14 Best Dream Books to Decode Your Dreams

Dreams often capture our curiosity once we awake. They leave positive and negative emotions that tend to keep us asking the whole day. Since ancient times, curious minds have tried to ascertain dreams’ origin, function, and messages.

Most people consider dreams as a great source of mystery and direction. For some, dreams reveal hidden feelings or metaphors that mirror us.

To help you unravel this enigma of all times— we present an interesting list of the best dream books to help you investigate their meaning and communicate with your higher self.

1. Man and His Symbols

By Carl Jung

Before his death, Carl Jung created this book because of his dreams. According to him, he has dreamt that his work was loved and understood by a large number of people from different backgrounds.

In Man and His Symbols, Jung examines the whole world of the unconscious and the language that dreams reveal in dreams. He proposed that dreams offer practical advice and guidance sent by the unconscious self. He believes that understanding the self would lead to a meaningful life.

Why must you read this book? 

Man and His Symbols will help you gain insight into yourself. You’ll learn how dreams hold profound meanings meant to be decoded figuratively.

If you find life a struggle, Man and His Symbols might help clarify your situation and what your inner self is telling you. Most of our current adversities are rooted in the hidden issues we fail to address within ourselves.

Listening to your subconscious and analyzing the messages it sends you can propel your life to greater heights

2. The Interpretation of Dreams and Beyond the Pleasure Principle

By Sigmund Freud

Another must-have book for your bookshelf should be by the father of psychoanalysis himself. In this seminal work, Sigmund Freud seeks to portray how analysis of our dreams unfolds the keys to the workings of the unconscious mind.

Beyond the Pleasure Principle is a crucial turning point in Freud’s thought. He suggested that our life is ruled by the creative drive for pleasure and our struggle to fight against death and destruction.

Why must you read this book?

According to Freud, interpreting our dreams is the royal road to a deeper understanding of the unconscious activities of the mind. They give us an almost direct insight into the workings of the unconscious.

In this book, you’ll learn how our dreams serve to fulfill our wishes. You’ll understand Freud’s proposition of how three sources (real-life events, childhood memories, and body stimuli) create our dreams.

You’ll also understand the three general categories of dreams he proposed: 

1. Direct prophecy is the explicit and influential delivery of a message that foretells one’s future; 
2. The orama, the mere suggestion of a possible future via the events of the dream; 
3. And the symbolic dream, which holds hidden content and emotion.

3. The Dreamer’s Dictionary: The Complete Guide to Interpreting Your Dreams

By Stearn Robinson and Tom Corbett

Dreams are abundant in secrets and symbolism. Sometimes they are easy to decode, but there are times their meanings are obscure. Dream interpretation and its study have always been treated with significant interest, going beyond superstition.

Today, providing meanings to our dreams and using them to unfold issues that we refuse to address in our conscious mind are accepted among psychotherapists. The Dreamer’s Dictionary will help you analyze and understand the important messages of your dreams, no matter how bizarre they are.

Why must you read this book?

The Dreamer’s Dictionary is one of the most comprehensive and authentic dictionaries for dream references. Over three thousand entries were arranged alphabetically, and over five hundred were cross-referenced.

Robinson and Corbett completed the book based on their years of expertise and research on ancient and modern sources. You’ll learn how to interpret your dreams and understand their message represented by recurring dream symbols. 

This book will help you see your life from a different angle. Understanding your dreams is your weapon for recognizing coming triumphs or disasters.

4. The Mystical, Magical, Marvelous World of Dreams

By Wilda B. Tanner

Certified Dream Analyst, Lauri Loewenberg, recommends this book for dream interpretation enthusiasts. The Mystical, Magical, Marvelous World of Dreams shows readers how to recognize and analyze dreams coming from their higher selves. 

It has a comprehensive and cross-referenced index for easy use; and contains a substantial encyclopedia of dream symbols and how to find the right meaning for you.

Why must you read this book?

Lauri Loewenber explains that this work of Wilda B. Tanner is the best book written on dreams. It caters to all readers, especially beginners, at dream interpretation.

The book is formatted like a dictionary, which makes it easier for readers to find the symbol and interpretation of their dreams. Its interpretation of dreams is accurate, concise, and clear.

The Mystical, Magical, Marvelous World of Dreams also teaches readers how dreams can aid them in getting ideas, solutions to problems, and insights into themselves. 

You won’t be disappointed in this book in any way.

5. 12,000 Dreams Interpreted: A New Edition for the 21st Century 

By Linda Shields, Lenore Skomal, and Gustavus Hindman Miller

12 000 Dreams Interpreted is a bestselling classic from Gustavus Hindman Miller’s 10 000 Dreams Interpreted. Miller’s work is the most compelling and thorough analysis of all the symbols in our dreamscape.  He offered an introduction to enlighten readers on dream history and its types.

