25 Must Read Warren Buffett Recommended Books [Best Selling]

The legendary investor and businessman Warren Buffett is well known for his wise words and investment strategies. He has made a name for himself worldwide as one of the most successful investors ever, but he also has some powerful insights into other areas of life.

Particularly when it comes to reading books, Warren Buffett is an avid reader who never misses an opportunity to recommend great books to others. In this article, we’ll explore 25 must reads Warren Buffett recommended books, as well as what he has said about the importance of reading and the power of books in general.

When asked how he became a successful investor, one of Warren Buffett’s top advice is to read constantly. His idea was that if you want to learn something new or if you want to stay ahead of the competition, then books are a great place to start.

He believes that people can gain knowledge that cannot be taught in any school or university through reading extensively and diligently. He believes people will grow intellectually and emotionally by consuming books from various genres and topics.

Of course, not all books are created equal, so picking up titles personally recommended by someone like Warren Buffett is essential. Through decades of experience in business and investing, he knows which titles have valuable information that could be useful in those fields specifically but also offer insight into other areas, such as psychology or philosophy.

His 25 must read book recommendations cover topics ranging from business strategy and management skills to personal development and investing advice—all with the same level of expertise in any book he writes directly.

25 Must Read Warren Buffett Recommended Books: Top Recommended Warren Buffett Books

Here are 25 Must Read Warren Buffett Recommended Books. Buffett's recommendations span various topics, from finance and investing to personal development and leadership.

The Outsiders By William Thorndike Jr.

The Outsiders by William Thorndike Jr. was published in 2012 and covers what matters when you run an organization and evaluate companies and their leaders.

Thorndike's expertise in investing has allowed him to create a profound book that not only touches on the success stories of individual CEOs who are doing great despite being "outsiders" in the Wall Street industry but also the winning traits they possess.

Using evidence from his research and experience, Thorndike shares insight into how investors and entrepreneurs can gain wisdom and knowledge that will help them succeed.

In The Outsiders, readers can learn about the eight individual CEOs' Thorndike profiles and how their dedication to hard work and innovation set them apart from other businesspeople.

These individuals were driven to do more than make money; they wanted to make a lasting impact by challenging norms and pushing boundaries. By providing readers with a deeper understanding of these concepts, The Outsiders offers invaluable advice on what is needed to be a successful leader in any organization.

Dream Big By Cristiane Correa

Dream Big, written by Cristiane Correa, is a book that delves into the success of three Brazilian business personalities - Jorge Paulo Lemann, Marcell Telles, and Beto Sicupira - who built the largest name in the Brazilian economy through their firm 3G Capital.

Their strategy centered on building a strong team comprising smart, innovative, and driven individuals while surrounding themselves with productive people. The trio believed in meritocracy and rewarded high-performing employees, cutting out unnecessary expenditures and copying what worked from other businesses to keep things simple.

Through this approach, they acquired companies such as Budweiser, Heinz, and Burger King. Dream Big is an inspirational guide for those interested in business. It provides detailed information about how 3G Capital established its successful company with facts, figures, and definitions that add richness to its content.

It is an invaluable resource for understanding how these entrepreneurs achieved immense success and can provide insight into what makes their strategies so effective.

The Intelligent Investor By Benjamin Graham

Benjamin Graham, the leading financial expert of the twentieth century, is famously remembered for his book The Intelligent Investor. His value investing method emphasizes focusing on a company's real-life performance rather than market sentiments and allows room for human error while encouraging long-term investments.

Graham believed in considering stability and profitability when appraising stocks, with a primary focus on underlying economic realities.

The Intelligent Investor has provided generations with an accessible guide to understanding value investing and has been praised by respected investors like Warren Buffet as "by far the best book on investing ever written."

Graham's invaluable wisdom continues to benefit future generations by identifying how companies can succeed and how individuals can safeguard their investments during times of uncertainty. This is the most popular book among 25 must reads Warren Buffett recommended books.

The Farmer from Merna By Karl Schriftgiesser

The Farmer from Merna by Karl Schriftgiesser is a genuinely inspirational biography about the farmer George J. Mercherle and his lifelong journey toward success.

It tells the story of how, armed only with his ambition and determination, he built a local automobile insurance company in Bloomington, Illinois, into one of the largest insurance companies in the United States.

Despite facing numerous obstacles throughout his life, George never gave up on his dreams and persevered until his business had grown to span all over America.

