Warren Buffett’s Must-Read List—27 Books That Guided a Billionaire Mind

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Warren Buffett’s Must-Read List—27 Books That Guided a Billionaire Mind

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Christian Wiedeck, M.Sc.

1. Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger by Peter D. Kaufman

1. Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger by Peter D. Kaufman (image credits: wikimedia)
1. Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger by Peter D. Kaufman (image credits: wikimedia)

If Warren Buffett is the face of Berkshire Hathaway, Charlie Munger is the brains. This book collects Munger’s sharpest insights, blending investing wisdom with life lessons. It’s packed with mental models, the frameworks Munger used to make brilliant decisions. Reading this is like having a private lecture from Buffett’s right-hand man. The book isn’t just about finance—it’s about thinking better in all areas of life. Fans of Buffett and Munger consider this a must-read for understanding their partnership.

2. A Few Lessons for Investors and Managers from Warren E. Buffett by Peter Bevelin

2. A Few Lessons for Investors and Managers from Warren E. Buffett by Peter Bevelin (image credits: wikimedia)
2. A Few Lessons for Investors and Managers from Warren E. Buffett by Peter Bevelin (image credits: wikimedia)

This book distills Buffett’s investment philosophy into clear, simple lessons. Bevelin breaks down Buffett’s approach to long-term investing and avoiding costly mistakes. It’s ideal for beginners who want to grasp the basics without drowning in jargon. The book also highlights how Buffett evaluates businesses, not just stocks. If you’ve ever wondered how Buffett picks winners, this book explains it in plain terms. It’s short but packed with wisdom, making it a quick yet powerful read.

3. The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America by Lawrence A. Cunningham

3. The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America by Lawrence A. Cunningham (image credits: wikimedia)
3. The Essays of Warren Buffett: Lessons for Corporate America by Lawrence A. Cunningham (image credits: wikimedia)

Buffett’s letters to Berkshire Hathaway shareholders are legendary, and this book compiles the best ones. Cunningham organizes them by theme, making it easy to digest Buffett’s thoughts on investing and leadership. It’s like a masterclass in business, straight from the Oracle of Omaha. You’ll learn why Buffett avoids debt, how he assesses management, and his views on market cycles. For anyone serious about investing, this book is a goldmine of timeless advice.

4. Tap Dancing to Work: Warren Buffett on Practically Everything by Carol Loomis

4. Tap Dancing to Work: Warren Buffett on Practically Everything by Carol Loomis (image credits: wikimedia)
4. Tap Dancing to Work: Warren Buffett on Practically Everything by Carol Loomis (image credits: wikimedia)

Carol Loomis, a longtime Buffett confidante, offers a deep look into his career through decades of Fortune articles. The book covers Buffett’s biggest deals, mistakes, and philosophies over the years. It’s a mix of biography and business lessons, showing how Buffett’s thinking evolved. You’ll see his early doubts about tech stocks and why he stuck to his principles. Loomis provides an insider’s view that few other books can match.

5. The Complete Financial History of Berkshire Hathaway by Adam Mead

5. The Complete Financial History of Berkshire Hathaway by Adam Mead (image credits: wikimedia)
5. The Complete Financial History of Berkshire Hathaway by Adam Mead (image credits: wikimedia)

Ever wondered how Buffett turned a failing textile company into a financial empire? This book traces Berkshire Hathaway’s journey step by step. Mead’s detailed analysis reveals how Buffett and Munger built their conglomerate. It’s a deep dive into their acquisitions, stock picks, and long-term strategies. The book is perfect for finance nerds who love numbers and case studies. You’ll walk away understanding why patience and discipline are key to Buffett’s success.

6. Capital Allocation: The Financials of a New England Textile Mill by Jacob McDonough

6. Capital Allocation: The Financials of a New England Textile Mill by Jacob McDonough (image credits: wikimedia)
6. Capital Allocation: The Financials of a New England Textile Mill by Jacob McDonough (image credits: wikimedia)

This book examines Berkshire Hathaway’s early days as a struggling textile business. McDonough analyzes how Buffett allocated capital even before his famous investments. It’s a fascinating look at the financial decisions that shaped Berkshire’s future. The book shows how Buffett learned from mistakes and adapted his approach. If you love business history, this is a rare glimpse into Buffett’s early career.

7. Margin of Trust: The Berkshire Business Model by Lawrence A. Cunningham and Stephanie Cuba

7. Margin of Trust: The Berkshire Business Model by Lawrence A. Cunningham and Stephanie Cuba (image credits: wikimedia)
7. Margin of Trust: The Berkshire Business Model by Lawrence A. Cunningham and Stephanie Cuba (image credits: wikimedia)

Trust is the foundation of Berkshire Hathaway’s success, and this book explains why. Cunningham and Cuba explore how Buffett and Munger built a culture of integrity. They discuss decentralized management, long-term thinking, and ethical leadership. The book is a blueprint for running a business the Berkshire way. It’s not just about making money—it’s about building something lasting.

