8 Best-Selling Pitching Books Millions Love

Discover best-selling Pitching Books recommended by David Allen (GTD creator), Alice Kemper (sales consultant), and Douglas Burdett (Marketing Book Podcast host)

David Allen
Alice Kemper
Douglas Burdett
Updated on June 28, 2025
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There's something special about books that both critics and crowds love, especially when it comes to pitching, a skill that can transform your professional and creative life. Pitching remains a cornerstone for business success, creative ventures, and even athletic performance, and these eight best-selling books have been embraced widely because they offer real, proven strategies that have helped readers influence outcomes and win opportunities.

This collection is backed by experts whose names carry weight in their fields. David Allen, creator of the GTD time management method, praises "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto" for its fresh take on client engagements, while Alice Kemper, an award-winning sales consultant, endorses "Pitch Anything" for its science-based approach to persuasion. Marketing Podcast host Douglas Burdett also recommends Enns’ manifesto, underscoring its value for agency leaders. Their endorsements give these books a grounded credibility that resonates with practitioners.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific pitching needs might consider creating a personalized Pitching book that combines these validated approaches. This option lets you focus on what matters most to your situation, whether it’s business, entertainment, or athletic pitching, blending expert wisdom with your unique goals.

Best for proven pitching strategies
Alice Kemper, an award-winning sales and leadership consultant, brings authoritative weight to this book's endorsement. Her expertise in coaching sales professionals aligns well with Klaff's methodical approach to pitching. This connection underscores why Pitch Anything resonates so strongly with those aiming to win deals and influence outcomes effectively. Kemper's recommendation highlights the book’s practical value in real-world sales and leadership contexts, reflecting its widespread adoption among professionals seeking proven pitching frameworks.
AK

Recommended by Alice Kemper

Award-winning sales and leadership consultant

2011·240 pages·Pitching, Persuasion, Presentation, Sales, Negotiation

Oren Klaff's two decades in capital markets shaped his approach to pitching as a science, not an art. Drawing on neuroeconomics, he reveals how decision-making brains respond to presentations, teaching you to control every stage of your pitch. You’ll learn his STRONG method—Setting the Frame, Telling the Story, Revealing Intrigue, Offering the Prize, Nailing the Hookpoint, and Getting a Decision—to engage and persuade effectively. Whether negotiating a raise or selling an idea, this book suits anyone looking to influence outcomes with precision rather than persuasion by force.

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Best for creative professionals pitching
David Allen, the creator of the GTD time management method, endorses this manifesto, which speaks volumes given his expertise in productivity and business efficiency. His recommendation signals how this book’s approach to pitching aligns with proven methods of streamlining client engagements and reducing wasted effort. Alongside him, Douglas Burdett, host of The Marketing Book Podcast, supports the book, reinforcing its relevance for marketers and agency leaders seeking to rethink how they sell ideas. Their combined endorsements highlight this manifesto’s practical impact for creative professionals aiming to transform their sales approach.
DA

Recommended by David Allen

Creator of time management method GTD

Blair Enns draws on his extensive experience coaching creative professionals to challenge traditional pitching methods. He argues that creative businesses should stop giving away their expertise for free and instead adopt twelve clear proclamations that redefine how they engage with clients. You’ll learn how to position your services to regain control and attract clients without lengthy proposals or unnecessary negotiations. This book suits independent agencies and consultants who want to shift from competing on price to commanding respect for their ideas. For example, the manifesto encourages you to declare your value upfront, transforming client relationships from transactional to strategic.

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Best for personalized pitching tactics
This custom AI book on pitching mastery is created based on your pitching background, current skill level, and the challenges you face. You share your specific goals and interests within pitching, and the book focuses exactly on the tactics most relevant to you. Personalizing the learning experience this way ensures you gain insights that truly fit your needs and help you succeed in your unique pitching situations.
2025·50-300 pages·Pitching, Pitch Fundamentals, Audience Analysis, Message Crafting, Persuasion Techniques

This tailored book on pitching mastery explores effective tactics and approaches designed to address your unique challenges and goals. It reveals how to refine your pitch by focusing on your individual background and the specific pitching scenarios you face, merging proven popular knowledge with insights validated by millions of readers. By concentrating on your interests, this personalized guide examines techniques that enhance persuasion, engagement, and success in various pitching contexts. Whether you're pitching for business deals, creative projects, or athletic performance, it presents a focused learning experience that makes mastering pitching both accessible and rewarding.

Tailored Guide
Pitching Dynamics
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for entertainment industry pitchers
Jonathan Koch and Robert Kosberg are successful movie and TV producers known as the 'Kings of Pitch.' Together, they have sold over 70 films and television shows and currently have more than 30 projects in development at major studios, including collaborations with Tom Cruise, Jim Carrey, and Meg Ryan. Their extensive experience and proven track record make them uniquely qualified to guide you through the process of developing and selling your TV show or movie ideas. This book distills their insider knowledge into practical guidance, offering a clear path for creators looking to navigate Hollywood's pitching landscape.
Pitching Hollywood: How to Sell Your TV Show and Movie Ideas book cover

by Jonathan Koch, Robert Kosberg, Tanya Meurer Norman··You?

