62 books like Gifts Differing

By Isabel Briggs Myers, Peter B. Myers,

Here are 62 books that Gifts Differing fans have personally recommended if you like Gifts Differing. Shepherd is a community of 11,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of The Screwtape Letters

Ryan Jordan Gutierrez Author Of Scars in Time

From my list on horror and sci-fi with a Christian message.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a bit of a contradiction in that I am a Christian pastor but also a horror aficionado. I love all things sci-fi and horror. My fascination with these genres stems from childhood, when I stumbled upon Star Wars, the old Addams Family cartoons, and even Scooby Doo. As I matured, my love of reading grew, and I soon consumed literature like a Dyson, especially sci-fi and horror. I often joke about how the odd combo of my two biggest writing influences, Stephen King (I’ve read his entire bibliography) and C.S. Lewis, perfectly sums up my character, and I think that’s what makes me perfect for this recommendation. 

Ryan's book list on horror and sci-fi with a Christian message

Ryan Jordan Gutierrez Why did Ryan love this book?

“A manual on how to damn someone to hell, written by a demon” is certainly not what you would expect from a renowned Christian author. I love this book because its premise is so insane and sounds deeply demonic.

Instead, as a Christian, what I got was what felt like a peek into my enemy’s playbook and an, at times, scathing insight into how I was failing and playing right into demonic hands. This book made me scared, made me laugh, and, at times, even made me want to cry. 

By C. S. Lewis,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked The Screwtape Letters as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

On its first appearance, The Screwtape Letters was immediately recognized as a milestone in the history of popular theology. Now, in it's 70th Anniversary Year, and having sold over half a million copies, it is an iconic classic on spiritual warfare and the power of the devil.

This profound and striking narrative takes the form of a series of letters from Screwtape, a devil high in the Infernal Civil Service, to his nephew Wormwood, a junior colleague engaged in his first mission on earth trying to secure the damnation of a young man who has just become a Christian. Although…


Book cover of More Than a Carpenter

Stacy A. Padula Author Of The Right Person

From my list on inspiration books with Christian themes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I was elated to be named “Top Inspirational Author of the Year” for 2022 by the International Association of Top Professionals. Inspiration is central to my career as a mentor, life coach, counselor, and author. I have possessed a deep interest in both Christianity and psychology since a young age. I have tied both topics in my own books, as I believe the knowledge I have gained has helped me find the joy, peace, and fulfillment I feel each day. This great sense of fulfillment and purpose is something I hope everyone can find in their lifetime, which motivates me to write about the power of faith in my books. 

Stacy's book list on inspiration books with Christian themes

Stacy A. Padula Why did Stacy love this book?

This book is now added to my short list of favorites. I believe it is a book for everyone. It is full of factual, logical evidence that explains the reasons why Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection are irrefutable. It is well written and not at all pushy. I wish everyone in the world would take the time to read this short book. It will surely inspire and change people's lives for the better!

By Josh McDowell,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked More Than a Carpenter as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The inspirational classic, More than a Carpenter, is now updated for a new generation of seekers with a fresh look, revised material, and a new chapter that addresses questions commonly raised today. Former skeptic Josh McDowell is now joined by his son Sean as they examine the evidence about Jesus. Is he really the Lord he claimed to be? How can we know for sure? More than a Carpenter offers arguments for faith from a skeptic turned believer. Since its original publication in 1977, this modern classic has sold over 15 million copies, been translated into dozens of languages, and…


Book cover of The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus

J.D. Atkinson Author Of Believable: Discover the God That Saves All

From my list on apologetic defense of the Christian faith.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love to hear the reasons behind what people think regarding the origin of the universe, the existence of God, and the fate of mankind. These topics are all closely related to apologetics, the study of defending one’s faith. I was taught in church that most of humanity is destined for endless torment in hell. However, I now see there is a wealth of scriptural and historical evidence to support the contention that all people will ultimately see the truth and be saved by Jesus Christ. This is a crucial question every Christian must confront, as it is central to defining the character and identity of God.

