10 Books Every Dad Will Love, From Thrillers to Memoirs

In 2025, books remain a timeless gift for dads, offering escape, laughter, and inspiration through gripping thrillers, hilarious memoirs, and powerful biographies. Whether he’s a dad who loves the adrenaline of a plot twist, chuckles at relatable humor, or draws wisdom from real-life heroes, there’s a book to match his vibe. These 10 carefully selected titles—from edge-of-your-seat mysteries to heartfelt life stories—are perfect for Father’s Day, birthdays, or quiet evenings by the grill. Each book is paired with a summary, reasons it resonates with dads, and tips for gifting or enjoying it as a reading companion. Spanning genres and styles, this list ensures every dad finds a story that speaks to his heart, making these books not just reads but cherished moments. Let’s dive into a literary lineup that celebrates the multifaceted lives of dads.

1. The Gray Man by Mark Greaney – High-Octane Thriller

Summary: Court Gentry, a former CIA operative turned legendary assassin, navigates a deadly cat-and-mouse game in this 2009 thriller, the first in a bestselling series. When a mission goes wrong, Gentry becomes the hunted, dodging international killers while uncovering a global conspiracy. Packed with relentless action and sharp dialogue, it’s a pulse-pounding ride.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who crave adrenaline and strategic thinking will devour The Gray Man’s fast-paced plot and tough-as-nails hero. Its blend of espionage and survival appeals to those who love action films like Bourne or Bond, making it a 2025 favorite for dads who unwind with high-stakes drama. The series’ longevity and Netflix adaptation add pop-culture cred.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a sleek bookmark and a coffee mug for late-night reading sessions. Read by the pool or during a commute—pair with noise-canceling headphones for immersion. Discuss the film adaptation over beers for bonding.

Why It Works: Its relentless pace and complex hero resonate with dads balancing work and family, offering an escape that’s both thrilling and relatable. In 2025, it’s a top pick for action-loving dads.

2. Born Standing Up by Steve Martin – Laugh-Out-Loud Memoir

Summary: In this 2007 memoir, comedy legend Steve Martin chronicles his rise from Disneyland performer to stand-up icon. With wit and vulnerability, he shares the grind of crafting jokes, battling self-doubt, and finding his voice. It’s a heartfelt, hilarious look at creativity and resilience.

Why Dads Love It: Dads with a sense of humor or a love for classic comedy will adore Martin’s self-deprecating storytelling. Its reflections on hard work and reinvention hit home for dads navigating career or family challenges. The 4.7-star Amazon rating reflects its universal appeal in 2025.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a retro comedy DVD (like The Jerk) for a nostalgic Father’s Day package. Read in a cozy armchair with a glass of whiskey—laughs pair well with relaxation. Share favorite anecdotes with kids for family chuckles.

Why It Works: Martin’s blend of humor and wisdom mirrors the dad experience—funny yet profound. It’s a 2025 must-read for dads who appreciate a good story told with heart.

3. Educated by Tara Westover – Inspiring Biography

Summary: This 2018 memoir follows Tara Westover’s journey from a survivalist Idaho family to earning a PhD from Cambridge. Raised without formal education, she teaches herself enough to escape her insular world, confronting family ties and self-discovery. It’s a gripping tale of grit and growth.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who value perseverance or education will be moved by Westover’s tenacity. Her story of breaking barriers resonates with those who’ve overcome odds or encouraged their kids to chase dreams. Its 4.8-star Amazon rating underscores its emotional impact in 2025.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a journal for dads who reflect on their own paths. Read on a quiet porch swing—pair with coffee for morning contemplation. Discuss themes of independence with family for deeper connection.

Why It Works: Its universal themes of self-reliance and learning appeal to dads as providers and mentors, making it a 2025 gift that inspires across generations.

4. The Night Agent by Matthew Quirk – Edge-of-Seat Thriller

Summary: In this 2019 thriller, FBI agent Peter Sutherland uncovers a conspiracy within the White House while protecting a mysterious caller. Racing against time, he navigates betrayal and danger in a plot that twists until the final page. Adapted into a hit Netflix series, it’s a modern spy classic.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who love political intrigue or fast-paced mysteries will grip this book tightly. Peter’s everyman heroism mirrors the dad instinct to protect, and the 4.6-star Amazon rating highlights its addictive pace. In 2025, it’s a thriller dad’s can’t put down.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a sleek penlight for nighttime reading—dads love gadgets. Read during a flight or by a campfire for suspenseful vibes. Compare the book to the series over dinner for lively debate.

