed insights and practical strategies for cultivating a deeper, more fulfilling sexual connection and healthy relationship.
Not an easy subject to talk about but it’s needed. My good friend and pastor once told me “Sex is the barometer of how the marriage is.”
Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel
Maintaining passion and eroticism in a long-term relationship can be a challenge. This book by Esther Perel has been a lifesaver. It’s helped my wife and I navigate the delicate balance between intimacy and individuality and rediscover the spark that first brought us together.
She Comes First by Ian Kerner
Let’s be honest, guys – when it comes to the bedroom, we don’t always get it right. This book by Ian Kerner has been a revelation, teaching me how to become a more attentive, generous lover and prioritize my wife’s pleasure. This is why this one is one of my top picks and for good reason. It’s a perfect book for any husband who, with proper care, wants to take their sex life to new heights.
The New Rules of Marriage by Terrence Real
In this insightful book, Terrence Real challenges traditional gender roles and power dynamics in marriage, offering a fresh, egalitarian approach to building fulfilling, successful marriages. It’s been a valuable resource for my wife and me as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of modern marriage.
Cultivating a Positive Mindset
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
As a husband and father, developing positive habits is crucial for my overall well-being and the health of my family. This one by Charles Duhigg is an incredible book, providing a deeper understanding of the science behind habit formation and the right tools for creating lasting change.
Mindset by Carol Dweck
The way we view our abilities and potential can have a profound impact on our lives. In this transformative book, Carol Dweck explores the difference between a fixed and a growth mindset, and how adopting a more flexible, open-minded approach can unlock our true potential. It’s a must-read for any husband who wants to cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and improvement.
Unfu*k Yourself by Gary John Bishop
Let’s be real – life can be messy, and it’s easy to get bogged down by negative self-talk and limiting beliefs. This book by Gary John Bishop is a no-nonsense guide to breaking free from self-sabotage and embracing your full power as a man. It’s a super book for any husband who wants to conquer their fears and step into their greatness. Make this one a ‘new best friend’ on your shelf at home.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
In a world that often demands perfection, this book by Mark Manson has been a refreshing dose of reality. It’s helped me let go of the relentless pursuit of approval and focus on what truly matters – living authentically and finding joy in the imperfect. I truly recommend this for any husband who wants to cultivate a more resilient, fulfilling mindset.
Expanding Your Horizons
Educated by Tara Westover
This captivating memoir by Tara Westover is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and the importance of seeking out new perspectives. It’s inspired me to be a lifelong learner, constantly challenging my assumptions and exploring the world beyond my own experiences.
Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari
As a husband and father, I’m always seeking to broaden my understanding of the world and our place in it. Because I often whisper to myself “What the f*** is going on.” This sweeping, thought-provoking book by Yuval Noah Harari has been a revelation, offering a unique, evidence-based perspective on the history and future of our species. It’s a must-have for any husband who wants to expand their intellectual horizons.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
In this captivating memoir, Michelle Obama shares her personal journey of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment. It’s been a powerful reminder that we all have the capacity to overcome challenges, embrace our authentic selves, and make a positive impact on the world around us. Great for anyone(not just hubbies) who wants to be inspired and motivated to live a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Improving Your Physical and Mental Health
Breath by James Nestor
In this fascinating book, James Nestor delves into the science of breathing. He also shows how it can profoundly impact our physical and mental health. It’s been a revelation for me, helping me develop a deeper understanding of the power of conscious breathing and implement simple, yet transformative practices into my daily life.
The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeown
As a husband and father, I’m always looking for ways to improve my physical performance and overall well-being. This book by Patrick McKeown has been a super good read, teaching me how to optimize my breathing for better sleep, increased energy, and enhanced athletic abilities. It’s a quick read for any man who wants to take their health and fitness to the next level.
Burnout by Emily and Amelia Nagoski
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s all too easy for husbands and fathers to become overwhelmed and burned out. This book by the Nagoski sisters has been a lifesaver, providing practical strategies for managing stress, cultivating self-compassion, and preventing burnout. It’s a great resource for any man who wants to prioritize their mental and emotional well-being.