Today, popular medium and psychic Linda Shields updated this classic. She featured revisions and added more than 2,000 of Miller’s original and 2,000 new entries.

This book has been updated to suit our modern life, including the unknown objects in Miller’s time, such as computers, televisions, and cell phones. 12 000 Dreams Interpreted is a well-packaged and exciting revision every dreamer should have.

Why must you read this book?

Psychotherapist Aimee Hartstein stated that this book is perfect for you if you ever have a dream you can’t understand and keep wondering.

You can search for any themes, events, and symbols that compose your dream and get the best advice and interpretation.

Hartstein added that this book acquainted her patients with dreams and symbols, which helped them become more involved with their inner life.

6. The Complete Book of Dreams: A Guide to Unlocking the Meaning and Healing Power of Your Dreams

By Stephanie Gailing

The Complete Book of Dreams provides holistic methods to gain the healing potential of your dreams and sleep.

Stephanie Gailing uniquely wrote the book as a reference and guidebook for readers. It features abundant insights and information detailing the health-promoting role of dreams and sleep. You’ll also find rich simple exercises and practical tips to improve sleep and dreams.

Why must you read this book?

Aimee Hartstein tells readers that this book is inspirational and informative for readers looking for an extensive book on dreaming.

Gailing will teach you the best sleep sanctification rituals, flower essences, relaxation practices, and other holistic approaches to magnify your well-being.

As you read through the book, you’ll discover a wide array of techniques to tap into the healing power of your dreams. And how to document and decode them.

7. Inner Work: Using Dreams and Active Imagination for Personal Growth

By Robert A. Johnson

In this work, Robert Johnson, a renowned author and Jungian analyst, teaches us to use dreams and our inner exercises to achieve a more satisfying life and personal wholeness.

Inner Work provides a step-by-step and practical approach to unfolding the meaning of your dreams. As you go along, Johnson’ll take you to the next level of dream works; understanding and interpreting what your dream images tell you about your unconscious mind.

Why must you read this book?

Aimee Hartstein stated that decoding meanings of dream imagery could take time to interpret, but with enough practice and guidance, you can learn what your subconscious is telling you through your dreams.

“The author is a Jungian analyst who helps walk people through the steps of their dream analysis,” said Hartstein. “It’s a little more complex but gives a nice how-to for someone who wants to explore on their own.”

Aimee Hartstein, LCSW

This book will give you an in-depth and clear approach to working with your dreams and bringing them to accomplishment in your waking life. Inner Work is a book you’ll want to share with your friends and loved ones.

8. Our Dreaming Mind

By Robert L. Van de Castle

Robert L. Van de Castle examines the fundamental role of dreams throughout history— from the dreams of ancient Sumerian kings to the pioneers of dream research in the 19th century.

Our Dreaming Mind dives into the most thought-provoking experiments conducted by scientists on the dreaming mind. It looked into dreams and sexual arousal, the effects of pregnancy on dreams, the link between creativity and dreams, and the possibility of paranormal dreams.

Why must you read this book?

For readers, Our Dreaming Mind is a sweeping exploration of dreams. This book is perfect if you want to learn as much as possible about dreams. 

You’ll see how dreaming is a crucial part of the human experience, how it is perceived in multicultural aspects, and how it affects our lives and viewpoint.

Castle also tapped into the influence of dreams in cultures, religion, and art, as well as certain types of dreaming, like paranormal and lucid dreams.

9. The Dream Interpretation Dictionary: Symbols, Signs, and Meanings

By J.M. DeBord

Stepping out from the limitations of superficial explanations, The Dream Interpretation Dictionary brings a deep and comprehensive understanding of a wide array of signs, images, and symbols. 

J.M. DeBord considers the context to help anyone complete their puzzle of a dream. The book will provide the correct methods and practices to analyze and interpret your dreams.

Why must you read this book?

Dreams are the mirror of our inner self. You’ll be able to explore the messages delivered by your unconscious mind during sleep. As you read through the book, you’ll be able to analyze how dreams are linked to your waking life.

You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of your spiritual being and harness self-awareness.

For readers, The Dream Interpretation Dictionary’s straightforward instructions helped them remember their dreams and the tiny details it contains: from numbers, shapes, and colors to patterns. The book answered all these little clues. 

10. The Dream Dictionary from A to Z: The Ultimate A–Z to Interpret the Secrets of Your Dreams

By Theresa Cheung

Theresa Cheung gives you a comprehensive handbook to help you learn the meanings of thousands of dreams. You can easily look up the symbolism and meaning of your dreams, as the book is organized from A to Z.