J.D.'s book list on apologetic defense of the Christian faith

J.D. Atkinson Why did J.D. love this book?

As a former atheist, Lee Strobel is uniquely qualified to explore the question of theism. In his easy-to-follow style, the author presents compelling evidence that quashed his skepticism and led him to conclude that a Creator exists and that Jesus Christ is His manifestation to mankind.

This is a thorough and popular apologetic work. There is, however, one caveat: Strobel’s interpretation of Christ’s victory is far more narrow than other works on this list that, in my view, correctly acknowledge the ultimate reconciliation of all people to God through Jesus Christ. In short, while the Bible promises that Christ will ultimately and completely eradicate sin and death, Strobel’s works suggest endless conscious torment in hell awaits most of humanity.

By Lee Strobel,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Case for Christ as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Is there credible proof that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God? In The Case for Christ, Lee Strobel, former legal editor of the Chicago Tribune and New York Times bestselling author, retraces his own spiritual journey from atheism to faith and builds a captivating case for Christ's divinity.

In this revised and updated edition of The Case for Christ, Strobel cross-examines a dozen experts with doctorates from schools such as Cambridge, Princeton, and Brandeis, asking hard-hitting questions--and taking a deeper look at the evidence from the fields of science, philosophy, and history.

In his comprehensive investigation, Strobel…


Book cover of The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts

Leslie Becker-Phelps Author Of The Insecure in Love Workbook: Step-by-Step Guidance to Help You Overcome Anxious Attachment and Feel More Secure with Yourself and Your Partner

From my list on helpful books for developing securely attached relationships.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve had a life-long desire to help others, so it’s no surprise that I chose to become a psychologist. In my search for underlying causes and potential healing agents for emotional suffering, I have learned (and deeply feel) the importance of self-awareness, connection, and compassion for a sense of well-being. I’ve also found that attachment theory provides a great framework for pulling all of this together. Driven by my commitment to help people, I use my writing, YouTube channel, speaking, and therapy to share what I’ve learned. Just as my list of books has helped me on my path, I hope it helps you on yours!

Leslie's book list on helpful books for developing securely attached relationships

Leslie Becker-Phelps Why did Leslie love this book?

I really appreciate the guidance this book offers for how to think about the ways people try to meet their need for love in relationships. It made me reflect not just on my own patterns for expressing and receiving love, but it offered a way for me to better understand others in my life.

Though it was written with romantic couples in mind, I have found that it can help with other relationships, too. When I have shared this book with patients, they have frequently found that it was an effective tool for providing insight and for helping to improve their love relationship. 

By Gary Chapman,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked The 5 Love Languages as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Over 20 million copies sold!

A perennial New York Times bestseller for over a decade!

Falling in love is easy. Staying in love—that’s the challenge. How can you keep your relationship fresh and growing amid the demands, conflicts, and just plain boredom of everyday life?

In the #1 New York Times international bestseller The 5 Love Languages, you’ll discover the secret that has transformed millions of relationships worldwide. Whether your relationship is flourishing or failing, Dr. Gary Chapman’s proven approach to showing and receiving love will help you experience deeper and richer levels of intimacy with your partner—starting today.

The…


Book cover of Neuroscience of Personality: Brain Savvy Insights for All Types of People

Roger R. Pearman Author Of I'm Not Crazy, I'm Just Not You: The Real Meaning of the 16 Personality Types

From my list on personality and psychological type.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been using and research psychological type for 45 years in my various career roles—director of a university learning center, chief human resources officer, and independent consultant. I’ve yet to find a more practical and useful model for understanding human differences. The constructive use of differences is urgently needed in our age, as well as the goal of type development: making perceptions clearer and judgments more sound.

Roger's book list on personality and psychological type

Roger R. Pearman Why did Roger love this book?

Ground-breaking research on the link between personality types and neuroscience. Nardi explores the dynamic nature of the use of networks on the cortex as related to personality patterns. The book provides practical tips for exercising “brain pathways” that may not be used so regularly.

