Summer Reads 2025: Faculty Book Recommendations from ESMT Berlin
ESMT Berlin faculty have shared their top picks – a rich selection spanning psychology, history, strategy, migration, and the human edge in the age of AI. Whether you're lounging on a beach, relaxing in the garden, or simply looking to enrich your evenings, these titles offer both intellectual depth and timely relevance.
Narcissistic Leadership: Narcissus on the Couch
In our increasingly individualistic and visibility-driven world, Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries, distinguished affiliate professor at ESMT Berlin, dives deep into one of the most misunderstood derailers in leadership: narcissism. Through the lens of mythology, clinical practice, and decades of coaching insight, the book unpacks how narcissistic traits manifest in leaders—and what to do about it.
“As someone who teaches on the topics of leadership and leadership development, I find this work particularly valuable for its practical frameworks for working with narcissistic leaders, which are helpful for supervisory boards, leaders, followers, and executive educators and coaches. It’s a must-read for anyone grappling with the allure of narcissistic leaders and their potential for destructive influence on individuals, organizations, and societies.”, says Konstantin Korotov, professor of organizational behavior at ESMT Berlin.
Hannibal and Me: What History’s Greatest Military Commander Can Teach Us About Success and Failure
“I highly recommend Hannibal and Me by Andreas Kluth – a fascinating and insightful exploration of what defines success and failure in life.”, says Jörg Rocholl, PhD, president of ESMT Berlin.
Using the dramatic narrative of Hannibal’s legendary crossing of the Alps and his campaign against Rome as a foundation, Kluth delves into the complexities of ambition, resilience, and destiny. What makes this book stand out is its broad and thoughtful perspective. Kluth mirrors Hannibal’s journey with the lives of other remarkable individuals – such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Cézanne, Ludwig Erhard, and Harry Truman – to explore the unpredictable and often paradoxical nature of achievement. The recurring question – Who really knows what constitutes success or failure? – is at the heart of the book’s profound reflections. Jörg Rocholl found the link to strategic thinking, especially as inspired by Carl von Clausewitz, the legendary Prussian military theorist, particularly compelling. Kluth draws on Clausewitz’s ideas to deepen our understanding of leadership, strategy, and adaptation. This is not just a historical or biographical account – it is a book rich with insights applicable to personal growth, professional development, and strategic thinking. A truly rewarding read.
Framers: Human Advantage in an Age of Technology and Turmoil
In a world increasingly dominated by algorithms, Framers makes the case for what humans still do best: framing complex problems. According to Prof. de Véricourt, professor and Joachim Faber Chair in Business and Technology, there are three key reasons why this book is essential reading this summer:
- To reclaim uniquely human reasoning in an algorithmic era
With AI systems excelling at data-driven analysis and pattern recognition, human beings must focus on the cognitive edge that machines lack: framing. The book explains how the framing process—anchored in causality, counterfactual imagination, and awareness of constraints—is fundamentally human and irreplaceable - To counter polarization and authoritarian drift
Our political moment is marked by rising populism, social fragmentation, and ideological echo chambers. The authors argue that cognitive pluralism—embracing multiple, even conflicting frames—helps societies navigate complex challenges without forcing uniformity. - To improve personal decision-making by learning how to reframe problems Framers offers approaches for individuals and organizations to tackle uncertainty and complexity. It helps readers move beyond default responses, redefine challenges, and discover better paths forward.
This is an empowering and forward-looking book for anyone facing tough decisions or navigating complexity—so, all of us.
Streets of Gold: America’s Untold Story of Immigrant Success
“In many countries immigration is under attack from policy makers and public sentiment alike. I recommend reading Streets of Gold by Ran Abramitzky and Leah Boustan because it clearly separates facts and fiction.”, recommends Jan Nimczik, assistant professor of economics
In a time of rising skepticism around immigration, the book provides a data-rich, compassionate exploration of immigrant life and success in the U.S. Blending hard evidence with vivid personal stories, the authors confront myths head-on—illuminating what the American Dream looks like today. It’s a hopeful yet grounded take on migration that challenges preconceived notions and invites us to reconsider our views on opportunity and inclusion.
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