This incredible story of resilience is sure to inspire anyone who reads it. Through his struggles, we can learn a valuable lesson about never giving up and pursuing our dreams no matter what obstacles may stand in our way.

Moreover, learning more about George's journey from humble beginnings to great success can remind us of the power of perseverance and hard work when correctly applied to achieve our goals.

How To Win Friends and Influence People By Dale Carnegie

How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, recommended even by Warren Buffet, is a must-read book and one of the most renowned in the self-help genre.

It focuses on six simple yet powerful principles to help people build relationships: be interested in others, smile, remember their names, be a good listener, talk about their interests, and make them feel important.

The book helps readers create a strong network of people who can provide support when needed and provides practical advice for handling difficult situations and disagreements.

It teaches readers how to communicate better with people from different backgrounds and offers insights into human nature while teaching proper techniques for addressing needs to reach mutual understanding faster.

These lessons are valuable not only in personal relationships but also in professional ones, making this book an invaluable piece of knowledge.

One Thousand Ways To Make $1,000 By F.C. Minaker

One Thousand Ways to Make $1,000 by F.C. Minaker is a timeless classic first published in 1936 that has inspired readers to achieve financial success for decades.

The book provides practical advice on promoting, marketing, investing, sales, merchandising, and customer relations for making money. It remains relevant by offering a range of strategies for creating wealth and serves as an invaluable guide for those looking to increase their income.

What sets this book apart is its focus on tangible results with actionable ideas that can be implemented immediately to start making money quickly and efficiently. It also includes helpful advice on developing the right mindset for entrepreneurship and staying motivated to pursue financial goals.

While much of the material focuses on traditional methods of making money, it also provides insight into modern approaches like leveraging digital technology or mastering skills like copywriting or coding. The book's timeless wisdom has helped countless people realize their dreams of financial success.

Limping on Water By Philip Beuth

Limping on Water: My 40-Year Adventure with One of America's Outstanding Communications Companies by Philip Beuth is a memoir of his incredible journey as an executive at Capital Cities, one of America's most respected and influential media companies.

In 1932, Philip Beuth was born on Staten Island to a family devastated by his father's death. Despite physical disadvantages, he became successful and achieved immense professional heights.

In this book, Philip Beuth shares many personal stories from his time at Capital Cities and entertaining interviews with numerous notables, including Muhammad Ali, Warren Buffett, Frank Sinatra, Barbara Walters, Lowell Thomas, and more.

He recounts the work that eventually led him to be inducted into two broadcasting Hall of Fames and head Good Morning America and Division President of ABC. This book provides an intriguing look into the life of a man who overcame tremendous obstacles before achieving professional success.

Through Limping on Water, readers will get an inside look into the career trajectory of Philip Beuth while also gaining insight into how he persevered through personal struggles to become the accomplished executive he is today. His story exemplifies that anyone can become successful despite all odds being against them.

The Science Of Hitting By Ted Williams

Ted Williams was not only an incredible hitter in Major League Baseball, but he wrote a book, "The Science of Hitting," that has since become a classic to many.

Williams explains the important decision-making process involved with hitting for a higher average in this book. He emphasizes the need to think ahead and be precise with every swing. He encourages batters to wait for good pitches and react quickly when they come.

Warren Buffet, the renowned investor, recommended this book because his method of investing is similar to playing baseball: you have to anticipate the best opportunities and take advantage of them when they present themselves.

Williams' advice is applicable beyond just hitting: investors can learn much from his wisdom. One must be patient and recognize when a good investment opportunity arises.

A seasoned investor will understand that predicting future markets is impossible; success can only come from carefully analyzing facts and data and making timely decisions based on those findings.

Furthermore, practice makes perfect; investors should continue honing their craft through research and experience to increase their proficiency. The Science of Hitting provides valuable lessons for baseball players and investors, so it remains highly recommended today.

Stress Test: Reflections On Financial Crises B Timothy F. Geithner

Stress Test: Reflections on Financial Crises is a captivating memoir by Timothy F. Geithner, former president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and President Barack Obama's Secretary of the Treasury.

This book offers a first-hand account of his experience in the Treasury Department during the financial crisis of the 1990s, providing an incredibly detailed and insightful overview of what it was like working closely with government officials to combat such a historic financial catastrophe.

Geithner shares personal stories and engaging accounts from other key players who were part of this critical period in history, allowing readers to understand better some of the complex economic principles that had far-reaching consequences for millions worldwide.

