Books to read based on your MBTI

I don’t know about you but lately I’ve been feeling pretty anxious and stressed. I just want to cuddle up in my bed with my tea and a book. But the truth is, I don’t even know what to read, I usually chose the books I want to read based on themes, but I can’t even seem to get that narrowed down.

So, what about a book based on your personality type?

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator aka MBTI (explanation)

These four letters took the internet by storm some years ago, and are still talked about today.

The theory of psychological types was created by Carl Jung Created and later developed by Katherine Briggs and Isabel Myers, they give it the name of Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or as we know it MBTI.

To know your MBTI type, you only have to reply some questions (if you don’t know your MBTI discover it here [https://www.michaelcaloz.com/personality/]) that will lead you to your individual four psychological variables, that are also detailed in the website mentioned alongside other information:

• I or E (Introverted or Extroverted)
• S or N (Sensing or Intuition)
• F or T (Feeling or Thinking)
• P or J (Perceiving or Judging)

Book Recommendations

Now that you know your MBTI, it’s time to find out your book:

ISTJ – Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

Usually reserved, conscientious and meticulous, these individuals usually thrive in structured environments, being good at problem solving. In professional environments, these individuals can easily meet deadlines and prefer management and administrative roles, being more in control.

In other hand because of their straightforward logic way of thinking and their already reserved personality, they sometimes seem impersonal and rigid.

This book might resonate and at the same time, piss ISTJ reader’s off, but that’s why I recommend it.

Convenience Store Woman, is about a Woman called Keiko that after starting working at a convenience store at eighteen as many do, simply never stopped working there. Appreciating the rules and routine she finally felt normal, and a part of something, but her friends and family started pressuring her to do something…getting married.

This small and witty book is the perfect option for those who don’t have that much reading time. It may challenge you and is a book that you definitely will want to pick up.   

ISFJ – Beartown by Fredrik Backman

This book has a TW for Sexual Assault

Organized and reliable, these individuals are not logic beings. With a strong sense to help others they gravitate towards health care and social work. Lyal and traditional, usually they solve problems using common sense and rely on experience as a base to make decisions. However, ISFJ people can struggle with assertiveness and prioritize in pleasing others, when the situation calls for logic.

Beartown is a book about a small community that is actively struggling and the only hope of them getting in a better place economically is the hockey team that recently entered the semi-finals of the championship. They have the support of the whole town, but a tragic event on a celebration night will change everything.

This book will make you think about the strong power of “sense of community” and loyalty and how it can turn to be scary. This book has a TW for Sexual Assault so read at your own discretion.

INFJ – The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

INFJs are empathic and visionary idealists. INFJs like to unite people for a common cause, even though they are introverted. Known to be creative, they’re also sensitive and tend to dream a bit, which can lead to impractical visions if separated from their thought.

A circus that appears at night, magic that seems more than tricks and two destination rivals. This story is involved with a fog, that slowly approach and each time you’re start to get more things.

Imaginative, introspective and intriguing, The Night Circus, is truly a magical book for those who appreciate descriptions and mystery, so you’ll will love this book.

INTJ – Dune by Frank Herbert

INTJs are strategic, independent thinkers who are good at defining long-term visions and finding innovative solutions to complex problems. They are logical which can lead to being perceived as cold and distant, and may overlook the contributions of others. INTJs prefer intellectually stimulating, achievement-oriented activities.

Dune is a book with intense and smart world building, and will make the most logical person appreciate its story. Set in a feudal future, noble families rule planets that are part of an interstellar empire. Dune is a planet of particular importance because it is the only place that has a drug that extends life and enlarges mental capacities, an absolute prerequisite for space travel.

You’ll love this books structure and reading pace, as well as for its approach.

ISTP – The Bear by Andrew Krivak

People with ISTP MBTI type are adaptable, practical, and analytical. They are very good at solving problems and managing crises by their calm and quick decisions. On the one hand, they may get so engaged in the present activity that they tend to forget the broader perspective. The biggest challenge for an ISTP are exercises that require a close cooperation of others. ISTPs like to work in a self-sufficient and realistic setting.

Dystopian in nature, it relates the story of one young woman and her father as they fight to survive in this unalterably changed world. It is a spare book in dialogue, minimalist in approach, and yet deeply profound in the range of human resilience, life’s cycle, and the natural world.

The Bear is a book that will definitely make you think about the future and survival as well as more sentimental theme, like loss and relationship: a challenge.

