Summer’s here in the U.S., which hopefully means you’ve got a bit more downtime. Let’s use that to boost your product management career with some top-notch reading. Did you know the average CEO reads about 52 books a year? That’s one book a week! As product managers, we should aim high too. With longer days and some well-deserved time off, there are more opportunities to dive into a good book.

In our ever-evolving field, there’s always something new to learn. I’ve walked the same path you’re on, navigating the complex maze of product management, and trust me, there’s a treasure trove of wisdom in these pages. I’ve rolled up my sleeves and curated a summer reading list every product manager ought to dig into. So, let’s get to it!

Here are my top five must-read books for the summer of ’24:

1️⃣ “Transformed” Moving to the Product Operating Model by Marty Cagan and SVPG

First up, “Transformed” by Marty Cagan is a must-read. Drawing on his vast experience in the tech industry, Cagan provides valuable insights into the roles and responsibilities of product managers today. This book covers everything from understanding customer needs to working effectively with engineering and design teams. It offers practical advice on creating products that not only meet market demands but also drive business growth. Cagan’s clear and concise writing style makes complex concepts accessible, making this book an excellent resource for both new and experienced product managers.

Ready to level up your PM game? Grab your copy of Transformed by Marty Cagan.

2️⃣ Take Back Your Power: 10 New Rules for Women at Work by Deborah Liu

“Take Back Your Power” by Deborah Liu is a powerful guide for PMs looking to make a significant impact. Liu shares her wealth of knowledge and personal experiences to empower you. The book delves into key aspects of product management, from leading with conviction to handling tough decisions and even dealing with failures. Liu’s candid style and practical insights make this a compelling read. Whether you’re a seasoned PM or just starting out, this is a valuable addition to your summer reading list.

Empower yourself by diving into Take Back Your Power by Deborah Liu.

3️⃣ Strategize: Product Strategy and Product Roadmap Practices for the Digital Age by Roman Pichler

“Strategize” by Roman Pichler offers invaluable insights into the intricate world of product management. Pichler explores creating effective product strategies and roadmaps that align with our dynamic digital landscape. Packed with real-world examples, actionable tips, and relevant tools, this book is a goldmine for PMs at all levels. It dives into identifying opportunities, prioritizing tasks, and communicating strategy effectively. With its perfect blend of theory and practical application, “Strategize” is essential for PMs aiming to deliver outstanding digital products.

Get strategic with Strategize by Roman Pichler.

4️⃣ The Best of Lenny’s Newsletter by Lenny Rachitsky (currently out of stock)

“The Best of Lenny’s Newsletter” by Lenny Rachitsky is an insightful compilation of impactful essays from Rachitsky’s widely read newsletter. As a former product lead at Airbnb, Rachitsky shares his deep understanding of product management, startup strategies, and growth tactics. Covering a wide range of topics, from user experience design to team dynamics and leadership lessons, this book is packed with actionable advice. Even though it’s currently out of stock, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for.

Stay tuned for the restock of “The Best of Lenny’s Newsletter” by Lenny Rachitsky. In the meantime, join Lenny’s Newsletter and Slack community. It’s well worth the price of membership, which (at the time of this writing) is $15 per month.

5️⃣ Elevate Your Team by Robert Glazer

“Elevate Your Team” by Robert Glazer offers a groundbreaking approach to building and leading high-performing teams. Glazer provides a wealth of insights, strategies, and practical tools to inspire, empower, and align teams for optimal performance. The book explores fostering a positive team culture, promoting continuous learning, and effectively managing team dynamics. With valuable advice on leadership, from setting clear expectations to managing conflict, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their team’s full potential.

Elevate your leadership skills with Elevate Your Team by Robert Glazer.

In Summary

Remember, reading isn’t just for entertainment; it’s also a way to stay updated with the latest trends, insights, and strategies in product management. These top 5 books, carefully curated for the summer of 2024, are filled with practical advice, valuable insights, and years of wisdom from industry leaders. Whether you’re a seasoned PM or just starting out, they offer a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the challenging landscape of product management and make a significant impact in your role.

Continuous learning is key to success in our fast-paced, constantly evolving field. So, grab a book, find a comfy spot, and let the learning begin!

And to further accelerate your product management career, here’s a bonus book recommendation: Read The PM Success Guide! I created this free e-book to help product managers like you boost their careers. Happy reading!