8. Berkshire Hathaway Letters to Shareholders: 1965–2014 collected by Max Olson

8. Berkshire Hathaway Letters to Shareholders: 1965–2014 collected by Max Olson (image credits: wikimedia)
8. Berkshire Hathaway Letters to Shareholders: 1965–2014 collected by Max Olson (image credits: wikimedia)

Buffett’s annual letters are required reading for investors, and this collection puts them all in one place. Each letter is packed with insights on markets, business, and life. You’ll see how Buffett explains complex ideas in simple, relatable terms. The letters also reveal his humor and humility, making them surprisingly entertaining. This book is like having decades of Buffett’s wisdom at your fingertips.

9. Charlie Munger: The Complete Investor by Tren Griffin

9. Charlie Munger: The Complete Investor by Tren Griffin (image credits: wikimedia)
9. Charlie Munger: The Complete Investor by Tren Griffin (image credits: wikimedia)

Munger doesn’t get as much attention as Buffett, but he’s just as brilliant. Griffin’s book explores Munger’s unique approach to investing and decision-making. It covers his famous “latticework of mental models” and how he avoids cognitive biases. The book shows why Munger is Buffett’s secret weapon. If you want to think more clearly, this is a masterclass in rationality.

10. Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from Wall Street by John Brooks

10. Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from Wall Street by John Brooks (image credits: wikimedia)
10. Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from Wall Street by John Brooks (image credits: wikimedia)

Buffett once called this the best business book he’s ever read. Brooks’ storytelling brings financial history to life through dramatic case studies. From corporate scandals to market crashes, the book is both educational and gripping. It proves that human behavior drives markets more than numbers. Buffett loves it because it teaches timeless lessons about risk and greed.

11. The Great Crash: 1929 by John Kenneth Galbraith

11. The Great Crash: 1929 by John Kenneth Galbraith (image credits: wikimedia)
11. The Great Crash: 1929 by John Kenneth Galbraith (image credits: wikimedia)

Market crashes are inevitable, and Galbraith’s classic explains why. This book dissects the 1929 stock market collapse with sharp analysis and wit. Buffett recommends it to understand how speculation leads to disaster. The lessons are still relevant today—bubbles always burst the same way. If you want to avoid financial folly, read this before investing.

12. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham

12. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham (image credits: wikimedia)
12. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham (image credits: wikimedia)

Buffett calls this the best investing book ever written. Graham’s principles of value investing shaped Buffett’s entire career. The book teaches how to analyze stocks like a pro and avoid emotional decisions. It’s not a get-rich-quick guide—it’s about patience and discipline. Buffett still follows Graham’s advice decades later.

13. The Intelligent Investor (Revised Edition) by Jason Zweig

13. The Intelligent Investor (Revised Edition) by Jason Zweig (image credits: unsplash)
13. The Intelligent Investor (Revised Edition) by Jason Zweig (image credits: unsplash)

Zweig updates Graham’s classic with modern examples and commentary. He explains how Graham’s ideas apply to today’s markets. The revised edition makes timeless wisdom accessible to new readers. It’s a great companion to the original, clarifying complex concepts. Buffett fans should read both versions for maximum insight.

14. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle

14. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle (image credits: wikimedia)
14. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing by John C. Bogle (image credits: wikimedia)

Bogle, founder of Vanguard, preaches the power of index funds. His book argues that most investors should avoid stock picking altogether. Buffett agrees—he’s repeatedly recommended low-cost index funds for average investors. The book is short, straightforward, and packed with hard truths. If you want a no-nonsense guide to investing, start here.

15. The Ten Commandments for Business Failure by Donald R. Keough

15. The Ten Commandments for Business Failure by Donald R. Keough (image credits: wikimedia)
15. The Ten Commandments for Business Failure by Donald R. Keough (image credits: wikimedia)

This witty book flips the script by teaching how to fail spectacularly. Keough, a former Coca-Cola president, shares hilarious yet insightful lessons. Each “commandment” reveals a common business mistake to avoid. Buffett loves it because it’s both entertaining and educational. The book proves that learning from failure is just as important as chasing success.

16. Where Are the Customers’ Yachts? by Fred Schwed Jr.

16. Where Are the Customers’ Yachts? by Fred Schwed Jr. (image credits: unsplash)
16. Where Are the Customers’ Yachts? by Fred Schwed Jr. (image credits: unsplash)

A hilarious critique of Wall Street’s absurdities, this book remains shockingly relevant. Schwed exposes how brokers get rich while clients lose money. Buffett enjoys its humor and timeless warnings about financial hype. The title alone—a jab at empty promises—sums up its cynical wisdom. It’s a fun yet eye-opening read for any investor.

17. All I Want to Know is Where I’m Going to Die So I’ll Never Go There by Peter Bevelin

17. All I Want to Know is Where I’m Going to Die So I’ll Never Go There by Peter Bevelin (image credits: wikimedia)
17. All I Want to Know is Where I’m Going to Die So I’ll Never Go There by Peter Bevelin (image credits: wikimedia)

This quirky title captures Munger’s obsession with avoiding stupidity. Bevelin combines Buffett and Munger’s best advice into one book. It’s full of mental models, psychological traps, and practical wisdom. The focus isn’t on being brilliant—it’s on not being dumb. That’s a lesson Buffett swears by.