Why It Works: Its blend of action and moral dilemmas suits dads who enjoy complex narratives, offering a 2025 escape that’s both cerebral and thrilling.

5. Shoe Dog by Phil Knight – Entrepreneurial Biography

Summary: In this 2016 memoir, Nike founder Phil Knight recounts the scrappy origins of the global brand, from selling shoes out of his car to building an empire. With candor, he shares risks, failures, and triumphs, offering a raw look at ambition and innovation.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who are entrepreneurs, sports fans, or dreamers will connect with Knight’s hustle. His story of building something from nothing inspires dads balancing work and family goals. The 4.7-star Amazon rating reflects its 2025 appeal to driven dads.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a Nike cap for a themed Father’s Day surprise. Read in a home office with a motivational playlist—pair with a protein shake for hustle vibes. Discuss business lessons with colleagues or kids.

Why It Works: Knight’s grit and vision resonate with dads as providers, making it a 2025 biography that fuels ambition and pride.

6. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman – Cozy Mystery Thriller

Summary: This 2020 novel follows four retirees in a British village who solve cold-case murders for fun—until a real killing lands on their doorstep. With humor, heart, and clever twists, it’s a delightful whodunit that blends wit with suspense.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who enjoy light mysteries or British humor will chuckle at the gang’s antics. Its focus on friendship and purpose appeals to dads embracing retirement or community. The 4.6-star Amazon rating makes it a 2025 cozy favorite.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a tea sampler for a British-themed gift. Read by a lake with a picnic—pair with biscuits for fun. Share plot twists with a book club or partner.

Why It Works: Its mix of humor and intrigue offers dads a relaxing yet engaging read, perfect for 2025’s laid-back summer days.

7. Dad Is Fat by Jim Gaffigan – Hilarious Memoir

Summary: In this 2013 memoir, comedian Jim Gaffigan dishes on fatherhood with five kids, from diaper chaos to sleep deprivation. His self-deprecating humor and love for his family shine through, making it a laugh-out-loud ode to parenting.

Why Dads Love It: Dads with kids—or a love for comedy—will relate to Gaffigan’s parenting quips. Its lighthearted take on dad life is a stress-reliever, and the 4.5-star Amazon rating shows its 2025 staying power.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a funny dad mug for a Father’s Day laugh. Read on a couch with a beer—perfect for unwinding. Share favorite lines with other parents for instant bonding.

Why It Works: Its relatable humor captures the chaos and joy of fatherhood, making it a 2025 pick for dads needing a chuckle.

8. The Survivor by Vince Flynn and Kyle Mills – Action Thriller

Summary: In this 2015 Mitch Rapp novel, CIA operative Rapp hunts a traitor leaking deadly secrets. Packed with global chases, espionage, and high-stakes combat, it’s a relentless thriller that keeps readers guessing. The series’ gritty hero is a dad favorite.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who love military thrillers or strong protagonists will root for Rapp’s no-nonsense style. Its action-packed plot is a perfect escape, and the 4.6-star Amazon rating underscores its 2025 fanbase.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a tactical pen for a spy-themed package. Read during a camping trip—pair with a flashlight for nighttime thrills. Discuss Rapp’s tactics with buddies.

Why It Works: Its intense pace and heroic lead resonate with dads who admire strength and loyalty, a 2025 thriller hit.

9. Becoming by Michelle Obama – Uplifting Biography

Summary: In this 2018 memoir, Michelle Obama shares her journey from Chicago’s South Side to the White House. With warmth and wisdom, she explores motherhood, marriage, and advocacy, offering a candid look at resilience and purpose.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who value family and leadership will admire Michelle’s strength and relatability. Her insights on balancing roles inspire dads as partners and parents. The 4.8-star Amazon rating reflects its 2025 universal appeal.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a framed family photo for a heartfelt touch. Read in a quiet study—pair with tea for reflection. Discuss her advocacy with family for meaningful talks.

