Trending Topics

When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for reading and supporting our efforts.

Must-read books for EMS leaders and paramedics

Explore the books EMS leaders, EMS1 contributors and experts recommend to advance your career, build leadership skills and inspire the next generation

Stack of books with blurred bookshelf background, reading, learning, education or home office concept

Stack of books with blurred bookshelf background, reading, learning, education or home office concept

Photo/Getty Images

By EMS1 Staff

Whether you’re seeking inspiration, looking to sharpen your leadership skills or aiming to expand your clinical expertise, reading is a powerful tool for professional growth in EMS.

We’ve gathered book recommendations from EMS leaders and EMS1 contributors, as well as book excerpts showcasing reads that cater to EMTs, paramedics and EMS supervisors. These picks cover leadership, clinical practice, personal development and even children’s books to inspire the next generation of EMS professionals.

Let these titles motivate you to learn, grow, and lead in the ever-evolving world of emergency medical services.

Dive into a good book
These tools and services make it easy to get started on your reading list.
Take thousands of books with you anywhere with this Kindle that reads like real paper, even in sunlight, with a 6.8” display and adjustable warm light, and up to 10 weeks of battery life.
Perfect for busy book lovers, an Audible membership allows you to enjoy your favorite reads during your commute, while running errands or during your workout.
Stream video, read books and news, play games and browse the internet with the Kindle Fire HD 10. High-resolution display and up-to 13 hours of battery life.
This special edition Kindle for young readers comes with a high-resolution display, a cover, 1 year of Amazon Kids+, and a 2-year warranty.

Top book picks from EMS leaders, EMS1 contributors

Advance in your career, climb the ladder and inspire the next generation of EMTs with these top EMS picks.

Books
From learning resources to comic relief, there’s something for everyone
The books were used to illustrate key concepts, support the speaker’s principles or to call on other leaders to be lifelong learners
These nine leaderships books have been voted among the best in the genre
Books
Next time you select a book for your child, consider these EMS-themed reads

Book excerpts

From reflections on harrowing calls, to communication tips, legal advise and even a children’s book, check out these excerpts before choosing your next read.

Books
“An eastbound freight train with a gigantic wooden bumper had struck a car, leaving several passengers trapped and critically injured – some of them actually under the train. The vehicle was a piece of twisted wreckage and only shreds of wood remained of the train’s bumper, but the train seemed to be untouched.”
Books
“You pull into a commercial parking lot and find a large 80s-style sedan with a couple of people standing around it. It is head-on into the concrete base of a parking lot light pole. You notice the front grill is compressed, the hood is crumpled, and an elderly gentleman is standing outside talking to two other individuals, and he appears upset.”
“People skills are the soup stock you can use to cook up answers to the full range of the human emergency spectrum, from critical situations, to medical and trauma challenges, to routine transfers. You may not be in a position to say a single word out loud, but as a member of the team arriving to help you can still “say” a great deal by such actions as wiping your shoes as you enter.”
“‘I’m not sure the best way to say it, so I’ll just say it.’ She paused and looked him in the eyes. ‘I’m worried about your drinking.’”
Books
“At some point in your EMS career, you will likely find yourself under investigation for something. Not only is it very easy – and common – anymore for people to complain about one thing or another, but now more than ever, every complaint receives some sort of follow up and that usually means an investigation.”
“The doorman greets us with a Brooks Brothers nod as we enter the structure. I kept having this peculiar feeling about this call though. Low and behold, as we walk through the foyer, the elevator opens and a man in his 50’s runs towards us covered in blood. ‘You have to help me!’ He screamed frantically.”
“Often times after my husband gets off shift, I make it a point to first ask him what he needs before I discuss any tasks I have for him. I want his wellness to come first and our to-do list second.”
“Dispatching Frederick the Paramedic. Respond to the Giggle Grove indoor playground for an allergic emergency!”


