ALEX & BOOKS

READING
LIST
100 BOOKS THAT CAN
CHANGE YOUR LIFE
WELCOME
Hello friend,

Over the past 7+ years, I’ve read hundreds of books in a wide range
of genres. In this list, I want to share with you 100 of my favorite
books that have the potential to change your life.

This isn’t a list of the 100 greatest books ever written, but rather a
collection of books that have had the biggest positive impact on
my worldview and life.

Consider it an extensive but not exhaustive syllabus to improve your

life.

To make finding your next amazing book easier, I’ve categorized the
books into 20 genres (though many books can belong to multiple
genres so I’d recommend scrolling through the whole list).

Reading books has changed my life, I believe it can do the same for
you.

Read on,

Alex Wieckowski

PS: If you found this list useful and want

to share it with a friend, just direct them
to alexandbooks.beehiiv.com/subscribe
and they can get their own copy for free.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
To make it easier to find your next amazing book, I’ve
categorized the 100 books into 20 genres:

Business 04
Communication 07
Creativity 10
Dating 13
Health 16
Hidden Gems 19
Investing 22
Marketing/Sales 25
Memoirs 28
Memoirs (Dark) 31
Mindset 34
Motivational 37
Personal Finance 40
Philosophy 43
Productivity 46
Psychology 49
Random Category 52
Relationship 55
Self-Improvement 58
Writing 61
The Art of Reading 65

Note: This document contains Amazon affiliate links so if you buy any books
from here you’re helping support yourself and the Alex & Books mission!
 BUSINESS/ENTREPRENEURSHIP:

THE MILLIONAIRE FASTLANE

Crack the Code to Wealth
and Live Rich for a Lifetime
by MJ DeMarco
This book completely changed the way I viewed
business. Anyone who is young AND rich (and didn’t
inherit their money), has used the millionaire fast lane
strategy to get to where they are. This book isn’t a
get-rich-quick scheme, but rather it shares a proven
formula for creating wealth. The book also shares
helpful mindset tips needed to become wealthy. It’s an
excellent book for new or aspiring entrepreneurs.
Buy on Amazon

MILLION DOLLAR WEEKEND

The Surprisingly Simple Way
to Launch a 7-Figure Business
in 48 Hours by Noah Kagan

Noah knows a thing or two about building successful

businesses, he’s built 7 different $1M+ businesses.
In his book, he shares his proven roadmap for
launching a 7-figure business in just 48 hours.
It’s packed with practical advice and useful case
studies of real million-dollar businesses that were
built in just a few days.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 4

ZERO TO ONE
Notes on Startups, or How
to Build the Future
by Peter Thiel
This book completely changed the way I viewed business.
Anyone who is young AND rich (and didn’t inherit their
money), has used the millionaire fast lane strategy to get
to where they are. This book isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme,
but rather it shares a proven formula for creating wealth.
The book also shares helpful mindset tips needed to
become wealthy. It’s an excellent book for new or aspiring
entrepreneurs.

Buy on Amazon

THE 4-HOUR WORKWEEK

Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere,
and Join the New Rich
by Tim Ferriss

This classic business book emphasizes the importance

of working smarter, not harder, and building your life
around a business instead of having a business that
controls your life. It was published in 2009 so a few
of the lessons are a bit outdated, but most of it is still
useful today. It’s a great book for anyone who wants
to escape their 9-5 job, become a solopreneur, or
redesign their lifestyle.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 5

ANYTHING YOU WANT
40 Lessons for a New Kind of
Entrepreneur
by Derek Sivers
This super short book is a wonderful read for aspiring
entrepreneurs. In it, Sivers gives readers 10 years of his
business experience in 1 hour. It’s not about making
billions or building the next Facebook, instead, it’s about
filling a need that makes both you and your customers
happy. If you want to build more of a lifestyle business,
check out this book.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 6

 COMMUNICATION:

NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION
A Language of Life: Life-
Changing Tools for Healthy
Relationships by Marshall B.
Rosenberg PhD

This is a book that EVERYONE should read. Becoming

a better communicator will help you become a better
friend, employee, and boss. It’s also an excellent book
for couples to learn how to communicate clearly without
hurting each other’s feelings. Buy a copy for you and
your partner, you’ll thank me later.
Buy on Amazon

THE FINE ART OF SMALL TALK

How to Start a Conversation,
Keep It Going, Build
Networking Skill by Debra Fine

If you’re awkward, hate small talk, or are just bad

at it, this book is for you. Small talk is a valuable
social skill that will help you build rapport, make new
friends, and become more charismatic. Mastering
small talk will also pave the road for deeper, more
interesting conversations.

Buy on Amazon
ALEX & BOOKS | 7
HOW TO TALK TO ANYONE
92 Little Tricks for Big
Success in Relationships
by Leil Lowndes

This book is filled with 92 helpful tips to become

more social and likable. Each tip is super short (1-3
pages each) and the author shares actionable
advice that anyone can easily apply to their life.
Think of it as a sequel to “How To Win Friends &
Influence People.”

Buy on Amazon

NEVER SPLIT THE DIFFERENCE

Negotiating As If Your Life
Depended On It by Chris Voss

Written by a former FBI hostage negotiator, Chris

Voss shares his proven field-tested strategies for
high-stakes negotiations and deals. You’ll learn how
to gain rapport, quickly build trust, improve your
emotional intelligence, and much more. Whether
you’re negotiating with bank robbers, shady car
salesmen, or your kids, Voss’s tips can be applied to
almost any communication situation.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 8

EXTREME OWNERSHIP
How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead
and Win by Jocko Willink &
Leif Babin

This is technically a leadership and management book

but the lessons from it can be applied to friendships and
professional relationships. It will teach you how to better
communicate with your employees, manage your boss,
keep your ego in check, and much more. A must-read for
anyone in a leadership position.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 9

 CREATIVITY:

THE WAR OF ART

Break Through the Blocks and
Win Your Inner Creative Battles
by Steven Pressfield
This a must-read book that everyone can benefit
from reading. In it, Pressfield provides a battle plan
for overcoming self-sabotage, self-doubt, and
procrastination. If you’ve ever felt afraid to start a new
project or found yourself a prisoner to distraction, this book
will help you break through your resistance and unlock
your creative potential.

