Ivy Zelman is recognized for her clarity, conviction, and courage, particularly in identifying key turning points in the housing market. As one of the most respected voices in real estate research, she has built a career on distilling complex economic trends into clear, actionable insights.
Even for someone whose work is rooted in data, some of the most meaningful ideas can come from unexpected places, such as the pages of a great book.
In the lead-up to the 2025 Zelman Housing Summit, Ivy shares five titles that have helped shape her perspective, not just on the economy or housing, but also on success, reinvention, decision-making, and the balance between drive and well-being. These books have challenged her, inspired her, and, in many cases, deepened the lens through which she views her work and her impact.
1. The Algebra of Happiness by Scott Galloway
What it’s about: In a series of sharp, often provocative essays, Galloway lays out what really drives happiness in work and life with lessons learned from success, failure, and everything in between.
Why Ivy recommends it: “Galloway’s tone is blunt but insightful. He reminds us that what appears to be success from the outside doesn’t always feel that way from the inside. There’s a real tension between ambition and fulfillment, and this book doesn’t shy away from it.”
That tension is familiar territory for leaders who have spent years building businesses and navigating high-stakes industries. Ivy’s career path reflects a careful calibration between drive and reflection, between pushing forward and knowing when to pause.
2. Thrive by Arianna Huffington
What it’s about: Huffington redefines what it means to be successful, shifting the focus from wealth and power to well-being, wisdom, and wonder.
Why Ivy recommends it: “This book was a great reminder to see success more holistically. It’s not about how far or how fast you go; it’s about how you sustain the journey.”
That message resonates with those who have built careers in fast-paced, high-performance sectors. Thrive reinforces the idea that leadership without balance isn’t leadership that lasts.
3. From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks
What it’s about: Brooks takes on the idea of life’s second curve—how we transition from building to guiding and from performance-driven success to wisdom-driven fulfillment.
Why Ivy recommends it: “This book hit me at the right time. Brooks offers permission to redefine success as you evolve. There’s strength in letting go of what once defined you and embracing what’s next.”
For professionals in long-tenured, high-impact roles, that message resonates. It mirrors a shift Ivy has embraced: from pioneering new ways to analyze housing data to mentoring others and shaping broader industry conversations.
4. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
What it’s about: Burkeman tackles the modern obsession with productivity and reframes it entirely. You have roughly 4,000 weeks on earth; how do you want to spend them?
Why Ivy recommends it: “This book gave me a kind of clarity I didn’t expect. It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing what matters. That shift in perspective is freeing, and honestly, necessary.”
That idea aligns closely with the discipline Ivy brings to her work: focus on what moves the needle. Whether building a research platform or advising clients in volatile markets, clarity of purpose is what sets true leaders apart.
5. Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake by Anna Quindlen
What it’s about: This special book is a collection of deeply personal essays about aging, friendship, motherhood, and the quiet wisdom that builds over time.
Why Ivy recommends it: “Quindlen’s voice is honest and elegant. She writes about growing older with humor and grace. It’s a reminder that experience is its own kind of power.”
There’s something timeless about Quindlen’s reflections, especially for women who’ve led at high levels and are still defining what’s next. In Ivy’s world, where sharp analysis meets long-term vision, that mix of confidence and humility feels right at home.
The best insights don’t always come from data
Ivy Zelman’s approach to housing and economic research has always gone deeper than the surface. These five books reflect that same principle by asking bigger questions, making room for nuance, and challenging the way we define value, both professionally and personally.
As we prepare for the Zelman Housing Summit, this reading list provides a glimpse into the mindset behind the insights. If you're looking to sharpen your perspective or just read something that stays with you, these books might be just the thing.
Want more of Ivy’s perspective?
Join her and other leading voices at the 2025 Zelman Housing Summit, where bold ideas, clear data, and honest conversations drive the future of housing. Register now.
We extend our special thanks to Ivy Zelman for her valuable insights and contributions to this article.
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