celebrating a decade of storytelling with data
This month marks the 10th anniversary of the publication of my first book, storytelling with data: a data visualization guide for business professionals.
When the book first came out, I had no idea what to expect. I was simply thrilled to see my name in print! I had been facilitating workshops for several years by then and had reached the limit of how many people I could personally teach. The book became my way to make those lessons—and everything I was learning about communicating with data—available to a wider audience. My goal was simple: to help others share their data more effectively.
It’s done that. And so much more! storytelling with data has been translated into dozens of languages (my favorite foreign cover—ironically—is the Italian edition featuring a man leaping out of a pie chart!) and is used to teach at universities around the world. Just last week, I visited Arizona State University to share lessons with employees, instructors, and students. I never could have imagined how many people I’d meet, or the places I’d travel, because of this book. It has connected me with people around the globe—and even introduced me to a number of the individuals who now make up the storytelling with data team. This book truly changed my life.
Earlier this year, when my publisher suggested creating a special anniversary edition, I jumped at the opportunity. I reread storytelling with data for the first time in years and was happy to find that its foundational lessons still hold true today (perhaps even more so in this age of AI). While the core content remains unchanged, I added a new foreword and three appendices capturing key insights from the past decade. The example graphs have been refreshed with current data. The design has been elevated: a crisp white linen hardcover stamped with magnesium ink, coordinating endpapers, and some fun surprises that I’m extremely excited to share with you.
Perfecting these details took a little longer than expected, so the official publication date (originally planned for this week) has shifted to December 2nd. Books are already on their way to retailers and will be in circulation very soon. You can order your copy today.
To coincide with publication, I’ll host a live virtual celebration on December 2nd, reflecting on key lessons that have stood the test of time. I’ll revisit classic examples and share new ones, highlighting both simple steps for better graphs and deeper insights to strengthen your data storytelling. I hope you’ll join me for this free virtual session (and I welcome you to extend the invitation to others!).
As I’ve reflected on this milestone, I’ve found myself revisiting old photos. The one at the top of this post reminded me of another that made me smile—and filled me with awe at the passage of time. Ten years ago, my oldest son, Avery, played in the box that delivered my first copies of storytelling with data. This weekend, almost-13-year-old Avery helped me move boxes of the 10th anniversary edition.
Thank you for being part of this journey. I hope you enjoy the new edition of storytelling with data as much as I’ve loved bringing it to life.
