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Which conflict resolution books should I get?

Writer: Shiv Martin
Shiv Martin
Jul 24, 2023
2 min read

Updated: Sep 1


Shiv is a nationally accredited mediator, practicing lawyer, conciliator, decision maker and certified vocational trainer. As a corporate trainer and speaker, she has worked with over 50 different government and business organisations, particularly in relation to conflict management. ​

Build your skills in negotiation, emotional intelligence, and managing difficult conversations with these expert-recommended reads.


We all learn in different ways. While I love delivering live and online workshops, reading a book (by myself) especially conflict resolution books, is still my favourite way to learn new information. There are many excellent podcasts, web pages and blogs on negotiation, conflict resolution and mediation. However, the starting point for learning in these areas, for me, remains a reputable book!



Here is a list of the conflict resolution books that I have reference to...and yes they are all my favourites : )

  • "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ" by Daniel Goleman. Published by Bantam, 2005

  • "The EQ Edge: Emotional Intelligence and Your Success" by Steven J. Stein and Howard E. Book. Published by Jossey-Bass, 2011

  • "Alternative Dispute Resolution" Sixth Edition by Tania Sourdin (2020) Thompson Reuters

  • "Intercultural Communication - a contextual approac" James Neuleip (2011) Sage Publications

  • "The Promise of Mediation: Responding to Conflict through Empowerment and Recognition" by Robert A. Baruch Bush and Joseph P. Folger. Published by Jossey-Bass, 2005

  • "Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In" by Roger Fisher, William Ury, and Bruce Patton. Published by Penguin Books, 2011

  • "Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most" by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen. Published by Penguin Books, 2010

  • "Bargaining for Advantage: Negotiation Strategies for Reasonable People" by G. Richard Shell. Published by Penguin Books, 2006

  • "The Mediation Process: Practical Strategies for Resolving Conflict" by Christopher W. Moore. Published by Jossey-Bass. (Latest edition: 2021)

  • “Defusing Hostile Customers Workbook (Third Edition): A Self-Instructional Workbook For Public Sector Employees Paperback” Robert Bacal (2010)

  • "High Conflict People in Legal Disputes" by Bill Eddy. Published by HCI Press, 2016

  • "Biff: Quick Responses to High-Conflict People" by Bill Eddy. Published by HCI Press, 2011. Rapport the Four Ways to Read People Emily Alison and Laurence Alison (2020)

  • “Australian dispute resolution: law and practice” Boulle, L. and Field, R. 2017, Lexis Nexis Butterworths

  • “Dare to Ask – Learn to Ask Questions like a Pro” Els Dragt & Jeroen Timmer (2020)

  • "Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth and Happiness" Richard H. Thaler (2008)


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About the Author

Hi, I'm Shiv Martin. 

Hi, I'm Shiv Martin. I'm a nationally accredited mediator, lawyer, conciliator, and conflict management specialist with over a decade of experience working across government, business, and community settings. Alongside my panel of experts I support leaders and teams to navigate complex and emotionally charged situations through mediation and conciliation, training and facilitation, and practical advice on policies and processes.

My approach is grounded in law, psychology, and real-world dispute resolution, with a strong focus on clarity, fairness, and workable outcomes. I'd love to stay connected here or on LinkedIn.

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Each month, I host a free live session for people who work in the middle of conflict and complaints, from HR and workplace leaders to government and regulatory complaints teams. These sessions are practical, down to earth, and grounded in real practice. Join a community of practitioners and leaders.

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