Exploring New Perspectives
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
This epic, Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Isabel Wilkerson is a powerful exploration of the Great Migration, a pivotal chapter in American history that transformed the social, economic, and cultural landscape of the nation. As a husband and father, it’s been a humbling and eye-opening read, expanding my understanding of the struggles and triumphs of the human experience.
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
In this engaging memoir, Rubin chronicles her year-long experiment to increase happiness in her life. With practical insights and actionable advice, this book offers inspiration for husbands and families looking to cultivate joy and fulfillment in their own lives.
The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss
As for me, finding the balance between work and family life is essential. This is one of my favorite books and it presents unconventional strategies and the best way for achieving more with less effort, allowing you to reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters. I simply say, buy this one and re-read it yearly.
The Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali Tsabary
Parenting is a journey of self-discovery, and this book guides readers toward a more mindful and compassionate approach to raising children. Through practical advice and thought-provoking insights, Dr. Tsabary empowers parents to nurture their child’s authentic self and strengthen family bonds. Great for expectant fathers or the first year after childbirth and beyond!
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
In this spiritual classic, Tolle explores the transformative power of living in the present moment. By letting go of past regrets and future anxieties, husbands and families can deepen their connections, reduce stress, and experience greater peace and contentment in everyday life.
How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish
Effective communication is hard work, but it is key to building strong, healthy relationships within the family. It’s so hard to do sometimes because everyone is so busy with their own schedules. This practical guide offers proven techniques for fostering respectful, open dialogue between parents and children, leading to deeper understanding and connection. Listen to the things kids say, you might learn something. I do every day…
More Must-Read Books for Husbands
Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson
This book explores the science of love and attachment. It provides practical exercises and insights to help couples deepen their emotional connection and overcome relationship challenges.
The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
As a father, understanding your child’s developing brain can be invaluable and a good thing to be aware of. This book offers great resources for nurturing your child’s emotional intelligence and promoting healthy brain development.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman and Nan Silver
Based on decades of research, this book offers actionable advice for building a strong relationship and a good marriage, including communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and ways to foster intimacy.
Parenting with Love and Logic by Foster Cline and Jim Fay
Parenting is sometimes hard, but this book provides practical tools and tips for raising responsible, confident children while maintaining a loving and respectful relationship with them.
The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma
I’m an early bird! I’m up at 510am daily. This book offers a simple yet powerful framework for starting your day with purpose, productivity, and mindfulness. Great one to have to help with marital relationship or spiritual growth.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
This classic self-help book offers timeless principles for personal and professional success, including prioritizing important tasks, fostering effective communication, and cultivating a proactive mindset.
The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler
In this insightful book, the Dalai Lama shares wisdom and practical advice for finding true happiness and fulfillment in life, regardless of external circumstances. It’s a great reminder to prioritize what truly matters in your journey as a husband and father.
The Finish Line…
There you have it, my fellow husbands – 35 life-changing relationship books for a brighter future in your home… Some of these have profoundly impacted my journey as a partner, father, and overall human being.
From strengthening your marriage bond to cultivating a positive mindset, using quality time with your loved ones, enhancing your intimate connection, and expanding your horizons, this list has something for every husband who’s committed to personal growth and building the best version of themselves.
The first step is to get better inside before it reflects on the outside.
Remember, the key to a fulfilling, lasting marriage isn’t just about finding the perfect partner – it’s about constantly evolving, learning, and investing in yourself. So, buy or borrow some of these books, let them challenge and inspire you, and watch as your relationship and life transform in ways you never thought possible.
I’ll throw this in here too… I’m the author of 4 books on Amazon and know that the ‘art’ of reading books is slowly decreasing, especially in the younger generation. It’s sad because we are avid readers in our home and my boy also loves reading on the sofa. I’ve written a few articles on the benefits of reading for kids and reading to kids as well. I really wish for a world with less tech and more page-turning.
Happy reading, my friends! Remember, your kids are only young once! So, enjoy every moment you can.
