You do not need to know every TED speaker to find a good book. But there are about a dozen names that, if you have spent any time near the ideas economy, you have probably heard. Their books are usually their best work. The talk just got there first. This is that list. Read any of these and you will find out why the talk traveled. They are also the easiest pitch for someone new to the catalog: pick the cover that catches your eye, and you cannot go wrong.