If you want to get ahead in life, it helps to have a role model. Someone to look up to and emulate. For many people, that person is Elon Musk. The founder of Tesla, SpaceX, and several other cutting-edge companies, Musk is known for his vision and ambition.
Musk is also a voracious reader. In addition to being a self-made billionaire, he’s also well-educated, with degrees from both the University of Pennsylvania and Stanford University. So when he recommends a book, it’s worth taking notice.
Here are some of the books that Musk has recommended:
A Woman Makes a Plan by Maye Musk
In her new book, “A Woman Makes a Plan,” Maye Musk shares her story of overcoming adversity and becoming a successful businesswoman, model, and mother.
Musk was born in South Africa and faced many challenges growing up including racism, sexism, and poverty. However, she didn’t let these obstacles stop her from achieving her dreams.
Musk moved to Canada at the age of 21 to pursue a career in modeling. She quickly realized that she wanted more than just to be a model; she wanted to be a businesswoman. And so, she started her own modeling agency.
Today, Musk is a mother of six and a grandmother of two. She is also the CEO of three companies: a modeling agency, a skincare line, and a nutrition company.
Acts of Love by Talulah Riley
In her debut novel, Acts of Love, Talulah Riley weaves a tale of love and loss that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page.
Told through the alternating perspectives of husband and wife, Riley explores the complicated nature of relationships and how even the most perfect love can be fraught with challenges.
With beautiful prose and characters that feel like old friends, Acts of Love is a must-read for anyone who has ever loved and lost.
American Caesar by William Manchester
William Manchester’s American Caesar is a biography of General Douglas MacArthur. It is a well-written and detailed account of MacArthur’s life, from his early years as a cadet at West Point to his service in World War II, to his final years as Commander of Allied Forces in the Far East.
MacArthur was a controversial figure, and Manchester does not shy away from discussing the general’s flaws. However, he also paints a picture of a man who was fiercely loyal to his country and who had a great love for the military.
American Caesar is an informative and entertaining read for anyone interested in military history or the life of one of America’s most famous generals.
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged is a novel that has been both praised and criticized since its publication in 1957.
The story follows the life of Dagny Taggart, a railroad executive, as she tries to keep her business afloat in the midst of an economic crisis.
The novel is set in a dystopian United States where the government has increasing control over businesses and the economy.
Many people see Atlas Shrugged as a defense of capitalism and individualism, while others view it as a call for revolution. Regardless of one’s interpretation, the book is an important work of literature that continues to be relevant today.
Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson
Few people have had as profound an impact on American society and culture as Benjamin Franklin. In his 84 years, he was a printer, inventor, diplomat, scientist, philosopher, and writer. He helped draft the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, and his face is now featured on the $100 bill.
In Benjamin Franklin: An American Life, Walter Isaacson tells the story of this incredible man, from his humble beginnings in Boston to his later years as one of the most respected figures in America. This is a fascinating biography of one of our country’s founding fathers.
Britannica Concise Encyclopedia by Britannica Editors
The Britannica Concise Encyclopedia by Britannica Editors is a book that covers a wide range of topics. The book is divided into sections that cover different aspects of knowledge.
The sections are: General Knowledge, People and Places, Arts and Entertainment, Science and Technology, and Health and Wellness. Each section contains articles that provide concise information on the topic at hand. The book also includes an index that makes it easy to find specific information.
Catherine the Great by Robert K. Massie
When most people think of the Russian Empire, they think of cold winters, vodka, and Putin. However, the empire has a long and complex history that is full of interesting characters and tales.
One such character is Catherine the Great, who was one of the most influential rulers of Russia. Robert K. Massie’s book “Catherine the Great,” tells her story in an engaging and detailed way.
Born in 1729 to a minor German princeling and a Polish princess, Catherine was not destined for greatness. However, she married the heir to the Russian throne, Peter III, and took control of the empire after he was overthrown in a coup d’etat.
As empress, she embarked on a series of reforms that modernized Russia and made it a major European power. She also expanded the empire’s territory by conquering new lands.
Children of Dune by Frank Herbert
The area surrounding the city of Arrakeen on the planet Arrakis is littered with the bones of gigantic sandworms. The children of Duke Paul Atreides, who was killed in battle, now rule in his stead.
But all is not well. Alia, Paul’s daughter, is only ten years old and plagued by terrifying visions. Leto, Paul’s son, is just twelve and already a seasoned warrior. And both children are being hunted by those who would see them dead.
Frank Herbert’s Dune trilogy is one of the most iconic works in science fiction history. But it was with Children of Dune that Herbert truly cemented his legacy. This novel is a masterful blend of politics, religion, and ecology, with a dash of family drama thrown in for good measure.
