The most recommended personal finance books

Who picked these books? Meet our 98 experts.

98 authors created a book list connected to personal finance, and here are their favorite personal finance books.
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Book cover of The Barefoot Investor: Five Steps to Financial Freedom in Your 20s and 30s

Justine Crowley Author Of Saving Money Is Awesome

From my list on to save money, no matter what the economy is doing.

Why am I passionate about this?

Since engaging in my own personal development since 2006, and in buying my first investment property at the time; I have always had an interest in saving money and building wealth. We live in an abundant universe, and it is our birthright to have money to enjoy, and to achieve our goals. In high inflationary times, having ample amounts of cash in the bank is a source of comfort. Writing books also came from my passion for writing, and from also working in therapy, where many patients experienced financial difficulties. Regardless of the current rate of inflation, you can stay on top of it with the right tools and knowledge. 

Justine's book list on to save money, no matter what the economy is doing

Justine Crowley Why did Justine love this book?

This is one book that will help people get their finances back on track.

There is a concept called the Barefoot Steps, and the idea of having an emergency savings account (mojo) is not only necessary; yet the author makes it inspiring to get this organised in the process of setting up your buckets. Strategies on eliminating debt are also covered. 

By Scott Pape,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Barefoot Investor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The Barefoot Investor is about creating the financial freedom to live your dreams, whatever your age. It shows how getting your financial act together can be downright sexy, allowing you to achieve the things that mean the most to you - regardless of your income. Scott Pape, the Jamie Oliver of finance, writes for the young and hip who want to enjoy life now - not to wait on dead men's shoes. He shows you how to manage your money to do the things you want: whether it's to quit the job you hate to make a career of what…


Book cover of The Latte Factor: Why You Don't Have to Be Rich to Live Rich

Justine Crowley Author Of Saving Money Is Awesome

From my list on to save money, no matter what the economy is doing.

Why am I passionate about this?

Since engaging in my own personal development since 2006, and in buying my first investment property at the time; I have always had an interest in saving money and building wealth. We live in an abundant universe, and it is our birthright to have money to enjoy, and to achieve our goals. In high inflationary times, having ample amounts of cash in the bank is a source of comfort. Writing books also came from my passion for writing, and from also working in therapy, where many patients experienced financial difficulties. Regardless of the current rate of inflation, you can stay on top of it with the right tools and knowledge. 

Justine's book list on to save money, no matter what the economy is doing

Justine Crowley Why did Justine love this book?

There is a quote that truly resonates, and inspires people to save money, regardless of what the economy is doing.

The author is not implying that you need to cut out a latte a day in order to become wealthy; yet he illustrates the value of your savings over time, if you just cut one latte a week. The power of compounding. The idea of fixing your finances has a creative angle here. Even buying his latte factor mug is a timely reminder that saving money feels really good. 

“When you fix your finances, you fix your life.” - David Bach

By David Bach, John David Mann,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Latte Factor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY, WALL STREET JOURNAL, AND INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER

Discover #1 New York Times bestselling author David Bach's three secrets to financial freedom in an engaging story that will show you that you are richer than you think. Drawing on the author's experiences teaching millions of people around the world to live a rich life, this fast, easy listen reveals how anyone-from millennials to baby boomers-can still make his or her dreams come true.

In this compelling, heartwarming parable, Bach and his bestselling coauthor John David Mann (The Go-Giver) tell the story of Zoey, a twenty-something woman…


Book cover of I Will Teach You to Be Rich

Jason Vitug Author Of You Only Live Once: The Roadmap to Financial Wellness and a Purposeful Life

From my list on financial wellness books with a holistic approach.

Why am I passionate about this?

I was a finance major who worked in banking, so I knew what I needed to do with money, but I found it challenging to follow through. The books I previously read were money books written by financial gurus who always used yelling and shaming as their teaching method. It never aligned with me. I started writing books with more compassion and an understanding that there are other variables affecting your financial health. I continue to read and recommend books written by people who aspire to help others by giving them knowledge and the space and grace to grow without the guilt trip.

Jason's book list on financial wellness books with a holistic approach

Jason Vitug Why did Jason love this book?