ISFP – The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

ISFPs are cooperative, low-key, and unassertive, with a concern for consensus and avoid conflict. They tend to be extremely tolerant of others, like helping people, and want to see that everyone gets along. They’re usually accommodating unless a principle or human value is violated, in which case they may become decidedly stubborn. ISFPs thrive in meaningful work environments with supportive, caring colleagues. (I just want to hug you)

The Secret Life of Bees is a bit older than the other recommendations but is a story that still deserves reading. The book that tells a sentimental coming-of-age story of a young girl, Lily Owens, set during the height of the Civil Rights Movement in South Carolina in the 60s. It deepens into themes of family, race, forgiveness and identity. An Historical fiction intertwined with a deeply emotive journey as Lily fights to piece together her tumultuous past while seeking refuge and healing in the home of three African American sisters who keep a lucrative beekeeping business.

I see a lot of ISFPs crying just for the synopsis, so prepare for this emotional and historic story.

INFP – The Magnolia That Bloomed Unseen by Ray Smith

They’re innovative, reflective, and idealistic persons who enjoy creating imaginative solutions to problems coupled with moral commitments to their beliefs. They are deeply motivated in helping others grow and reach their full potential. On the downside, because they struggle to speak out, sometimes they seem like they are not involved or have nothing to say. They can also have problems persuading others about the effectiveness of their ideas. The careers that INFPs tend to choose may include meaningful work, allowing creativity and growth. (me fr)

The Magnolia That Bloomed Unseen is a deeply evocative and introspective novel, where the author explores identities, personal growth, and the complex love relationships of a family, especially in the Southern United States of America. In a journey of self-discovery and through hardships that is symbolically represented through the magnolia tree-standing firm, strong, and evolving in transformation.

As introspected people INFPs will love seeing Earl’s path, and certainly relate to him, in this beautiful story.

INTP – Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Independent, logical thinkers who use conceptual models to understand complex problems and then find innovative solutions. They tend to see the world in detached, analytical terms, and have an independent mindset. INTPs might have some problems when working in a team, particularly with people who they perceive as illogical or too diffuse. They also sometimes lack clear-cut direction and overlook important details. INTPs do well in technical and scientific fields, where they can work independently and develop expertise. INTPs prefer an environment that allows for focused and uninterrupted work. (these guys think they are smart)

These are usually the guys that secretly like classics, even if they say they don’t care for books. By its logical nature, and high interest in solving problem I recommend Slaughter-five.

One of the most influential novels and a seminal piece of American literature, Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five, blends together elements of science fiction, war literature, and absurdism. In the fractured, non-linear narrative, Vonnegut explores the horrors of war, the randomness of existence, and the struggle to find meaning in an often-incomprehensible world. This critical insight antiwar book will make you reflect on also today’s politics.

ESTP – Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk

ESTPs are energetic and resourceful individuals who excel at quickly analyzing and solving problems in inventive ways. They motivate others with their enthusiasm and apply common sense and experience to tackle challenges. However, ESTPs may struggle with time management and lose interest in long and complex projects. Their focus on immediate issues can lead them to overlook long-term problems, and they may avoid discussions or focus on relationships.

I’m sure all ESTPs already saw the movie. But as they say, the movie and book are different.

This dark and provocative novel published is a critique of consumerism, identity, and masculinity in modern society. For those who don’t know the story, the narrator struggles with the monotony and meaninglessness of modern life. Self-destruction, rebellion, and the search for personal identity through the perspective of violence and nihilism, this book will keep you entertained every page.

ESFP – The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

ESFPs are adaptable, warm, and enthusiastic and genuine individuals who love experience things for their own sake. They are particularly happy working with others but they struggle with time, deadlines and completing projects. Spontaneous, funny and resourceful, these are people for people with a loving approach to everything that happens around them. ESFPs like environments where they can help and entertain others.

For these sunshine’s the book recommended is as cute as you:

Taking place in a beautiful sea setting, heartwarming and whimsical fantasy novel, talks about acceptance, love, and personal growth. It is a story of belonging, embracing differences, and finding family in the most unlikely of places. You’ll reflect a fill your heart with a lot of love with this book.