Buy on Amazon

THE DIP
A Little Book That Teaches You
When to Quit (and When to
Stick) by Seth Godin

One of the keys to success in any project is knowing

when to quit and when you keep going. You don’t
want to keep working on a project that’s going
nowhere. This book will teach you when it’s the right
time to quit, and if so, how to do it without feeling
guilty. It’s an excellent read for anyone feeling stuck
on their current project.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 10

THE CREATIVE CURVE
How to Develop the Right
Idea, at the Right Time by
Allen Gannett

Most people believe creativity is an innate skill–

something you’re born with–but this book proves
otherwise. Gannett argues that everyone has the
potential to come up with good ideas because
creativity is a skill that can be learned. Through
research and interviews, Gannett reveals 4 laws of
creative success and strategies you can follow to
increase your creative genius. If you do any kind of
creative work, following the steps in this book might Buy on Amazon
just help you find your next big idea.

IGNORE EVERYBODY
and 39 Other Keys to Creativity
by Hugh MacLeod

This book is equal parts entertaining and educational.

In it, MacLeod shares 40 contrarian (and often
hilarious) lessons to unlocking your creative potential
and doing work that truly matters. Read it to learn
how to silence your inner critic, hone your craft, and
fearlessly pursue work that energizes rather than
drains you.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 11

STEAL LIKE AN ARTIST
10 Things Nobody Told You
About Being Creative by
Austin Kleon

Stealing can have a negative connotation,

but Kleon teaches readers that there is an
ethical way to steal (study the work of the
greats, remix their work, and build what
they didn’t). There’s a lot of pressure to be
original, but this book will show you that
originality is overrated. The greats all “stole”
work and it’s okay to do the same, as long
as it’s done properly. Kleon provides 10
short lessons that each present a different
principle for developing creativity. This book
is an excellent guide for anyone starting their Buy on Amazon
creative journey.

ALEX & BOOKS | 12

 DATING:

HOW TO NOT DIE ALONE

The Surprising Science That
Will Help You Find Love by
Logan Ury

This is an excellent dating book for both men and women

(the rest of the books in this category lean toward men
since my audience is mostly male). Logan is a behavioral
scientist who spent years researching relationships and
now shares science-backed advice on how to find love in
the modern dating world. If you’re dating online or using
dating apps, this book is a must-read.

Buy on Amazon

MODELS
Attract Women Through
Honesty by Mark Manson

Before Mark Manson wrote his mega-bestseller “The

Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck”, he had a dating blog
and self-published this excellent anti-pick-up-artist
book. Instead of pretending to be someone else or
manipulating women, Manson teaches men how
to build genuine confidence, organically attract
women, and have a healthy relationship. A must-
read for every guy.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 13

HOW TO BE A 3% MAN
Winning The Heart Of The
Woman Of Your Dreams by
Corey Wayne

This may look like a sketchy book (I was skeptical at first),

but I went into it with an open mind and was thoroughly
surprised by the number of valuable lessons I learned from
it. And this isn’t only my point of view here, Wayne’s book
has 1,600+ reviews with an average rating of 4.7/5 stars.
Give this book a chance before you judge it, chances are
you’ll enjoy reading it and learn lots of valuable dating tips
along the way. Buy on Amazon

NO MORE MR. NICE GUY

A Proven Plan for Getting
What You Want in Love, Sex,
and Life by Robert Glover

If you’ve ever been called a “nice guy” or if a girl has

said you’re a good guy but you’re “too nice” for her,
this book is for you. In it, Dr. Glover teaches readers
how to overcome nice guy syndrome. You’ll learn how
to stop common people-pleasing tendencies, build
your confidence, and develop healthier boundaries
with others. This book completely changed my dating
life, highly recommend it.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 14

WHAT WOMEN WANT
by Tucker Max &
Geoffrey Miller

Figuring out what women want is both an art

and a science, which is why Tucker Max and
Geoffrey Miller make the perfect team. Max is a
former womanizer, while Miller is an evolutionary
psychologist. By combining their respective
skills, they created an honest, straightforward,
and ethical book (backed by a ton of scientific
research from evolutionary biology and
psychology) that will help you understand what
women want.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 15

 HEALTH:

WHY WE SLEEP
Unlocking the Power of Sleep
and Dreams by Matthew Walker

Sleep is critically important but often undervalued by most

people. In this book, sleep expert Dr. Walker shares the
fascinating science behind the powerful benefits of quality
sleep and the grave consequences of sleep deprivation. If
you want to unlock your full mental and physical potential
while adding years to your life, this book is a must-read.

Buy on Amazon

GLUCOSE REVOLUTION
The Life-Changing Power of
Balancing Your Blood Sugar
by Jessie Inchauspé

This book will forever change your relationship with

sugar and carbs. In it, biochemist Jessie Inchauspé
shares 10 simple hacks that anyone can use to help
balance their blood sugar levels (such as eating
vegetables first, then proteins, then carbs). Applying
the lessons from this book has helped me reduce
my carvings, improve my mood, and increase my
daily energy.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 16

OUTLIVE
The Science and Art of
Longevity by Peter Attia

If you’re looking for the most up-to-date book about

increasing lifespan AND healthspan, this book is for you.
In it, Attia provides an actionable roadmap for making
lifestyle choices that prevent and combat the main
diseases that lead to death and aging. If you value your
health or are interested in longevity, read this book.

