20 best books on brands – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or simply someone fascinated by the power of branding, then you won’t want to miss this list of the 20 best books about brands. These insightful and thought-provoking reads delve into the world of brand strategy, consumer behavior, and the art of creating iconic brands. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical advice, or a deeper understanding of the branding landscape, these books on brands are sure to leave a lasting impact on your business mindset.


Building Strong Brands

by David A. Aaker

Building Strong Brands by David A. Aaker is a captivating book on the art of creating and nurturing powerful identities for businesses. It dives deep into the world of branding, providing invaluable insights and strategies for building brands that stand out in today’s competitive market.

Aaker, a renowned expert in the field, takes readers on a journey that explores the essence of a brand, its values, and its unique proposition. He explains how brands can create emotional connections with consumers, becoming not just products or services, but a part of their lives.

This book about brands delves into the importance of brand equity, demonstrating how a strong brand can drive customer loyalty, command premium prices, and create a barrier to entry for competitors. Aaker also discusses the role of brand extension, highlighting the opportunities and risks associated with expanding a brand into new product categories.

With real-life examples and case studies, Aaker brings the concepts to life, offering practical advice on brand management and communication. He provides a comprehensive framework for developing brand strategies, covering everything from brand positioning to brand architecture.

Whether you are a marketing professional, an entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in understanding the power of branding, this brands book is a must-read. Aaker’s expertise and engaging writing style make Building Strong Brands an enlightening and inspiring resource for anyone looking to create and nurture brands that leave a lasting impact.

Brand Thinking and Other Noble Pursuits

by Debbie Millman

Brand Thinking and Other Noble Pursuits by Debbie Millman is a captivating and thought-provoking book about the fascinating world of brands. It delves into the power and influence that brands have in our lives, and explores the various ways in which they shape our perceptions, emotions, and behaviors. With an array of compelling interviews and insightful essays, this book offers a deep dive into the world of branding, providing readers with a fresh perspective on the subject.

The Brand Gap

by Marty Neumeier

The Brand Gap by Marty Neumeier is not your typical book on brands. It’s a captivating journey into the world of branding that will leave you with a whole new perspective on what it means to build a successful brand.

This book about brands is like a breath of fresh air in a saturated market. Neumeier breaks down the complex world of branding into simple, actionable concepts that anyone can grasp. He takes you on a journey through the gap between business strategy and design, showing you how to bridge that gap and create a brand that truly stands out.

With his witty writing style and clever illustrations, Neumeier keeps you engaged from start to finish. This brands book is not just a theoretical guide – it’s a practical toolkit that you can immediately apply to your own brand. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, The Brand Gap will provide you with valuable insights and strategies to elevate your brand to new heights.

If you’re tired of the same old books on brands, then this is the book for you. Neumeier’s unique approach and fresh perspective will leave you inspired and ready to take your brand to the next level. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into The Brand Gap and discover the secrets to building a brand that truly stands out in today’s competitive market.

Brandwashed: Tricks Companies Use to Manipulate Our Minds and Persuade Us to Buy

by Martin Lindstrom

Brandwashed: Tricks Companies Use to Manipulate Our Minds and Persuade Us to Buy by Martin Lindstrom is a captivating exploration into the world of consumer manipulation. This thought-provoking book delves into the secrets that companies use to influence our purchasing decisions and create brand loyalty.

Lindstrom, a renowned brand expert and marketing consultant, takes readers on a fascinating journey through the tactics employed by big corporations to shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. He unveils the sophisticated techniques used by brands to tap into our deepest desires and create lasting impressions in our minds.

Through extensive research and real-life examples, Lindstrom reveals the hidden ways in which brands infiltrate our daily lives. From the subtle use of sensory cues to trigger emotional responses, to the strategic placement of products in stores to maximize sales, this book uncovers the intricate web of persuasion that surrounds us.

Brandwashed challenges readers to question their own purchasing habits and to become more aware of the psychological tactics employed by advertisers. Lindstrom shares eye-opening insights into the power of branding, showing how companies can influence our decisions even when we think we are making them independently.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex world of marketing and the impact it has on our daily lives. With its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, Brandwashed is an enlightening journey into the depths of consumer manipulation.

