Morgan Housel Book Recommendations

In his characteristic style, Bryson takes readers on a tour of the human body, blending science, history, and humor. The book explores various bodily systems, diseases, and medical breakthroughs, offering fascinating insights into how our bodies function. Bryson's accessible writing makes complex biological concepts engaging for a general audience.

Bryson focuses on the summer of 1927 in America, a period of remarkable events and cultural shifts. The book covers topics ranging from Charles Lindbergh's transatlantic flight to Babe Ruth's record-breaking season, weaving together various narratives to paint a vivid picture of a transformative time in American history.

The final volume of Atkinson's Liberation Trilogy focuses on the Western European theatre of World War II from D-Day to V-E Day. The book provides a comprehensive account of the Allied campaign to liberate Europe, blending strategic analysis with personal stories of soldiers and civilians. Atkinson's work offers a vivid portrayal of the war's final, decisive phase.

This biography offers an intimate look at the life of comedian Robin Williams. Itzkoff traces Williams' journey from childhood to his rise in comedy, exploring his creative process, relationships, and inner turmoil. Drawing on extensive interviews, the author paints a nuanced portrait of a complex artist whose brilliance and vulnerability touched millions. The book celebrates Williams' talent while exploring the challenges he faced.

This first volume of Atkinson's Revolution Trilogy provides a detailed account of the early years of the American Revolution. The book offers a balanced perspective, presenting both the American and British viewpoints. Atkinson's narrative brings to life the key figures and pivotal events that shaped the conflict's initial stages.

Kurson recounts the story of Apollo 8, the first manned mission to orbit the moon. The book provides a detailed account of the mission's planning, execution, and the personal stories of the astronauts involved. Kurson captures the tension, innovation, and human drama behind this historic achievement in space exploration, set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1960s.

Thomas, a diagnosed sociopath, provides a rare insider's view of living with this personality disorder. The book explores the author's experiences navigating personal relationships, professional life, and societal norms while lacking empathy. Thomas offers insights into the sociopathic mind, challenging readers' preconceptions and raising questions about the nature of morality and social behavior.

Maggiulli challenges conventional financial wisdom and presents a straightforward approach to building wealth. The book focuses on the power of consistent investing and explores various aspects of personal finance, including savings strategies, asset allocation, and retirement planning. Using data-driven insights, Maggiulli offers practical advice for investors at all levels.

This book offers a unique perspective on investing by focusing on the psychological aspects of financial loss. Paul shares his personal story of rising to success in the commodity markets, only to lose everything due to emotional decision-making. The authors analyze the mental traps that lead to poor investment choices and provide strategies for developing a more disciplined approach to risk management.

Armstrong offers an in-depth look at the creation, production, and cultural impact of the television show "Seinfeld." The book explores the show's origins, its unique approach to comedy, and the creative process behind its most memorable episodes. Armstrong examines how "Seinfeld" influenced popular culture and television comedy, creating a devoted fan base and a lasting legacy.

Junger explores the concept of freedom through the lens of human history, psychology, and personal experience. The book examines how societies balance individual liberty with collective responsibility, drawing connections between prehistoric human behavior and modern social structures. Junger's narrative combines anthropological insights with compelling storytelling to probe the essence of what it means to be free.

Winik focuses on the pivotal month at the end of the American Civil War. The book examines the dramatic events surrounding Lee's surrender to Grant, Lincoln's assassination, and the challenges of reuniting a divided nation. Winik's narrative highlights the decisions made by key figures during this critical period and their lasting impact on American history.

Pressfield offers candid advice for writers and creators, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting the audience. Drawing from his experiences in advertising, screenwriting, and novel writing, he provides insights into crafting compelling narratives across various mediums. The book combines practical tips with motivational guidance, encouraging writers to overcome self-doubt and produce work that truly engages readers.

Oshinsky's Pulitzer Prize-winning book presents America's battle against polio in the mid-20th century. It traces the disease's impact, the rivalry between scientists Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin in developing a vaccine, and the largest public health experiment in U.S. history. The author skillfully combines scientific discovery, political maneuvering, and social history, revealing how the fight against polio transformed medical research, public health policies, and philanthropy.

