If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to step into the glamorous world of the ultra-wealthy, look no further than these 20 captivating books about rich people. From mesmerizing memoirs to thrilling works of fiction, each page offers a tantalizing glimpse into the lives of those who have it all. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, escapism, or simply a good story, these rich people books will transport you into a world of opulence, ambition, and intrigue.
Contents
- 1 Crazy Rich Asians
- 2 The Great Gatsby
- 3 The Millionaire Next Door
- 4 The Big Short
- 5 The Secret History of the American Empire
- 6 The Wealthy Barber
- 7 The House of Rothschild: Money’s Prophets
- 8 The Richest Man in Babylon
- 9 The Wolf of Wall Street
- 10 The Devil’s Casino: Friendship, Betrayal, and the High Stakes Games Played Inside Lehman Brothers
- 11 The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success
- 12 The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
- 13 The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess
- 14 The High-Beta Rich: How the Manic Wealthy Will Take Us to the Next Boom, Bubble, and Bust
- 15 The Last Tycoons: The Secret History of Lazard Frères & Co.
- 16 The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron
- 17 The Billionaire’s Vinegar: The Mystery of the World’s Most Expensive Bottle of Wine
- 18 The King of Oil: The Secret Lives of Marc Rich
- 19 The Big Rich: The Rise and Fall of the Greatest Texas Oil Fortunes
- 20 The Tycoons: How Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, Jay Gould, and J.P. Morgan Invented the American Supereconomy
- 21 Conclusion
Crazy Rich Asians
by Kevin Kwan
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan is the ultimate page-turner for anyone who has ever been fascinated by the extravagant lives of the elite. This sensational book takes you on a wild ride into the glamorous world of the super wealthy, where money is no object and opulence knows no bounds.
Prepare to be whisked away into a realm of unimaginable wealth, where sprawling mansions, private jets, and couture fashion are the norm. Kwan paints a vivid picture of the lives of the ultra-rich, immersing you in a world where excess is celebrated and status is everything.
But amidst all the glitz and glamour, Crazy Rich Asians also delves into the complexities of family, love, and identity. The story follows Rachel Chu, an intelligent and down-to-earth economics professor from New York, as she accompanies her boyfriend, Nick Young, to his hometown of Singapore for his best friend’s wedding. Little does she know, she is about to step into a world unlike anything she has ever experienced.
As Rachel navigates the treacherous waters of high society, she must contend with jealous socialites, meddling relatives, and a disapproving mother who believes Rachel isn’t worthy of her son’s affections. It’s a captivating tale of love and loyalty set against a backdrop of unimaginable wealth.
Cleverly blending humor, intrigue, and jaw-dropping extravagance, Crazy Rich Asians is a deliciously addictive novel that will leave you both envious and entertained. So, if you’re ready for a thrilling escape into a world of unimaginable luxury, this is the book for you.
The Great Gatsby
by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby is a mesmerizing tale that delves into the opulent lives of the affluent and privileged. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece, often hailed as a quintessential American novel, is a captivating blend of love, wealth, and tragedy.
The Millionaire Next Door
by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko
The Millionaire Next Door is a captivating book on affluent individuals, shedding light on the secret lives of the wealthy. Written by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko, this thought-provoking masterpiece unveils the truth about those who have accumulated immense wealth without flashy lifestyles or extravagant spending habits.
If you’ve ever wondered what sets these prosperous individuals apart from the rest of society, this book about rich people will provide you with invaluable insights. Through their meticulous research, the authors reveal that the average millionaire does not flaunt their wealth through designer clothes, luxury cars, or opulent mansions. Instead, they live modestly, saving and investing wisely to secure their financial future.
Forget everything you thought you knew about millionaires – this rich people book takes you on a journey into the lives of self-made individuals who have mastered the art of building wealth. By debunking common myths and misconceptions, Stanley and Danko demonstrate that anyone can amass significant wealth with discipline, frugality, and a solid understanding of financial matters.