The book provides valuable lessons for today’s leaders on responding more effectively to future crises. It serves as an important reminder that we can find a way forward by learning from our mistakes and taking decisive action when needed.

Stress Test is an important and informative memoir that offers a deep dive into our recent past, reminding us why certain decisions were made and how they impacted our economy for years.

The Man Behind the Microchip By Laslie Berlin

The Man Behind the Microchip by Leslie Berlin is a fascinating read that delves into the life and legacy of Robert Noyce, one of Silicon Valley's most influential figures.

As co-inventor of the integrated circuit, Noyce played a crucial role in revolutionizing the technology industry and paving the way for modern computing.

Through interviews with some of Noyce's closest friends and colleagues, including industry titans like Andy Grove and Steve Jobs, Berlin offers readers an intimate look at the man behind the microchip.

The book is a balanced portrayal of Noyce that highlights both his remarkable achievements as well as his flaws and shortcomings. Overall, The Man Behind the Microchip is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Silicon Valley and the people who shaped it.

The Smartest Guys In The Room: The Amazing Rise And Scandalous Fall Of Enron By Bethany McLean, Peter Elkind

"The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron" by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind is a gripping account of one of the biggest corporate scandals in American history.

Regarded as Woodward and Bernstein-like figures, McLean and Elkind provide an in-depth analysis of Enron's rise to power and eventual downfall. The book includes insider accounts from former Enron executives such as Ken Lay, Jeff Skilling, Andy Fastow, Cliff Baxter, and Rebecca Mark.

Through tales of greed, hubris, and dishonesty, the authors shed light on larger problems facing the American economy today. This book is a must-read for anyone who understands how corporations can go astray when unchecked ambition meets a lack of ethics.

The Warren Buffet CEO, By Robert P. Miles

"The Warren Buffet CEO" by Robert P. Miles is an informative and insightful book that delves into the strategy and management ideas that have made Berkshire Hathaway one of the most successful companies in the world.

With a market capitalization that surpasses many famous US corporations, including Dell, AT&T, Disney, Ford, Gillette, American Express, and GM, Berkshire Hathaway's success is unquestionable.

Through interviews and first-hand accounts from its executives, Miles provides readers with detailed insight into the inner workings of this remarkable company.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning about the secrets behind Berkshire Hathaway's incredible success and the leadership philosophy of Warren Buffet.

Essays On Persuasion By John Maynard Keynes

"Essays On Persuasion" by John Maynard Keynes is a collection of articles that showcase his keen economic insights and persuasive writing style. In these essays, Keynes accurately predicted the economic collapse of Germany in response to European demands for reparations and indemnities.

His most influential work, "The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money," was based on his ideas and published in 1936. Keynes believed the economy would fluctuate in Europe and the US, and he advocated for measures that could have prevented a worldwide slump.

His ideas on free-market expansion, communist Russia, and other topics have stood the test of time, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in economics or political philosophy.

The General Theory Of Employment, Interest, and Money By John Maynard Keynes

The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money by John Maynard Keynes marked a revolutionary change in economic theory.

Published in 1936, Keynes rejected the free-market policies that had dominated economics until then. Instead, he repositioned policymakers at the center of economics and called for government intervention to tame free-market fundamentalism.

Keynes' ideas radically departed from conventional economic thinking and have become widely accepted. He believed that governments should play an active role in managing the economy during downturns, using fiscal and monetary policies to stimulate demand and stabilize employment.

His ideas have had a profound impact on modern economics and continue to shape policy decisions around the world.

The Most Important Thing Illuminated By Howard Marks

The Most Important Thing Illuminated by Howard Marks is a comprehensive guide to navigating the unpredictable markets of today. As co-founder and chairman of Oaktree Capital Management, Marks has gained a reputation for his sharp insights into investment opportunities and risks.

The book covers various topics, from second-level thinking and the price/value relationship to patient opportunism, defensive investing, and being a "contrarian." Marks draws on examples from his own investing career to illustrate concepts like analysis, risk, and strategy.

The result is a practical and insightful guide that offers valuable advice for investors at all levels of experience. Whether you're an experienced investor or just starting out, The Most Important Thing Illuminated is an essential read for anyone looking to succeed in today's volatile markets.

Poor Charlie's Almanack" By Charles T. Munger

Poor Charlie's Almanack is a collection of wit and wisdom from Charles T. Munger, Warren Buffett's longtime investment partner. The book offers valuable insights into Munger's family history and investment beliefs, as well as a wealth of practical advice for investors looking to emulate his success.

