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25 Best Nonfiction Books of All Time According to Anthony Pompliano



Reading is one of the best ways to gain knowledge and insights into the world around us.


If you're looking for some exceptional nonfiction books to add to your reading list, Anthony Pompliano, a prominent figure in the world of finance and technology, has shared his top recommendations.


From finance and business to self-improvement and technology, Pompliano's list covers a wide range of topics that are sure to captivate and educate readers.


Let's dive into the 25 great nonfiction books according to Anthony Pompliano.


Affiliate Disclaimer: This post features Amazon affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links.




"The Dao of Capital" is a thought-provoking exploration of finance and risk management that combines ancient Daoist philosophy with modern financial principles. Mark Spitznagel's book challenges conventional wisdom by encouraging readers to embrace small losses to achieve better decision-making and success in financial markets. This unique perspective provides valuable insights into managing risk effectively.


“To win a hundred victories in a hundred battles is not the highest excellence; the highest excellence is to subdue the enemy’s army without fighting at all.”― Mark Spitznagel, The Dao of Capital: Austrian Investing in a Distorted World




Yuval Noah Harari's "Sapiens" offers a captivating journey through the history of humankind. From the emergence of Homo sapiens to the present day, Harari examines the forces that have shaped our species. This thought-provoking book explores our shared history, beliefs, and the profound impact of human actions on the world.


“You could never convince a monkey to give you a banana by promising him limitless bananas after death in monkey heaven.”― Yuval Noah Harari, Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind




"Dark Towers" is an eye-opening exposé of Deutsche Bank, one of the world's largest financial institutions. David Enrich delves deep into the bank's intricate dealings, uncovering money laundering scandals and questionable practices. This book provides a fascinating and sometimes unsettling look into the inner workings of global finance.


“The annual meeting of the World Economic Forum—where the world’s most important and self-important people gather each year to admire each other under the guise of making the world a better place—was in full swing.”― David Enrich, Dark Towers




Ron Chernow's "Titan" is a comprehensive biography of John D. Rockefeller, an iconic figure in American business and industry. This meticulously researched book delves into Rockefeller's life, his remarkable rise to prominence, and the lasting impact of his business empire on the world.


“Success comes from keeping the ears open and the mouth closed” and “A man of words and not of deeds is like a garden full of weeds.”― Ron Chernow, Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr.




"Billion Dollar Whale" is an enthralling investigative account of the 1MDB scandal, one of the most audacious financial schemes in recent history. Tom Wright and Bradley Hope meticulously unravel the exploits of Jho Low, a central figure in the scandal, and the vast sums of money allegedly embezzled. This true story reads like a financial thriller and sheds light on the shadowy realm of international finance.


“Steal a little and they throw you in jail Steal a lot and they make you king. —Bob Dylan,”― Bradley Hope, Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World




James Clear's "Atomic Habits" is a practical guide to building and breaking habits that can transform your life. Drawing on the science of habit formation, Clear provides actionable strategies for making positive changes and achieving personal and professional growth. It's a book that empowers readers to take control of their habits and harness their potential.


“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity.”― James Clear, Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones




In "Am I Being Too Subtle?" real estate magnate and entrepreneur Sam Zell shares his life story and business insights. Zell's candid and direct approach to real estate and entrepreneurship offers valuable lessons on risk-taking, deal-making, and building a successful career in business.


“I am not a reckless person, but taking risks is really the only way to consistently achieve above-average returns—in life as well as in investments.”― Sam Zell, Am I Being Too Subtle?: Straight Talk From a Business Rebel




"The Hot Hand" by Ben Cohen explores the intriguing concept of the "hot hand" in sports and life. Cohen delves into the psychology and statistics behind streaks, challenging common perceptions. Through engaging stories and research, the book reveals how the hot hand phenomenon can influence decision-making and performance.