So, if you’re eager to tap into the mindset of the rich and learn their secrets to success, The Millionaire Next Door is a must-read. This eye-opening book will challenge your preconceptions about wealth and inspire you to take control of your financial future. Get ready to discover the hidden world of the affluent and uncover the path to becoming the millionaire next door.
The Big Short
by Michael Lewis
The Big Short, written by Michael Lewis, is a captivating book about the world of finance and the fascinating individuals who profit from it. Dubbed as a ‘book on rich people,’ it delves into the lives of those who navigate the complex and sometimes volatile world of Wall Street.
The Secret History of the American Empire
by John Perkins
The Secret History of the American Empire is a captivating book about the hidden workings of the wealthiest individuals in our society. It’s not just another book on rich people; it’s an eye-opening exploration of the mechanisms and strategies employed by those who hold immense power and influence.
The Wealthy Barber
by David Chilton
The Wealthy Barber, written by David Chilton, is a must-read book for anyone seeking financial wisdom and practical advice on managing their money. This captivating book on affluent individuals, or ‘rich people’ as some would say, provides readers with a unique perspective on personal finance and wealth building.
The House of Rothschild: Money’s Prophets
by Niall Ferguson
Niall Ferguson’s captivating book, The House of Rothschild: Money’s Prophets, is a riveting exploration into the lives and influence of one of history’s most powerful and enigmatic dynasties. Far more than just a book about rich people, this meticulously researched masterpiece unveils the fascinating story of the Rothschild family, revealing how they amassed and wielded immense wealth throughout the 19th century.
The Richest Man in Babylon
by George S. Clason
The Richest Man in Babylon is a captivating book on the world of wealth and prosperity. Set in ancient Babylon, this timeless classic by George S. Clason takes readers on a journey through the lives of ordinary individuals seeking financial success.
Though it may be described as a ‘book on rich people,’ it is much more than that. It is a book about the principles and strategies that rich people have used throughout history to build and sustain their wealth. It uncovers the secrets of accumulating riches and provides invaluable lessons on managing money wisely.
Through a series of engaging stories and parables, Clason shares his wisdom in a way that is both entertaining and enlightening. The book explores various topics such as saving, investing, budgeting, and acquiring wealth, all while weaving in the rich tapestry of Babylonian culture.
Indeed, The Richest Man in Babylon is a ‘rich people book’ that reveals the timeless principles of financial success. It teaches us that anyone, regardless of their current circumstances, can achieve prosperity by following the proven paths to wealth. So, if you are seeking to unlock the secrets of financial freedom, this book is a must-read. It will inspire and empower you to take control of your financial destiny and become the architect of your own fortune.
The Wolf of Wall Street
by Jordan Belfort
The Wolf of Wall Street: A Riveting Tale of Excess and Deception
Step into the world of high finance and unbridled debauchery as Jordan Belfort, a charismatic and cunning stockbroker, takes you on a wild ride through his memoir, The Wolf of Wall Street. This captivating book delves into the lives of the affluent, the well-heeled, and the opulent, offering a glimpse into a world that is simultaneously mesmerizing and repulsive.
The Wolf of Wall Street is far more than just another book about rich people. It is a window into the unscrupulous excesses of Wall Street, where money flows like a river and ethics often take a backseat. Through Belfort’s exhilarating narrative, we witness his meteoric rise from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most influential figures in the financial world.
While the book is undoubtedly a captivating tale of success, it also exposes the darker side of wealth, power, and temptation. Belfort’s relentless pursuit of money and indulgence leads him down a treacherous path, riddled with drugs, sex, and illegal schemes. The book’s unflinching honesty compels readers to question the morality of a society that idolizes the wealthy while turning a blind eye to their unscrupulous actions.
In The Wolf of Wall Street, Belfort’s prose is laced with dark humor, sharp wit, and a raw authenticity that brings his story to life. As we navigate the labyrinth of Belfort’s mind, we are simultaneously fascinated and repulsed by his audacious exploits. He pulls no punches, sharing both the triumphant moments and the devastating consequences of his actions.