Brand Sense: Sensory Secrets Behind the Stuff We Buy

by Martin Lindstrom

Brand Sense: Sensory Secrets Behind the Stuff We Buy by Martin Lindstrom is a captivating book on brands that delves into the fascinating world of sensory marketing. Lindstrom, a renowned branding expert, explores how brands can tap into our senses to create powerful and lasting connections with consumers.

In this insightful book about brands, Lindstrom reveals the immense impact our senses have on our purchasing decisions. He argues that successful brands go beyond visual marketing and utilize all five senses – sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch – to create memorable experiences that resonate with consumers on a deeper level.

With extensive research and real-life examples, Lindstrom demonstrates how sensory branding can influence our perceptions, emotions, and even our memories. He takes readers on a journey through various industries, highlighting how companies like Apple, Starbucks, and Disney have successfully incorporated sensory elements into their brand strategies.

By exploring the power of scents, sounds, textures, and tastes, Lindstrom shows how brands can trigger emotional responses and build strong brand loyalty. He provides practical advice on how companies can incorporate sensory marketing into their own strategies, offering valuable insights for marketers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the world of brands.

Brand Sense is a thought-provoking and engaging book that challenges the traditional notions of branding. Lindstrom’s research and storytelling make this brands book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the secrets behind successful brand experiences.

Brand Aid: A Quick Reference Guide to Solving Your Branding Problems and Strengthening Your Market Position

by Brad VanAuken

Brand Aid is a comprehensive guide that offers valuable insights and practical advice on how to tackle your branding challenges and enhance your market position. Written by branding expert Brad VanAuken, this book is a must-have resource for anyone looking to strengthen their brand presence.

VanAuken provides a wealth of knowledge and expertise, delivering it in an engaging and accessible manner. Whether you are a business owner, marketer, or brand manager, this book offers a treasure trove of information to help you navigate the complex world of brands.

With its user-friendly format, Brand Aid covers a wide range of branding topics, including brand strategy, brand positioning, brand identity, and brand communication. VanAuken breaks down these concepts into bite-sized chunks, making them easy to understand and apply to your own brand.

What sets this book apart is its focus on practical solutions. VanAuken doesn’t just talk about branding theory; he provides actionable steps and real-life examples to help you implement effective strategies. Whether you are building a new brand or revitalizing an existing one, Brand Aid is packed with practical tips and techniques to help you achieve your branding goals.

So, if you are looking for a book on brands that will empower you to solve your branding problems and strengthen your market position, Brand Aid is the perfect choice. It will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to build a successful brand that stands out in today’s competitive marketplace.

Brand Relevance: Making Competitors Irrelevant

by David A. Aaker

Brand Relevance: Making Competitors Irrelevant by David A. Aaker is a game-changing book about the power of brands in today’s competitive market. Aaker, a renowned marketing expert, dives deep into the strategies and techniques that can help businesses make their competitors irrelevant.

In this captivating brands book, Aaker explores the concept of brand relevance, which goes beyond mere brand recognition. He emphasizes that creating a brand that truly matters to consumers is the key to long-term success.

With his expertise and real-world examples, Aaker illustrates how companies can build and maintain brand relevance by focusing on four essential pillars: differentiation, relevance, esteem, and knowledge. By mastering these pillars, businesses can establish a unique and meaningful brand identity that resonates with their target audience.

Throughout the book, Aaker provides invaluable insights on how to craft compelling brand narratives, develop innovative products and services, and leverage the power of digital platforms to engage consumers. He also shares practical advice on building sustainable customer relationships and fostering brand loyalty.

Brand Relevance is not just a book on brands; it is a comprehensive guide that equips businesses with the tools and knowledge necessary to stay ahead of the competition. Aaker’s deep understanding of branding, combined with his engaging writing style, makes this book a must-read for entrepreneurs, marketers, and anyone interested in the world of brands. Get ready to revolutionize your brand strategy and make your competitors irrelevant!

