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13 Best Books to Explore Emotions

Emotions shape the way we think, act, and connect with others. Learning how to recognize and manage them is essential for personal growth, self-awareness, and overall well-being in everyday life.

Explore our top books on emotions to gain practical tools, insights, and strategies for managing and expressing your feelings. They'll strengthen your emotional intelligence, nurture your relationships, and enhance your mental health. Along the way, you'll see how emotional mastery can positively change your personal and professional life. Why not pick one up today and see how it shifts your perspective?

Books about emotions: How self-kindness and vulnerability can turn your life around

The past few years have breathed new life into conversations surrounding the subject of mental and emotional health. Now, people are not encouraged to dismiss "unacceptable" feelings but to learn to understand, admit, and embrace them. 

The most gentle and easygoing way to begin this journey is by turning to reflective books about emotions, which offer their readers wisdom and comfort. Start with 'The Emotional Life of Your Brain,' which explains how our brain forms our feelings and how these patterns can either steal or build up our happiness. 

'Descartes' Error' mirrors this point and reminds us that emotions aren't barriers to uncluttered judgment; when taken under our guidance, they help us make better choices.

If you want to find out more about how love can transform us, check out Barbara Fredrickson's 'Love 2.0.' The author depicts how a simple but sincere, heart-to-heart human connection strengthens our resilience and even boosts our immunity. 

Brené Brown's 'The Gifts of Imperfection' might be the best choice for those who want to know and understand themselves better. The author teaches readers how to embrace vulnerability and practice self-compassion.

These books teach a simple yet important truth: you shouldn't protect your emotional health by ignoring how you feel; instead, you should welcome your emotions with warmth and thoughtfulness.

Ultimately, emotional growth isn't about uninterrupted calm or perpetual happiness — it's about navigating a rich, unfolding journey of learning, healing, and embracing the wondrous complexity of being human.

Finding your balance: Books about controlling emotions

After we learn to understand our emotions a bit more, the next step is to find out the secret to living with them in a balanced, self-compassionate way. Here's where books about controlling emotions can equip you with practical tips on how to regulate and acknowledge your feelings, not allowing them to make you deny the facts and reality.

The collection includes a variety of voices — popular researchers like Daniel Z. Lieberman and Richard J. Davidson alongside plainspoken memoirists such as Jennette McCurdy and Felicia Day. They remind us that emotional growth mostly happens through messy life experiences.

For example, 'White Bears and Other Unwanted Thoughts' by Daniel Wegner shows readers the consequences of attempts to suppress emotions. If you turn the pages of 'F*ck Feelings' next, you'll get straightforward advice on approaching challenges with confidence and balance.

Lysa TerKeurst's book 'Unglued' explains practical strategies for responding wisely during emotional storms and making more mindful and measured choices.

When emotions get intense, books like Megan Devine's 'It's OK That You're Not OK' and 'I'm Glad My Mom Died,' written by Jennette McCurdy, celebrate the importance of welcoming them. They remind us that grief, anger, and sadness are natural parts of being human — feelings to honor, understand, and give enough space to.

Together, these books encourage us to view emotional regulation not as rigid "control," but as learning to respond with patience, honesty, and self-care. 

If you'd like to continue this journey, explore the list of inspiring books below and discover new ways to navigate life's ups and downs.

F*ck Feelings

by Michael Bennett, MD, Sarah Bennett

4.4 (1086 reviews)

What is F*ck Feelings about?

This book offers practical advice for navigating life's most challenging problems. Written by a psychiatrist and his comedy writer daughter, it provides a refreshing and irreverent take on self-help. With a no-nonsense approach, it guides readers on how to accept and manage their emotions, while offering strategies to overcome life's inevitable obstacles. Filled with humor and wisdom, this book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking practical solutions to life's impossible problems.

Who should read F*ck Feelings

  • Individuals seeking practical advice for managing life's challenges.

  • Those interested in a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving.

  • People looking for a fresh perspective on emotional well-being.

Embrace Your Weird

by Felicia Day

4.7 (1051 reviews)

What is Embrace Your Weird about?

In this empowering and humorous guide, a talented author shares her personal journey of embracing her quirks and encourages readers to do the same. Through relatable anecdotes and practical exercises, she offers valuable advice on how to overcome self-doubt, embrace creativity, and find confidence in one's unique weirdness. With wit and authenticity, this book inspires readers to celebrate their individuality and unleash their true potential.

Who should read Embrace Your Weird

  • Aspiring creatives seeking inspiration and guidance to embrace their uniqueness.

  • Fans of Felicia Day's work looking for personal growth and self-acceptance.

  • Individuals struggling with self-doubt and seeking encouragement to embrace their quirks.

Love 2.0

by Barbara L. Fredrickson, Ph.D.

4.5 (307 reviews)

What is Love 2.0 about?

In this insightful book, a renowned psychologist explores the transformative power of love. Barbara L. Fredrickson delves into the science behind love, revealing how it shapes our emotions, thoughts, actions, and ultimately, our entire lives. With compelling research and personal anecdotes, she demonstrates how love can enhance our well-being, foster resilience, and even reshape our brains. This thought-provoking exploration invites readers to embrace love as a force that can profoundly impact every aspect of our existence.