Buy on Amazon

IKIGAI
The Japanese Secret to a Long
and Happy Life
by Héctor García

If you want a shorter and easier-to-read health book,

grab a copy of this book. The authors studied the
habits and diets of centurions (people who live to 100
years old) to discover their secrets to living a long
and happy life. It’s not the most in-depth or science-
backed book, but it does a great job of summarizing
most of the lessons you’d find in other books.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 17

BREATH
The New Science of a Lost Art
by James Nestor

This book will completely change the way you

breathe. Nestor’s book explores the powerful
benefits of optimal breathing practices backed by
cutting-edge science. Modern research shows us
that making even slight adjustments to the way
we inhale and exhale can reduce stress, snoring,
asthma, and even autoimmune diseases. It
sounds silly, but learning how to breathe properly
might just change (or even save) your life.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 18

 HIDDEN GEMS:

THE ANTHOLOGY OF BALAJI

A Guide to Technology, Truth,
and Building the Future by Eric
Jorgenson

Tons of people have read Eric’s first book (“The

Almanack of Naval Ravikant”), but many fewer have
read his second one even though it’s also packed
with value. Balaji is one of the most unique thinkers
of our time–he has a PhD from Stanford and has
sold companies for $300M+. Reading this book is like
seeing 10-20 years into the future. It’s a must-read
for anyone interested in science, tech, or media, and
where these industries are going.
Buy on Amazon

THE POWER OF MYTH

by Joseph Campbell

This is an amazing book that explains the hidden

lessons found in myths and ancient stories from
all around the world. Campbell explains the hero’s
journey, why stories are so powerful, and the
common traits almost every classic story has.
Reading this book will help you become a better
storyteller, writer, and reader.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 19

BLUE MIND
The Surprising Science That Shows How Being
Near, In, On, or Under Water Can Make You
Happier, Healthier, More
Connected, and Better at What
You Do by Wallace J. Nichols

This book explores the surprising science behind why

we feel happier and healthier when we’re near, in, or
even looking at water. Combining scientific research
with personal stories, Nichols shares the transformative
power of water and how it can help relax the mind,
spark creativity, provide a sense of calmness, and many
more benefits. You’ll never look at water the same way
after reading this book. Buy on Amazon

POOR CHARLIE’S ALMANACK

The Essential Wit and Wisdom
of Charles T. Munger by Peter
D. Kaufman

Charlie Munger was Warren Buffett’s business

partner and helped build Berkshire Hathaway into
a multi-billion dollar company. This book shares
Munger’s timeless wisdom on investing, business,
and life, through a series of speeches and stories.
You’ll gain insights into making rational decisions,
living an ethical life, and building a lasting
business. If you want to expand your mental
Buy on Amazon models and learn from one of the great business
minds of our time, this book is a must-read.

ALEX & BOOKS | 20

LETTERS OF NOTE
An Eclectic Collection of
Correspondence Deserving
of a Wider Audience
by Shaun Usher

This book is a collection of 125+ letters that offer a

rare look into some of the most important people in
history. It shares letters from Albert Einstein, Benjamin
Franklin, Ernest Hemingway, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Ray
Bradbury, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ludwig van Beethoven,
and many more. It’s illustrated with photographs,
portraits, and relevant artworks, making it an
excellent coffee table book and conversational piece.
If you love history or want to learn about the intimate Buy on Amazon
moments of iconic figures, grab a copy of this book.

ALEX & BOOKS | 21

 INVESTING:

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF MONEY

Timeless Lessons on Wealth,
Greed, and Happiness
by Morgan Housel

This is one of the best books on investing that I’ve read.

It’s filled with 19 short stories that will teach you the
psychology behind why people spend, save, and invest
differently. Morgan is a fantastic writer who knows how to
entertain readers while conveying deeper lessons about
personal finance. If you’re looking for a book that will
help you understand why people make certain financial
decisions and how you can increase your chances of
becoming wealthy, read this book.
Buy on Amazon

JUST KEEP BUYING

Proven Ways to Save Money
and Build Your Wealth by Nick
Maggiulli

If “The Psychology of Money” taught the emotional side

of investing, this book will teach you the logical side of
it. Nick shares simple yet proven investment strategies
and backs them up with a TON of data. Even if you
already have a strong grasp on personal finance, this
book will make you rethink your prior assumptions and
strategies. It’s the kind of book you wish you could have
read years ago.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 22

THE UNCERTAINTY SOLUTION
How to Invest with
Confidence in the Face of the
Unknown by John Jennings

Jennings is the president of a $15 billion wealth

management firm so he knows a thing or two about
investing. Most investment books are too technical
and put readers to sleep, but this one is the opposite.
Jennings’s book is filled with great stories and he does
a wonderful job of simplifying complex strategies for
anyone to easily understand. It’s worth a read.

Buy on Amazon

THE SIMPLE PATH TO WEALTH

Your road map to financial
independence and a rich, free
life by JL Collins

This is an excellent book for anyone who’s just

starting their investment journey. It’s a simple read
thanks to the author’s no-nonsense style and there
are no confusing equations or formulas so anyone
can understand and implement the author’s
message. It’s a great gift for high school graduates,
college students, and those early in their careers.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 23

SAME AS EVER
A Guide to What Never
Changes by Morgan Housel

Morgan’s books are so good, that both of them

made this list. This time, he shares 23 timeless
truths about human nature, society, and the world
at large. By studying these lessons of history, you’ll
be able to hopefully make better financial (and
life decisions) in the future.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 24

 MARKETING/SALES:

$100M OFFERS
How To Make Offers So Good
People Feel Stupid Saying No
by Alex Hormozi

If you only read one book from this category, read

this one. Hormozi is a marketing and sales genius
who went from being broke to having a net worth
of $100 million by the age of 30. In it, he covers how
to create an irresistible offer, increase your prices,
get more sales, and much more. Whether you’re just
starting your business or scaling it to millions, you’ll
learn a ton from this book.
Buy on Amazon

$100M LEADS
How to Get Strangers To Want
To Buy Your Stuff by Alex
Hormozi

Hormozi’s books are so good they made this list twice.

