Contributors to the January 2021 issue of TD magazine offer their book recommendations.

B. Kim Barnes

Influence Without Authority, 3rd Edition, by Allan R. Cohen and David L. Bradford

In a time when collaboration is often more talked about than practiced, Cohen and Bradford offer a practical approach to understanding what others need and value and applying that knowledge to improving relationships and getting what you need to be successful.

Love ‘Em or Lose ‘Em, Sixth Edition: Getting Good People to Stay by Beverly Kaye and Sharon Jordan-Evans.

This book has helped so many of my clients—and my own organization as well—to retain the talent that is so essential to growing and thriving in difficult times. As issues change, the authors’ advice is still relevant, and the new edition brings into focus the concerns that are motivating good employees to seek change, such as diversity and inclusion.

Alex Winnicker

The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph by Ryan Holiday

This is a short, easy-to-read, engaging book that gives practical advice based on history. It gives you pragmatic ideas to help you navigate today's society and successfully work through adversity.

Choosing Civility: The Twenty-Five Rules of Considerate Conduct by P.M. Forni

It’s important, especially now, to continue to recognize the value of civility and emotional intelligence. Reading this book will make you a better person and enhance your relationships.

Treca Bourne

_The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of the Learning Organization_by Peter M. Senge

It felt right to revisit this book because during the pandemic, I spoke with many people who were reflecting and rethinking their lives—fully inclusive of their professional work. Senge challenges organizational leaders to commit themselves to their own visions and see the current reality objectively to generate creative tension that inspires others to act and moves people beyond mediocrity.

Inclusive Conversations: Fostering Equity, Empathy, and Belonging across Differences by Mary-Frances Winters

With added agency to discuss topics that were previously undiscussable, this book aids us while on a journey to create more diverse, equitable, and inclusive cultures of belonging.