By Dario Nardi,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Neuroscience of Personality as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Inside your brain are many keys to what make you and others tick. Imagine peering into the minds of your clients, friends, and loved-ones. Now you can! Award-winning UCLA professor and author Dario Nardi brings to life a feast of useful insights drawn from his brain research lab. He will lead you on a journey of self-discovery, chapter by chapter, that is grounded in first-hand scientific knowledge of the brain. This is a practical guide. Learn how to target "in flow" and "low-threshold" activities that engage people creatively and improve their work-flow and learning. Identify people's struggles and stress areas,…


Book cover of YOU: Being More Effective in Your MBTI Type

Roger R. Pearman Author Of I'm Not Crazy, I'm Just Not You: The Real Meaning of the 16 Personality Types

From my list on personality and psychological type.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been using and research psychological type for 45 years in my various career roles—director of a university learning center, chief human resources officer, and independent consultant. I’ve yet to find a more practical and useful model for understanding human differences. The constructive use of differences is urgently needed in our age, as well as the goal of type development: making perceptions clearer and judgments more sound.

Roger's book list on personality and psychological type

Roger R. Pearman Why did Roger love this book?

It is the only book in the industry that provides active action tips for each of the sixteen types to enhance their effectiveness at work. Based on decades of research of managers and leaders, the patterns, and tips are focused on the specific challenge of each type.

By Roger R. Pearman, Michael M. Lombardo, Robert W. Eichinger

Why should I read it?

1 author picked YOU as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

YOU: Being More Effective in Your MBTI Type is the only research-based leadership development book built around the 16 personality types measured by the Myers Briggs Type Indicator instrument, and the 20 facets underlying those types (MBTI Step II). YOU is a book of development tools and tips designed to help you be more effective personally and professionally through greater understanding of personality types.


Book cover of Projection and Personality Development Via the Eight-Function Model

Roger R. Pearman Author Of I'm Not Crazy, I'm Just Not You: The Real Meaning of the 16 Personality Types

From my list on personality and psychological type.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been using and research psychological type for 45 years in my various career roles—director of a university learning center, chief human resources officer, and independent consultant. I’ve yet to find a more practical and useful model for understanding human differences. The constructive use of differences is urgently needed in our age, as well as the goal of type development: making perceptions clearer and judgments more sound.

Roger's book list on personality and psychological type

Roger R. Pearman Why did Roger love this book?

Shumate has masterfully integrated Jungian ideas, the history of psychological type, and recent evolutions in personality type. The book covers the depth of Jungian principles related to the psychological types and new evidence on the patterns of Jung’s eight functions.

By Carol Shumate,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Projection and Personality Development Via the Eight-Function Model as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Jung considered personality development critical for the survival of the human race, not just for personal fulfillment, but how can personality be developed? Carol Shumate shows how John Beebe's revolutionary eight-function/eight-archetype model of personality type can be applied to guide development for each of the sixteen Myers-Briggs types, making explicit the implications of Jung's eight-function model. Based on reports from participants at Beebe's workshops and using examples of historic figures like Abraham Lincoln, this is the first book to detail how the unconscious aspects of the functions tend to manifest for each type.

Projection and Personality Development via the Eight-Function…


Book cover of The Wisdom of the Enneagram: The Complete Guide to Psychological and Spiritual Growth for the Nine Personality Types

Karen Meager Author Of Rest. Practise. Perform.: What elite sport can teach leaders about sustainable wellbeing and performance

From my list on helping you banish burnout forever.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I worked in clinical practice as a psychotherapist, I worked with many burnt-out clients and always found it frustrating that the conventional wisdom was to take time off or stop working, which is just not practical (or desirable) for many people. I was always looking for alternative things people could do to help themselves. Then I experienced burnout myself, and whilst it was dreadful, I learnt first hand how to put all of this into practice, hence my research on the topic. I now work with people and organisations in high pressured, innovative environments where the focus is on preventing burnout rather than recovering.

Karen's book list on helping you banish burnout forever

Karen Meager Why did Karen love this book?

