6+ Favorite Books on Design Thinking (So Far!)

Here is a roundup of my favorite books on design thinking (so far!). I hope you find something interesting & a little different.

1. Architecture of Happiness by Alain de Botton

   

   $11.95

   In The Architecture of Happiness, Alain de Botton explores how architecture influences our emotions and shapes our identities. He argues that beautiful buildings reflect our aspirations and can actually enhance our happiness. While I found some insights helpful, like the idea that our environment affects our mood, I felt the book didn't quite hit the mark compared to de Botton's other works. There are sections that could use a bit of editing, and overall, it feels like a stretch for him. Still, it’s a solid read if you want to understand architecture's impact on our lives.

   Pros:

   • The book helps readers understand architecture better.
   • De Botton presents a unique perspective on beauty and happiness in architecture.
   • It explores the connection between our environment and personal development.

   Cons:

   • This book is a stretch compared to De Botton's other works.
   • Some portions in the middle need editing or a glossary.

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   08/13/2025 08:02 am GMT
2. How Fiction Works by James Wood

   

   $5.98

   In How Fiction Works, James Wood explores the essential elements that make fiction resonate, focusing on how well stories reflect the human mind and its relationship with the world. I appreciated the insights into themes, character development, and the nuances of storytelling. Wood emphasizes that fiction can deepen our understanding of others and ourselves, which I found valuable. However, I felt the book was a bit too brief and could have benefited from more examples and anecdotes to flesh out his ideas. Overall, it's a useful read for anyone looking to engage more deeply with literature.

   Pros:

   • The book helps deepen understanding of reading.
   • It effectively highlights themes and elements in fiction.
   • Wood’s analysis of fiction’s mechanics is insightful.

   Cons:

   • The book is too short and lacks examples and anecdotes.

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   08/13/2025 08:03 am GMT
3. Impossible To Ignore by Carmen Simon

   

   $14.05

   In Impossible To Ignore, Carmen Simon focuses on how to create memorable messages that stick in people's minds. I found the book packed with practical tips for influencing others' memories, which is crucial for business success. While it’s well-structured and great for team discussions, I have to admit it felt a bit too corporate and, at times, dull. It’s definitely a solid read if you're part of a group strategizing on content campaigns, but I wouldn't pick it up for casual reading. Overall, it’s insightful, just not the most exciting.

   Pros:

   • Groundbreaking approach to creating memorable messages
   • Provides easy-to-follow instructions for influencing memory
   • Insightful strategies for making an impact in business

   Cons:

   • Very corporate and somewhat boring
   • Not engaging for individual reading
   • Best suited for group discussions only

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   08/12/2025 04:04 pm GMT
4. Six Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono

   

   $9.99

   In Six Thinking Hats, Edward de Bono presents a straightforward technique for improving meetings and decision-making through the use of six different thinking modes, each represented by a colored hat. I was pleasantly surprised by how practical and effective the framework turned out to be, far exceeding my initial skepticism about typical business jargon. However, I couldn't help but notice that de Bono can come off a bit self-important, which might be a turn-off for some. Still, the useful ideas make it worth pushing past that hype. Overall, it’s a solid read for anyone looking to enhance their thinking processes.

   Pros:

   • Simple and powerful technique for meetings and decision-making
   • Encourages parallel thinking to avoid conflicts
   • Explores issues from diverse perspectives
   • Practical guidance for effective use of the method
   • Exceeds expectations with a solid framework

   Cons:

   • Author comes across as overly self-assured
   • There's some hype around the ideas

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   08/13/2025 12:00 pm GMT
5. Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett

   

   $13.86

   In Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett, the focus is on using design thinking to create a fulfilling and joyful life. The authors, both Stanford professors, share practical tools like the Odyssey Plan for mapping out your desired future and the Wayfinding Journal for reflecting on your daily experiences. I really appreciate how this book encourages you to define your goals and make thoughtful trade-offs to achieve them. Honestly, I wish every counselor would read it! It’s a straightforward approach that feels empowering, and I only wish I had discovered it earlier in life.

   Pros:

   • Teaches design thinking for a meaningful life
   • Encourages creating a five-year Odyssey Plan
   • Empowering with useful exercises and empathetic tone

   Cons:

   • Not a whole lot!

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   08/13/2025 03:05 pm GMT
6. Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip Heath

   

   $11.48

   In Made to Stick, Chip and Dan Heath explore what makes ideas memorable through six key traits: simplicity, unexpectedness, concreteness, credibility, emotional appeal, and storytelling. The book offers practical tips for distilling messages to their essence and engaging audiences effectively. I found it not only fascinating but also super easy to read and apply. It’s packed with insights that can help anyone communicate their ideas better. Honestly, I can't think of anything I didn't like—this one’s a must-read for anyone wanting to make their ideas stick! Five stars!

   Pros:

   • The book is fascinating and engaging.
   • It is easy to read and understand.
   • Provides practical advice that is easy to implement.

   Cons:

   • Nothing at all - must read.

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   08/13/2025 03:05 pm GMT