This was one of the first money books I read because it was recommended by a friend. I liked how easy it was to read, and I learned a great deal.

Although, at first, it read a bit “bro-ey,” his humor grew on me. I like its direct approach to money without the jargon and confusion. I also learned that the updated version has changed a bit to reflect less in-your-face and more about giving us space.

By Ramit Sethi,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked I Will Teach You to Be Rich as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The groundbreaking NEW YORK TIMES and WALL STREET JOURNAL BESTSELLER that taught a generation how to earn more, save more, and live a rich life—now in a revised 2nd edition.
 
Buy as many lattes as you want. Choose the right accounts and investments so your money grows for you—automatically. Best of all, spend guilt-free on the things you love.
 
Personal finance expert Ramit Sethi has been called a “wealth wizard” by Forbes and the “new guru on the block” by Fortune. Now he’s updated and expanded his modern money classic for a new age, delivering a simple, powerful, no-BS 6-week…


Book cover of The Social Justice Investor: Advance Your Values While Building Wealth, Whether a Few Dollars or Millions

Janine Firpo Author Of Activate Your Money: Invest to Grow Your Wealth and Build a Better World

From my list on women want more money investments.

Why am I passionate about this?

Almost 20 years ago, I committed to investing all of my money–starting with my cash–in ways that align with my values. It’s been a long and arduous journey, even with the help of financial advisors. When I retired, I took control of my money and realized investing this way does not have to be that hard. Moreover, most women want to invest in their values, but no one is helping them. So, I wrote a book to share the knowledge I’ve gained over 40 years as an investor. Later, I co-founded Invest for Better, a non-profit that puts women into investment clubs to help them become confident, values-aligned investors.   

Janine's book list on women want more money investments

Janine Firpo Why did Janine love this book?

It is great to see women stepping up to write investment books that go beyond the status quo–a financial system developed primarily by men for men. Rather, they help us to think–and act–differently.

Unlike other books about investing for impact, this book leads with stories. Although the book addresses practical questions like: Do I need a financial advisor? How do I start as a 401(k) or DIY investor? How do I want to define risk and return?it also tells the stories of women (and a few men) who are paving a new way of investing for others to follow, inspiring you to join them. 

By Andrea Longton,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Social Justice Investor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Whether you have $100 or $100 million in your bank account, you have the power to change the world for the better.

Having lived through recessions and pandemics, we all recognize the importance of financial well-being. But we are also living in a time of uncertainty, marked by injustice, climate crisis, and social change. How do we reconcile these two things--our financial well-being and our desire to advocate for a more just and equitable world? Perhaps you already donate to causes you care about, or you're looking to start, but the world of finance and investment feels intimidating, especially if…


Book cover of Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together

Jason Vitug Author Of You Only Live Once: The Roadmap to Financial Wellness and a Purposeful Life

From my list on financial wellness books with a holistic approach.

Why am I passionate about this?

I was a finance major who worked in banking, so I knew what I needed to do with money, but I found it challenging to follow through. The books I previously read were money books written by financial gurus who always used yelling and shaming as their teaching method. It never aligned with me. I started writing books with more compassion and an understanding that there are other variables affecting your financial health. I continue to read and recommend books written by people who aspire to help others by giving them knowledge and the space and grace to grow without the guilt trip.

Jason's book list on financial wellness books with a holistic approach

Jason Vitug Why did Jason love this book?

I really enjoyed reading this book because it was like sitting with a friend. I was quickly drawn in by Erin's first story about her Krispy Kreme donut, which started her financial journey.

She has a great way of explaining seemingly complex financial topics in easy-to-understand lingo. I think that’s what makes this book a great starter read on money. It’s simple yet impactful.

By Erin Lowry,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Broke Millennial as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

WASHINGTON POST “COLOR OF MONEY” BOOK CLUB PICK

Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck and Get Your Financial Life Together (#GYFLT)!
 
If you’re a cash-strapped 20- or 30-something, it’s easy to get freaked out by finances. But you’re not doomed to spend your life drowning in debt or mystified by money. It’s time to stop scraping by and take control of your money and your life with this savvy and smart guide.