Shop the recommendations

Leadership picks

EMS memoirs

Clinical picks

Children’s books

First Responder Deals & Discounts
Discounts available for Military, First Responders, and Government Employees.
Save up to 20% off coffee roasters and accessories.
Save 15% off ‎travel bags, backpacks, duffels, golf and pickleball gear.
Save 15% off silicone bands and silicone engagement rings.
Save up to 18% off engagement rings, meteorite rings, wedding bands and accessories.
Save up to 15% off polos, headcovers, hats and tees.
Save up to 20% off quartz pocket watches, pendant watches, dual time zone watches.
Save 15% off golf clubs, golf balls and gear.
Save up to 5% off barbells bumper plates, benches, power racks, kettlebells, squat racks, slam balls.
Save 15% off workout supplies. All products are made in the USA.
Save 50% off meal kit and food delivery.
Save 5% off supplements and gear.
Save up to 10% off zirconia flap discs, general-duty diamond blades.
The 26oz. Shaker features a patented, noise-free twist on agitator that is designed to blend protein powders and work as a strainer to ensure a perfect drink every time.
Save up to 15% off snowboards, splitboards, apparel + accessories.
Ghost® Whey Protein was conceived to feed savagery around the clock*, and can be enjoyed during breakfast, post workout, throughout the day or before bed. Ghost® Whey is versatile and can be used in smoothies, oats, protein ice cream, pancakes and baked goods.
Save 15% off handbags, backpacks, luggage, accessories.
Save up to 10% off handcrafted glass gifts, artisan figurines, fashion jewelry, ornaments, holiday gifts.
Save 20% off mountain bikes brakes, suspension systems, wheels, and components.
Save 20% off earbuds, earmuffs, and accessories.
Save 30% off yoga, climbing, hiking, and outdoor clothing.
Save up to 15% off true wireless headphones, earbuds, microphones, gaming gear and office accessories.
Save up to 5% off inflatable stand up paddle boards, electric sup pumps, coolers, and durable mountain gear.
Save 50% off gold men’s jewelry and watches.
Save 15% off men’s clothing and accessories.
Save 15% off ice barrel, insulated cold therapy tool and accessories.
Save up to 10% off bike racks, carriers, storage, and accessories.
Save up to 10% off artificial Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands, Christmas accessories.
Save 20% off t-shirts, hats, décor, outerwear.
Save 20% off hoodies and sweatshirts, jackets, graphic tees, tops, bottom.
Recommended For You
Even if you can’t travel out of town for a vacation, you can still make the most of your time off; here are some tips to help responders enjoy a staycation right at home
Prime Day 2025 is a chance for first responders to replace worn gear or upgrade tech
First responders can take advantage of Amazon Prime Day 2025 deals to stock up on professional tools, gear and essentials without stretching the budget
Celebrate EMS Week, holidays, graduations, promotions and more with these gifts medics will love
Lift assist image.png
EMS lift assists on the rise
What you need to know about lift assist devices, risks, patient assessment and fall prevention
Books
Understand why first responders struggle to recognize their stress and how Tactical Brain Training builds emotional awareness and resilience
A special “thank you” to all the mothers who double as first responders
Discover top pet care solutions that keep your pets safe and comfortable while you’re on duty
5.11 Tactical, Bass Pro Shops, Garmin, Black Rifle Coffee, DJI and others offering discounts during National EMS Week
Where to buy EMS pants that can stand up to the demands of the job
Laysha Ward teaches public safety leaders how to reframe life experiences into leadership superpowers, develop connection currency and align work-life goals for sustainable success
Explore top self-defense tools like TASERs, pepper spray and personal alarms. Learn how to choose, use, and store them safely and legally
EMS Products
Reduce failed IV attempts and speed up patient care with a vein finder
EMS Products
Follow this expert guide to cleaning, conditioning and polishing your boots, belts and gear the right way
The benefits are numerous, but the startup can be daunting; become a meal-prepping pro with these top-rated solutions

EMS1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.