Consider Phlebas by Iain M. Banks
Iain M. Banks’s “Consider Phlebas” is a complex and unforgettable space opera. Set in the Culture, a society of advanced aliens who are at war with the Idirans, the novel follows Horza, a shape-shifter working for the Idirans, as he undertakes a vital and dangerous mission.
Banks’s world-building is masterful, and his characters are richly drawn and fascinating. “Consider Phlebas” is an epic tale of war and betrayal, love and loss, hope and despair. It is one of the most ambitious and rewarding science fiction novels of our time.
Daemon by Daniel Suarez
In the Daemon novel by Daniel Suarez, a darknet is created that slowly takes over the world’s computer systems, resulting in global anarchy. The book follows the story of how this darknet came to be and the people who were behind it.
Suarez does an excellent job of creating a believable story that is both chilling and exciting. The characters are well-developed and the plot is fast-paced. This is a great book for anyone who enjoys thrillers or wants to learn more about computer hacking.
Das Kapital by Karl Marx
In Das Kapital, Karl Marx proposes that the working class will overthrow the bourgeoisie through a revolution. He argues that the economic system is inherently unfair, and that the only way to fix it is to completely restructure society.
This book is one of the most influential works of political economy, and has been highly influential in both academic and political circles.
Deep Learning by Ian Goodfellow
Deep Learning is a cutting-edge approach to machine learning that is showing promise in a variety of different fields. In his book, Deep Learning, Ian Goodfellow provides a clear and concise introduction to the field.
Goodfellow begins by providing an overview of the history of machine learning and artificial intelligence. He then delves into the basics of deep learning, including its origins, how it works, and its key advantages.
He also discusses some of the challenges faced by deep learning today and how they can be overcome.
Overall, Deep Learning is an excellent introduction to this rapidly growing field. It is well-written and accessible for readers with no prior knowledge of machine learning or artificial intelligence.
Dune by Frank Herbert
Dune by Frank Herbert is one of the most iconic science fiction novels of all time. The book tells the story of Paul Atreides, a young man who must lead his people to safety after they are exiled to a hostile desert planet.
Dune is a complex and fascinating tale that explores themes of religion, politics, and environmentalism. The book has been adapted into several films and television series, and its influence can be seen in many other works of science fiction.
Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Isaac Asimov’s book, Foundation, is a classic example of science fiction. The book tells the story of a group of scientists who are trying to save the world from a devastating war. The book is full of action and suspense, and it is sure to keep readers entertained.
Game of Thrones (5 books) by George R. R. Martin
George R. R. Martin is an American novelist and short story writer in the fantasy, horror, and science fiction genres, penning the popular A Song of Ice and Fire series of novels. The television series Game of Thrones is adapted from books.
He has also written several screenplays for television shows including Twilight Zone and Beauty and the Beast. In 2005, Lev Grossman of Time called Martin “the American Tolkien”, and in 2011, he was included on the annual Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world.
The first book in the series, A Game of Thrones, was published in 1996 and immediately became a global phenomenon. It has been translated into more than two dozen languages and sold more than fifteen million copies worldwide.
The second book, “A Clash of Kings” was published in 1999 to similar acclaim. The third book, “A Storm of Swords” the fourth is “A Feast for Crows” was published in 2005 and the last is “A Dance with Dragons” published in 2011.
Howard Hughes by Donald Bartlett
In Howard Hughes, Donald Bartlett offers a comprehensive and fascinating look at the life of one of America’s most fascinating and enigmatic figures.
Drawing on extensive research and interviews with those who knew him, Bartlett offers insights into Hughes’ complicated life, from his early days as a wealthy playboy to his later years as a reclusive billionaire.
Hughes was a complex and contradictory figure, and Bartlett’s book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about this American icon.
Human Compatible by Stuart Russell
In “Human Compatible,” Stuart Russell explores the possibility of living peacefully with artificial intelligence. He argues that we need to ensure AI is beneficial to humanity as a whole, not just individual humans.
Russell offers a number of ways to make sure AI advances are in line with human values, such as setting goals that take into account the welfare of all and not just profits.
If the Universe Is Teeming with Aliens … Where is Everybody? by Stephen Webb
In his book, “If the Universe Is Teeming with Aliens … Where is Everybody?” Stephen Webb explores the Fermi paradox, which posits that if there are intelligent aliens out there, why haven’t we found them yet?
Webb looks at a variety of possible explanations for the paradox, from the idea that aliens are too far away to reach us, to the possibility that they’ve already destroyed themselves.