18. Seeking Wisdom: From Darwin to Munger by Peter Bevelin

18. Seeking Wisdom: From Darwin to Munger by Peter Bevelin (image credits: wikimedia)
18. Seeking Wisdom: From Darwin to Munger by Peter Bevelin (image credits: wikimedia)

Another gem from Bevelin, this book connects science, psychology, and investing. It explores how great thinkers solve problems, from Darwin to Munger. The book teaches how to think, not what to think—a key Buffett principle. If you want to sharpen your decision-making, this is a crash course in rationality.

19. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini

19. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini (image credits: wikimedia)
19. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini (image credits: wikimedia)

Buffett and Munger love this book about how people are manipulated. Cialdini breaks down the tricks marketers, salespeople, and con artists use. Understanding these tactics helps investors avoid scams and bad decisions. The book is both fascinating and practical, revealing why humans make irrational choices.

20. Unscripted: The Epic Battle for a Media Empire by James Stewart and Rachel Abrams

20. Unscripted: The Epic Battle for a Media Empire by James Stewart and Rachel Abrams (image credits: wikimedia)
20. Unscripted: The Epic Battle for a Media Empire by James Stewart and Rachel Abrams (image credits: wikimedia)

This gripping drama explores corporate power struggles at Viacom and CBS. Buffett enjoys it as a cautionary tale about ego and governance. The book reads like a thriller but offers real business lessons. It’s proof that even huge companies can collapse from poor leadership.

21. My New Berkshire ABC by Nancy Rips

21. My New Berkshire ABC by Nancy Rips (image credits: unsplash)
21. My New Berkshire ABC by Nancy Rips (image credits: unsplash)

A children’s book inspired by Buffett? Yes, and it’s adorable. Each letter teaches a simple Berkshire-themed lesson, like “A is for Annual Meeting.” Buffett gave copies to shareholders’ kids, showing his playful side. It’s a lighthearted break from heavy finance books.

22. Americana: A 400-Year History of American Capitalism by Bhu Srinivasan

22. Americana: A 400-Year History of American Capitalism by Bhu Srinivasan (image credits: unsplash)
22. Americana: A 400-Year History of American Capitalism by Bhu Srinivasan (image credits: unsplash)

Buffett loves history, and this book covers America’s economic evolution. Srinivasan ties past innovations to today’s business landscape. The book shows how capitalism adapts and thrives through crises. For Buffett, understanding history is key to predicting the future.

23. Getting There: A Book of Mentors by Gillian Zoe Segal

23. Getting There: A Book of Mentors by Gillian Zoe Segal (image credits: wikimedia)
23. Getting There: A Book of Mentors by Gillian Zoe Segal (image credits: wikimedia)

This book collects advice from successful people across industries. Buffett’s story is included, but so are chefs, artists, and scientists. The variety makes it refreshing—success leaves clues in many forms. Buffett appreciates learning from diverse perspectives.

24. Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade by Robert Cialdini

24. Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade by Robert Cialdini (image credits: wikimedia)
24. Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade by Robert Cialdini (image credits: wikimedia)

Cialdini’s follow-up to Influence digs deeper into psychological tactics. The book explains how to set the stage before even making a pitch. Buffett and Munger study these techniques to avoid being fooled. It’s a masterclass in human behavior.

25. Running with Purpose: How Brooks Outpaced Goliath Competitors by Jim Weber

25. Running with Purpose: How Brooks Outpaced Goliath Competitors by Jim Weber (image credits: unsplash)
25. Running with Purpose: How Brooks Outpaced Goliath Competitors by Jim Weber (image credits: unsplash)

Buffett admires companies that focus on long-term value, like Brooks Running. This book tells how Brooks beat Nike and Adidas by sticking to its niche. The lesson? You don’t need to be the biggest—just the smartest. It’s a case study Buffett would approve of.

26. Trillion Dollar Triage: How Jay Powell and the Fed Battled a President and a Pandemic by Nick Timiraos

26. Trillion Dollar Triage: How Jay Powell and the Fed Battled a President and a Pandemic by Nick Timiraos (image credits: wikimedia)
26. Trillion Dollar Triage: How Jay Powell and the Fed Battled a President and a Pandemic by Nick Timiraos (image credits: wikimedia)

Buffett follows the Fed closely, and this book covers its COVID-19 response. Timiraos reveals the high-stakes decisions that saved the economy. For finance buffs, it’s a real-time lesson in crisis management. Buffett knows history repeats, so these lessons matter.

27. The Oracle’s Fables: Life Lessons for Children Inspired by the Oracle of Omaha by John Prescott

27. The Oracle’s Fables: Life Lessons for Children Inspired by the Oracle of Omaha by John Prescott (image credits: unsplash)
27. The Oracle’s Fables: Life Lessons for Children Inspired by the Oracle of Omaha by John Prescott (image credits: unsplash)

Another children’s book, this one adapts Buffett’s wisdom into simple stories. Each fable teaches honesty, patience, or kindness—values Buffett lives by. It’s a sweet way to introduce kids to money smarts. Even adults will appreciate its charming lessons.

Want to think like Buffett? Start reading.

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