Broke Millennial shows step-by-step how to go from flat-broke to financial badass. Unlike most personal finance books out there, it doesn’t just cover boring stuff like credit card debt,…


Book cover of You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth

Abiola Abrams Author Of From Imagination to Reality: Secret Manifestation Lessons and the Law of Assumption from Abdullah, Master Alchemist

From my list on manifesting (from a spiritual teacher).

Why am I passionate about this?

As a mom to a toddler, I’m passionate about teaching the power of manifesting and self-agency so she grows up knowing she can shape her own world. Growing up in New York City with roots in Guyana, South America, I’ve always been drawn to the magic of manifesting and ancestral rituals. I’ve seen firsthand how these practices can change lives, both through my own journey and by working with incredible people worldwide as a retreat leader. I’m deeply connected to the teachings of manifesting masters like Abdullah, and I love sharing this wisdom with others to help them step into their power and create their own realities.

Abiola's book list on manifesting (from a spiritual teacher)

Abiola Abrams Why did Abiola love this book?

At first, reading this book felt like Jen Sincero was reading me! I had the pleasure of interviewing her a few years ago, and she was just as funny and bold in person as she is in the book. Her no-nonsense approach to financial abundance is delightfully triggering.

This book helped me tackle my own financial blocks and embrace a mindset of wealth and prosperity. Jen Sincero doesn’t sugarcoat anything. Her tough-love advice felt like a much-needed wake-up reminder of what I already knew but hadn’t fully acted on.

My favorite thing is her relatable stories and in-your-face guidance. Her writing cuts through the fluff and makes complex money mindset concepts feel totally doable.

By Jen Sincero,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked You Are a Badass at Making Money as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From the author of You Are A Badass, the New Your Times bestselling book everyone is talking about.

YOU ARE A BADASS AT MAKING MONEY is the book you need if you've spent too much time watching money land in your bank account and then roll through your fingers. Jen Sincero went from living in a converted garage to traveling the world in 5-star luxury in a matter of years, and knows all too well the layers of BS one can get wrapped up in around money, as well as what it takes to dig your way out.

In this…


Book cover of The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need

Eric Tyson Author Of Investing For Dummies

From my list on getting smarter about investing and money.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I was growing up, I saw family members and friends, who were otherwise smart people who could master other aspects of their lives, have difficulty with personal finance decisions and investing. When my dad was laid off during a recession, he had some retirement money distributed to him, and I got interested in investing as he researched and tried with difficulty to handle this money himself. In my young adult years, I was a sponge to learn as much as I could about personal finance. 

Eric's book list on getting smarter about investing and money

Eric Tyson Why did Eric love this book?

I enjoyed reading Tobias’ book as a young adult because it was entertaining and engaging and focused on the big-picture concepts. His lighthearted tone and humor help to remove the stress involved with money and investing.

I appreciate the way in which the author communicates important themes concisely and with confidence. He’s a talented writer and a smart guy.  

By Andrew Tobias,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Fully Updated! Covering cryptocurrency and NFTs, Robinhood, GameStop, the after-effects of COVID, and how climate change impacts investing.

The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need has been a favorite finance guide, earning the allegiance of more than a million readers across America.Using concise, witty, and truly understandable tips and explanations, Andrew Tobias delivers sensible advice and useful information on savings, investments, preparing for retirement, and much more. This completely updated edition will show you the best way to manage your money, no matter what your means.


Book cover of Harry Truman's Excellent Adventure: The True Story of a Great American Road Trip

David Kruh Author Of Inseparable: An Alcatraz Escape Adventure

From David's 3 favorite reads in 2023.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author History lover Writer Geek Reader Gardner

David's 3 favorite reads in 2023

David Kruh Why did David love this book?

This is an absolutely unique take on Harry Truman. And Bess, too! Matthew Algeo (oh, forgive me for the following cliche) brings history alive in his telling of an automobile trip from Missouri to New York City taken in 1953 by the former first couple.

It's about the Trumans, yes, but it's also about an America when a former president could actually get behind the wheel of a car and drive thousands of miles without a convoy of Secret Service tagging behind. Algeo describes the country as it was, and then brings us up to the current time explaining how that America became this America, for good and ill. It's a fun read.