Ultimately, Webb concludes that even if we can’t find aliens, that doesn’t mean they’re not out there. And he offers some advice for how we can keep looking: “The only way to find extraterrestrial intelligence is to keep searching.
Ignition! by John Drury Clark
John Drury Clark’s book, “Ignition!”, is all about the science of fire. In it, he discusses the different types of fire, how they are started, and how they can be used to our advantage. He also covers the history of fire and how it has been used throughout the years.
Inversions by Iain M. Banks
Inversions by Iain M. Banks is a novel that explores the idea of what would happen if our roles were reversed and we were the ones being controlled. The book follows two protagonists who are forced to switch places in a society where their every move is dictated by an unseen force.
Banks uses his trademarked style of social commentary to explore the implications of such a world, and how the power dynamics would change if we were not the ones in control. Inversion is a thought-provoking and speculative work that will leave readers questioning their own place in the world.
Life 3.0 by Max Tegmark
Life 3.0 by Max Tegmark is a book about the future of life and intelligence. In the book, Tegmark explores the idea of artificial intelligence becoming smarter than humans and how this could impact our future. He also looks at the potential for creating artificial life forms and how they could interact with us.
Liftoff by Eric Berger
In his new book, Liftoff, Eric Berger chronicles the history of the American space program, from its earliest beginnings to the present day.
Berger draws on his own experience as a longtime space journalist to provide readers with an insider’s view of America’s journey into the final frontier. He takes us behind the scenes of some of NASA’s most iconic moments, from the Apollo 11 moon landing to the Challenger disaster.
Liftoff is an engaging and enlightening read for anyone interested in learning more about America’s place in the cosmos.
Look to Windward by Iain M. Banks
Iain M. Banks’ Look to Windward is a science fiction novel that explores the nature of war and its impact on individuals and civilizations. The book follows the lives of two main characters, Caleban and Llanna, as they attempt to rebuild their lives after a devastating war.
Banks examines the dynamics of war through the eyes of his characters, who must grapple with loss, pain, and betrayal. He also looks at the ways in which war can destroy entire cultures, leaving behind only ruin and despair.
Through his exploration of these themes, Banks offers readers a thought-provoking look at the destruction that war can wreak, and the hope that can sometimes be found in its aftermath.
Lying by Sam Harris
In his book, Lying, Sam Harris argues that we should be more honest with each other and ourselves.
He believes that the benefits of honesty far outweigh the costs and that we should strive to be more truthful in our interactions with others.
Harris also argues that we should be careful about what we say and how we say it, in order to avoid harming others or ourselves.
Masters of Doom by David Kushner
In his book, Masters of Doom, David Kushner tells the story of how two teenage boys from small-town America created one of the most successful video games of all time: DOOM.
id Software’s DOOM was not only a commercial success but also a critical darling. The game’s fast-paced action and gruesome violence set it apart from other games on the market and made it an instant classic.
Kushner’s book is a fascinating look at the making of DOOM and the men behind it. It’s a must-read for any fan of video games or anyone interested in how two teenage boys were able to create such an influential game.
Matter by Iain M. Banks
Merchants of Doubt by Naomi Oreskes & Erik M. Conway
Modern Engineering for Design of Liquid Propellant Rocket Engines by Dieter K Huzel
Not Much of an Engineer by Sir Stanley Hooker
On War by Carl von Clausewitz
Our Final Invention by James Barrat
Screw Business As Usual by Richard Branson
Second Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Seventy-Five Solutions to the Fermi Paradox and the Problem of Extraterrestrial Life by Stephen Webb
Stalin by Simon Sebag Montefiore
Starhammer by Christopher B. Rowley
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
Storm of Steel by Ernst Jünger
Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert A. Heinlein
Structures Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down by J. E. Gordon
Superintelligence by Nick Bostrom
Surface Detail by Iain M. Banks
The Age of Napoleon by Will & Ariel Durant
The Art Of War by Sun Tzu
The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin
The Big Picture by Sean M. Carroll
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
The Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World by Edward Shepherd Creasy
The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Hitchhikers by Douglas Adams
The Hydrogen Sonata by Iain M. Banks
The Life of Greece by Will Durant
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Machine Stops by E. M. Forster
The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein
The Player of Games by Iain Banks
The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins
The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe by Steven Novella
The Stainless Steel Rat by Harry Harrison
The Story of Civilization (11 books) by Will & Ariel Durant
The Wages of Destruction by Adam Tooze
The Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith
Twelve Against the Gods by William Bolitho
Use of Weapons by Iain M. Banks
Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett
What We Owe the Future by William MacAskill
Zero to One by Peter Thiel
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