ENFP – Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahniuk

Energetic, innovative, and expressive people who love new experiences and ideas. They enjoy exploring all kinds of possibilities in their problems and get energized by meeting new people. On the other hand, ENFPs may quit projects halfway, take up too many projects, or over-commit themselves to the extent of exhaustion. They might also experience difficulties in prioritizing. ENFPs thrive in creative, team-oriented environments where they can collaborate and inspire others.

Creative and full of life you deserve a book as crazy as your head.

Being mentioned for the second time, Chuck Palahniuk stories are truly one of a kind. This is a dark and twisted novel that explores themes of beauty, identity, and the destructive nature of societal expectations. The book is known for its unconventional structure, satirical tone, and exploration of personal and societal flaws. This book is unexpected, entertaining, a bit confusing, but I think you can handle it.

ENTP – Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman

ENTPs are inventive and innovative problem solvers, highly talented at recognizing patterns and connections within complex themes. They enjoy strategizing plans of action and exploring new possibilities. However sometimes they have a hard time in making a decision and get overenthusiastic by ideas which are not realistically possible with regard to the available amount of time and resources and they can be very challenging (you know is true). ENTPs love to be in a fast-moving, high-energy environments.

I think this book is the most accurate pick yet, and this might be one of the best book collabs in history.

Good Omens (for short) blends both of the authors styles, and creates a comedic, yet thoughtful exploration of the apocalypse, religion, and human nature. An angel and devil side by side and an adventure to save the world, Good Omens has become a cult classic in the genre of comedic fantasy.

ESTJ – Educated by Tara Westover

ESTJs are well-organized and efficient, capable of realizing practical goals through people and resources. They are firm decision-makers, taking competency seriously. Their strong long for accomplishment may at times blind them to ideas and others feelings, which might make them feel out of place. They may also jump into action without gathering enough information, missing opportunities outside their plan. ESTJs do well in stable environments with clear roles and responsibilities.

This memoir is perfect for you, it will make you, without a doubt relate to the themes of self-discipline and organization experienced by the author.

Telling her journey from growing up in a strict, survivalist family to earning a PhD from the University of Cambridge. The book is an engaging read about education, self-discovery, and complex family loyalty growing up in rural Idaho within a deeply isolated and oppressive environment.

ESFJ – Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Warm, empathetic, and generous people. ESFJs have special gifts in making others feel welcome and valued, especially through their praise and attention. Organized and practical, ESFJs compile relevant and establish effective routines. They may be too willing to surrender to the desires of others, which could inhibit them from abandoning plans when a better another opportunity rises. ESFJs do best in an environment with a family-like atmosphere, with tender and amiable people.

A classic that never fails and is perfect to get into this time of the year. This family and the love they have for each other will warm your heart, and it fits you like a glove (😉)

Another coming-of-age story and this one is a classic. Publishes in 1868 the novel follows the lives of the four March sisters growing up during the American Civil War in Massachusetts. In the book amongst the themes discussed are trials and triumphs of the sisters as they navigate the complexities of family, love, ambition, and societal expectations.

ENFJ – To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Born leaders, ENFJs are also warm people. They promote cooperation and are good at working well with others. Idealistic, energetic, often inspiring, and with an undeniable sense of justice, ENFJs help others become their best selves. The ENFJ may become discouraged if receiving too little feedback and may have difficulty dealing with conflict. They may also neglect logical analysis in favor of following their decisions based on their values. ENFJs have a tendency to shine in group-oriented work settings and striving in together.

Maybe this is not the recommendation you were expecting, but it definitely fits you. Becoming an icon of American literature this novel is set in a racially divided Alabama. It touches on sensible issues such as: racial injustice, morality, and loss of innocence through the eyes of a young girl named Scout Finch.

ENTJ – The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

ENTJs are strategic, organized leaders who have a talent for conceiving of the big picture and maintaining efficient systems to achieve their long-term objectives. They are also natural-born leaders and easily take charge, but they may at times trample others’ contributions or needs, and may be unbearable, given their forceful manner of arguing. The most appropriate environment for them is an action-packed, competitive atmosphere that presents a reward for achievement along with constant challenges.

This book is every ENTJs dream. The Fountainhead is a philosophical novel and a great story about a man, Howard Rock, fighting against traditional norms and societal expectations as he aims to create an architectural design that reflects his principles. This novel explores individualism, creativity, the struggle for personal integrity and conformism.

Final thoughts

Hi, I hope you like the recommendations but also that the experience is fun, or at least interesting. Use this time of the year to relax with a book and a hot chocolate and stay safe.