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Hopley's Reading List: A collection of the best books for Creatives, Designers & Entrepreneurs

Updated: Mar 25, 2023


Books on creativity, productivity, and design
New Books Added Every Month

In the fast-paced world of creativity, design, and entrepreneurship, staying ahead of the game is essential. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, seeking inspiration and guidance can make all the difference. That's where Hopley's Reading List comes in.


As a curated collection of the best books for creatives, designers, and entrepreneurs, this reading list offers a wealth of knowledge and insight to help you achieve your goals. From exploring the latest trends in design to gaining new perspectives on productivity, each book has been handpicked to offer a unique and valuable experience.


So, whether you're looking to build your skills, find inspiration, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, join us as we explore what's on Hopley's Reading List. Your next big breakthrough is just a page-turn away.

 


Creativity Inc by Ed Catmull

"Creativity Inc." by Ed Catmull is a behind-the-scenes look at the creation and growth of one of the most successful animation studios of all time, Pixar. Written by the co-founder and president of the company, Ed Catmull, this book explores the company's journey from its early days to its eventual acquisition by Disney and provides insights into the creative processes, leadership practices, and company culture that made it a success. It's an inspiring read for anyone interested in innovation, creativity, and the art of storytelling.


 

Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell

"Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell is a fascinating exploration of what makes high-achievers successful. Gladwell argues that success is not solely based on individual talent, but is largely influenced by cultural and environmental factors. The book challenges the notion of the "self-made" individual and shows that success is often a result of opportunities and circumstances, rather than just raw talent.


Through a series of captivating case studies and stories, Gladwell delves into the concepts of luck, culture, and timing, and offers a unique perspective on what it takes to achieve success. If you're interested in understanding the hidden factors that contribute to success, "Outliers" is a must-read.


 

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Anchor

"The Happiness Advantage" by Shawn Anchor is a groundbreaking book that offers a fresh perspective on success and achievement. Anchor argues that happiness is not just the result of success, but that it is actually the cause of it. The book offers practical strategies for increasing happiness and positivity in your life, which in turn, leads to increased success and productivity.


Through stories and research, Anchor demonstrates how positive thinking, gratitude, and optimism can create a virtuous cycle of success and happiness. If you're looking to boost your overall well-being and achieve more in your personal and professional life, "The Happiness Advantage" is a must-read.


 

Get Smashed: The Story of the Men Who Made the Adverts That Changed Our Lives by Sam Delaney

"Get Smashed: The Story of the Men Who Made the Adverts That Changed Our Lives" is a colorful and entertaining look at the golden age of advertising. The book explores the creative and charismatic personalities behind some of the most memorable and influential ad campaigns of the 20th century.


From the Mad Men of Madison Avenue to the innovative creative directors of the 60s and 70s, this book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and stories that shaped the advertising industry. If you're a fan of advertising, history, or just a good story, "Get Smashed" is a must-read that provides a lively and entertaining look at the people who changed our lives through their iconic adverts.


 

Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

"Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath is a book that explores why some ideas stick in people's minds while others don't. The authors identify six key principles that make ideas "sticky" and easy to remember, including simplicity, unexpectedness, concreteness, credibility, emotions, and stories.


Through real-life stories and examples, the Heaths demonstrate how these principles can be applied in different contexts, from advertising to politics and education. "Made to Stick" is a fascinating and practical read for anyone who wants to learn how to make their ideas more effective and memorable.


 

Brand New by Wally Olins

"Brand New" by Wally Olins is a comprehensive guide to the world of branding. In this seminal work, Olins offers a thorough understanding of what branding is, how it works, and why it matters. From the creation of brand identity to the development of brand strategy, Olins provides insights and practical advice for anyone looking to build a successful brand.


Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in the branding world, "Brand New" offers a wealth of information and inspiration that is sure to help you build a brand that stands out. If you're looking to understand the art and science of branding, this book is an essential resource.


 

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek


"Start with Why" by Simon Sinek is a captivating exploration of what makes great leaders and organisations successful. The author argues that the most inspiring leaders and companies start with "why" they do what they do, rather than just focusing on "what" they do. Sinek provides a framework for understanding the difference between "why," "how," and "what," and how to use this understanding to create a compelling vision and drive success.


Whether you're a leader looking to inspire your team or an individual looking to make a difference, "Start with Why" offers a powerful message and practical insights for creating impact and making a difference. If you're looking to understand the science of inspiration and leadership, this book is a must-read.


 

Imagine: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer


"Imagine: How Creativity Works" by Jonah Lehrer is a fascinating journey into the workings of the human mind and how it relates to creativity. This book delves into the latest research and studies on creativity, exploring how it works, how we can tap into it, and how we can cultivate it.


With anecdotes, real-life examples, and insightful insights, "Imagine" provides a thought-provoking look at the mysteries of the creative process and how it can transform our lives and our world. Get ready to expand your mind and re-imagine what you thought you knew about creativity!


 

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth


"Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Duckworth is a must-read for anyone looking to unlock their full potential. The book explores the concept of "grit" - a combination of passion and perseverance - and shows why it is a better predictor of success than natural talent or IQ. Through extensive research and personal anecdotes, Duckworth demonstrates how anyone can develop grit and apply it to their own lives, whether they are pursuing an academic degree, a demanding career, or a personal passion project.


"Grit" is a fascinating and inspiring look at the qualities that drive success and the steps anyone can take to cultivate them. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone looking to reach their goals, this book will help you find the courage and determination to keep pushing forward, no matter what challenges come your way.


 

Work Rules!: Insights from Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live and Lead by Laszlo Bock


"Work Rules!: Insights from Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live and Lead" by Laszlo Bock is a fascinating look at the innovative HR practices and culture of one of the world's most successful companies. Through case studies, stories, and insights from his time as the SVP of People Operations at Google, Bock provides a behind-the-scenes look at how Google attracts, motivates, and develops its employees.


He challenges conventional wisdom on work and offers practical ideas for how organisations can create a more human and fulfilling work environment. Whether you're a CEO, manager, or just someone looking to improve their own work life, "Work Rules!" is an engaging and thought-provoking read that will change the way you think about work and leadership.


 

New Additions Every Month


Discover the boundless world of books with Hopley's "Book of the Month" reading list. This ever-expanding collection features handpicked titles that delve into the themes of creativity, design, inspiration, productivity, motivation, and more. Perfect for designers, creative minds and entrepreneurs seeking continuous growth and development, this reading list is your ultimate guide to unlocking the full potential of your creativity and skills.


About Hopley: Hopley creative studio is a creative studio that brings ideas into focus. Small and independent, we are based in Sydney, Australia and work with clients worldwide. Our services include branding, brand strategy, marketing, social media, packaging, print, digital and more!


Want to learn about our branding and design services? Visit our Website to learn more about our services and process. Or, if you are ready to start a project, Contact Us and let's bring your idea into focus.






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