Stand Out: Messaging, Branding & Positioning

Read these books when your marketing feels unclear, forgettable, or ineffective—and you need sharper messaging, better positioning, or a brand that actually sticks.

Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind – Al Ries & Jack Trout

Read this when you’re trying to stand out in a crowded market—this classic teaches how to own a unique space in your customer’s mind. Read the full summary of Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind

Purple Cow – Seth Godin

Read this when your product or service feels ordinary—Purple Cow helps you create something truly remarkable that gets talked about. Read the full summary of Purple Cow

The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing – Al Ries & Jack Trout

Read this when you want fast, memorable principles to guide how you position, name, and market your business.

This Is Marketing – Seth Godin

Read this when you want to shift from pushy marketing to building trust, connection, and real value for the people you serve.

Building a StoryBrand 2.0 – Donald Miller

Read this when you want the updated, streamlined version of StoryBrand—ideal for teams, rebrands, or revisiting the framework with fresh eyes. Read the full summary of Building a StoryBrand 2.0

Made to Stick – Chip Heath & Dan Heath

Read this when your ideas aren’t landing—this book explains why some messages are memorable and how to make yours “stick.”

Stories That Stick – Kindra Hall

Read this when you want to use storytelling to connect with customers, sell more effectively, or build a more human brand.

The Copywriter’s Handbook – Robert W. Bly

Read this when you want to write words that sell—this book is a practical, no-fluff guide to headlines, offers, emails, and copy that actually converts.

Hook Point – Brendan Kane

Read this when you need to grab attention in a noisy world—especially on social media, where first impressions are everything.

Ogilvy on Advertising – David Ogilvy

Read this when you want timeless insights on copywriting, persuasion, and what makes advertising actually work.

Alchemy – Rory Sutherland

Read this when logic isn’t working—this book explores the irrational, psychological side of marketing and why it often beats reason.

Marketing Made Simple – Donald Miller & Dr. J.J. Peterson

Read this when you want a step-by-step system to create a sales funnel that turns clear messaging into real revenue.

Duct Tape Marketing – John Jantsch

Read this when you want a practical, small-business-friendly system for marketing consistently and affordably.