The Five Books Warren Buffett Recommends Everyone Should Read

Reading has always been a cornerstone of Warren Buffett’s incredible success. Known as the Oracle of Omaha, Buffett has built a legacy as one of the world’s greatest investors and a wise mentor for millions. His reading habits aren’t just about business—they’re a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and understanding about how the world works.
Buffett has famously said that he spends about 80% of his day reading, and he frequently attributes much of his success to the lessons he’s gleaned from books. From timeless investment strategies to personal development and the wonders of science, his favorite reads are a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to improve their financial literacy, decision-making, and overall perspective on life.
Blinkist, the knowledge app that Apple ranks as one of the top apps for lifelong learning, has compiled a list of Warren Buffett’s most highly recommended books based on his interviews, speeches, and public appearances. Let’s dive into the five titles that Buffett thinks everyone should have on their shelves.
5 Books From Warren Buffett’s Reading List
1.How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
How to Win Friends & Influence People
- 18 min reading time
- audio version available
This timeless classic teaches the art of communication, persuasion, and building meaningful relationships. It’s one of Buffett’s favorite books, as he credits Dale Carnegie’s lessons with helping him overcome his own fears and insecurities early in his career.
In the HBO documentary Becoming Warren Buffett, Buffett admits Carnagie’s ideas helped him overcome his fear of public speaking, and he regularly recommends the book.
“In my office, you will not see the degree that I got from the University of Nebraska. You will not see the master’s degree I got from Columbia University. But you will see the award certificate I got from the Dale Carnegie Course.”
Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 13 minutes.
2.The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham and comments by Jason Zweig
The Intelligent Investor
- 21 min reading time
- audio version available
Widely regarded as the definitive book on value investing, The Intelligent Investor is Buffett’s investment bible. Written by his mentor Benjamin Graham, it lays out principles for smart, long-term investing. Buffett has often called it the best book ever written on investing. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 29 minutes.
3.The Most Important Thing by Howard Marks
The Most Important Thing
- 17 min reading time
- audio version available
Howard Marks shares profound insights on risk, market cycles, and investment strategies in The Most Important Thing. Buffett has praised Marks for his ability to distill complex ideas into actionable advice, making this a must-read for anyone navigating the financial world. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 15 minutes.
4. A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
A Short History of Nearly Everything
- 38 min reading time
- audio version available
Buffett doesn’t just read about finance—he also has a deep curiosity about the world around him. In A Short History of Nearly Everything, Bill Bryson takes readers on a fascinating journey through science, history, and human discovery. This book reminds us of the power of curiosity and lifelong learning. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 22 minutes.
5. Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits and Other Writings by Philip A. Fisher
Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits and Other Writings
- 18 min reading time
- audio version available
This investment classic explores growth investing and offers insights into understanding businesses and industries. Buffett has long admired Fisher’s work, incorporating some of his principles into his own investment strategy. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 18 minutes.
Each of these books has played a role in shaping Warren Buffett’s thinking and success. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, a lifelong learner, or simply curious about what makes a legend tick, these reads offer invaluable lessons. With Blinkist, you can dive into the key ideas from these transformative works in minutes, empowering you to learn from the best.
Get Insights From the Smartest People in the World
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Get inspired and stay ahead of the competition by starting with one of the 6,500 titles in the 27 available categories. Whether you are interested in finding out more about human psychology or understanding the best productivity methods: the app has got you covered.
With the app, you can not only unlock the world’s best non-fiction books but also the collective wisdom of some of our world’s most innovative thinkers. Collections curated by people like Arianna Huffington, Elon Musk, and Oprah are all available for you to gain insight into revolutionary ideas that will help shape and change your future.

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