Brand Identity Breakthrough: How to Craft Your Company’s Unique Story to Make Your Products Irresistible

by Gregory V. Diehl

Brand Identity Breakthrough is a captivating book about brands that reveals the secrets to crafting a unique and compelling story for your company. Written by Gregory V. Diehl, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to make their products irresistible.

Diehl guides readers through the process of creating a powerful brand identity that sets their company apart from the competition. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the true essence of your brand and effectively conveying its story to consumers.

This book on brands dives deep into the psychology behind consumer decision-making and how to tap into their emotions to create a strong connection. Diehl explains that a brand is not just a logo or a product, but rather the entire experience and perception that customers have of your company.

Brand Identity Breakthrough offers practical strategies and actionable advice to help you define your brand’s unique story and communicate it effectively across all channels. It teaches you how to position your brand in a way that resonates with your target audience and builds long-lasting loyalty.

Whether you are a startup founder, small business owner, or marketing professional, this book about brands is a valuable resource that will transform the way you approach branding. Diehl’s insights and expertise will empower you to create a brand identity that captivates consumers and makes your products truly irresistible.

Brand Intimacy: A New Paradigm in Marketing

by Mario Natarelli and Rina Plapler

Brand Intimacy: A New Paradigm in Marketing is a captivating exploration of the fascinating world of brand relationships. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on the power and impact of brands, this book is an absolute must-read.

Within the pages of this enlightening book on brands, Mario Natarelli and Rina Plapler introduce the concept of brand intimacy, a revolutionary way of understanding and measuring the emotional connection between consumers and brands. They argue that successful brands go beyond simply satisfying their customers; they create a deep and lasting bond that transcends traditional marketing strategies.

Through a blend of real-world case studies, psychological insights, and strategic guidance, the authors demonstrate how brands can cultivate intimacy with their target audience. They delve into the emotional aspects of brand building and explain how to forge stronger connections by tapping into consumers’ desires, needs, and aspirations.

What sets this book about brands apart is its emphasis on the human element of marketing. Natarelli and Plapler believe that brands possess traits similar to those found in human relationships, such as bonding, identity, and reciprocity. By understanding and leveraging these dynamics, companies can create a sense of intimacy that fosters loyalty, advocacy, and ultimately, long-term success.

Whether you’re a seasoned marketer, a business owner, or simply curious about the power of brands, Brand Intimacy: A New Paradigm in Marketing will enrich your understanding of the intricate relationship between consumers and the brands they love. Prepare to be enlightened and inspired as you embark on this thought-provoking journey into the captivating world of brand intimacy.

Brand Management: Research, Theory and Practice

by Tilde Heding, Charlotte F. Knudtzen, and Mogens Bjerre

Looking to dive deep into the world of brand management? Look no further than the captivating book on brands, ‘Brand Management: Research, Theory and Practice’ by Tilde Heding, Charlotte F. Knudtzen, and Mogens Bjerre. This insightful book about brands explores the complex and fascinating field of brand management from every angle.

Whether you’re a marketing professional, a business student, or simply curious about the power of brands, this brands book is a must-read. Through extensive research and practical examples, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of brand management, covering everything from the theoretical foundations to the practical strategies used by successful brands.

With an engaging writing style and a wealth of real-world case studies, this book on brands brings the subject to life. It delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of branding, helping readers understand the deep connections that consumers form with their favorite brands.

Furthermore, ‘Brand Management: Research, Theory and Practice’ explores the latest trends and challenges in brand management, including the influence of social media, globalization, and sustainability. It equips readers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of brand management.

Whether you’re a seasoned brand manager or just starting your journey in the field, this brands book is an invaluable resource. Its blend of research, theory, and practical insights make it a comprehensive guide to understanding and leveraging the power of brands.

Brand Brilliance: Elevate Your Brand, Enchant Your Audience

by Fiona Humberstone

In Brand Brilliance: Elevate Your Brand, Enchant Your Audience, Fiona Humberstone presents a captivating exploration of the world of branding. This enchanting book delves into the art of creating a strong and compelling brand that captures the hearts and minds of its audience.