This book will teach you how to get strangers to want
to buy your stuff, how to run ads, create better content,
find new customers, and much more. In true Hormozi
fashion, this book is direct and super actionable.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 25

BUILDING A STORYBRAND
Clarify Your Message So
Customers Will Listen
by Donald Miller

If you struggle to explain what your business does in a

way that resonates with people, this book is a game-
changer. In it, Miller shares his proven framework for
using stories to simplify your message and make your
business the hero to your customer’s problems. It’s a
great book for marketers and business owners alike.

Buy on Amazon

THE 22 IMMUTABLE LAWS OF

MARKETING
by Al Ries

This is a short book (~140 pages) that’s great for

both aspiring and established marketers. The
authors distill decades of marketing expertise into 22
marketing strategies. The book is about 30 years old
so a couple of the laws are dated but the majority of
them are still very much applicable to today’s world.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 26

CASHVERTISING
How to Use More Than 100
Secrets of Ad-Agency
Psychology to Make BIG
MONEY Selling Anything to
Anyone by Drew Whitman

This book will teach you everything you need to

start writing persuasive ads and sales copy. In
it, Whitman shares 100 psychologically backed
advertising secrets from top agencies that will
help you write better ads and sales copy. If you
want to take your ad game to the next level,
read this book.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 27

 MEMOIRS:

WHEN BREATH BECOMES

Air by Paul Kalanithi

Paul Kalanithi was a star neurosurgeon at Stanford

who one day discovered he had terminal cancer. He
shares his story from doctor to patient and reflects
on the meaning of life and death. It’s beautifully
written and an emotional read that will make you
shed a tear but also appreciate life more.

Buy on Amazon

THE LAST LECTURE

by Randy Pausch

Randy Pausch was a beloved computer science

professor at Carnegie Mellon who, after learning he
was diagnosed with terminal cancer, decided to share
the most important lessons he learned throughout
his life in one last lecture. It’s filled with a ton of wise
advice, funny stories, and great life lessons. I also
recommend watching his talk (it has 20M+ views).

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 28

TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE
An Old Man, a Young Man,
and Life’s Greatest Lesson
by Mitch Albom

This is another heartfelt memoir. It chronicles the author’s

relationship with his dying college professor and mentor
Morrie. From it, you’ll gain an eye-opening perspective
on what’s important in life–such as cultivating deep
relationships, choosing love over money or status, leaving
a legacy of kindness, and many more valuable life lessons.

Buy on Amazon

THE THIRD DOOR

by Alex Banayan

As a college student, Alex hacked The Price Is Right

game show and used the prize money to fund his
quest to learn from the world’s most successful
people. Alex takes readers on a journey of how he
chased Larry King in a grocery store, waited in a
bathroom to talk to Tim Ferriss, networked his way
to meeting with Bill Gates, and met dozens more
of the world’s most successful people. I highly
recommend this book to college students and young
entrepreneurs.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 29

TOTAL RECALL
by Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold shares his life story and the struggles he

faced in becoming the world’s top bodybuilder,
the biggest Hollywood movie star, and the
Governor of California. He also dives into
his rough childhood and the work that was
required to become successful. A lot can be
learned about his drive and desire to achieve
from reading this book. Arnold doesn’t hide
anything and talks about both the ups and
downs of his journey. Now go read this book.
Hasta la vista, baby.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 30

 5 MEMOIRS (DARK READS):

THE FORGOTTEN HIGHLANDER

An Incredible WWII Story
of Survival in the Pacific
by Alistair Urquhart

Alistair was captured as a prisoner of war during WWII

and survived 700+ days in the jungle working as a slave
on the notorious Death Railway. He was then put on a
Japanese ship that was torpedoed and spent 5 days
on a raft lost at sea. After he was found by another
Japanese ship, he was forced to work in a mine near
Nagasaki. Two months later, the atomic bomb was
dropped just 10 miles away from him. In late 1945, he was
finally rescued by American troops. This is one of the Buy on Amazon
most unbelievable true stories you’ll ever read.

THE AQUARIUMS OF PYONGYANG

Ten Years in the North Korean
Gulag by Kang Chol-Hwan

The author survived 10 YEARS of hard labor,

malnutrition, and psychological torture inside a North
Korean concentration camp and shares the extreme
conditions and trials he faced during his time there. He
also explains how he managed to escape and what it’s
actually like to live inside the hermit kingdom.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 31

THE GULAG ARCHIPELAGO
by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

Written by a Nobel Prize winner in Literature,

Aleksandr retells the terrible conditions and extreme
cruelty he and others went through in the Soviet
Union’s prison camps. Reading this book will teach
you about the dangers of communism, lying, and
staying quiet while others do evil.

