Warren Buffett’s Top Book Recommendations for Success
Warren Buffett, one of the world’s greatest investors, attributes much of his success to reading. He spends 80% of his workday reading and thinking, a habit that has helped him make smarter investment decisions and build Berkshire Hathaway into a financial empire.
When asked how to prepare for a career in investing, Buffett once said:
“Read 500 pages like this every day. That’s how knowledge works. It builds up, like compound interest. All of you can do it, but I guarantee not many of you will do it.”
So, what books does Warren Buffett recommend? Here are five essential reads that he believes can change your career, finances, and life.
Warren Buffett’s Must-Read Books
The Intelligent Investor – Benjamin Graham
Synopsis: This classic by Benjamin Graham, Buffett’s mentor, introduces the principles of value investing—the strategy of buying stocks below their intrinsic value to maximize long-term gains. The book teaches investors how to analyze companies, avoid speculation, and make rational financial decisions.
Key Takeaway: Invest with a margin of safety—buy stocks at a discount to their true value to reduce risk.
Related: Warren Buffett’s 80/20 Rule: The Key to Smarter Investing
Related: Warren Buffett: The Billionaire’s Daily Routine & Secrets to Success
Related: The Lives That Inspire: Must-Read Biographies of Remarkable Figures
Poor Charlie’s Almanack – Charlie Munger
Synopsis: This book is a collection of speeches, essays, and thoughts from Charlie Munger, Buffett’s longtime business partner. It covers mental models, decision-making, and business strategy, offering insights into how successful investors and entrepreneurs think.
Key Takeaway: Develop multiple mental models from different disciplines to make better, more informed decisions.
How to Win Friends and Influence People – Dale Carnegie
Synopsis: Dale Carnegie’s classic teaches people skills, leadership, and persuasion techniques that can improve your relationships and business success. From handling difficult conversations to making people feel valued, this book provides timeless advice on winning people over.
Key Takeaway: People don’t remember what you say as much as how you make them feel—focus on building genuine relationships.
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion – Robert B. Cialdini, PhD
Why Buffett Recommends It: Understanding how people make decisions is crucial in investing and business.
Synopsis: Dr. Cialdini breaks down the six principles of persuasion—reciprocity, commitment, social proof, authority, liking, and scarcity. These psychological triggers explain why people say yes and how to use them ethically in business and negotiations.
Key Takeaway: Mastering persuasion isn’t about manipulation—it’s about understanding human psychology to communicate more effectively.
Shoe Dog – Phil Knight
Synopsis: This memoir by Nike founder Phil Knight details the company’s early struggles, financial risks, and the grit required to build a global empire. It’s an inspiring story of entrepreneurship, resilience, and innovation.
Key Takeaway: Success isn’t linear—perseverance and bold decision-making are key to overcoming challenges.
Find this on Amazon and read now.
Read, Think, and Succeed
Warren Buffett’s reading habit is a major factor in his success. By investing in knowledge, you can make smarter financial, career, and life decisions.
If you want to think like Buffett, start by reading one of his recommended books today—it could change the way you see the world.
