Are you interested in the topic of diversity and inclusion? More and more speakers and authors have talked about being inclusive and diverse in our personal and professional lives in recent years. There are many insightful videos, workshops, and books covering gender bias, ageism, and much more. If you want to get deep into the topic, check out the list of the top eight books about diversity and inclusion worth reading.
The novel of Bernardine Evaristo, “Girl, Woman, Other,” tells stories of 12 different characters, most of them Black British women. The story of each woman is told within one chapter, and all their lives overlap. The book shares intersections of race, class, sex, gender, age, faith, and sexual orientation, and much more are mirrored in characters’ lives. “Girl, Woman, Other” is full of love, humanity, anguish, and joy and supports women, all different and somehow alike.
“Invisible Women” by Caroline Criado Perez is another book focused on women that is a must-read for everyone. It is full of interesting stories and facts with 70 pages of references at the back. The book is split into six areas: daily life, workplace, design, doctors, public life, and general “when it goes wrong.” The main point is not to get overly frustrated after you realize how much of this world really is designed for men with things that you possibly hadn’t even considered.
The book “How to Be an Anti-Racist” by Ibram Kendi teaches us that simply NOT being racist is not enough, with all social injustices that exist today. The author tells a story by reducing this complex topic into many clear definitions and dimensions surrounding racism. For the reader, it means more rational and less emotional discussions about dealing with racist policies and ideas than racists. Every person, team, or company that wants to re-examine their approach to inclusion and unconscious bias should read this book.
Are you interested to hear the stories of others? Then check out “The Good Immigrant” by Nikesh Shakula. In this book, you will find twenty essays written by different authors who identify as Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic. All these authors share their experiences of xenophobia, discrimination, and the new forms of racism in the modern world. “The Good Immigrant” can be a perfect gift for someone who feels the same way or just wants to understand the point of view of others.
“The Culture Map” by Erin Meyer is another bestseller that is a must-read if working in the international environment. As more companies become global today, it’s not unusual anymore to have international colleagues. And all these people are influenced differently by their cultures when sometimes differences can lead to misunderstandings. “The Culture Map” helps to navigate internationally diverse workplaces and explores differences in communication style, demeanor, and attitudes about authority across cultures.
In the book "How to Be an Inclusive Leader," Jennifer Brown Speaks doesn't just tell why diversity is essential but shares tips on how we all can drive real change at work. The author provides a step-by-step guide for the personal and emotional journey we must undertake to create an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. As, after all, these inclusive workplaces bring higher engagement, performance, and profits.
“The Loudest Duck” by Laura A. Liswood is considered one of the most popular workplace diversity and inclusion books on the market. This book supports a diverse workplace and advocates for a meaningful approach. From many other points, the author also urges leaders to hire distinctive candidates and recognize and appreciate the strengths in those differences.
Last but not least book about diversity and inclusion worth reading is “This Chair Rocks” by Ashton Applewhite. This book is about ageism in the workplace and our society overall. The author shares her journey and experiences and discusses specific stereotypes that American culture holds about older individuals. When you finish this book, you will better understand age discrimination and know whether you also hold some beliefs on ageism in and out of the workplace.
These eight books are not the limit. Of course, there are many other interesting authors and publishings covering all possible diversity and inclusion topics. But make sure to start with these eight. It can be a perfect read for your calm weekday evening or even an excellent present for your friend or team member interested in the topic. Enjoy!
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