Buy on Amazon

THE HAPPIEST MAN ON EARTH

The Beautiful Life of an
Auschwitz Survivor
by Eddie Jaku

Eddie Jaku spent several years in a Nazi

concentration camp and against unbelievable odds,
maintained his will to survive. You’ll learn about
the horrors of Auschwitz and war, but also about
the power of hope, friendship, and love. It’s also
incredibly inspiring to learn about how he rebuilt a
life of profound happiness after such a horrible event.
If you’re having trouble finding light after a terrible
situation, read this book.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 32

NARRATIVE OF THE LIFE OF
FREDRICK DOUGLASS
by Fredrick Douglass

Frederick Douglass was born a slave but died

a free man and one of the most respected
orators and writers of his time. He recounts
the horrors he endured as a slave, how he
learned to read and write, his painful efforts
to educate himself and others, and how he
managed to escape to the North. It’s only
about 100 pages so you can easily read this
book in a couple of hours.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 33

 MINDSET:

MINDSET:
The New Psychology of
Success by Carol Dweck

If you only read one mindset book from this list, READ THIS
ONE. In it, Carol explains the differences between a fixed
mindset and a growth mindset (and how to develop the
latter). Understanding how to develop a growth mindset
is critical to improving your life and it can be applied to
sports, parenting, business, and many more areas of
life. This book changed my life and I believe it can do the
same for you. Buy on Amazon

HOW TO STOP WORRYING AND

START LIVING:
Time-Tested Methods for
Conquering Worry
by Dale Carnegie

A ton of people have read Carnegie’s bestselling book

“How To Win Friends & Influence People”, but most
people don’t know about this book and it’s just as good.
In it, Carnegie shares relatable stories and easy-to-use
strategies for overcoming worrying, replacing anxious
thoughts with calm ones, and building a gratitude
practice. If you’re ready to stop worrying and start living,
this book is a powerful resource.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 34

REFRAME YOUR BRAIN
The User Interface for
Happiness and Success
by Scott Adams

In this book, trained hypnotist and persuasion expert

Scott Adams teaches readers how to flip and reframe
negative thoughts into positive ones. For example “I fail
at 90 percent of the things I try” can be reframed as “I
only need to succeed 10 percent of the time.” If you want
to reprogram your brain for success and happiness, get
this book.
Buy on Amazon

AWAKEN THE GIANT WITHIN

How to Take Immediate Control
of Your Mental, Emotional,
Physical and Financial Destiny
by Tony Robbins

If you’ve never read any of Tony Robbins’s books, this

is a great one to start with. Robbins shares his proven
framework for overcoming limiting beliefs, mastering
your emotions, and building a positive mindset.
Read it, take notes, apply his lessons, and your life is
Buy on Amazon guaranteed to improve.

ALEX & BOOKS | 35

GRIT
The Power of Passion and
Perseverance
by Angela Duckworth

Angela Duckworth is a psychologist who spent

years trying to understand why some people
succeed while others don’t. Her main insight: Grit
is the most important trait to have. The good news
is that grit is something that can be learned and
cultivated. Read her book to develop a gritter
mindset.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 36

 MOTIVATIONAL:

CAN’T HURT ME
Master Your Mind and Defy
the Odds by David Goggins
Goggins’s story is insane. He went from being overweight
and working as a bug exterminator to becoming a Navy
SEAL and an ultra-endurance athlete (he’s run several
100+ mile races, broke the world record for pull-ups, and
is still running races today). Goggins teaches readers
that we have so much untapped potential it’s frightening.
Whenever I don’t feel like working out, I think back to
this book and I immediately find the motivation to get
moving. Read this book and you’ll never ind an excuse to
slack off again. (Pro Tip: Get the audiobook for exclusive
bonus content from Goggins).
Buy on Amazon

THE COMFORT CRISIS

Embrace Discomfort To
Reclaim Your Wild, Happy,
Healthy Self by Michael Easter

This is a thought-provoking and mindset-shifting book

that challenges our modern culture’s obsession with
convenience and avoidance of struggle. It dives into
the harmful effects of being too comfortable and how,
paradoxically, to be happier and healthier we need to
embrace discomfort. If you want to get mentally and
physically tougher, read this book.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 37

LIVING WITH A SEAL
31 Days Training with the
Toughest Man on the Planet
by Jesse Itzler

This is a hilarious, entertaining, and surprisingly

inspirational true story of when successful
entrepreneur Jesse Itzler hired former Navy SEAL
David Goggins to live with him and his family for
31 days. Goggins pushes Itzler through extreme
physical and mental challenges that teach readers
we’re all capable of accomplishing much more
than we give ourselves credit for. If you’re looking for
a book that will both motivate you and make you Buy on Amazon
laugh, this book is for you.

NEVER FINISHED
Unshackle Your Mind and
Win the War Within
by David Goggins

Goggins’s second book is just as good as his first.

In this book, he dives even deeper into his crazy
childhood and upbringing. He also talks about
recent challenges like becoming a smokejumper
and getting back to extreme endurance races
after having knee surgery. Read this book to learn a
practical blueprint for reprogramming your mindset,
conquering your fears, and developing the relentless
self-discipline required to take control of your life.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 38

DISCIPLINE EQUALS FREEDOM
by Jocko Willink

D=F is a no-nonsense guide that will

radically shift your mindset and provide
you with frameworks that will help you
take ownership of your life. Written by a
Navy SEAL with 20 years of experience,
Jocko’s straightforward principles of
self-discipline, responsibility, and finding
purpose will empower you to implement
positive habits, attack your biggest goals,
and unlock your full potential. Now, go
and GET AFTER IT!

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 39

 PERSONAL FINANCE:

RICH DAD POOR DAD

What the Rich Teach Their
Kids About Money That the
Poor and Middle Class Do Not!
by Robert Kiyosaki

This was one of the first personal finance books I’ve ever
read and it completely changed the way I looked at
money. It’s super easy to digest and will radically change
how you view money, explain assets vs. liabilities, and
what it means to attain financial freedom. Don’t listen to
Kiyosaki’s wild predictions on social media or the news,
but do read and listen to the lessons from his book.
Buy on Amazon

I WILL TEACH YOU TO BE RICH

No Guilt. No Excuses. Just a
6-Week Program That Works
by Ramit Sethi

The title sounds like clickbait, but this is actually a

fantastic book. Ramit shares a no-BS actionable
approach to managing your money and building
wealth. He covers everything from automating your
finances, negotiating better rates, mastering credit
card strategies, crafting a rich life, and much more. If
you’re ready to take control of your financial life, this
book is for you.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 40

THE RICHEST MAN IN BABYLON
by George Clason

This is an excellent beginner book for anyone new

to financial literacy. It reads like fiction, but you’ll
learn timeless financial wisdom such as how to
manage your money, why you need to save a
portion of your income, why it’s important to live
within your means, and other helpful lessons.
It’s a wonderful book for young adults and for
anyone who wants to learn the basics of money.

