Learning · 6 min read
The 12 marketing books every young UK marketer should read
A practical, no-fluff reading list of 12 marketing books that shape young UK marketers in 2026 - from strategy to copywriting to careers.
By Jack Frampton, Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026
Books still beat courses for depth. Here are 12 that will shape a young UK marketer's career.
Strategy
Positioning (Trout & Ries), Obviously Awesome (April Dunford), Play Bigger.
Copywriting
The Copywriter's Handbook, Ogilvy on Advertising, Made to Stick.
Growth
Traction, Hacking Growth, Contagious.
Career
So Good They Can't Ignore You, Deep Work, Show Your Work.
Frequently asked questions
- How many marketing books should I read a year?
- 6–12 with deep notes beats 30 skimmed.
- Physical or Kindle?
- Physical for strategy, Kindle for tactics.
- Should I take notes?
- Yes - one summary page in ${NOTION} per book.
- Any UK-specific must-reads?
- Rory Sutherland's <em>Alchemy</em>.
Explore more on this site
- Apprenticeship Hub →Free mentoring, vacancy help and guides for school leavers, parents and employers.
- Marketing Portfolio →Campaign design, sports graphics, editorial work and photography from Queen's College, Taunton.
- Video →Behind the scenes video and short-form apprenticeship content.
- About Jack Frampton →Marketer, apprenticeship advocate and Taunton keynote speaker.
About the author
Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Apprenticeship advocate
Jack Frampton is a marketer at Queen's College, Taunton, working across digital marketing, SEO, design, content and photography. He came through the apprenticeship route himself, founded the Taunton Apprenticeship Evening and speaks in schools across Somerset and the South West about apprenticeships as a route into marketing. He offers free mentoring for school leavers, parents and employers.
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