Who should read Love 2.0

  • Individuals interested in understanding the science behind love and its impact on our lives.

  • Psychologists and researchers seeking insights into the transformative power of love.

  • Anyone looking to enhance their relationships and overall well-being.

White Bears and Other Unwanted Thoughts

by Daniel M. Wegner

4.6 (40 reviews)

What is White Bears and Other Unwanted Thoughts about?

In this thought-provoking book, the author delves into the fascinating realm of human psychology, exploring the intricate workings of our minds when it comes to suppressing unwanted thoughts. Through insightful analysis and compelling examples, Wegner uncovers the paradoxical nature of mental control, revealing how our attempts to suppress certain thoughts often lead to their persistence and even obsession. A captivating exploration of the complexities of our inner world and the power of our thoughts.

Who should read White Bears and Other Unwanted Thoughts

  • Individuals struggling with intrusive thoughts and seeking understanding and coping strategies.

  • Mental health professionals interested in the psychology of thought suppression.

  • Anyone curious about the complexities of human cognition and behavior.

The Emotion Code

by Dr. Bradley Nelson

4.6 (4643 reviews)

What is The Emotion Code about?

In this transformative book, Dr. Bradley Nelson explores the power of emotions and their impact on our overall well-being. Through his groundbreaking technique, he reveals how trapped emotions can hinder our health, relationships, and happiness. With practical guidance and real-life examples, he provides a step-by-step process to identify and release these trapped emotions, allowing readers to experience abundant health, love, and happiness. This book offers a powerful tool for anyone seeking to unlock their emotional baggage and live a more fulfilling life.

Who should read The Emotion Code

  • Individuals seeking to improve their overall health and well-being.

  • Those interested in understanding and managing their emotions effectively.

  • People looking for a guide to finding love and happiness.

I’m Glad My Mom Died

by Jennette McCurdy

What is I’m Glad My Mom Died about?

In this poignant memoir, the author shares her personal journey of grief and healing after the loss of her mother. With raw honesty and vulnerability, she explores the complex emotions that arise from such a profound loss, ultimately finding solace and strength in the midst of her pain. Through her heartfelt storytelling, McCurdy offers a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love and loss.

Who should read I’m Glad My Mom Died

  • Individuals seeking solace and understanding after the loss of a loved one.

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of grief and healing.

  • Readers looking for a raw and honest memoir about personal growth.

You, Happier

by Daniel Amen, M.D.

What is You, Happier about?

In this insightful book, a renowned neuroscientist, Daniel Amen, reveals the 7 neuroscience secrets that can help you achieve happiness based on your unique brain type. By understanding the intricate workings of your brain, you'll learn practical strategies to improve your mood, boost your energy, and enhance your overall well-being. With a blend of scientific research and practical advice, this book empowers readers to take control of their happiness and live a more fulfilling life.

Who should read You, Happier

  • Individuals seeking to understand the science behind happiness and improve their well-being.

  • Psychology enthusiasts interested in exploring the connection between brain types and happiness.

  • Those looking for practical strategies to enhance their happiness based on their unique brain type.

The Molecule of More

by Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, Michael E. Long

4.6 (2297 reviews)

What is The Molecule of More about?

"The Molecule of More" explores the profound impact of a single chemical in the brain on various aspects of human life. Written by Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Michael E. Long, this captivating book delves into how this chemical influences love, sex, and creativity. It also delves into the potential consequences it holds for the future of the human race. With insightful research and engaging storytelling, the authors shed light on the intricate workings of our brains and the powerful forces that shape our behavior.

Who should read The Molecule of More

  • Individuals interested in understanding the intricate workings of their brain's chemistry and its impact on love

  • sex

  • and creativity.

  • Psychology enthusiasts seeking insights into the role of dopamine in shaping human behavior and its potential consequences for our species.

  • Readers curious about the interplay between neurobiology

  • relationships

  • and the future of humanity.

It’s OK That You’re Not OK

by Megan Devine

4.7 (9076 reviews)

What is It’s OK That You’re Not OK about?

In this insightful book, Megan Devine explores the often overlooked topic of grief and loss in a society that struggles to comprehend it. With compassion and understanding, she guides readers through the complex emotions and challenges that come with experiencing loss, offering practical advice and tools for navigating the grieving process. Devine's powerful message reassures readers that it's okay to not be okay, providing solace and support in a culture that often fails to acknowledge the depth of grief.

Who should read It’s OK That You’re Not OK

  • Individuals struggling with grief and loss seeking solace and understanding.

  • Mental health professionals looking to enhance their knowledge on grief.

  • Those wanting to support grieving loved ones in a more empathetic way.

Unglued

by Lysa Terkeurst

4.8 (2674 reviews)

What is Unglued about?

