Sign up to receive updates on free business books and stay informed with a myFT Daily Digest email that provides the latest business books news every morning. While the holidays are typically a time for leisurely activities like reading detective novels or award-winning books, it’s worth setting aside a portion of your reading time for more serious content. One book that I highly recommend is “Happy High Status: How to Be Effortlessly Confident” by Viv Groskop, which will be released on June 29. This book offers a fresh perspective on confidence and self-perception, and it has garnered positive reviews from myself and many of my friends who found Groskop’s previous book, “How to Own the Room: Women and the Art of Brilliant Speaking,” incredibly useful. I anticipate that her new book will be equally insightful and empowering.
As a dedicated reader of FT Money, I know that you’re also interested in financial self-advancement. Fortunately, there is no shortage of options in this realm. “What They Don’t Teach You About Money” by FT consumer editor Claer Barrett is a standout among the many personal finance books available. Unlike other books that state the obvious, Barrett’s book offers eloquent insights and practical advice that is highly engaging, especially for beginners. Another highly recommended book is “The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed and Happiness” by Morgan Housel. This book has remained on the bestseller lists since its publication in 2020 and for good reason. Housel’s stories about how individuals handle financial situations differently and the far-reaching consequences are truly captivating. For those interested in a more critical examination of the finance and investment industry, “Our Lives in Their Portfolios: Why Asset Managers Own the World” by Brett Christophers is a thought-provoking choice. While it may require some initial effort to read, once your mind is refreshed, you’ll appreciate Christophers’ insightful analysis of an industry that often prioritizes its own gains over the well-being of investors.
If you’re looking to expand your knowledge on current pressing issues, I recommend “Material World: A Substantial Story of Our Past and Future” by Ed Conway. This book explores our increasing reliance on raw materials such as sand, salt, iron, copper, oil, and lithium – substances that have played pivotal roles throughout human history. It’s a reminder that much of the essential resources we depend on are sourced from distant places and often go unnoticed. Reading this book may even inspire you to consider investing in a commodity fund.
According to a survey by polling group Ipsos, inflation remains a significant concern worldwide. Though you may be vacationing in a location with higher inflation rates than the UK, such as Turkey with its 40% rate, there are still reasons to be cautious about the UK’s inflation situation. “We Need to Talk About Inflation: 14 Urgent Lessons from the Last 2,000 Years” by Stephen D King is a book that I believe will resonate with readers interested in the topic of inflation. It combines engaging storytelling with valuable insights, discussing the author’s personal experiences with inflation and its effects. From his childhood ventures as a bookseller in the 1970s to witnessing the hoarding of washing machines in 1990s Istanbul, King covers a wide range of historical examples, including rulers like the Romans and Henry VIII who manipulated coinage. The book is not only appealing to those concerned about the rising cost of living but also serves as essential reading for economic policymakers everywhere.
For those seeking unconventional reads that provide deeper insights into money matters, “Crassus: The First Tycoon” by Peter Stothard is an intriguing biography of ancient Rome’s wealthiest individual. Stothard skillfully explores the interplay of money, ambition, and power, drawing parallel lessons from history to our contemporary world. The biography serves as a cautionary tale against overspending on unnecessary luxuries and offers plenty of thought-provoking themes to ponder.
If you’re looking for a fictional piece that delves into money-related issues, I highly recommend “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver, winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. This novel reimagines Charles Dickens’ “David Copperfield” and follows a young boy’s journey to overcome difficult circumstances and take control of his destiny. It tackles topics like child poverty and criticizes the practices of Big Pharma. Although it addresses weighty subjects, it is ultimately a comforting and inspiring read that reminds us we can be the heroes of our own lives despite financial challenges.
Take advantage of your summer reading time to explore these intellectually stimulating books. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, financial insights, or a deeper understanding of societal issues, these recommendations have something to offer. Enjoy your reading!
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