Buy on Amazon

THE MILLIONAIRE NEXT DOOR

The Surprising Secrets
of America’s Wealthy
by Thomas Stanley

Stanley spent years studying the habits and

characteristics of 1,000+ millionaires to figure out
what makes them successful. The book reveals
that many millionaires are ordinary people who
accumulate wealth through disciplined saving,
frugal living, and smart financial decisions, and
avoid flashy spending. The numbers are a bit
dated but the advice remains solid.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 41

DIE WITH ZERO
Getting All You Can from
Your Money and Your Life
by Bill Perkins

This isn’t your typical finance book–instead of

trying to get rich, it will teach you how to live rich.
The main lessons of this book revolve around
using your money to get the most out of life,
instead of just stockpiling every last dollar to
die with a ton of unspent cash. Read this book
and you’ll have a new perspective on retirement
planning and wealth management.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 42

 PHILOSOPHY:

MEDITATIONS
by Marcus Aurelius

If you only read one book from this category, READ

THIS ONE. It’s the personal journal of a Roman
Emperor from 2,000 years ago. Marcus Aurelius’s
profound and thought-provoking notes offer
valuable insights on how to live a fulfilling and
virtuous life. It’s a must-read for anyone interested
in philosophy and personal growth. The wisdom
and ideas in this book are as relevant today as they
were in ancient Rome.

Buy on Amazon

AS A MAN THINKETH
by James Allen

This classic book is super short but carries an

important message–we become what we think.
It’s direct, easy to understand, and is worth
reading multiple times. It may be a small book but
it packs a punch.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 43

LYING
by Sam Harris

Here’s another short book, but don’t mistake its

lack of length for lack of depth. This incredible
book that will convince you to lie as little as
possible. Why? Every lie is harmful, even little
white ones. If you want to become a more
honest and authentic version of yourself, read
this book. And it’s only about 100 pages so you
can read it in less than 2 hours.

Buy on Amazon

THE DAILY STOIC

366 Meditations on Wisdom,
Perseverance, and the Art of
Living by Ryan Holiday

This book is a great start to studying Stoicism.

Think of it as 366 mini-lessons in Stoicism.
Each daily begins with a quote from an
ancient Stoic and then Holiday provides a
personal or historical story that explains how
it can be applied to modern life. Try to start
every morning or end every night, by reading
one page from this book.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 44

A CALENDAR OF WISDOM
Daily Thoughts to Nourish
the Soul, Written and
Selected from the World’s
Sacred Texts by Leo Tolstoy

It took Tolstoy nearly 15 years to complete

this book and he considered it to be his most
important contribution to humanity. The book is
a day-by-day guide that illuminates the path of
a life worth living. Each day Tolstoy reflects on a
different idea by sharing his personal thoughts
along with quotes from religious texts, ancient
philosophers, and contemporary thinkers.
There’s no need to rush through this book, it’s
meant to be read slowly, one page at a time.
Take your time while reading and reflect on
each idea. The text runs short but the wisdom
runs deep.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 45

 PRODUCTIVITY:

INDISTRACTABLE
How to Control Your Attention
and Choose Your Life by Nir Eyal

This is a book EVERYONE should read. Why? Because

we all experience distractions and can benefit from
learning how to deal with them. Nir explains the
psychology behind what causes distractions and
shares a ton of practical steps on how to manage
them. He also teaches readers how to hack back
meetings, smartphones, and emails. If you want to
learn how to use technology instead of it using you,
read this book.
Buy on Amazon

DEEP WORK
Rules for Focused Success in a
Distracted World
by Cal Newport

This book is a must-read for anyone who does

knowledge work of any kind or activities that
require a lot of mental bandwidth (like chess).
Newport explains that in order to do great work,
you need to learn how to do deep work–which
requires long periods of uninterrupted focus. I’d
recommend jumping to Part 2 of his book where
he dives into practical strategies for avoiding
shallow work and doing more deep work.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 46

THE ONE THING
by Gary Keller

This book will forever change the way you

work and organize your tasks. You’ll learn how
to properly prioritize tasks, manage your time
better, monitor your willpower, and much more.
I highly recommend reading this book if you
want to be more productive and efficient in
both your professional and personal life.

Buy on Amazon

HYPERFOCUS
How to Manage Your
Attention in a World of
Distraction by Chris Bailey

If you want to learn how to manage your

attention and control your focus, this book is
for you. Chris shares a ton of practical tips and
strategies for managing distractions, getting
into flow for deep work, staying focused,
and more. Think of this book as a sequel to
“Indistractable.”

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 47

MAKE TIME
How to Focus on What
Matters Every Day
by Jake Knapp

I’ve read a ton of productivity books but still

found several new helpful lessons from this
one. It’s packed with 80+ short lessons which
makes it easy to read, digest, and apply. It’s a
great intro-to-productivity book, make time to
read it.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 48

 PSYCHOLOGY:

MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING

by Viktor Frankl

Frankl was a prisoner at the infamous Auschwitz

concentration camp and retells the horrible conditions
he had to endure to survive. What makes this book
so fascinating is that Frankl was a psychiatrist. So
he analyzed the prisoners to understand why some
gave up while others survived, while also analyzing
the guards at the camp to understand how people
could do such evil things. He also dives into how to find
purpose in life even when everything has gone to hell.
Everyone should read this book.
Buy on Amazon

INFLUENCE
The Psychology of Persuasion
by Robert Cialdini

This classic book deconstructs the subtle but

powerful psychological principles behind why
people say yes. From leveraging social proof to
creating scarcity, the insights from this book can
be applied to sales, negotiations, communication,
and many more fields. Whether you want to
increase your sales or just learn about the science
of influence, this book is packed with insightful
lessons.