“Talent is important, but circumstance is imperative, and circumstance beats talent when talent doesn’t have circumstance.”― Ben Cohen, The Hot Hand: The Mystery and Science of Streaks




"Bitcoin Billionaires" tells the incredible true story of the Winklevoss twins' journey into the world of cryptocurrency. Ben Mezrich takes readers on a thrilling ride through the highs and lows of the crypto industry, highlighting the twins' pivotal role in Bitcoin's ascent to prominence.


“As an entrepreneur, you had one, maybe two, but usually not more than three chances to catch lightning in a bottle; as a venture capitalist, however, you could chase lightning as long as you had cash to invest.”― Ben Mezrich, Bitcoin Billionaires: A True Story of Genius, Betrayal, and Redemption




"Blitzscaling" by Reid Hoffman offers valuable insights into strategies for rapidly scaling companies. Drawing from his experiences at PayPal and LinkedIn, Hoffman provides guidance for entrepreneurs and business leaders seeking to achieve rapid growth for their companies.


“blitzscaling is prioritizing speed over efficiency in the face of uncertainty.”― Reid Hoffman, Blitzscaling: The Lightning-Fast Path to Building Massively Valuable Companies




Steven Pinker's "The Better Angels of Our Nature" challenges the prevailing notion that violence has been steadily increasing throughout history. Through extensive research and analysis, Pinker argues that humanity has become less violent over time, offering hope for a more peaceful future. This insightful book explores the factors contributing to this decline in violence, from social changes to cultural shifts.


“The theory that religion is a force for peace, often heard among the religious right and its allies today, does not fit the facts of history.”― Steven Pinker, The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined




"Digital Gold" by Nathaniel Popper delves into the captivating world of cryptocurrency, with a particular focus on Bitcoin. The book traces the origins and evolution of Bitcoin, introducing readers to key figures and the underlying technology. Popper's narrative provides a comprehensive and accessible exploration of this revolutionary digital currency.


“It’s either going to change everything, or nothing,”― Nathaniel Popper, Digital Gold: Bitcoin and the Inside Story of the Misfits and Millionaires Trying to Reinvent Money




In "Can't Hurt Me," David Goggins shares his incredible journey from an abusive childhood to becoming a Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete. Goggins' story is one of resilience, determination, and mental toughness. He offers readers a roadmap to push their limits, overcome adversity, and achieve personal greatness.


“You are in danger of living a life so comfortable and soft, that you will die without ever realizing your true potential.”― David Goggins, Can't Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds




"Feeding the Dragon" by Chris Fenton offers a unique perspective on the entertainment industry's relationship with China. Fenton, a veteran Hollywood executive, shares his experiences navigating the complexities of the Chinese market and the challenges of working with the Chinese government. The book provides valuable insights into the intersection of culture, politics, and commerce.


On Amazon




Ashlee Vance's biography of Elon Musk offers an intimate portrait of one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in technology and entrepreneurship. Vance explores Musk's ambitious endeavors, from Tesla and SpaceX to SolarCity and beyond. This book provides a deep dive into Musk's relentless pursuit of revolutionary innovations.


“If the rules are such that you can’t make progress, then you have to fight the rules.”― Ashlee Vance, Elon Musk: Inventing the Future




"Superforecasting" by Philip Tetlock sheds light on the world of expert prediction and forecasting. Tetlock explores how some individuals, known as "superforecasters," consistently outperform others in predicting future events. This thought-provoking book delves into the methods and habits of these exceptional predictors and offers lessons on improving decision-making.


“For superforecasters, beliefs are hypotheses to be tested, not treasures to be guarded.”― Philip Tetlock, Superforecasting: The Art and Science of Prediction




"The Almanack of Naval Ravikant" compiles the wisdom and insights of entrepreneur and angel investor Naval Ravikant. Eric Jorgenson curates Ravikant's thoughts on startups, investing, happiness, and success. This almanac serves as a valuable resource for those seeking guidance on entrepreneurship and life.


