Best Copywriting Books that Every Writer Should Read
Whether you're a seasoned marketer looking to hone your copy skills or a fresh-faced writer stepping into the content world, these books are an essential shelf addition. With wisdom from the words of advertising legends and modern marketing maestros, these tomes provide a roadmap to crafting persuasive, compelling, and conversion-driving copy. So, let's dive into the best copywriting books that will transform the way you write for good.
1. Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy
Dubbed the "Father of Advertising," David Ogilvy is an icon whose thoughts on advertising are timeless. Ogilvy on Advertising provides a deep look into Ogilvy's strategies and formulas that have stood the test of time. His engaging prose and candid endorsements of what works (and what doesn't) make this book a must-read for any copywriter.
Check out Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy
2. Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This: A Guide to Creating Great Ads by Luke Sullivan
Luke Sullivan's Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This is half copywriting manual, half tribute to the rollerskating, Pepsi-chugging, and Nike-wearing men and women who paved the way for modern advertising. It navigates the fine line between storytelling and selling, and is filled with compelling anecdotes and practical advice.
Check out Hey, Whipple, Squeeze This: A Guide to Creating Great Ads by Luke Sullivan. Luke Sullivan's book continues to be a source of inspiration for copywriters around the globe. His charismatic approach to explaining the intricacies of creating memorable and effective ads is as entertaining as it is educative.
3. Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
While not a 'copywriting' book per se, Made to Stick is a gem for learning how to craft messages that are memorable and resonate with your audience long after they've seen or heard them. The Heath brothers lay out the SUCCESs formula, a mnemonic device that outlines the essential elements of sticky ideas.
Check out Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. Whether you're in marketing, teaching, or simply interested in effectively conveying your thoughts and ideas, "Made to Stick" will undoubtedly enrich your understanding and skill.
4. The Adweek Copywriting Handbook by Joseph Sugarman
The Adweek Copywriting Handbook by Joseph Sugarman is a comprehensive guide to the art of writing profitable advertising. Soak in the strategies that helped Sugarman sell over $20 billion worth of products and master the critical components of powerful copywriting – from powerful headlines to the psychology behind persuasion.
Check out The Adweek Copywriting Handbook by Joseph Sugarman. This book encapsulates Sugarman's years of experience and expertise in the domain of copywriting.
5. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
While not strictly a copywriting book, Influence delves into the principles of persuasion in a way that's invaluable to any ad writer. Cialdini's "six principles of influence" provide a psychological foundation for creating copy that nudges your audience to say "Yes!"
Check out Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini. Once you understand these principles, you'll be well-equipped to create compelling copy that speaks directly to your audience's motivations and desires.
6. The Copywriter’s Handbook: A Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Copy That Sells by Robert W. Bly
In The Copywriter's Handbook, Robert Bly takes readers through a step-by-step process for creating polished, powerful copy. This book is a combination of practical tips, exercises, and real-world examples – making it a pragmatic choice for any copywriting professional at any experience level.
Check out The Copywriter's Handbook: A Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Copy That Sells by Robert W. Bly. This guide provides a comprehensive outlook on effective copywriting techniques, becoming an essential tool for writers looking to enhance their skills.
7. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
Stephen King's On Writing may seem like a surprising addition to a list of copywriting books, but his insights into the art of writing are universal. King imparts wisdom on grammar, vocabulary, and the importance of reading – all critical to becoming a better communicator and, by extension, a more effective ad writer.
Check out On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King. This memoir offers timeless advice on the craft of writing, providing valuable lessons applicable to writers in every field, including copywriting.
8. Words That Sell: More Than 6000 Entries to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas by Richard Bayan
Words That Sell is the ad-land equivalent of a thesaurus, packed with thousands of words and phrases designed to catch the attention of clients and customers. It's an excellent reference guide when you're stuck for the perfect pitch or need to jazz up your jargon.
Check out Words That Sell: More Than 6000 Entries to Help You Promote Your Products, Services, and Ideas by Richard Bayan. This indispensable resource for advertisers and marketers is packed with persuasive and powerful words, making it easier to find the perfect phrase to capture your product's unique selling proposition.
9. The Boron Letters by Gary Halbert
The Boron Letters is a collection of Halbert's correspondence with his son, written during Halbert’s incarceration. This personal twist on copywriting advice packs a powerful punch as Halbert offers his son life lessons on copywriting sprinkled with wisdom from his colorful and controversial career in marketing.
Check out The Boron Letters by Gary Halbert. This series of letters offers a unique and personal perspective on the art of copywriting, filled with valuable insights from one of the most influential figures in the field.
10. Great Leads: The Six Easiest Ways to Start Any Sales Message by Michael Masterson and John Forde
Great Leads is all about mastering the lead – the opening line or lines that set the tone for your message and plays a powerful role in gaining your audience's attention and respect. Masterson and Forde break down six types of leads, each with strategies for when and how to use them effectively.
You can explore more about Great Leads: The Six Easiest Ways to Start Any Sales Message by Michael Masterson and John Forde here. This book will serve as a guide to understanding and implementing compelling and effective leads in your copy.
These books are more than paper and ink – they're tools that can help you craft copy that engages, persuades, and ultimately, sells. So plan your reading list, bookmark the pages, and prepare to sharpen your skills one chapter at a time.