Books help people see the world in a different way. Even though the world of acting is one where experience is gained through work on set and the stage, much can be learned through the pages of a great acting book. Over the years, we have curated a list of books that elevate actors in their craft, mindset, and business strategy.

Every actor has their own unique reason why one acting book is better than another. It can come down to a book by a specific actor, one diving into a specialized method, or one that approaches the industry in a fresh way. In my experience, the best acting books are ones that embrace the ever-evolving technological advances in our industry like artificial Intelligence and social media.

In this guide, we’ll cover the 18 best reads of all time for actors. Before we get started, it’s important to remind you that these aren’t the only acting books out there, so use this guide as a launching point into your reading journey.

Acting

How To Stop Acting - By Harold Guskin

One of the frustrating things that happens to actors is “overthinking.” How To Stop Acting gets actors out of their heads and into the moment.

The Power Of The Actor - By Ivanna Chubbuck

Chubbuck is the acting teacher behind Halle Berry’s Oscar winning performance in Monster’s Ball. The Power Of The Actor is the closest thing you’ll read to a B.F.A acting program. Must read!

Greenlights - By Matthew McConaughey

Inspiring as it is refreshing. Greenlights memoir goes down like a bourbon neat on the front porch of a Spanish casita in the desert. It’s all good vibes.

Acting For The Camera - By Tony Barr

Acting For The Camera prepared me with practical tips to act in front of the camera for TV and Film.

Theatre - By David Mamet

This was a fearless way to look at the relationship between actors and directors. Theatre will challenge you to be a better actor. The Catcher in the Rye of acting books.

On Method Acting - By Edward Dwight Easty

I wanted to know how method actors like Marlon Brando, Robert De Niro, Ellen Burstyn did what they did so well. You’ll get what you’re looking for in On Method Acting.

A Life In Parts - By Bryan Cranston

This is a great reminder that greatness takes time and a career in acting is about playing the long game. A Life In Parts has become a staple in every actor’s bookshelf.

The Science Of Acting - By Sam Kogan

This was one of those random finds at a bookstore. but I’m so glad I stumbled on The Science Of Acting which is a mix between human psychology and neuroscience to the role of acting.

The Actor’s Life: A Survival Guide - By Jenna Fischer

This is actually the only book on this list I haven’t read yet. But it’s been highly recommended to me numerous times so I had to add it. In an interview I heard with Jenna Fischer she talked a lot about her trials as a young actor with such vulnerability— I know The Actor’s Life is going to be a good book.

The War Of Art - By Steven Pressfield

This book was originally intended for writers but has helped artists, actors, entrepreneurs around the world to overcome: Resistance. So much so, the book is ONLY $9.99 on Amazon. That is a steal for all the valuable wisdom in The War Of Art.

Book The F⭑cking Job! - By Anthony Meindl

This is book will inspire the F⭑ck out of you! Written by Anthony Meindl an acting coach and mentor of mine. This book is like having a zen master and your best friend all in one.

Upgrade Yourself

Show Your Work - By Austin Kleon

If you’re an artist of any sort this is the best reminder/motivator to share your journey with your audience. Show Your Work is one that I reread every year.

The Lean Startup - By Eric Ries

Through constant iteration and ideation, a business uses feedback to decide on the right project. The Lean Startup teaches you what real customers want and saves you from executing a plan that leads nowhere.

Built To Belong - Natalie Franke

Great reminder not to compare yourself to others and to embrace your community. I’m so glad I cam across Built To Belong.

Character Building

Kitchen Confidential - By Anthony Bourdain

Bourdain in any format allows me to escape my world immediately. I also learned the the best days to order seafood at a restaurant. (Hint: it’s not during Sunday Brunch.) I love Kitchen Confidential.

War Against All Puerto Ricans - By Nelson A Denis

From a broad perspective, actors should research topics they are curious about and know stories that potentially they can portray. War Against All Puerto Ricans is not only eye opening but inspired my thinking around producing stories like these. What is a story you should read about next?

Random Family - By Adrian Nicole Leblanc

While this is an extreme look into the lives of Puerto Rican’s living in the ghettos of The Bronx. Actor’s should delve into books that shed light on different characters. Random Family is a great read.

The Stranger In The Woods - By Michael Finkel

During a time in my 20’s where the idea of living off the grid seemed really attractive, The Stranger In The Woods helped me scratch that itch. It’s a true story of grit and resilience. This is also the book I gift the most.