WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP
Off-Ramps and On-Ramps, Sylvia Ann Hewlett. As the book cover puts it: "Legions of women step off the career track at least once to raise children, care for elderly parents . . . But when they're ready to step back on track -- just a short time later -- they hit a wall." Published in 2007, this fascinating, very readable book is loaded with cutting edge thinking on how the most progressive companies are re-thinking how to retain and welcome back highly skilled women.
Necessary Dreams, Ambition in Women's Changing Lives, Anna Fels. This is a groundbreaking book about how women "perceive, are prepared for, and cope with ambition and achievement." Psychiatrist Fels describes why "for women but not for men, ambition still remains fraught with often painful conflict."
LEADERSHIP and BUSINESS
You Are the Message, Roger Ailes. Regardless of his politics, Ailes' 1988 book on communication skills is still one of the best.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey. This one changes lives.
The World is Flat, Thomas Friedman. Nobody does it better when it comes to perspective and context on the global new economy.
WOMEN, FOR AND ABOUT
The Power of the Purse, Fara Warner. New insight on marketing to women, and fascinating case histories of companies who are now "getting it" and reaping the rewards.
Hardball for Women, Winning at the Game of Business, Pat Heim. A classic and right on the money.
Nine Parts of Desire, the Hidden World of Islamic Women, Geraldine Brooks. If the subject interests you, you'll never forget this book.
Tough Choices, Carly Fiorina. The former Hewlett Packard CEO's memoir is a "must read" for anyone with sights on the C-suites of big business.
What's Holding You Back? 8 Critical Choices for Women's Success. Linda Austin. If you're running into obstacles in the workforce, don't complain or blame others, read this book.