So, if you’re seeking an enthralling read that goes beyond the surface-level glamour and glitz, The Wolf of Wall Street is the book for you. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions, as you witness the rise and fall of a man who had it all, only to lose himself in a world where excess knows no bounds.
The Devil’s Casino: Friendship, Betrayal, and the High Stakes Games Played Inside Lehman Brothers
by Vicky Ward
The Devil’s Casino is an enthralling exploration of the cutthroat world of high finance, where the lives of the wealthiest individuals hang in the balance. Vicky Ward takes us on a gripping journey through the corridors of power within Lehman Brothers, one of the most powerful investment banks in history.
This captivating book delves into the dark underbelly of the financial elite, exposing their friendships, betrayals, and the high-stakes games they play. Ward offers an inside look at the intricate web of relationships that exist within this world of opulence and excess, revealing the true nature of those who inhabit it.
With her meticulous research and sharp storytelling skills, Ward paints a vivid portrait of the ruthless and ambitious individuals who shape the global economy. She exposes the greed, manipulation, and moral bankruptcy that often accompany wealth and power, leaving readers both fascinated and repulsed by this glimpse into the lives of the affluent.
For anyone seeking a thrilling and eye-opening read, The Devil’s Casino is the perfect choice. This book about rich people provides an insider’s perspective on the complex dynamics and questionable ethics that pervade the world of high finance. Whether you’re intrigued by the lives of the wealthy or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our economy, this rich people book is a must-read.
The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success
by William N. Thorndike
The Outsiders: Eight Unconventional CEOs and Their Radically Rational Blueprint for Success by William N. Thorndike is not your typical book about rich people. It delves deep into the lives and strategies of eight highly successful and unconventional CEOs, offering a refreshing perspective on what it takes to achieve remarkable success in the business world.
Instead of focusing on flashy personalities and extravagant lifestyles, Thorndike examines the rational and strategic decision-making processes that these CEOs used to transform their companies and generate exceptional returns for their shareholders. Through extensive research and interviews, he uncovers the hidden secrets behind their success, shedding light on the unorthodox approaches they took to build their empires.
This rich people book presents a radical blueprint for success that challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think differently about business. By studying the mindset and strategies of these extraordinary CEOs, readers can gain valuable insights into how to make smart, calculated decisions that drive long-term growth and create sustainable value.
Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business professional, or simply curious about the inner workings of successful companies, The Outsiders provides a captivating and thought-provoking read. It offers a unique perspective on what it truly means to be successful in the business world and proves that being unconventional can often be the key to achieving extraordinary results.
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon
by Brad Stone
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon by Brad Stone is not just another book about rich people. It is a captivating journey into the mind of one of the most influential and ambitious entrepreneurs of our time. This rich people book takes readers behind the scenes of Amazon, the online retail giant that has forever changed the way we shop.
The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess
by Turney Duff
The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess is a captivating rollercoaster ride through the extravagant world of high finance. This book on wealthy individuals provides a rare glimpse into the lives of the affluent, exploring their opulent lifestyles and the immense power they wield.
With an unfiltered narrative, Turney Duff, a former Wall Street trader, takes us behind the scenes of one of the most exclusive clubs in the world. His gripping account of his rise to success and subsequent fall from grace exposes the dark underbelly of the financial industry.
In this book about affluent individuals, Duff delves into the excesses of wealth, painting a vivid picture of the lavish parties, luxury cars, and extravagant vacations that define the lives of the rich and powerful. He navigates the elite social circles, rubbing shoulders with billionaires and celebrities, offering readers a tantalizing taste of a lifestyle many can only dream of.
However, beneath the glitz and glamour, Duff reveals the ugly truth about the pursuit of wealth at any cost. He exposes the corrosive effects of greed and addiction that permeate Wall Street, ultimately leading to his own personal downfall.
