Back with story books
A collection of (data) communication books to keep learning
Hey there! 👋 It’s good to be back in your inbox. At the end of last year, you overwhelmingly voted to keep this newsletter alive (thank you!), so here goes. With social media algorithms getting increasingly unpredictable lately, this feels like a perfect space for deeper conversations. So feel free to drop a comment or hit reply anytime!
Back to (story) business
The new year has me deep in thought about what we do. Do we really tell stories with data? Is there a better way to describe our craft? How do we best teach others to master this unique blend of skills? While I'm still processing these questions (more on that soon!), I wanted to share something special that many of you have been asking for: A curated collection of must-read books on communication—both data-focused and beyond.
For years, I've been sharing what I call my map of data visualisation books—a carefully crafted reading list for anyone looking to master the techniques of the field and find inspiration. It's been surprisingly popular, but here's the catch: becoming great at what we do requires more than just understanding how to make good charts. That's why I've always had a parallel journey exploring the broader world of communication.
Communication might sound pretty broad, even vague. But isn't that exactly what we do? We're constantly finding effective ways to share insights that stick and inspire action. While we often call it storytelling, that term might not be totally appropriate—we need to master everything from structure to copywriting, from building empathy to seamlessly integrating data into the mix. So I've put together this collection of books, both technical and recreational, that will help you become a better data communicator. Get nerdy with it!
You talkin’ to me?
Before you go exploring that amazing list of books, let’s talk about one of my favourites: Sam Leith's You Talkin' to Me?. I've returned to this gem multiple times, and each read reveals new layers of understanding. While this book might be shelved under public speaking for most people, it's so much more—it's a fascinating journey through the evolution of rhetoric and a practical guide to using these timeless principles effectively.
What makes it special? Leith manages to blend deep expertise with genuine humour, making complex rhetorical concepts not just digestible but genuinely fun. Here's a taste of his style in the excerpt below, where he explains one of the oldest rhetorical frameworks.
Which book from the collection catches your eye first? Cannot wait to hear your picks!
See you in two weeks,
—Evelina 📚
As I think about the future of data communication, I’m curious what you’d like to read about the most. Let me know in the poll bellow 👇