Drawing on lectures from Munger in the two decades prior to 2006, the book is filled with engaging stories and examples that illustrate key concepts like the importance of rational thinking, the dangers of groupthink, and the power of learning from one's mistakes.

Whether you're an experienced investor or just starting out, Poor Charlie's Almanack is an invaluable resource that offers timeless advice for navigating today's complex financial markets.

Security Analysis By Benjamin Graham And David Dodd

Security Analysis, written by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd during some of the most tumultuous times in history, has remained a timeless classic in investing. With over 60 years in print and nearly one million copies sold, this book offers individual investors' and corporations' strategies for responsible investing.

The 1951 edition reintroduces classic works to modern markets and focuses on analyzing financial statements to produce shareholder value. This approach has proven successful time and time again, making Security Analysis an invaluable resource for anyone looking to make informed investment decisions.

Graham and Dodd's insights have stood the test of time, making this book an essential read for anyone interested in the principles of sound investing.

Where Are The Customers’ Yachts? Or A Good Hard Look At Wall Street By Fred Schwed

Where Are The Customers’ Yachts? Or a Good Hard Look at Wall Street, written by Fred Schwed, is a humorous and entertaining book that offers a contrarian perspective on investing.

The book exposes the hypocrisy and idiocy of Wall Street, a sentiment that has been praised by industry leaders such as Michael Lewis, Jane Bryant Quinn, Michael Bloomberg, and John Rothchild.

The title refers to an explanation of how brokers made wealth for themselves at the expense of their clients. Through witty anecdotes and sharp commentary, Schwed provides readers with an eye-opening look at market reality while offering unconventional investment advice.

Where Are The Customers’ Yachts? is a classic work that resonates with investors today as it challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to take a good hard look at the world of finance.

Jack: Straight From The Gut By Jack Welch

Jack: Straight from the Gut is a business management book that chronicles the 20-year journey of Jack Welch as the Chairman of General Electric. Reg Jones, who was Welch's predecessor, recognized his potential and embraced him as the new leader of GE.

The book showcases Welch's self-made man persona and his rebellious attitude towards conventional management practices.

His unique leadership style helped him navigate economically unstable times and grow GE into one of the most successful companies in history. Jack: Straight from the Gut gives readers valuable insights into what it takes to be a successful leader in today's fast-paced business world.

Welch's story is an inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark on the corporate world and shows that with determination, hard work, and innovative thinking, anything is possible.

Investing Between The Lines: How to Make Smarter Decisions By Decoding CEO Communications By L. J. Rittenhouse

Investing Between the Lines by L.J. Rittenhouse is a groundbreaking book that offers a methodology for evaluating the financial viability of corporate communication. The book teaches readers how to interpret the language used by CEOs and distinguish between reality and fabrication to make smarter investment decisions.

This strategy has proven effective in forecasting the failures of companies like Enron and Lehman Brothers. The book includes analyses of well-known companies such as Ford, General Motors, and Toyota, as well as case studies on successful corporations like FedEx and Wells Fargo.

Investing Between the Lines is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to increase returns or enhance their communication techniques in the business world. By decoding CEO communications, readers can gain a deeper understanding of a company's financial health and potential for growth, leading to more informed investment decisions.

Tap Dancing To Work: Warren Buffett On Practically Everything Edited By Carol J. Loomis

Tap Dancing to Work: Warren Buffett on Practically Everything, edited by Carol J. Loomis, is a collection of articles about the world-renowned investor and businessman Warren Buffett. The book features over 50 years of writing and interviews, providing insight into his investment strategies and management style.

The book covers various topics, from business ethics to personal finance, giving readers a comprehensive view of Buffett's thoughts on everything related to investing and the corporate world.

Loomis has done an excellent job in curating these articles, making it easy for readers to follow the evolution of Buffett's thinking over time. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning from one of the most successful investors in history and gaining valuable insights into the world of business and finance.

A Few Lessons for Investors And Managers From Warren Buffett, Edited By Peter Bevelin

A Few Lessons for Investors and Managers from Warren Buffett, edited by Peter Bevelin, is a compilation of 13 cover stories and 12 articles written by Warren Buffett, chronicling his rise to becoming the world's greatest investor.

The book provides readers valuable insight into Buffett's investment strategies, management philosophies, philanthropic views, and parenting philosophies.