By Matthew Algeo,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Harry Truman's Excellent Adventure as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

On June 19, 1953, Harry Truman got up early, packed the trunk of his Chrysler New Yorker, and did something no other former president has done before or since: he hit the road. No Secret Service protection. No traveling press. Just Harry and his childhood sweetheart Bess, off to visit old friends, take in a Broadway play, celebrate their wedding anniversary in the Big Apple, and blow a bit of the money he'd just received to write his memoirs. Hopefully incognito. In this lively history, author Matthew Algeo meticulously details how Truman's plan to blend in went wonderfully awry. Fellow…


Book cover of Your Complete Guide to a Successful and Secure Retirement

Jeff Bernier Author Of The Money and Meaning Journey: A Guide to Clarity, Financial Confidence, and Joy

From my list on financial peace in retirement.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a wealth advisor for over 37 years, I find many people reach retirement lacking clarity and confidence. Traditional financial advice often focuses on things that are unknowable, uncontrollable, and frankly don’t matter that much. While sound technical investment, estate, and tax planning are critical, the soul’s need for meaning and purpose are as important as sound financial plans. The path to true financial peace may be simpler than you think. These books can help you focus on the fewer, more critical things so that you can thrive in retirement and free yourself from financial media which is not in business to support your vision of a meaningful life.

Jeff's book list on financial peace in retirement

Jeff Bernier Why did Jeff love this book?

If you could only read one book on retirement planning (other than mine of course!), this is the one I’d recommend. 

It covers a wide range of financial planning and investment topics: life-planning, goal-setting, investment strategy, financial stress-testing, spend-down strategies, tax-management, social security, Medicare, annuities, insurance, reverse mortgages, estate planning, elder abuse, and more

However, while comprehensive, it also does not get too “deep” in the weeds and is filled with wise counsel.  

By Larry Swedroe, Kevin Grogan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Your Complete Guide to a Successful and Secure Retirement as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Fully revised and updated second edition.

This is your one-stop, definitive resource as you prepare for a secure and comfortable retirement.

Investment and personal finance experts Larry Swedroe and Kevin Grogan present uniquely comprehensive coverage of every important aspect you need to think about as you approach retirement, including:

Social Security, Medicare, investment planning strategy, portfolio maintenance, preparing your heirs, retirement issues faced by women, the threat of elder financial abuse, going beyond financials to think about your happiness, and much more.

These topics are explained with the help of specialists in each subject. And everything is based on the…


Book cover of The Ultimate Retirement Guide for 50+: Winning Strategies to Make Your Money Last a Lifetime

Liisa Kyle Author Of Making the Most of Your Retirement: Ways to Foster Health, Happiness & Fulfillment at Any Age

From my list on if you are thinking about retirement.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a life coach and author of two dozen self-help books, I’ve spent the past twenty years helping people prepare for, plan, and go through major life changes, such as the transition to retirement. I’ve interviewed dozens of retirees about the challenges and opportunities they’ve experienced during their retirement. I’ve designed this guide so you can be strategic in choosing your path, overcome challenges, and make adjustments to make the most of this chapter of your life.

Liisa's book list on if you are thinking about retirement

Liisa Kyle Why did Liisa love this book?

Money is the biggest concern for most people thinking about retirement. Suze Orman is the queen of straight-talk about how best to manage your finances during this chapter of your life. She explains practical steps you need to take to make sure you have enough money to last your lifetime. I love that she is ruthless about making readers consider the long-term effects of their purchases and financial decisions.

By Suze Orman,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Ultimate Retirement Guide for 50+ as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

THE PATH TO YOUR ULTIMATE RETIREMENT STARTS RIGHT HERE

When you think about planning for retirement - whether it's years in the future or just around the corner - you're bound to have questions. Can I ever afford to stop working? Will Social Security be there for me when I need it? How can I make my money last? Have I waited too long to start saving?

Suze Orman, America's most recognized expert on personal finance, answers all the questions that keep you up at night - starting with the biggest one: It is never too late to start planning…


Book cover of The Barefoot Investor: Five Steps to Financial Freedom in Your 20s and 30s
Book cover of The Latte Factor: Why You Don't Have to Be Rich to Live Rich
Book cover of I Will Teach You to Be Rich

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