Buy on Amazon
ALEX & BOOKS | 49
A BILLION WICKED THOUGHTS
What the Internet Tells Us
About Sexual Relationships
by Ogi Ogas and Sai Gaddam

The authors looked at a billion internet searches to

analyze the differences in sexual interest between
men and women. They explored mate preferences,
sexual fantasies, and so much more. Although the
authors are scientists, they do a fantastic job of
explaining what they found and sharing lessons
that readers can apply to their dating lives. I highly
recommend this book to both men and women
because it will help you better understand the
opposite sex through a scientific lens.
Buy on Amazon

THE ELEPHANT IN THE BRAIN

Hidden Motives in Everyday
Life by Robin Hanson

This book will shatter many of your long-held

beliefs about what drives human behavior
(spoiler: there’s usually a hidden and often darker
motive behind our actions). It will show you how
even “good” actions are often just us virtue-
signaling to others. If you want to gain insights
into why we humans actually do what we do, and
achieve a more honest understanding of yourself
and others, this is an eye-opening must-read.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 50

PREDICTABLY IRRATIONAL
The Hidden Forces That
Shape Our Decisions
by Dan Ariely

This is an entertaining and insightful book that

examines how human beings can be much
more irrational than we would have thought.
You’ll learn how factors such as emotion,
social norms, and cognitive biases frequently
cause us to act in seemingly irrational ways
that defy conventional logic. Read this book to
become more aware of (and hopefully avoid)
possible situations where irrationality can take
control over you.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 51

 RANDOM CATEGORY:

SAPIENS
A Brief History of Humankind
by Yuval Noah Harari

This is one of the most interesting history books I’ve

ever read. Yuval Noah Harari does an excellent job
of guiding readers along a historical timeline that
explains why and how Homo Sapiens became the
world’s most dominant species. If you enjoy history
or philosophy, this book will open your mind to a new
perspective on how you view the world.
Buy on Amazon

COME AS YOU ARE

The Surprising New Science
That Will Transform Your Sex
Life by Emily Nagoski

Let’s be honest, sex-ed in high school was a joke. It

taught us close to nothing about having a happy
and healthy sex life. This book will change that.
Emily provides a ton of science-backed advice
on how to have a wonderful sex life. If you’re a
woman or a man who’s attracted to women, you’ll
learn a lot from this book.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 52

THE GO-GIVER
A Little Story About a Powerful
Business Idea by Bob Burg

This inspirational parable contains great lessons

about the value of giving first. You’ll learn 5 powerful
principles that will help shift you from a scarcity
mindset to an abundance mindset that can be
applied to business and life. It’s an excellent book
for young adults, business majors, and aspiring
entrepreneurs.

Buy on Amazon

ELON MUSK
by Walter Isaacson

Regardless of whether you love or hate Elon, you

have to respect him as one of the most brilliant
entrepreneurs of our time. He’s built multiple
billion-dollar companies and is someone
worth studying. This book will give you an
unprecedented look into his life, how he thinks
about business, his creative process, and his
unconventional worldwide. It’s a must-read for
anyone seeking inspiration or looking to build
the next big thing.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 53

HOW WILL YOU MEASURE
YOUR LIFE?
by Clayton M. Christensen

Christensen was a renowned Harvard

Business School professor famous for his
work on business strategy. In this book,
he takes the most important business
strategies he’s learned over the decades and
teaches readers how to apply them toward
building a meaningful and fulfilling life. If
you enjoy learning about business and self-
improvement, this book is perfect for you.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 54

 RELATIONSHIP:

ATTACHED
The New Science of Adult
Attachment and How It Can Help
You Find--and Keep-- Love
by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller

Why do certain people avoid intimacy while others crave

it more than anything? It has to do with your attachment
style. Knowing your attachment style (for example anxious
or avoidant) will massively improve your dating life and
help you build a lasting relationship.
Buy on Amazon

MEN ARE FROM MARS,

WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS
The Classic Guide to
Understanding the Opposite
Sex by John Gray

If you ever wanted to understand the opposite sex, this

book is for you. The author shows just how differently
men and women think and perceive information, and
explains why and what would be a better approach.
The book is a bit old but many of the lessons within it
are timeless.

Buy on Amazon
ALEX & BOOKS | 55
THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES
The Secret to Love that Lasts
by Gary Chapman

This book shares 5 love languages that we all speak

and will help you identify which you and your partner
need most. The book is written for couples, but the
advice could easily be applied to any relationship,
including family and friends.

Buy on Amazon

THE WAY OF
THE SUPERIOR MAN
A Spiritual Guide to
Mastering the Challenges of
Women, Work, and Sexual
Desire by David Deida

If you’re looking for a more spiritual book and one

that explains how the masculine and feminine
dynamic works in relationships, this book is for
you. It’s a great book for both men and women to
understand what the opposite gender needs from
their partner to be fulfilled in a relationship.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 56

THE MAN’S GUIDE TO WOMEN
Scientifically Proven
Secrets from the Love
Lab About What Women
Really Want
by John & Julie Gottman

Relationships are complicated, you can’t

expect to read one book on the subject and
become an expert on it. Fortunately for us, the
authors of this book are legitimate relationship
experts who have spent 40 years researching
relationships. Together, they’ve written this
excellent guide for men, providing answers on
everything from courting a woman to living
with her and staying with her forever.
Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 57

 SELF-IMPROVEMENT:

ATOMIC HABITS
An Easy & Proven Way to Build
Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
by James Clear

This is the bestselling modern self-improvement book

and for good reason. It’s an easy yet entertaining book
to read that’s filled with personal stories as well as
scientific studies. There’s a lot of information to absorb,
but each chapter ends with an actionable summary,
and important lessons are repeated throughout the
book. If you’re looking for a proven way to build good
habits and break bad ones (which is everyone), this
book is for you. Read it, take notes, and start applying Buy on Amazon
the lessons to your life TODAY.

