Skip to Content

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.

9 Books Every Michael Jordan Fan Should Read

They’re all slam-dunks.

Headshot of Katie McBroomBy Katie McBroom
michael jordan books
Biography; Little, Brown and Company, Taschen, Harper, Penguin Workshop, KC Press, Agate Midway, Diversion Books, Atria Books

Michael Jordan is a true renaissance man and we have the books to prove it. A restaurateur, avid golfer, famed star of Space Jam, and above all, arguably the greatest basketball player of our time. His indomitable spirit and commitment to his sport led him to win six NBA championships, earn 5 MVP awards, and ultimately create his own billion-dollar empire. Jordan is also a major player in the shoe game, as detailed in the movie Air, out in theaters now. The film depicts the incredible origin story of the Air Jordan sneaker and how Michael Jordan came to be synonymous with Nike’s bestselling basketball shoes. To learn more about this legend, check out our roundup of the best Michael Jordan books every fan should read.

1
Best Overall

Little, Brown and Company Michael Jordan: The Life

Michael Jordan: The Life
1
Best Overall

Little, Brown and Company Michael Jordan: The Life

Now 16% Off
$29 at Amazon

An Amazon Editor’s Pick in Best Biographies, this book claims the top spot in our list of the best Michael Jordan books. It encompasses the duality of his character, and details not only his greatness on the court, but the complex history that motivated him to stop at nothing to achieve success.

More: Michael Jordan: 7 Facts About the Basketball Legend

2
Best for Photography Fans

Crown For the Love of the Game: My Story

For the Love of the Game: My Story
2
Best for Photography Fans

Crown For the Love of the Game: My Story

From Michael Jordan himself, this book offers a unique visual look at his successful career. Infused with his own words, the book showcases the snapshots that made history.

3
Best for Sneakerheads

Taschen Sneaker Freaker. The Ultimate Sneaker Book

Sneaker Freaker. The Ultimate Sneaker Book
3
Best for Sneakerheads

Taschen Sneaker Freaker. The Ultimate Sneaker Book

Now 23% Off

Think you know all there is to know about Air Jordans? Check out “Sneaker Freaker: The Ultimate Sneaker Book” for a deep dive on classic shoes throughout history. It’s a perfect gift for a shoe-loving friend or a fun conversation piece for your coffee table.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
4
Best Advice Book

Harper San Francisco I Can't Accept Not Trying: Michael Jordan on the Pursuit of Excellence

I Can't Accept Not Trying: Michael Jordan on the Pursuit of Excellence
4
Best Advice Book

Harper San Francisco I Can't Accept Not Trying: Michael Jordan on the Pursuit of Excellence

Another take on Michael Jordan from the man himself. In this book, the legendary basketball player shares his views on achieving excellence, learning the fundamentals, and leadership in general.

5
Best for Kids

Penguin Workshop Who Is Michael Jordan?

Who Is Michael Jordan?
5
Best for Kids

Penguin Workshop Who Is Michael Jordan?

Now 42% Off

For little ones who love Michael Jordan, this is a great pick. It's Amazon’s number one bestseller in Children's Multicultural Biographies. Bonus: It’s currently less than four bucks.

6
Best for Pre-Teens

KC Press Unbelievable Stories of Michael Jordan

Unbelievable Stories of Michael Jordan
6
Best for Pre-Teens

KC Press Unbelievable Stories of Michael Jordan

Have a child that’s a little older? The “Unbelieveable Stories of Michael Jordan” book is perfect for those Michael Jordan fans who fall into the nine to 12 age range.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7
Best for Bulls Fans

Agate Midway The Chicago Tribune Book of the Chicago Bulls: A Decade-by-Decade History

The Chicago Tribune Book of the Chicago Bulls: A Decade-by-Decade History
7
Best for Bulls Fans

Agate Midway The Chicago Tribune Book of the Chicago Bulls: A Decade-by-Decade History

Now 32% Off

If you’re a true basketball aficionado, this is the Michael Jordan book for you. This informative pick from the Chicago Tribune showcases a decade-by-decade history of the Chicago Bulls.

8
New York Times Bestseller

Diversion Books The Jordan Rules: The Inside Story of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls

The Jordan Rules: The Inside Story of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls
8
New York Times Bestseller

Diversion Books The Jordan Rules: The Inside Story of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls

This highly-rated pick is a bestseller from NBA Hall of Fame columnist Sam Smith. The book was originally published 20 years ago and now offers an updated introduction with candid revelations about his sources and the reaction from Michael himself.

9
Great Gift for Teachers

Atria Books Driven from Within

Driven from Within
9
Great Gift for Teachers

Atria Books Driven from Within

Another gem from the man himself, “Driven from Within” pays tribute to the mentors, teachers, and role models who shaped his iconic career. Michael Jordan shares lessons learned along the way about the power of collaboration in his own words.

Headshot of Katie McBroom
Katie McBroom
Beauty Editor

Katie McBroom is an award-winning content creator and freelance writer. Prior to contributing to Biography, she served as Content Editor for Google and Beauty Editor for Best Products. Her work has also appeared in publications including CNN, WWD, Business Insider, Forbes, and Men's Health, among others.

Famous Athletes

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Logo
twitter icon
facebook icon
instagram icon
A Part of Hearst Digital Media

A Part of Hearst Digital Media

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.

©2023 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. Site contains certain content that is owned A&E Television Networks, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Biography and associated logos are trademarks of A+E Networks®protected in the US and other countries around the globe.

Privacy NoticeTerms of UseCA Notice at CollectionDAA Industry Opt OutYour CA Privacy Rights/Shine the Light