2004·167 pages·Pitching, Hollywood Movies, Idea Development, Presentation Skills, TV Shows

Jonathan Koch and Robert Kosberg's decades of film and television production experience led to this hands-on guide for selling creative ideas in Hollywood. You learn how to craft compelling pitches that capture the attention of producers and executives, drawing on the authors' track record of over 70 successful sales. The book covers everything from idea development to presentation techniques, including examples from their own projects with top-tier talent like Tom Cruise and Meg Ryan. If you're aiming to break into the TV or movie industry with your concepts, this book offers clear insights into what decision-makers want and how to communicate your vision effectively.

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Best for business pitch mastery
What happens when decades of pitching experience meet a clear, accessible guide? Paul Boross MBE shares the Seven Secrets of a Successful Business Pitch, drawing from a quarter-century working in business and entertainment. This book’s appeal comes from its practical framework that helps you sharpen your pitch for any audience, whether investors or clients. Its proven approach addresses the common hurdles in pitching by focusing on adaptable techniques that you can apply immediately. Whether you’re new to pitching or seeking to elevate your game, this work offers a solid foundation to increase your success rate and confidence.
2011·352 pages·Pitching, Business Communication, Investor Relations, Presentation Skills, Audience Engagement

The breakthrough moment came when Paul Boross MBE distilled his 25 years of pitching experience across business and entertainment industries into a clear framework of seven secrets. You learn concrete techniques for structuring your pitch, engaging different audiences, and increasing your chances of success whether you're courting investors or clients. The book offers detailed insights on adapting your message for diverse settings, from music stages to boardrooms, making it especially useful if you face varied pitching challenges. If refining your persuasion skills through tested methods appeals to you, this book provides straightforward strategies without unnecessary jargon or fluff.

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Best for foundational pitching techniques
Bob Shaw’s book offers a focused exploration of pitching that has resonated with players and coaches alike. Its clear explanations of pitch delivery, combined with attention to mental and physical preparation, make it a valuable resource for those serious about the craft. The book tackles pitching strategy and execution in a way that benefits anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the role. Its enduring appeal lies in its practical approach to the many facets of pitching, from mechanics to game awareness.
Pitching book cover

by Bob Shaw·You?

1972·208 pages·Pitching, Sports Strategy, Athletic Training, Mental Conditioning, Throwing Mechanics

When Bob Shaw, a seasoned pitcher and coach, wrote this book, he brought firsthand insight into the nuances of pitching mechanics and strategy. You’ll learn detailed approaches to delivering various types of pitches, plus the mental and physical conditioning essential for sustained performance. The book also covers fielding responsibilities and pick-off plays, making it a thorough guide for pitchers wanting to elevate their game. Chapters break down techniques in a clear manner, which benefits both aspiring players and coaches aiming to refine pitching fundamentals.

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Best for rapid pitching improvements
This AI-created book on pitching is tailored to your experience and specific goals. It focuses on the exact pitching skills and areas you want to develop, combining proven concepts with what matters most to you. By creating a personalized plan for rapid progress, it helps you avoid generic advice and zero in on actions that fit your background and ambitions. This custom approach makes your learning more efficient and directly relevant.
2025·50-300 pages·Pitching, Pitching Fundamentals, Audience Engagement, Persuasion Techniques, Presentation Skills

This tailored book explores a focused 30-day plan designed to accelerate your pitching skills efficiently. It covers step-by-step actions that align with your background, interests, and specific pitching goals. By combining widely validated pitching concepts with your unique needs, it reveals how to enhance your communication, persuasion, and presentation abilities in a targeted way. The personalized content matches your level and priorities, making the learning experience practical and engaging. Whether you're aiming for business, creative, or athletic pitching, this book addresses your distinct challenges and accelerates progress in a way that suits you.

Tailored Content
Pitch Performance
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for technical pitching mechanics
John Stewart’s "The Pitching Clinic" stands out in the baseball pitching field by offering a complete guide that covers everything from basic grip and footwork to advanced pitches like sliders and knuckleballs. This book’s proven appeal is evident in its widespread use by players and coaches at various levels, especially youth leagues. It addresses fundamental challenges in pitching mechanics with clear explanations and practical guidance, making it a valuable resource for anyone aiming to improve their pitching skills or coaching strategies. The book’s focused approach fills a niche for accessible yet thorough pitching instruction.
The Pitching Clinic book cover

by John Stewart·You?