Humberstone’s expertise shines through as she guides readers through the intricate process of building a brand that stands out from the crowd. She emphasizes the importance of crafting a unique and authentic identity that resonates with customers on a deep level.

This book on brands is a treasure trove of valuable insights and practical tips that will help entrepreneurs and marketers transform their businesses. Humberstone’s engaging writing style and real-life examples make the concepts easy to grasp and apply.

With a wealth of knowledge, Brand Brilliance offers a fresh perspective on the power of branding. It encourages readers to think creatively and strategically about their brands, inspiring them to create meaningful connections with their target audience.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting your branding journey, this book about brands is a must-read. It will empower you to elevate your brand to new heights and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Brand Seduction: How Neuroscience Can Help Marketers Build Memorable Brands

by Daryl Weber

Brand Seduction: How Neuroscience Can Help Marketers Build Memorable Brands by Daryl Weber is a captivating book about the power of branding. In this thought-provoking book on brands, Weber explores the fascinating intersection between neuroscience and marketing, revealing the secrets to creating unforgettable brand experiences.

By delving into the depths of our brains, Weber uncovers the psychological processes that influence our perceptions and decisions when it comes to brands. He provides insights into how our minds are wired to respond to certain stimuli, and how marketers can tap into these innate tendencies to create lasting connections with consumers.

This book about brands goes beyond traditional marketing strategies and dives into the realm of neuroscience, offering a fresh perspective on the art of branding. Weber’s expertise in both fields allows him to provide practical advice and actionable tips for marketers looking to make a lasting impact.

With captivating examples and real-world case studies, Brand Seduction takes readers on a journey through the inner workings of the consumer’s mind. It explores the power of emotions, storytelling, and sensory experiences in creating memorable brands that stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out in the industry, this brands book offers valuable insights that will revolutionize the way you approach branding. By understanding the science behind consumer behavior, you’ll be equipped with the tools to create brands that not only attract attention but leave a lasting impression in the minds of consumers.

Brand Breakout: How Emerging Market Brands Will Go Global

by Nirmalya Kumar and Jan-Benedict E.M. Steenkamp

Brand Breakout: How Emerging Market Brands Will Go Global is a captivating and insightful book on brands written by Nirmalya Kumar and Jan-Benedict E.M. Steenkamp. This book delves into the fascinating world of emerging market brands, exploring how they have the potential to break out and conquer the global market.

Unlike traditional brand-focused books, Brand Breakout takes a fresh approach by shedding light on the strategies and challenges faced by brands from emerging markets. These brands are often underestimated and overshadowed by their Western counterparts, but this book highlights their immense potential and offers a roadmap for global success.

Through extensive research and real-life case studies, Kumar and Steenkamp illustrate the unique characteristics and advantages that emerging market brands possess. They showcase how these brands leverage their cultural heritage, low-cost structures, and innovative marketing techniques to disrupt established markets and capture the attention of global consumers.

Brand Breakout provides readers with valuable insights into the critical factors that contribute to the success of emerging market brands. From understanding local consumer preferences to mastering distribution channels, the authors offer practical advice and strategic frameworks to help brands navigate the complex global landscape.

By exploring the success stories of brands like Huawei, Samsung, and Xiaomi, Kumar and Steenkamp demonstrate how these emerging market brands have transformed themselves into global powerhouses. They emphasize the need for brands to adapt to global standards while retaining their unique identity, creating a balance between global appeal and local relevance.

With its engaging narrative and in-depth analysis, Brand Breakout is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of brands, marketing, and business strategy. Whether you are a brand manager, entrepreneur, or simply intrigued by the rise of emerging market brands, this book offers valuable insights and inspiration to help you navigate the ever-evolving global marketplace.

Brand Together: How Co-Creation Generates Innovation and Re-energizes Brands

by Nicholas Ind and Clare Fuller

Brand Together: How Co-Creation Generates Innovation and Re-energizes Brands, written by Nicholas Ind and Clare Fuller, is a captivating book about the world of brands and the power of collaboration.