This rich people book provides a cautionary tale, shedding light on the consequences of unchecked ambition and the moral compromises that can come with immense wealth. It serves as a stark reminder that money does not guarantee happiness or fulfillment, and that sometimes the price of success can be too high.
The Buy Side is a gripping memoir that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Duff’s frank and unapologetic storytelling style pulls back the curtain on the world of the rich and powerful, offering a fascinating and thought-provoking exploration of the human cost of pursuing the “American Dream.”
The High-Beta Rich: How the Manic Wealthy Will Take Us to the Next Boom, Bubble, and Bust
by Robert Frank
The High-Beta Rich: How the Manic Wealthy Will Take Us to the Next Boom, Bubble, and Bust by Robert Frank is not just another book about rich people. No, it’s much more than that. It’s a thrilling exploration into the lives of the high-beta rich, those individuals who possess an insatiable hunger for risk and a relentless pursuit of wealth.
In this captivating read, Frank delves into the world of the super-rich, revealing their extravagant lifestyles, their unorthodox investment strategies, and their undeniable impact on our global economy. But what sets this book apart is its focus on the high-beta rich, those who are willing to take risks that could lead to immense success or catastrophic failure.
Through vivid storytelling and in-depth analysis, Frank uncovers the patterns and behaviors of these individuals, showcasing their influence on financial markets, real estate, art, and even philanthropy. With each chapter, he skillfully navigates through the highs and lows of the high-beta rich, painting a captivating picture of their relentless pursuit of wealth.
But don’t be mistaken, this book is not a glorification of the high-beta rich. Rather, it serves as a cautionary tale, warning of the potential dangers that their actions can have on the global economy. Frank argues that their manic behavior can fuel booms, create bubbles, and ultimately lead to devastating busts.
So, if you’re looking for a gripping read that goes beyond a mere exploration of rich people, then The High-Beta Rich is the book for you. Get ready to be enthralled by the mesmerizing world of the high-beta rich and discover how their actions can shape the future of our economy.
The Last Tycoons: The Secret History of Lazard Frères & Co.
by William D. Cohan
The Last Tycoons: The Secret History of Lazard Frères & Co. by William D. Cohan is a captivating book that delves into the intriguing world of high finance and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the wealthy elite. This gripping book on rich people takes readers on a thrilling journey through the history of Lazard Frères & Co., one of the most powerful and influential investment banks in the world.
The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron
by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind
The Smartest Guys in the Room: The Amazing Rise and Scandalous Fall of Enron, written by Bethany McLean and Peter Elkind, is a captivating book that delves into the fascinating world of corporate greed and deception. If you’re looking for a gripping read about affluent individuals and their downfall, this is the perfect book for you.
The Billionaire’s Vinegar: The Mystery of the World’s Most Expensive Bottle of Wine
by Benjamin Wallace
The Billionaire’s Vinegar: The Mystery of the World’s Most Expensive Bottle of Wine by Benjamin Wallace is not just your ordinary book about rich people. It is a fascinating journey into the luxurious and secretive world of the elite, where fortunes are made and lost over a single bottle of wine.
This captivating book unravels the incredible story behind a bottle of wine that shattered records and captivated the attention of the wealthiest collectors in the world. The book takes you on a rollercoaster ride through history, as you discover the intricacies of the wine market, the eccentricities of the super-rich, and the lengths people will go to own a piece of liquid history.
Wallace delves into the tale of a bottle of 1787 Château Lafite Bordeaux, supposedly owned by Thomas Jefferson himself. The bottle, adorned with the initials “Th. J.” was purchased by billionaire collector Bill Koch for a staggering $156,000. However, as the story unfolds, doubts begin to emerge about the authenticity of the wine, sending shockwaves through the wine world.
With meticulous research and a flair for storytelling, Wallace takes you on a journey that spans centuries, from the cellars of European vineyards to the opulent auctions of New York City. Along the way, you meet a cast of characters that are as fascinating as they are wealthy, including eccentric collectors, conniving fraudsters, and passionate wine enthusiasts.