THE COMPOUND EFFECT

Jumpstart Your Income,
Your Life, Your Success
by Darren Hardy

Think of this book as a companion book to “Atomic

Habits.” It dives into the 1% rule, the power of
compounding, and how tiny changes can lead to huge
results. It’s only about 160 pages so there’s no fluff and
you can read it in 2-3 hours. Worth the time to read it.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 58

HOW TO WIN FRIENDS
& INFLUENCE PEOPLE
by Dale Carnegie

This is the first communication book I read and

it completely changed my life. As a shy and
introverted kid, my mind was blown by the fact
that I could learn communication and social skills
from a book (particularly one that was almost 100
years old). This book is as educational as a textbook
but as entertaining as a fiction book. A must-read
classic for all.

Buy on Amazon

12 RULES FOR LIFE

An Antidote to Chaos
by Jordan B. Peterson

Every now and then you read a book that

changes the trajectory of your life, for me, this
was that book. Peterson combines lessons
from psychology, philosophy, and religion, to
teach readers how to become the best version
of themselves, find purpose in life, overcome
difficult struggles, and so much more. If you
want to change your life for the better, read this
book (and then reread it).

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 59

THE ALMANACK OF
NAVAL RAVIKANT
A Guide to Wealth
and Happiness by Eric
Jorgenson

This book is a compilation of all of the best

advice from entrepreneur, investor, and
philosopher Naval Ravikant. Naval shares tips
on how to get rich without getting lucky, how
to be happier, helpful life advice, and much
more. I highly recommend reading it.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 60

 WRITING:

NOBODY WANTS TO
READ YOUR SH*T
Why That Is And What You Can
Do About It by Steven Pressfield

This book has a tough-love message that every

writer should read. Pressfield shares useful lessons
on crafting a seductive opening hook, holding your
audience’s attention, telling an engaging story,
and lots more. Whether you’re writing an ad, movie
script, fiction book, or non-fiction book, you’ll find
Pressfield’s lessons valuable.
Buy on Amazon

THE ELEMENTS OF ELOQUENCE

How to Turn the Perfect English
Phrase by Mark Forsyth

This is a charming and informative, hidden gem

of a book. Forsyth breaks down 39 complex
linguistic concepts in an easy-to-understand way
that can be applied to all forms of writing. If you
want to learn how to write (and speak) better,
you’ll find the lessons inside this book useful.

Buy on Amazon
ALEX & BOOKS | 61
THE ART AND BUSINESS OF
ONLINE WRITING
How to Beat the Game of
Capturing and Keeping
Attention by Nicolas Cole

This book is an essential guide to becoming a digital-

first writer (which is what you need to become to
succeed as a writer in today’s age). In it, Cole shares
practical strategies on how to start writing online,
never run out of ideas, write captivating headlines,
monetize your content, and much more. Study this
book and you’ll be well equipped with the skills
needed to thrive in the digital age.

Buy on Amazon

ON WRITING
A Memoir Of The Craft
by Stephen King

Part memoir, part guidebook, King’s book is a

master class on the craft of writing from one of
the most prolific and successful authors of our
time. In it, he shares valuable lessons on finding
inspiration, cultivating an authentic voice,
overcoming rejection, and much more. It’s a
wonderful book for aspiring writers, especially
those interested in writing fiction.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 62

ON WRITING WELL
The Classic Guide to
Writing Nonfiction by
William Zinsser

This classic book will teach you the timeless

principles and techniques of excellent
nonfiction writing. Zinsser provides concise and
actionable advice for crafting clear, engaging,
and memorable prose. Whether you’re crafting
emails, essays, articles, or books, this book will
help you. So if you’re serious about taking your
nonfiction writing to the next level, this classic
work belongs on your bookshelf.

Buy on Amazon

ALEX & BOOKS | 63

ABOUT ALEX & BOOKS
Alex Wieckowski is the creator of Alex & Books. His book reviews,
summaries, and reading tips have gained him over 1,000,000+ followers
across social media.

Want more book reviews, summaries, and recommendations?

Follow Alex & Books on:

Have feedback or questions? DM me on Twitter or email me at

[email protected]

ALEX & BOOKS | 64

WHAT’S NEXT?
Hopefully, you found some new and exciting books to read from this list!

But you might be thinking, “I wish I…”

• Had time to read more books

• Could stop getting distracted while reading

• Knew how to remember more of what I read

• Knew how to take notes while reading books

• Knew how to apply all of the lessons I’m learning

If so, you’re not alone. I’ve faced all of these challenges and more.

You see, school teaches you how to read, but it doesn’t teach you how to become
a reader.

That’s why I created The Art of Reading.

It’s a self-paced course with all of my best reading tips, tricks, and tactics.

400+ people have already taken the course and it has an average rating of 4.5/5.

After learning The Art of Reading, you’ll be able to:

• Focus on your book for hours

• Remember more of what you’ve read

• Effectively take notes in print books, ebooks, and audiobooks

• Develop a consistent reading habit and read 25-50+ books a year

• Start applying lessons from books to transform your life for the better

And so much more!

As Naval Ravikant said, “Reading is the ultimate meta-skill and can be traded
for anything else.”

So if you want to learn how to read smarter, faster, and better...

Join The Art of Reading today! 👈

ALEX & BOOKS | 65