I know what you came here for: a quick, no-fuss list of the best content marketing books to jumpstart your writing journey. Skip straight to the book list here.
But if you’re new to content marketing, it helps to know why these books are worth your time. Start here to get the context you need.
Basic knowledge to level up as a content marketer:
What is content marketing?
Content marketing isn’t just about writing blogs or posting on social media. It’s about creating valuable, relevant content that builds trust and drives action. Think of it as storytelling with a purpose: to attract, engage, and convert readers into loyal customers.
The books on this list will teach you how to write with strategy, how to connect with readers emotionally, and how to measure whether your content is actually working.
Why should new writers invest in content marketing books?
Here’s the deal: writing good content doesn’t happen by accident. You need:
Frameworks to structure your content.
Case studies to see what works (and what doesn’t).
Writing techniques to keep readers hooked.
Practice, which no book will guarantee but reading might motivate you!
These books are written by content marketing experts who’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to. Reading them is like getting years of experience in a fraction of the time.
Top content marketing books for new writers:
1. Everybody Writes by Ann Handley
Why it’s great: This is your go-to guide for writing content that’s clear, engaging, and, most importantly, useful. Handley covers everything from grammar basics to crafting irresistible headlines.
Pro tip: Use this book as a desk reference when you're stuck on sentence structure or tone.
2. They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan
Why it’s great: Sheridan’s philosophy is simple but powerful: Answer your audience’s questions honestly and thoroughly. This book is perfect for learning how to create content that builds trust.
Pro tip: Check the “Big 5” content types Sheridan recommends—game changers for beginners.
3. Content Design by Sarah Richards
Why it’s great: Focused on user-first content, this book teaches you how to write for digital platforms with clarity and purpose. It’s especially handy for web copy.
Pro tip: Use her advice to design your blog layout and navigation while writing.
4. The Self-Help Book for Content Marketers by Nadine Heir
Why it's great: By a seasoned content marketer, for newer content marketers, this super-short read is made up of immediately actionable tips, frameworks, and templates to use. Pro tip: Use this book to establish yourself as an authority in a new content marketing role.
5. The Content Fuel Framework by Melanie Deziel
Why it’s great: Running out of ideas? Deziel’s framework helps you generate endless topics by combining content focus and format in creative ways.
Pro tip: Use her 10 focus areas to brainstorm your next big blog series.
6. Marketing Made Simple by Donald Miller
Why it’s great: Part of Miller’s StoryBrand series, this book is all about creating content that connects emotionally with readers and drives them to take action.
Pro tip: Apply his “3-step marketing plan” to keep your content focused and effective.
Ready to start reading?
Start with whichever book that resonates with where you’re at. Remember, content marketing is a skill you can learn but the more you practice—and the more you learn from pros—the better you’ll get.
Bookmark this list and revisit it whenever you’re stuck. Or, better yet, get reading and start applying these strategies in your work today!
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