Noteworthy pieces include "How Inflation Swindles the Stock Investor," "Letters from Chairman Buffett," and "Avoiding a Mega-Catastrophe." Additionally, the book includes an article written by Bill Gates in 1996 about their initial views of each other.

Bevelin has done an excellent job in curating these articles to provide readers with a comprehensive view of one of the most successful investors in history. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning from Warren Buffett and gaining insights into his approach to investing and business management.

The Little Book Of Common Sense Investing By John C. Bogle

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle is a valuable resource for anyone looking to invest in the stock market. Bogle argues that successful investing is not about trying to beat the market or chasing after the latest trends and fads, but instead it's about incorporating index investing into your portfolio.

In this book, readers will learn how to apply this time-tested method and avoid unnecessary risks associated with active management. Bogle emphasizes the importance of diversification, low-cost investment options, and long-term strategies as key components of a successful investment plan.

With his common-sense approach, Bogle offers practical advice on achieving financial success through sound investment practices. Overall, The Little Book of Common Sense Investing is an excellent guide for those looking to build a solid investment foundation and achieve long-term financial security.

Take On The Street By Arthur Levitt

In "Take on the Street," Arthur Levitt exposes the dark side of the financial industry, where investors are often exploited through lies and manipulations.

Levitt, a former chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), provides a firsthand account of the gamesmanship culture developed in the business and finance sectors.

The book covers interactions between brokers, analysts, and fund managers, offering recommendations for interpreting financial statements.

Additionally, Levitt lists seven "deadly sins" of mutual funds and 401(k) investments to help readers avoid capital market losses. With his extensive experience in regulating the securities industry, Levitt's insights are invaluable for anyone interested in investing or working in finance.

Overall, "Take on the Street" is a thought-provoking read highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in the financial world.

Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales From The World Of Wall Street By John Brooks

"Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from the World of Wall Street" by John Brooks is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of corporate and financial life in the United States.

Brooks uses case studies from companies such as Ford Motor Company, Xerox, General Electric, and Texas Gulf Sulphur to illustrate various aspects of business and finance. The book covers insider trading, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate culture.

One of the key takeaways from "Business Adventures" is the cyclical nature of history on Wall Street. Brooks's writing style is engaging and informative, making this book a timeless classic that remains relevant today.

Overall, "Business Adventures" provides readers with valuable insights into the world of business and finance while also offering entertaining stories that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

The Clash Of Cultures: Investment Vs. Speculation By John C. Bogle

"The Clash of Cultures: Investment vs. Speculation" by John C. Bogle is a thought-provoking book that examines the shift in culture within the mutual fund industry from long-term investment to short-term speculation.

As the founder of Vanguard Group, Bogle brings a unique perspective and explores how speculation has affected our retirement system and fiduciary duty standards for institutional money managers. He also recounts his creation and development of the index mutual fund and its subsequent alteration due to exchange-traded funds.

In addition, Bogle provides a case study on Wellington Fund that demonstrates why long-term investing works better than short-term speculation. The book concludes with ten simple rules to help investors meet their financial goals through common sense investing strategies.

"The Clash of Cultures" is part of Bogle's bestselling trilogy, which began with "Bogle on Investing: The First 50 Years" (2001) and "Don't Count on It!" (2011). Overall, this book offers valuable insights into investing and encourages readers to focus on long-term strategies rather than short-term gains.

MiTek: A Global Success Story By Jim Healey

"MiTek: A Global Success Story" by Jim Healey is an inspiring book that tells how a company based in the Midwest endured a financial catastrophe and then reinvented itself to become the industry's leading supplier.

The company's fortunes changed when its chairman presented a connection plate to Warren Buffett, who invited MiTek to join the Berkshire Hathaway family in 2001.

Since then, MiTek has become the global market leader and market maker in its industry. Despite challenging economic conditions over the past decade, MiTek has achieved remarkable success thanks to its innovative products, world-class customer service, and commitment to quality.

"MiTek: A Global Success Story" is a must-read for anyone interested in business or entrepreneurship and provides valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in today's competitive marketplace. Overall, this book is an inspiring account of how one company overcame adversity and emerged as a global leader in its industry.

Final Words

With these 25 must reads Warren Buffett recommended books, you will acquire the knowledge and wisdom to become a successful investor.

By understanding how the stock market works, being aware of the latest trends in business and finance, and having an eye for potential opportunities, you can be well on your way to achieving financial freedom.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced investor, these books will help guide your journey and provide invaluable insights into investing.