In this insightful book on brands, Ind and Fuller explore the concept of co-creation, where brands and their customers work together to create new products, services, and experiences. They argue that by involving customers in the brand development process, companies can tap into a wealth of creativity and innovation that can ultimately re-energize their brands.

Throughout the book, the authors provide numerous examples of successful co-creation initiatives from a range of industries, including fashion, technology, and food. They demonstrate how brands such as LEGO, Starbucks, and Threadless have embraced co-creation to not only generate new ideas but also to build stronger relationships with their customers.

What sets this book about brands apart is its emphasis on the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in the co-creation process. Ind and Fuller argue that brands should not only engage with their most loyal customers but also reach out to a diverse range of individuals, including non-customers and even competitors, to foster a truly innovative and inclusive brand community.

Overall, Brand Together is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that challenges traditional notions of branding. It offers a fresh perspective on how brands can harness the power of co-creation to drive innovation, engage customers, and ultimately re-energize their brand. Whether you are a marketer, entrepreneur, or simply interested in the world of brands, this book is a must-read.

Brand Portfolio Strategy: Creating Relevance, Differentiation, Energy, Leverage, and Clarity

by David A. Aaker

Brand Portfolio Strategy: Creating Relevance, Differentiation, Energy, Leverage, and Clarity by David A. Aaker is a captivating book on brands that delves into the intricacies of building and managing a brand portfolio.

As the title suggests, this book about brands emphasizes the importance of creating relevance, differentiation, energy, leverage, and clarity within a brand portfolio. Aaker, a renowned marketing strategist, provides valuable insights and practical advice on how to achieve these goals.

Throughout the book, Aaker explores the concept of brand architecture, guiding readers on how to structure and organize their brand portfolio to maximize its potential. He highlights the significance of having a clear brand identity and positioning, enabling brands to stand out in a crowded market.

Aaker’s approach goes beyond just managing individual brands; he emphasizes the importance of leveraging synergies and creating a unified brand portfolio that resonates with consumers. By doing so, companies can achieve a competitive advantage and drive growth.

What sets this brands book apart is Aaker’s ability to seamlessly blend theory with real-world examples. He draws from an array of case studies, showcasing successful brand portfolios and the strategies behind their success. This makes the book not only informative but also engaging and relatable.

Whether you are a marketing professional looking to enhance your brand management skills or a business leader aiming to optimize your brand portfolio, Brand Portfolio Strategy: Creating Relevance, Differentiation, Energy, Leverage, and Clarity is a must-read. Aaker’s expertise and insights will undoubtedly help you navigate the complex world of brands and unleash their full potential.

Brand Aid: Taking Control of Your Reputation–Before Everyone Else Does

by Brett T. Williams

Brand Aid: Taking Control of Your Reputation–Before Everyone Else Does by Brett T. Williams is a captivating book on brands that delves into the intricacies of reputation management in the modern era. In this thought-provoking and insightful book about brands, Williams explores the power and influence that brands hold in today’s highly connected world. With the rise of social media and instantaneous communication, brands have become more vulnerable than ever before, making it essential for individuals and companies to take control of their reputation before it falls into the hands of others.

Brand Famous: How to Get Everyone Talking About Your Business

by Linzi Boyd

Brand Famous: How to Get Everyone Talking About Your Business by Linzi Boyd is a captivating book about the power of brands. In this fascinating read, Boyd explores the art and science behind creating a brand that stands out and captures the attention of the masses.

With her extensive experience in the business world, Boyd takes readers on a journey through the complexities of brand building. She shares valuable insights, strategies, and real-life examples that will inspire entrepreneurs and marketers alike to think differently about their brands.

Through her engaging storytelling and practical advice, Boyd emphasizes the importance of authenticity, creativity, and consistency in building a successful brand. She demonstrates how brands can become famous by tapping into their unique qualities and effectively communicating their value to consumers.

Whether you are a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this book is a must-read. It will challenge your preconceived notions about branding and provide you with the tools and knowledge to create a brand that not only gets noticed but also becomes a household name.