Why It Works: Its empowering narrative speaks to dads striving for balance, making it a 2025 gift of inspiration.

10. Is This Anything? by Jerry Seinfeld – Witty Memoir

Summary: In this 2020 collection, Jerry Seinfeld compiles his best stand-up bits from five decades, with behind-the-scenes insights. From everyday absurdities to parenting quips, it’s a hilarious, bite-sized read for comedy fans.

Why Dads Love It: Dads who love Seinfeld or quick laughs will enjoy this light, relatable humor. Its short chapters suit busy schedules, and the 4.5-star Amazon rating shows its 2025 appeal for comedy-loving dads.

Reading or Gifting Tips: Gift with a Seinfeld DVD set for a nostalgic package. Read on a porch with coffee—perfect for short bursts. Share jokes with kids for family laughs.

Why It Works: Its witty, observational humor mirrors dad banter, making it a 2025 pick for fun, easy reading.

Why These Books Are Perfect for Dads in 2025

In 2025, books are more than stories—they’re gateways to adventure, laughter, and wisdom for dads navigating the joys and challenges of fatherhood. These 10 titles, from The Gray Man’s thrills to Becoming’s inspiration, cater to diverse dad personalities—action buffs, comedians, dreamers, and mentors. They offer escapism for busy days, humor for tough moments, and lessons for growth, reflecting a cultural embrace of meaningful gifting. Whether read by a campfire or gifted on Father’s Day, these books resonate with dads as providers, jokers, and heroes. With high Amazon ratings, they’re proven crowd-pleasers, ensuring every dad finds a story that feels like his own. In a year of connection, these books are gifts that keep giving—time, joy, and reflection.

Bringing These Books to Life: Practical Tips

Ready to gift or read these dad-approved books? Here’s how:

• Know His Taste: Pick thrillers for action fans, memoirs for humor lovers, or biographies for inspiration seekers.

• Gift Thoughtfully: Pair with small items (mugs, bookmarks) to personalize the present.

• Set the Scene: Create a cozy reading nook with a lamp and snacks for immersive enjoyment.

• Start a Discussion: Share quotes or themes with family or friends to deepen the experience.

Conclusion

These 10 books every dad will love in 2025—from The Gray Man’s heart-pounding thrills to Is This Anything?’s laugh-out-loud wit—offer a literary lineup that celebrates the diverse passions of fatherhood. Each title, whether a gripping thriller, hilarious memoir, or inspiring biography, is a thoughtful gift or reading companion, perfect for Father’s Day or quiet summer evenings. In a year that values connection and authenticity, these stories empower dads to escape, reflect, and laugh, resonating with their roles as heroes, jokers, and dreamers. Gift these books to the dad in your life, and give him not just a read but a moment to cherish, wrapped in pages that speak to his heart.

10 FAQs About Books for Dads

1. Why are thrillers like The Gray Man popular with dads?

   
   

   Their fast-paced action and heroic leads offer an exciting escape, appealing to dads who love adrenaline.

2. How does Born Standing Up resonate with dads?

   
   

   Steve Martin’s humor and work ethic mirror the dad experience, blending laughs with life lessons.

3. Is Educated suitable for all dads?

   
   

   Yes—its story of grit and learning inspires dads who value education or personal growth.

4. What makes The Night Agent a great dad gift?

   
   

   Its political intrigue and quick pace suit dads who enjoy spy dramas or Netflix adaptations.

5. Why choose Shoe Dog for entrepreneurial dads?

   
   

   Phil Knight’s tale of building Nike motivates dads chasing dreams or leading families.

6. How does The Thursday Murder Club appeal to dads?

   
   

   Its witty mystery and retiree heroes entertain dads who love humor and community vibes.

7. Is Dad Is Fat only for dads with kids?

   
   

   No—its universal humor suits any dad who loves comedy or relatable parenting tales.

8. What’s the draw of The Survivor for dads?

   
   

   Mitch Rapp’s intense missions captivate dads who admire strength and tactical thrillers.

9. How does Becoming inspire dads?

   
   

   Michelle Obama’s balance of family and leadership motivates dads as partners and parents.

10. Why is Is This Anything? a good pick for busy dads?

    
    

    Its short, funny chapters fit tight schedules, offering quick laughs for comedy fans.