According to the book, dreams are universal. They are multicultural yet may hold the same or different meanings. Understanding the unique meanings of your dreams can help you experience life from a different perspective and walk new paths of opportunities.

Why must you read this book?

The Dream Dictionary from A to Z might not be the best book for people who are not into Freud. But this book will be ideal if you want to find the meaning of your dreams for fun and curiosity’s sake.

It’s a dictionary containing the meanings of most of your dreams. The book will entertain you with how it tries to make sense of your dreams and their symbols. There may be speculative definitions, but there are several that are helpful. 

Read The Dream Dictionary from A to Z for a good laugh and an insightful reading journey.

11. A Little Bit of Dreams: An Introduction to Dream Interpretation

By Stase Michaels

Stase Michaels takes you to the magical world of dream interpretation through her lifetime of expertise as a dream analyst. In this broad and in-depth look at dreams, you’ll learn how dreams happen and why they are a reliable fountain of knowledge to one’s self.

A Little Bit of Dreams also explains the five basic steps to help readers understand dream techniques and learn about nightmares, dreams of loved ones, and mysterious experiences occurring in the guise of dreams.

Why must you read this book?

If you’re learning dream interpretation, this book by Stase Michaels is perfect. Based on readers’ reviews, the book is enough to make one interested in learning dream interpretation.

A Little Bit of Dreams is a great light read that provides great advice on studying dreams.

12. The Art of Dreaming

By Carlos Castaneda

According to Ahmad Sharabiani, The Art of Dreaming was written in 1993 by Carlos Castaneda. It portrays events and techniques during the author’s apprenticeship with don Juan Matus, a Yaqui Indian Sorcerer. 

The book describes the process needed to master consciousness and control dreams. Carlos Castaneda reveals that worlds exist within our own, and we can visit them through dreams.

Why must you read this book?

Based on readers’ reviews, reading about Castaneda and his dreams under the apprenticeship of don Juan Matus is an inspiring experience. The Art of Dreaming is a great tool for realizing the purposes and unique center.

13. The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the Dreams You Dream: Biblical Keys for Hearing God’s Voice in the Night

By Ira Milligan

Understanding the Dreams You Dream provides readers insight into their lives and dreams and contains a rich dictionary of dream symbols.

Ministers with decades of experience in receiving, analyzing, and giving meaning to dreams will guide you through the complex world of dreams. Through scripture-based meditations, you’ll be able to understand your dreams.

Many Christians are oblivious to meditation, that’s why the book addresses this issue in three different ways:

1. On-point and detailed instructions are given on what and how to meditate.
2. Examples of the author’s dreams and personal experiences.
3. Practical dictionary on dream symbols.

Why must you read this book?

Ira Milligan’s book presents both normal and bizarre dream situations. An important thing you’ll learn is that applying one type of dream interpretation to many dreams is restricting you from delving deeper into your subconscious. And you’ll learn how to recognize the difference between a dream from God and those from evil.

14. The Dream Interpretation Handbook: A Guide and Dictionary to Unlock the Meanings of Your Dreams

By Karen Frazier

Dreams can provide valuable insight into your subconscious, help you recognize unrealized aspirations, and be deeply acquainted with your emotions. 

With The Dream Interpretation Handbook, you can decipher your dreams and use the knowledge you’ve gained to relate more deeply with yourself and create life-changing decisions.

Go deep into your dreams and uncover their hidden meanings. Learn about the process of dream interpretation, and discover guidance for decyphering the connections and plotlines within your dreams.

Why must you read this book?

Dream interpretation is easier than you think, and The Dream Interpretation Handbook proves that.

No matter how bizarre your dreams are, you can uncover their meanings with the help of this handbook. You’ll have access to the mystery behind your fascinating dreams. 

You can explore theories and studies about dream interpretation based on mysticism and science. Find ways to understand the message of your dreams and how to relate them to your waking life.

Wrap-Up

“The information received from dreams is truly the greatest guidance anyone could ever ask for.”

Dr. Teresa L. DeCicco, The Giant Compass.

Dreaming allow our souls to breathe and break free from the constraints of our waking life. When you learn and give meaning to your dreams, you enter a new world of possibilities. You become acquainted with your subconscious and become aware of your higher self.

Dream interpretation could be your tool for self-awareness, gaining peace of mind, and a sense of assurance.

With the resources discussed in this article, It’s important to remember to choose the right book that resonates with you and your purpose. Perceive dreams as guides and not a definite description of your fate.

You have the liberation to give meaning to your dreams and assign their role in your life.