This book compiles essays from 25 financial experts, revealing their personal investment strategies. The authors provide diverse perspectives on saving, spending, and investing, offering readers insights into how financial professionals manage their own money. The book emphasizes the importance of aligning investment decisions with personal values and life goals.

Roth's diary, written during the Great Depression, provides a firsthand account of the economic collapse and its impact on everyday Americans. The book offers unique insights into the financial, social, and emotional toll of the era, chronicling the author's observations as a lawyer in Youngstown, Ohio. Roth's reflections on economic cycles, investment strategies, and human nature during crisis remain relevant for modern readers.

Brinkley chronicles the ambitious journey that led to the Apollo 11 moon landing. The book traces the space race from its Cold War origins to the triumphant lunar mission, focusing on key figures like John F. Kennedy and Wernher von Braun. Brinkley explores the political, scientific, and cultural aspects of this monumental achievement in American history.

Kurson tells the remarkable story of Mike May, a man who regained his sight after being blind for 43 years. The book explores the physical and psychological challenges May faced as he adjusted to a visual world. Kurson delves into the neuroscience of vision while presenting a compelling human interest story about adaptation and perseverance.

Soros, a legendary investor, shares his theory of reflexivity and its application to financial markets. The book combines philosophical concepts with practical investing strategies, offering readers a unique perspective on market behavior. Soros explains his approach to risk management and decision-making, providing valuable insights for both professional investors and those interested in understanding global economic forces.

Graham, known as the father of value investing, provides a guide to understanding and analyzing financial statements. The book offers clear explanations of balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, teaching readers how to assess a company's financial health. Graham's work remains a fundamental resource for investors seeking to make informed decisions based on financial data.

This book chronicles the rise and fall of Bill Gross, the legendary founder of PIMCO and one of the most influential figures in the bond market. Childs delves into Gross's innovative investment strategies, his domination of the bond market, and the personal eccentricities that ultimately led to his dramatic exit from PIMCO. The narrative offers a compelling look at the inner workings of Wall Street and the psychology of high-stakes investing.

Gigerenzer explores how people can make better decisions in an uncertain world. The book challenges traditional notions of risk assessment and argues for the importance of statistical literacy. Gigerenzer provides practical tools for understanding and managing risk in various aspects of life, from healthcare to finance.

Dawson's book explores the pursuit of a simpler, more meaningful existence in the face of modern complexity. Written in the early 20th century, it offers timeless reflections on the benefits of living with less and finding contentment in simplicity. The author shares personal experiences and philosophical insights, encouraging readers to reassess their priorities and find greater fulfillment through a more streamlined approach to life.

Anbinder presents a comprehensive history of immigration to New York City, from its Dutch colonial beginnings to the present day. The book explores how successive waves of immigrants shaped the city's culture, economy, and politics. Through personal stories and broader historical analysis, Anbinder illustrates the challenges and contributions of various immigrant groups in creating one of the world's most diverse and dynamic cities.

This book chronicles the rise of American industrial capitalism from the 1890s to the 1930s, focusing on financial titans like J.P. Morgan, John D. Rockefeller, and Andrew Carnegie. Allen explores how these figures built vast corporate empires and amassed unprecedented wealth, examining the economic, social, and political consequences of this concentration of power. The narrative provides insight into a transformative period that laid the groundwork for modern corporate America.

Based on articles from the Priceonomics blog, this book challenges conventional wisdom about various aspects of modern life. Using data analysis and economic principles, the authors debunk popular myths and reveal counterintuitive realities in business, technology, culture, and politics. With humor and research, the book encourages critical thinking about societal norms and practices, offering data-driven insights into everyday issues.

Staniforth, a professional magician, shares his journey of rediscovering wonder and meaning in his craft. The book follows his travels from the American Midwest to rural India, exploring the nature of illusion and the power of amazement. Staniforth's memoir offers reflections on the role of magic in the modern world and the human need for mystery and astonishment.

