The 21 Best Body Language Books Ranked and Reviewed
We communicate far more than just with our words. Often, the most powerful messages are conveyed silently, through the subtle shifts in our posture, the flicker in our eyes, and the gestures we make without even realizing it. Understanding this silent language – body language – can unlock a wealth of information in our interactions, helping us build stronger relationships, navigate social situations with greater confidence, and even detect deception.
But where do you begin to decipher this intricate code? Fortunately, numerous insightful books delve into the fascinating world of nonverbal communication. To help you on your journey of understanding the unspoken, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the 21 best body language books, ranked and reviewed in detail. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to enhance your communication skills or simply curious about the hidden signals we send and receive, this list has something for everyone.
Our Ranking Criteria
We’ve ranked these books based on several factors, including:
- Clarity and Accessibility: How easy is the information to understand and apply?
- Depth of Knowledge: How comprehensive and insightful is the content?
- Practical Application: How useful are the techniques and examples provided in real-world scenarios?
- Author Credibility: What is the author’s expertise and background in the field?
- Reader Reviews: What is the general consensus and feedback from readers?
- Relevance and Timeliness: How up-to-date and relevant is the information?
The Top 21 Body Language Books and Review
(Note: The ranking below reflects our assessment based on the criteria mentioned above. Individual preferences may vary.)
1. The Definitive Book of Body Language: The Hidden Meaning Behind People’s Gestures and Expressions
Author – Allan Pease and Barbara
This book is widely considered a classic and a go-to resource for understanding body language. Allan and Barbara Pease break down a vast array of nonverbal cues, from head movements and hand gestures to posture and eye contact. They provide clear explanations, supported by numerous examples and illustrations, making it accessible for beginners while still offering valuable insights for those with prior knowledge.
The book emphasizes practical application in various contexts, including business, relationships, and social interactions. Its comprehensive nature and easy-to-understand style make it a top recommendation.
How to Buy – AMAZON
2. What Every BODY is Saying: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Speed-Reading People
Author – Joe Navarro and Marvin Karlins
Written by a former FBI counterintelligence agent, this book offers a unique and highly practical perspective on body language. Joe Navarro shares his expertise in observing and interpreting nonverbal cues to assess truthfulness and understand underlying emotions. The book focuses on fundamental survival instincts and how they manifest in our body language.
It provides actionable techniques for “baselining” individuals and identifying deviations that might signal discomfort, deception, or other significant emotional states. Its focus on real-world applications, particularly in high-stakes situations, makes it a compelling read.
How to Buy – AMAZON
3. Lie to Me: What Shakespeare Knew About Deception
Author – David McRaney
While not solely focused on body language, this book offers a fascinating exploration of deception, drawing insights from Shakespeare’s plays and modern psychology.
David McRaney delves into the subtle cues and behaviors that can indicate dishonesty, including facial expressions, verbal hesitations, and inconsistencies in body language. It provides a broader understanding of how deception works and how to become more attuned to the signals that might betray a lie.
Its engaging writing style and blend of literature and science make it a captivating read.
How to Buy – AMAZON
4. Body Language: How to Read Others’ Thoughts by Their Gestures
Author – Allan Pease
Another excellent contribution from Allan Pease, this book provides a more concise and focused introduction to the core principles of body language. It covers key areas such as hand signals, arm barriers, leg language, and facial expressions.
The book is packed with practical tips and illustrations to help readers quickly grasp the fundamentals and start applying them in their daily interactions. It serves as a great starting point for those new to the subject or as a handy refresher for those already familiar with the basics.
How to Buy – AMAZON
5. The Power of Body Language: An Encyclopedia of Nonverbal Communication
Author – Desmond Morris
Desmond Morris, a renowned zoologist and ethologist, brings a unique biological perspective to the study of body language. This book offers a comprehensive and encyclopedic overview of nonverbal communication across cultures and even species.
While it delves into the scientific and evolutionary roots of our gestures and expressions, it remains accessible to a general audience. Its breadth of coverage and insightful analysis make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the origins and variations of body language.
How to Buy – AMAZON
6. Reading People: How to Understand and Predict People’s Behavior – Anytime, Anyplace
Author – Jo-Ellan Dimitrius and Mark Mazzarella
Jo-Ellan Dimitrius, a jury consultant, and Mark Mazzarella offer a practical guide to understanding and predicting behavior based on a wide range of cues, including body language, verbal communication, and personality traits.
The book provides actionable strategies for assessing people’s motivations, intentions, and potential actions. Its focus on real-world scenarios, particularly in legal and business contexts, makes it a valuable tool for anyone who needs to accurately assess others.