2002·144 pages·Pitching, Baseball Coaching, Pitching Mechanics, Fastball Technique, Curveballs

Unlike many pitching manuals that focus narrowly on fastballs, John Stewart's book provides a thorough breakdown of pitching mechanics from the ground up. You’ll learn specific techniques for grip, footwork, and throwing a variety of pitches including curves, sliders, and knuckleballs. The author’s approach suits both players and coaches looking to deepen their understanding of pitching, starting from Little League fundamentals to more advanced skills. For example, chapters on advanced pitches offer nuanced adjustments that can improve control and deception. If you want a practical yet detailed guide to refine your pitching craft, this book delivers without unnecessary jargon or fluff.

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Best for advanced pitching performance
Randy Johnson's Power Pitching offers a unique window into the disciplined approach of one of baseball’s most intimidating pitchers. The book combines detailed instruction on mechanics, control, and conditioning with personal anecdotes and rare photographs, appealing to those aiming to elevate their pitching game. Its proven appeal lies in the clarity and depth of its teaching method, making it a valued resource for players and coaches dedicated to mastering pitching fundamentals and pushing performance boundaries.
2003·144 pages·Pitching, Sports Training, Mechanics, Control, Conditioning

When Randy Johnson transitioned from raw power to methodical precision, he unlocked the formula for pitching dominance. This book distills his approach, covering everything from mastering control and mechanics to conditioning and mental toughness. You’ll find detailed drills for injury prevention and insights into how to maximize your natural abilities, all illustrated with unseen photos and personal stories. If you want to sharpen your pitching skills with guidance from a five-time Cy Young winner, this is a direct route — though it’s geared more for players and coaches serious about refining fundamentals than casual fans.

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Best for youth pitching development
Jim Rosenthal brings extensive experience from authoring numerous baseball books, while Leo Mazzone served as pitching coach for the Atlanta Braves and Baltimore Orioles, mentoring multiple Hall of Famers. Together, they crafted this guide to equip young pitchers and their coaches with the essentials of pitching technique, conditioning, and game strategy. Mazzone’s decades of hands-on coaching and Rosenthal's writing expertise make this book a focused resource for youth baseball development.
1999·112 pages·Pitching, Baseball Coaching, Pitching Mechanics, Training Techniques, Throwing Programs

Leo Mazzone's decades of experience as the Atlanta Braves' pitching coach shape this practical guide for young pitchers and their coaches from Little League through high school. Coauthor Jim Rosenthal, known for his work with top baseball figures, helps deliver clear instructions on pitching mechanics, grip techniques, and strength training routines, such as Mazzone's between-starts throwing program. You'll find valuable insights into pitching strategies and field positioning, supported by contributions from Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine. If you're focused on developing foundational skills and injury prevention, this book offers straightforward guidance tailored to youth players and their mentors.

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Proven Pitching Methods, Personalized

Get strategies that fit your unique pitching goals without generic advice.

Tailored expert strategies
Focused skill development
Efficient learning path

Endorsed by experts and thousands of successful pitchers

Pitch Mastery Blueprint
30-Day Pitch Accelerator
Strategic Pitch Foundations
Success Pitching Code

Conclusion

These eight books collectively offer a rich spectrum of pitching knowledge—from foundational techniques and mental conditioning to innovative business strategies and entertainment industry insights. Their widespread validation reflects how tried-and-true methods continue to empower readers across diverse pitching contexts.

If you prefer proven methods grounded in expert experience, start with "Pitch Anything" or "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto." For validated approaches in specific industries, combine "Pitching Hollywood" with "The Pitching Bible" to master entertainment and business pitches. Meanwhile, those focused on sports will find "Pitch Like A Pro" and "Randy Johnson's Power Pitching" offer deep dives into mechanics and mental toughness.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Pitching book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed, and tailoring content ensures you apply them in the most effective way for your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Pitch Anything" for a clear, science-backed method or "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto" if you focus on creative business strategies. Both offer practical frameworks that set a strong foundation for understanding pitching.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Pitching?

No. Books like "Pitch Like A Pro" and "The Pitching Clinic" break down fundamentals clearly, making them accessible for beginners while also valuable for coaches and mentors.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational titles like "Pitching" and "Pitch Like A Pro," then explore advanced approaches in "Pitch Anything" and "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto." Tailor your reading based on your pitching goals.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can start with one that fits your focus area. For example, business professionals might choose "The Pitching Bible," while creative professionals benefit from "Pitching Hollywood." Each offers unique insights.

Which books focus more on theory vs. practical application?

"Pitch Anything" and "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto" blend theory with actionable steps. "The Pitching Clinic" and "Pitch Like A Pro" lean heavily on practical mechanics and drills.

Can I get pitching advice tailored to my specific needs without reading all these books?

Yes. While these expert books offer valuable insights, you can create a personalized Pitching book that combines popular methods with your unique goals, making learning more efficient and relevant.

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