The Billionaire’s Vinegar is not just a book about rich people; it is a captivating tale of obsession, deception, and the allure of the extraordinary. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply intrigued by the lives of the super-rich, this book will keep you turning the pages, eager to uncover the truth behind the world’s most expensive bottle of wine.
The King of Oil: The Secret Lives of Marc Rich
by Daniel Ammann
The King of Oil: The Secret Lives of Marc Rich by Daniel Ammann is not just another run-of-the-mill book about rich people. It is a captivating and revealing account of the life of one of the most enigmatic and controversial figures in the world of finance.
Prepare to be swept away into a world of opulence, power, and intrigue as Ammann delves deep into the life of Marc Rich, the ultimate ‘kingpin’ of the oil industry. With meticulous research and a flair for storytelling, Ammann takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of Rich’s life, leaving no stone unturned.
From his humble beginnings as the son of a Holocaust survivor to his meteoric rise as a commodities trader, Rich’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. But what sets this book apart from other rich people books is the insight it provides into the darker side of wealth and power.
Ammann paints a vivid picture of Rich’s complex personality, showcasing his unbridled ambition, cunning business tactics, and daring escapades. From evading the clutches of the FBI to striking controversial deals with some of the world’s most despotic regimes, Rich’s life is a fascinating case study in the moral ambiguities of wealth.
However, The King of Oil is more than just a voyeuristic peek into the life of a billionaire. It is a thought-provoking exploration of the ethical dilemmas faced by those who amass great wealth and the consequences of their actions on society at large.
So, if you’re looking for a rich people book that goes beyond the glossy surface and dives deep into the complexities of power and wealth, The King of Oil is a must-read. Get ready to be enthralled by the captivating tale of Marc Rich, the ultimate ‘kingpin’ of the oil industry.
The Big Rich: The Rise and Fall of the Greatest Texas Oil Fortunes
by Bryan Burrough
The Big Rich: The Rise and Fall of the Greatest Texas Oil Fortunes by Bryan Burrough is an enthralling book on the lives of the wealthiest individuals in Texas during the oil boom. Prepare to dive headfirst into a world of opulence, extravagance, and larger-than-life personalities. This captivating book about rich people will take you on a journey through the incredible rise and eventual downfall of the most powerful oil families in Texas.
The Tycoons: How Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, Jay Gould, and J.P. Morgan Invented the American Supereconomy
by Charles R. Morris
The Tycoons: How Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, Jay Gould, and J.P. Morgan Invented the American Supereconomy by Charles R. Morris is not just another book on rich people. It is a captivating exploration of the lives and legacies of four remarkable individuals who played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of American business and finance in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In this riveting account, Morris delves into the extraordinary stories of Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, Jay Gould, and J.P. Morgan, showcasing their immense wealth and influence, but also their complex personalities and controversial actions.
Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Morris unveils the strategies and tactics these titans employed to amass their fortunes, from Carnegie’s mastery of the steel industry to Rockefeller’s domination of the oil industry, and from Gould’s ruthless tactics in the railroad industry to Morgan’s role as the ultimate financier.
But The Tycoons goes beyond a mere book about rich people. It explores the broader societal impact of these industrialists, examining their contributions to economic growth, technological innovation, and philanthropy, as well as the controversies surrounding their monopolistic practices and labor relations.
With its rich historical detail and compelling narrative, The Tycoons offers readers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these larger-than-life figures who shaped America’s supereconomy. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the forces that drove the rise of the American industrial empire.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about rich people provide a captivating glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and powerful. Whether you’re seeking scandalous tales of excess, insightful explorations of wealth disparity, or inspiring stories of self-made success, these books offer a diverse range of narratives that will leave you both entertained and enlightened. So, sit back, relax, and indulge in the opulent world of the rich and famous through the pages of these captivating reads.