Mar 7, 2023

6 Best Books for Data Storytelling

Want to level up your data storytelling knowledge? You may need to head to the library.

With the world more technologically connected, data science and the need for visualizing data have swelled in significance. And though the nature of data and new tools is ever changing, so many core best practices in data storytelling remain evergreen. As such, some of the best data visualization books have (pardon the pun) a long shelf life.

“Storytelling is ultimately a creative act of pattern recognition. Through characters, plot and setting, a writer creates places where previously invisible truths become visible. Or the storyteller posits a series of dots that the reader can connect.” – Douglas Coupland, novelist

Best Books for Data Storytelling

1. Storytelling with Data : A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals

Book Title: Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals

Author: Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 2015

Pages: 288

"Storytelling with Data" is a fantastic guide for anyone who wants to communicate data insights more effectively through visualizations. The author, Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic, draws on her extensive experience as a data analyst and communication expert to provide practical advice and real-world examples that are easy to understand and apply. The book covers everything from selecting the right type of chart to using color effectively and designing effective dashboards. It is also full of tips on how to create engaging stories with your data that will resonate with your audience. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to improve their data visualization skills and become a more effective communicator.

2. Data-Driven Storytelling

Book Title: Data-Driven Storytelling

Author: Nathalie Henry Riche, Christophe Hurter, Nicholas Diakopoulos, Sheelagh Carpendale

Publisher: CRC Press

Date: 2018

Pages: 342

"Data-Driven Storytelling" is a comprehensive guide that explores the intersection of data visualization and storytelling. The book is a collaborative effort by four experts in the field, and it provides valuable insights into how to create compelling narratives using data. The authors use a multidisciplinary approach to explain the principles of data-driven storytelling, drawing on their expertise in design, computer science, and journalism. The book covers topics such as designing for engagement, exploring data narratives, and the ethics of data visualization. It also includes case studies and practical examples that demonstrate how to apply these concepts in real-world situations. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to use data to tell more powerful and engaging stories.

3. Data Story: Explain Data and Inspire Action Through Story

Book Title: Data Story: Explain Data and Inspire Action Through Story

Author: Nancy Duarte

Publisher: Ideapress Publishing

Date: 2019

Pages: 240

"Data Story" is a must-read book for anyone who wants to effectively communicate data insights to inspire action. The author, Nancy Duarte, is a renowned expert in communication and storytelling, and she draws on her experience to provide practical advice on how to turn data into a compelling narrative. The book covers topics such as data storytelling frameworks, data visualization principles, and how to present data in a way that resonates with your audience. The book is full of practical examples and case studies that demonstrate how to apply these concepts in real-world situations. The writing style is engaging and accessible, making it an easy and enjoyable read. Overall, "Data Story" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to unlock the power of data storytelling to drive change and inspire action.

4. Effective Data Storytelling: How to Drive Change with Data, Narrative and Visuals

Book Title: Effective Data Storytelling: How to Drive Change with Data, Narrative and Visuals

Author: Brent Dykes

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 2020

Pages: 240

"Effective Data Storytelling" is a practical guide that teaches readers how to use data to drive change through narrative and visuals. The author, Brent Dykes, is an experienced data analyst and consultant, and he draws on his expertise to provide actionable advice on how to create compelling data stories. The book covers topics such as data-driven storytelling frameworks, designing effective data visualizations, and presenting data in a way that inspires action. The writing style is clear and accessible, and the book includes plenty of real-world examples and case studies to demonstrate how to apply these concepts in practice. Overall, "Effective Data Storytelling" is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to become a more effective data storyteller and drive change through their data insights.

5. Storytelling with Data: Let's Practice!

Book Title: Storytelling with Data: Let's Practice!

Author: Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 2021

Pages: 352

"Storytelling with Data: Let's Practice!" is a hands-on guide that teaches readers how to apply the principles of data visualization and storytelling in practice. The author, Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic, is a renowned data storyteller and communication expert, and she draws on her experience to provide practical advice on how to create compelling data stories. The book includes a range of exercises and challenges that allow readers to practice their data storytelling skills, from designing effective charts and graphs to creating engaging presentations. The writing style is engaging and accessible, and the book includes plenty of real-world examples and case studies to illustrate key concepts. Overall, "Storytelling with Data: Let's Practice!" is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to become a more effective data storyteller and take their data communication skills to the next level.

6. Introduction to Data Visualization & Storytelling: A Guide For The Data Scientist

Book Title: Introduction to Data Visualization & Storytelling: A Guide For The Data Scientist

Author: Jose Berengueres and Marybeth Sandell

Publisher: Independently published

Date: 2021

Pages: 158

"Introduction to Data Visualization & Storytelling" is a concise guide that provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of data visualization and storytelling. The authors, Jose Berengueres and Marybeth Sandell, are experienced data scientists, and they draw on their expertise to provide practical advice on how to effectively communicate data insights. The book covers topics such as selecting the right type of chart, designing effective data visualizations, and telling compelling stories with data. It also includes tips on how to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls when working with data. The writing style is clear and accessible, making it an easy read for both beginners and more experienced data scientists. Overall, "Introduction to Data Visualization & Storytelling" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their data visualization and storytelling skills.

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