In this insightful book, the author delves into the challenges of dealing with intense emotions and offers practical advice on making wise choices in the midst of them. Drawing from personal experiences, Lysa Terkeurst provides readers with strategies to handle raw emotions, avoid destructive reactions, and cultivate healthier responses. With a compassionate and relatable approach, this book serves as a guide to finding emotional stability and making better decisions in the face of overwhelming feelings.

Who should read Unglued

  • Individuals struggling with managing their emotions and making wise decisions.

  • People seeking guidance on handling intense emotions in challenging situations.

  • Anyone interested in learning how to make better choices during emotional turmoil.

The Emotional Life of Your Brain

by Richard J. Davidson, Ph.D. with Sharon Begley

4.5 (540 reviews)

What is The Emotional Life of Your Brain about?

In this insightful book, a renowned neuroscientist, Richard J. Davidson, along with Sharon Begley, explores the intricate connection between our emotions and our brain. Through cutting-edge research and personal anecdotes, they reveal how our brain's unique patterns shape our thoughts, feelings, and overall well-being. Offering practical strategies, they empower readers to understand and transform their emotional lives, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced existence.

Who should read The Emotional Life of Your Brain

  • Individuals seeking to understand the connection between emotions and cognition.

  • Psychologists and researchers interested in the neuroscience of emotions.

  • Anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction.

Descartes' Error

by Antonio Damasio

4.6 (589 reviews)

What is Descartes' Error about?

In this thought-provoking book, the author delves into the intricate relationship between emotions, reason, and the human brain. Through captivating examples and scientific research, Damasio challenges the traditional view that emotions hinder rationality, arguing instead that they are essential for decision-making and social behavior. By exploring the case of a patient with a damaged brain, he reveals the profound impact of emotions on our everyday lives, ultimately reshaping our understanding of the mind and consciousness.

Who should read Descartes' Error

  • Neuroscientists and psychologists interested in the relationship between emotion and reason.

  • Philosophy enthusiasts seeking to understand the impact of emotions on human cognition.

  • Individuals curious about the role of emotions in decision-making.

The Gifts of Imperfection

by Brené Brown, Ph.D.

4.7 (32097 reviews)

What is The Gifts of Imperfection about?

In this insightful book, the author explores the concept of embracing one's true self and letting go of societal expectations. Through personal anecdotes and research, she delves into the power of vulnerability, self-compassion, and authenticity. With practical advice and exercises, this book serves as a guide to living a wholehearted life, encouraging readers to embrace their imperfections and cultivate a sense of worthiness.

Who should read The Gifts of Imperfection

  • Individuals struggling with self-acceptance and seeking personal growth.

  • Anyone looking to overcome societal pressures and embrace authenticity.

  • Readers interested in understanding the power of vulnerability and self-compassion.

Frequently asked questions on books about emotions

What are the best books to help me understand my emotions?

One of the best books on better understanding our emotions is 'The Emotional Life of Your Brain,' which reveals how human brain patterns shape how we feel. 'Descartes' Error' shows that our emotional reactions might be a key to better decisions. 'The Emotion Code' by Bradley Nelson can help us ditch old emotional baggage.

What are the seven emotions of life?

There's no universal list of seven emotions of life. Some frameworks identify joy, sadness, fear, surprise, anger, disgust, love, or affection as basic to humans' experience.

'Love 2.0' will show you how love reshapes our brains, while 'It's OK That You're Not OK' and 'I'm Glad My Mom Died' would remind you that difficult emotions deserve space and compassion.

What's the best book to help me control my emotions?

If your feelings sometimes run wild, 'Unglued' is a lifesaver. Putting together personal stories and practical tips helps you pause, breathe, and choose wisely during emotional storms. This book isn't about pretending you're unbothered — it's about learning to handle emotions gracefully, without accidentally starring in your own drama.

How can I learn to control my emotions?

The secret of controlling your emotions is acceptance, not actual control over them. 'F*ck Feelings' by Michael and Sarah Bennett offers candid guidance on letting go of impossible standards. 

'White Bears andOther Unwanted Thoughts' shows how ignoring emotions can make them grow stronger, so we need to listen to and understand them, not fight them.

What's it called when you can't regulate your emotions?

That's emotional dysregulation — when feelings throw a dancing party in your mind without consulting you. Books like 'Unglued' help turn chaos into clarity. While reading about everyday situations and hands-on techniques, you can learn to recognize triggers, respond patiently, and prevent emotions from hijacking your peace.

What's the best book on emotional regulation?

One of the reader favorites is 'Unglued.' The author combines humor and honest storytelling with easy-to-follow strategies for taking your strong emotions under your "supervision." The book doesn't give a recipe for constant peace, but helps readers to master the art of making steadier, more rational choices when feelings flare.

How can I fix emotional dysregulation?

Fixing emotional dysregulation is like surfing waves. In 'Unglued,' you'll discover tools for riding emotional highs and lows. 'F*ck Feelings' will remind you that kindness and acceptance beat a cold-hearted denial. 'The Emotion Code' will assist in getting rid of emotional blocks. 

After reading these books, you'll end up with a supportive toolkit for life's trickiest, most deregulated feelings.