Top 12 Project Management Books: Recommended Reads for Aspiring Project Managers

A career in project management is about leading teams and helping organizations reach their goals. Project managers ensure smooth workflows, teamwork, and focus on objectives. With an 7% job growth projected by 2031 and a need for 2.3 million new project managers annually by 2030, this field offers great opportunities.

The demand spans industries like tech, healthcare, and marketing, making the role vital. It’s also rewarding, with average salaries around $90,000 or more.

To succeed in project management, you need strong skills in planning, communication, and leadership. A great way to build these is by reading books from industry experts, packed with insights and strategies to enhance your career.

12 Books for Continuous Growth in Project Management

Learning is essential for success in project management, whether you’re new or experienced. The field requires skills like planning, leadership, and adaptability, which can always improve with practice. Project management books are great resources to gain knowledge, refine skills, and stay updated. Here’s a list of 12 must-read books to help you grow.

1. A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) by PMI

The PMBOK® Guide is a must-have for project managers, offering detailed processes, tools, and practices to manage projects effectively. It’s a go-to reference for anyone preparing for the PMP certification or wanting to understand project management standards used globally. You can find it on PMI’s website, Amazon, or major book retailers.

2. Project Management Absolute Beginner’s Guide by Greg Horine

This book is perfect for newcomers to project management. It explains concepts like planning, managing risks, and handling stakeholders in an easy-to-follow way. The goal is to help beginners build a strong foundation, making project management less intimidating. Get this book on Amazon or from your local bookstore.

3. Making Things Happen by Scott Berkun

Scott Berkun’s book is full of advice based on real-world project management experiences. It focuses on leading teams, managing schedules, and improving communication. The aim is to turn ideas into projects that succeed, all while navigating daily challenges. You can find this book on Amazon and many online stores.

4. Getting Things Done by David Allen

This book introduces a simple system for staying organized and handling tasks without stress. It’s especially helpful for project managers who juggle multiple priorities. The goal is to improve productivity and keep you on track without burning out. You can buy it as a print book, Kindle version, or audiobook on Amazon.

5. Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time by Jeff Sutherland

This book simplifies Scrum, a popular Agile framework. It explains how to work efficiently, improve teamwork, and speed up project results. Created by one of Scrum’s cofounders, it shows you how to use these techniques in any industry. Look for it on Amazon, at libraries, or at your local bookstore.

6. Project Management for the Unofficial Project Manager by Kory Kogon, Suzette Blakemore, and James Wood

This book is for people managing projects without formal training. Using relatable examples and tips, it helps readers organize tasks and complete projects effectively. It’s ideal for professionals who want to lead projects confidently without being official project managers. Find it online on Amazon or in bookstores.

7. Critical Chain by Eliyahu Goldratt

This book explains how to identify and solve bottlenecks in projects. Using the Theory of Constraints, it shows how to allocate resources wisely and meet deadlines. It’s written in an engaging story format, making it easy to apply the practices to your own work. You can pick it up on Amazon or other book-selling websites.

8. The Fast Forward MBA in Project Management by Eric Verzuh

This book provides practical tools, templates, and tips that you can use right away. It covers areas like budgeting and team-building, making it useful for new and experienced project managers alike. You can find it on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other stores.

9. Harvard Business Review Project Management Handbook by Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez

This handbook offers advanced techniques and strategies for managing projects, blending hands-on advice with key leadership lessons. It’s especially useful for managing large or complex projects. Check Harvard Business Review’s website or Amazon to grab your copy.

10. The Lazy Project Manager by Peter Taylor

This book takes a fun and practical approach to working smart rather than hard. It teaches you how to focus on tasks that produce the most results while cutting unnecessary effort. You can get your copy on Amazon or at your local bookstore.

11. Agile Project Management for Dummies by Mark C. Layton

This guide breaks Agile down into simple, easy-to-understand steps. It explains how to use Agile frameworks like Scrum and Kanban, even if you’re new to the methods. This book is available on Amazon and most major retailers, making it easy to get started with Agile.

12. Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull

Written by Pixar’s co-founder, this book explores how great management can inspire creativity. It offers lessons on leading teams and fostering open, innovative environments. This book is not only helpful for project managers but anyone managing teams. Grab it on Amazon, Audible, or in bookstores.

The Power of Reading to Master Your Craft

Reading is one of the best ways to get better at your craft, whether it’s project management or something else. Books offer useful tips, clear strategies, and fresh ideas that can help you improve. For project managers, reading can strengthen important skills like planning, leadership, and problem-solving. It also helps you stay up-to-date with industry changes and gives you new ways to handle challenges.

Books do more than teach—they spark creativity and give you a new way of looking at things. You can continue to learn, maintain your flexibility, and advance in your career by developing a reading habit. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been at it for years, books are a powerful tool to help you succeed.