Nothing pairs better with sunscreen and sea breeze than a good book—especially one that fires up your creativity while you’re off the clock. Whether you’re lounging poolside, escaping to the lake, or just taking your lunch break outdoors, this summer’s hottest marketing books are as entertaining as they are enlightening.

Here are five of our favorite recent releases (and a couple modern classics) to help marketers soak up some strategic inspiration while soaking up the sun.

1. “For the Culture” by Marcus Collins (2023)

Why it’s worth the beach bag:

Culture is the most powerful force in marketing—and no one explains it quite like Marcus Collins, former head of strategy at Wieden+Kennedy and professor at Michigan. In “For the Culture,” he explores how brands can move beyond messaging to actually shape behaviors and beliefs. It’s like an anthropology class, but way more fun (and more relevant to your next campaign).

Perfect for: Brand strategists, content marketers, and anyone who wants to make marketing that actually matters.

2. “The Illusion of Choice: 16 ½ Psychological Biases That Influence What We Buy” by Richard Shotton (2024)

Why it’s worth the beach bag:

This brand-new release dives into behavioral science and shows how small psychological nudges can make a big impact on purchasing decisions. Shotton (author of The Choice Factory) builds on his previous work with fresh insights backed by data—and he makes it super digestible. Think of it as marketing meets pop psychology.

Perfect for: Anyone who writes copy, plans campaigns, or wants to understand what makes consumers tick.

3. “Obsessed: Building a Brand People Love from Day One” by Emily Heyward

Why it’s worth the beach bag:

From the co-founder of branding agency Red Antler (think: Allbirds, Casper, Hims), Obsessed offers a peek into how some of today’s most beloved DTC brands were built—and what sets them apart. It’s especially relevant if you’re working with startups or rethinking your brand’s emotional connection with its audience.

Perfect for: Founders, creative directors, and brand builders looking to emotionally connect with their audience.

4. “The Content Fuel Framework: How to Generate Unlimited Story Ideas” by Melanie Deziel

Why it’s worth the beach bag:

Stuck in a content rut? Aren’t we all. This book is the cure. Deziel’s framework is simple but powerful: pair content focuses (like people, data, or process) with formats (like listicles, interviews, or infographics) to unlock an endless stream of ideas. It’s actionable, fun, and ideal for keeping your content calendar fresh.

Perfect for: Social media managers, content strategists, and creative teams.

5. “Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way” by Jonah Berger (2023)

Why it’s worth the beach bag:

Jonah Berger is back with another winner—this time focused on the power of language. Magic Words breaks down the small shifts in word choice that drive big changes in behavior. Whether you’re crafting headlines or writing sales emails, this book delivers copy gold.

Perfect for: Copywriters, brand storytellers, and performance marketers looking to tighten their messaging.

Bonus: Don’t Forget the Sunscreen… and the Highlighter

Pro tip: Keep a highlighter or sticky notes in your beach tote. These books are full of gems you’ll want to come back to when the out-of-office reply comes off.

So go ahead—relax, recharge, and return to the office a little more inspired (and maybe a little sun-kissed too).