Winik presents a global history of the tumultuous period from 1788 to 1800, connecting events in America, France, and Russia. The book explores how these nations grappled with revolutionary ideas and societal changes, offering a comparative analysis of their distinct paths. Winik's work provides a broad perspective on a crucial period that shaped modern political and social structures.

Katsenelson offers a unique blend of investment wisdom and life philosophy. The book explores how to navigate the complexities of the financial markets while maintaining personal integrity and finding meaning in one's work. Drawing from his experiences as an investor and life lessons, Katsenelson provides insights on decision-making, critical thinking, and maintaining a balanced perspective in both finance and life.

Mahar's book offers a critical examination of the stock market boom of the 1990s. She explores the factors that led to the bull market, including technological advancements, changes in financial regulations, and shifting investor psychology. The author provides insights into the roles played by Wall Street analysts, the media, and individual investors in fueling the market's rise and ultimate decline.

This biography chronicles the life of legendary stock trader Jesse Livermore. Rubython details Livermore's remarkable journey from a poor farm boy to one of Wall Street's most famous speculators. The book explores Livermore's trading strategies, his dramatic financial successes and failures, and the personal demons that plagued him, providing a cautionary tale about the risks and rewards of financial speculation.

Last examines America's declining birth rate and its potential consequences, arguing that the U.S. is heading toward a demographic crisis. He explores factors contributing to this trend, including economic pressures, changing social norms, and birth control advances. The book discusses potential long-term impacts on economic growth, innovation, and social programs, challenging readers to consider the broader implications of reproductive choices and societal attitudes toward family formation.

Bernstein examines the factors that led to the unprecedented economic growth of the modern era. He identifies four critical elements: property rights, scientific rationalism, capital markets, and efficient communication and transportation. The book explores how these factors converged to create wealth and improve living standards, offering insights into the historical roots of economic prosperity and its implications for the future.

McLean investigates the state of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The book examines the complex history of these government-sponsored enterprises, their role in the housing market, and the ongoing debates about their future. McLean offers a nuanced look at the intersection of politics, finance, and housing policy in America.

Gilbert's comprehensive work offers a sweeping overview of the tumultuous 20th century. The book covers major events, technological advancements, and societal changes that shaped the modern world. Gilbert's narrative spans global conflicts, political upheavals, scientific breakthroughs, and cultural movements, providing readers with a broad understanding of the forces that defined the century.

Seides delves into the world of institutional investing, drawing on interviews with leading chief investment officers. The book explores the strategies, decision-making processes, and challenges faced by those managing large pools of capital. Seides provides valuable insights into portfolio construction, manager selection, and the evolving landscape of institutional investment management.

Allen's book provides a social and economic history of the 1930s in America, chronicling the nation's journey through the Great Depression. The author examines cultural trends, technological advancements, and political developments that shaped the decade. Allen's work offers valuable insights into how Americans adapted to economic hardship and the societal changes that emerged during this transformative period.

This autobiography of notorious bank robber Willie Sutton provides a firsthand account of his criminal career and life on the run. Sutton shares insights into his methods, motivations, and the cat-and-mouse game he played with law enforcement. The book offers a unique perspective on crime and punishment in mid-20th century America.

Lazaroff provides a straightforward guide to personal finance and investing. The book offers practical advice on budgeting, saving, and building long-term wealth, emphasizing the importance of developing good financial habits. Lazaroff breaks down complex financial concepts into easily understandable terms, helping readers create a solid foundation for their financial future.

Allen's classic work offers a vivid social history of the 1920s in America. The book captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, exploring cultural shifts, economic boom, and technological innovations that characterized the decade. Allen's engaging narrative style brings to life the era's significant events and societal changes, providing valuable context for understanding modern American culture.

O'Brien presents a comprehensive biography of the 35th U.S. President, examining Kennedy's personal life, political career, and lasting impact on American history. The book delves into Kennedy's privileged upbringing, wartime experiences, and rise to political prominence. O'Brien offers a balanced portrayal, exploring both Kennedy's charismatic leadership and personal flaws, while analyzing his presidency's significant events and enduring legacy.