I was recently asked what books I had found the most useful over the years, that I had gifted the most, and recommended many times. There were about 17 titles. I do like to read.
I reviewed each title with the aim of condensing the list down to a top 5. Here they are:
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
This book to me is all about adventure. It’s the book that instilled in me the desire to travel and explore the world. As a young child I would read this book every year at least once. That and R.L Stevenson’s Treasure Island. I was determined that one day I would travel the world, and I did. Every child should read about the adventures of Ratty, Mole, and Toad.
Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
This book more than any other taught me how the world works. It showed me that no matter how many hours I worked, that I could only ever earn a finite amount of money. I learned about the magic of passive income, compounding, employee vs business owner vs investor. Every young adult should be given a copy of this book before they leave school.
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
It’s surprising how little time we have on this earth when we think about it. Yet we waste what time we have in silly ways. This book is a wake-up call that will jolt you into enjoying every precious moment that you have for it is not a given that there will be a tomorrow.
Money by Rob Moore
Another book that every young adult should be given before leaving school. Its contents should be taught in school so that less people get into debt or think that a credit card means you can just buy whatever you want. You will learn all about money and how it flows from you to others and how to make it work for you.
How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie
An oldie but a goodie. A set of rules entwined in a series of stories. Not just useful for making friends but also for just being a good human.