I resisted the enneagram, thinking that it wasn’t scientific enough, but now that I understand it, I haven’t looked back.

Knowing how understanding yourself is an essential part of avoiding burnout, I was looking for a personality typology that didn’t just put me in a box but gave me a path to growth and development. This book does just that for me, with tailored development areas for each personality type.

By Don Richard Riso, Russ Hudson,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked The Wisdom of the Enneagram as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The first definitive guide to using the wisdom of the enneagram for spiritual and psychological growth

The ancient symbol of the Enneagram has become one of today's most popular systems for self-understanding, based on nine distinct personality types. Now, two of the world's foremost Enneagram authorities introduce a powerful new way to use the Enneagram as a tool for personal transformation and development. Whatever your spiritual background, the Enneagram shows how you can overcome your inner barriers, realize your unique gifts and strengths, and discover your deepest direction in life.

The Wisdom of the Enneagram includes:

Two highly accurate questionnaires…


Book cover of The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How to Make Your Life Better (and Other People's Lives Better, Too)

Mel Jolly Author Of Becoming Future You

From my list on becoming a better you in the new year.

Why am I passionate about this?

In 2014 I finally came to the realization that I had become the most negative person I knew. I couldn't stand being that whiney, unhappy person anymore. So even though I didn't know how I was going to do it, I made a no-turning-back decision to kill off Negative Past Mel and become Positive Future Mel. The first step in my how was a book that taught me how to create a morning routine. That book saved me and set me on a path of personal growth and development and helped me take my first steps forward to becoming a version of Future Mel I actually enjoy being!

Mel's book list on becoming a better you in the new year

Mel Jolly Why did Mel love this book?

As far as books that help you understand yourself go, this one is at the top of my list! I never understood why I was so resistant to the pressure of others, why accountability buddies didn’t work for me (even though they worked so well for other people), and why my husband was always so insistent about following the rules! Understanding that my superpower is asking great questions is what ultimately led me to coaching and writing my own book. I promise knowing more about how you respond to expectations will help you in so many ways.

By Gretchen Rubin,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Four Tendencies as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

OBLIGER? REBEL? QUESTIONER? UPHOLDER? Which one are you?

Everyone falls into 1 of 4 personality types and knowing yours could make you happier and more successful. During her investigation to understand human nature, explored most recently in her bestselling Better Than Before, Gretchen Rubin realised that by asking the seemingly dry question 'How do I respond to expectations?' we gain life changing self-knowledge.

She discovered that based on their answer, people fit into Four Tendencies: Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels. Our Tendency shapes every aspect of our behaviour, so using this framework allows us to…


Book cover of Myers-Briggs Typology vs. Jungian Individuation: Overcoming One-Sidedness in Self and Society

Roger R. Pearman Author Of I'm Not Crazy, I'm Just Not You: The Real Meaning of the 16 Personality Types

From my list on personality and psychological type.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been using and research psychological type for 45 years in my various career roles—director of a university learning center, chief human resources officer, and independent consultant. I’ve yet to find a more practical and useful model for understanding human differences. The constructive use of differences is urgently needed in our age, as well as the goal of type development: making perceptions clearer and judgments more sound.

Roger's book list on personality and psychological type

Roger R. Pearman Why did Roger love this book?

Myers brilliantly exposes the limitations of thinking about personality types as stereotypes. The book explores the nature of individuation and the steps to finding solutions for our one-sidedness.

By Steve Myers,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Myers-Briggs Typology vs. Jungian Individuation as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In Myers-Briggs Typology vs Jungian Individuation: Overcoming One-Sidedness in Self and Society, Steve Myers unravels the century-long misinterpretation of Jung's seminal text, Psychological Types, to show how Jung's thinking offers solutions to the conflicts that have torn apart our societies. By challenging the popular interpretation of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (R) and similar instruments, Myers argues that we have not only missed Jung's main proposition, but our contemporary interpretation runs counter to it.

Myers aims to rediscover the overlooked argument of Jung's Psychological Types and make it of practical relevance to contemporary issues. He intends to refocus rather than discard…


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