How to Buy – AMAZON
7. Emotional Intelligence 2.0
Author – Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves
While not exclusively about body language, this book emphasizes the crucial role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in personal and professional success. A significant aspect of EQ is the ability to perceive and understand emotions in oneself and others, which heavily relies on interpreting nonverbal cues.
The book provides practical strategies and exercises for improving self-awareness, self-management, social awareness (including reading body language), and relationship management. Its focus on developing emotional skills makes it a highly recommended read.
How to Buy – AMAZON
8. Louder Than Words: Take Your Career from Average to Exceptional with the Hidden Power of Body Language
Author – Patti Wood
Patti Wood focuses specifically on how body language impacts professional success. This book provides practical advice and techniques for using nonverbal communication to enhance confidence, build rapport, and make a strong impression in the workplace.
It covers everything from posture and gestures to vocal cues and personal space, offering actionable strategies for navigating meetings, presentations, and networking events. Its career-focused approach makes it particularly valuable for professionals at all levels.
How to Buy – AMAZON
9. Body Language Secrets: A Guide During Courtship
Author – Allan Pease and Barbara Pease
This book delves into the specific body language cues associated with attraction, dating, and relationships. Allan and Barbara Pease explore the subtle signals men and women send to indicate interest, disinterest, or even deception in romantic contexts.
It provides insights into understanding flirting behaviors, identifying potential red flags, and building stronger connections through nonverbal communication. Its focus on the dynamics of courtship makes it a fascinating and potentially helpful read for those navigating the dating world.
How to Buy – AMAZON
10. The Art of SpeedReading People: How to Size Anyone Up in Seconds
Author – Lieselotte Ohlsson
Lieselotte Ohlsson offers a practical guide to quickly assessing people based on a combination of body language, facial expressions, and other subtle cues. The book provides techniques for forming rapid and accurate impressions, which can be valuable in various social and professional situations.
While emphasizing the importance of avoiding snap judgments, it offers a framework for efficiently gathering information and understanding underlying dynamics in brief encounters.
How to Buy – AMAZON
11. Body Language for Dummies
Author – Elizabeth Kuhnke
A user-friendly and accessible introduction to the basics of body language, perfect for beginners.
How to Buy – AMAZON
12. Body Talk: The Science of Human Movement
Author – Desmond Morris
A more in-depth and scientific exploration of the biological and cultural aspects of human movement and gesture.
How to Buy – AMAZON
13. Body Language in Business: Decode the Signals, Read People, and Make the Right Moves
Author – Judi James
Focuses specifically on how body language plays a crucial role in the business world, from negotiations to leadership.
How to Buy – AMAZON
14. Body Language: The Ultimate Guide to Understand Nonverbal Communication
Author – Olivia Haywood
A comprehensive guide covering a wide range of nonverbal cues and their interpretations.
How to Buy – AMAZON
15. How to Analyze People: The Ultimate Guide to Human Behavior and Body Language
Author – Paul Klein:
Offers techniques for analyzing behavior and understanding underlying motivations based on both verbal and nonverbal cues.
How to Buy – AMAZON
16. Body Language: Learn How to Read Others and Understand Human Behavior
Author – Scott Allan
Provides practical tips and exercises for improving your ability to read and interpret body language.
How to Buy – AMAZON
17. Body Language: Unlock the Secrets of Non-Verbal Communication
Author – Maxwell Jensen
Explores the hidden meanings behind gestures, facial expressions, and posture.
How to Buy – AMAZON
18. Body Language: Mastering Nonverbal Communication
Author – James W. Williams
A guide to understanding and utilizing body language for more effective communication.
How to Buy – AMAZON
19. The Little Book of Body Language
Author – Allan Pease:
A pocket-sized guide offering quick and easy tips for understanding common body language signals.
How to Buy – AMAZON
20. Decoding Body Language: Learn How to Read People Instantly!
Author – Patrick King
Focuses on rapid interpretation of nonverbal cues in various social settings.
How to Buy – AMAZON
21. Body Language: 7 Easy Lessons to Master the Silent Language
Author – Dan Hill:
Offers a structured approach to learning the fundamentals of body language in seven concise lessons.
How to Buy – AMAZON
Conclusion
Mastering the art of reading body language is a valuable skill that can significantly enhance your understanding of human interaction. The books listed above offer a wealth of knowledge and practical techniques to help you decode the unspoken messages people send.
Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive guide, a career-focused approach, or insights into specific areas like deception or relationships, there’s a book on this list to suit your needs.
Start exploring these resources, hone your observational skills, and unlock the hidden world of nonverbal communication. You might be surprised by how much people are saying without uttering a single word.