If you’re looking for a book on brands that will ignite your passion and help you take your business to new heights, look no further than Brand Famous: How to Get Everyone Talking About Your Business. Get ready to become a brand genius and make your mark in the competitive world of business.

Brand Against the Machine: How to Build Your Brand, Cut Through the Marketing Noise, and Stand Out from the Competition

by John Morgan and Jeremy Miller

Brand Against the Machine is a game-changing book on brands that will revolutionize the way you think about marketing. Written by John Morgan and Jeremy Miller, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to build a strong brand that stands out from the competition.

In this insightful book about brands, Morgan and Miller take a fresh approach to marketing, showing you how to cut through the noise and create a brand that truly resonates with your audience. They provide practical strategies and actionable advice that can be applied to any business, regardless of size or industry.

What sets this brands book apart is its emphasis on authenticity. Morgan and Miller believe that in order to succeed in today’s crowded marketplace, you need to be true to yourself and your brand. They show you how to uncover your brand’s unique story, values, and personality, and how to communicate that effectively to your target audience.

Brand Against the Machine is not your typical marketing book. It challenges conventional wisdom and encourages you to think differently. It teaches you how to build a brand that people love, trust, and connect with on a deeper level.

If you’re tired of the same old marketing strategies and want to make a real impact with your brand, then this book on brands is for you. It will inspire you, challenge you, and give you the tools you need to differentiate yourself from the competition and build a brand that truly stands out.

Brand Hijack: Marketing Without Marketing

by Alex Wipperfürth

Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the world of brands? Look no further! Brand Hijack: Marketing Without Marketing by Alex Wipperfürth is the ultimate book about brands that will revolutionize the way you perceive marketing.

In this captivating read, Wipperfürth challenges traditional marketing methods and flips them on their head. Gone are the days of flashy advertisements and aggressive sales tactics. Instead, he introduces the concept of brand hijacking, a fresh approach that empowers consumers to take charge of brands themselves.

But what exactly is brand hijacking? It’s not as nefarious as it sounds. In fact, it’s a collaborative process where brands and consumers work together to create meaningful connections. Wipperfürth believes that brands should be more than just products or services; they should be an extension of our identities.

Throughout the book, Wipperfürth delves into real-life examples of successful brand hijacks, showcasing how ordinary people have transformed brands into powerful cultural icons. From Nike to Apple, he reveals the secrets behind their iconic status and provides invaluable insights into how you can do the same.

Prepare to have your mind blown as Wipperfürth uncovers the hidden potential of brands. You’ll discover how to tap into the emotional core of your audience, create authentic connections, and ultimately, build a tribe of loyal customers who will actively promote your brand.

Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this brands book is a must-read. Its thought-provoking ideas and practical strategies will inspire you to think differently, challenge the status quo, and revolutionize your approach to marketing.

So, are you ready to hijack the world of brands? Get your hands on Brand Hijack: Marketing Without Marketing and embark on an adventure that will transform the way you view and interact with the brands around you.

Brand New: Solving the Innovation Paradox — How Great Brands Invent and Launch New Products, Services, and Business Models

by G. Michael Maddock, Luisa C. Uriarte, and Paul B. Brown

In the fast-paced world of business, staying ahead of the competition requires constant innovation and the ability to bring new products, services, and business models to market. However, many companies find themselves facing the “innovation paradox,” where they struggle to generate fresh ideas and successfully launch them. In their groundbreaking book on brands, “Brand New: Solving the Innovation Paradox,” G. Michael Maddock, Luisa C. Uriarte, and Paul B. Brown explore the strategies and mindset needed to overcome this challenge and revolutionize the way companies innovate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about brands provide valuable insights and knowledge for anyone interested in understanding the power and impact of brands in today’s competitive market. Whether you are a marketer, business owner, or simply curious about the world of branding, these books offer a wealth of information and inspiration. From classic works that have stood the test of time to modern perspectives on emerging trends, there is something for everyone in this curated list. So, grab a copy of these books and embark on a journey to uncover the secrets behind successful brands.