“The reality is life is a single-player game. You’re born alone. You’re going to die alone. All of your interpretations are alone. All your memories are alone. You’re gone in three generations, and nobody cares. Before you showed up, nobody cared. It’s all single player.”― Eric Jorgenson, The Almanack of Naval Ravikant: A Guide to Wealth and Happiness




"When Breath Becomes Air" is a poignant memoir by Paul Kalanithi, a neurosurgeon diagnosed with terminal cancer. Kalanithi reflects on life, death, and the pursuit of meaning in the face of mortality. His introspective journey offers profound lessons on the human experience and the importance of living with purpose.


“Human knowledge is never contained in one person. It grows from the relationships we create between each other and the world, and still it is never complete.”― Paul Kalanithi, When Breath Becomes Air




Henry M. Paulson's "Dealing with China" provides an insider's perspective on the economic and political dynamics between the United States and China. Drawing from his experiences as U.S. Treasury Secretary and interactions with Chinese leaders, Paulson offers insights into the challenges and opportunities of engaging with China on the global stage.





"The Courage to Be Disliked" presents a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man seeking happiness and self-fulfillment. This book draws on the teachings of Alfred Adler, offering a fresh perspective on personal growth, relationships, and overcoming life's challenges. It encourages readers to embrace their individuality and find the courage to pursue their own path to contentment.


“The fact that there are people who do not think well of you is proof that you are living in freedom.”― Ichiro Kishimi, The Courage to Be Disliked: How to Free Yourself, Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness




Michael Lewis's "The Undoing Project" delves into the fascinating collaboration between psychologists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, whose work revolutionized our understanding of decision-making and human behavior. Lewis explores their groundbreaking research on cognitive biases and heuristics, shedding light on the intricacies of the human mind and its impact on our choices.


“When you are a pessimist and the bad thing happens, you live it twice, Amos”― Michael Lewis, The Undoing Project: A Friendship that Changed the World




"Die With Zero" by Bill Perkins challenges conventional wisdom about wealth and retirement. Perkins encourages readers to rethink their financial priorities and make the most of their resources during their lifetime. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on living life to the fullest and redefining financial success.


“What Good Is Wealth Without Health?”― Bill Perkins, Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life




"The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason imparts timeless financial wisdom through parables set in ancient Babylon. The book explores fundamental principles of personal finance, such as saving, investing, and managing money wisely. Clason's storytelling approach makes these lessons accessible and applicable to readers of all backgrounds.


“Advice is one thing that is freely given away, but watch that you only take what is worth having.”― George Clason, The Richest Man in Babylon




"Algorithms to Live By" explores the intersection of computer science and everyday life. Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths examine how algorithms and decision-making strategies can be applied to various aspects of life, from finding the perfect parking spot to making career choices. This book offers practical insights for optimizing decision-making and problem-solving.


“Even the best strategy sometimes yields bad results—which is why computer scientists take care to distinguish between “process” and “outcome.” If you followed the best possible process, then you’ve done all you can, and you shouldn’t blame yourself if things didn’t go your way.”― Brian Christian, Algorithms to Live By: The Computer Science of Human Decisions




Robert T. Kiyosaki's "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" challenges conventional notions about wealth and financial education. The book contrasts the financial philosophies of two father figures: one focused on traditional job security (Poor Dad) and the other on building assets and financial independence (Rich Dad). Kiyosaki's lessons on assets, liabilities, and passive income have inspired readers to rethink their approach to money.


“In school we learn that mistakes are bad, and we are punished for making them. Yet, if you look at the way humans are designed to learn, we learn by making mistakes. We learn to walk by falling down. If we never fell down, we would never walk.”― Robert T. Kiyosaki, Rich Dad, Poor Dad



 


If you enjoyed these book recommendations, check out more similar list on my on my blog — https://www.honbasicbooks.com/nonfiction


These 25 nonfiction books, recommended by Dave Ramsey, cover a wide spectrum of personal development, financial success, and leadership topics.


Each book offers unique insights and actionable advice, making them valuable resources for anyone seeking to enhance their lives, achieve financial success, and pursue personal growth.


Dive into these books and embark on a transformative journey of learning and self-improvement!

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