Here are 10 books recommended by Bill Gates, along with a brief description of each. These books reflect Bill Gates’ wide-ranging interests in history, science, technology, personal development, and global issues.
1. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
by Yuval Noah Harari
A thought-provoking exploration of the history of humanity, covering how we evolved from hunter-gatherers to dominating the planet.
2. The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined
by Steven Pinker
Pinker argues that, contrary to popular belief, violence has been in steady decline throughout human history, thanks to the forces of civilization.
3. The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
A classic novel about teenage rebellion and the challenges of growing up, centered on the protagonist, Holden Caulfield.
4. The Road to Character
by David Brooks
Brooks reflects on the importance of developing inner character and humility in a world that often prioritizes external success.
5. How to Avoid a Climate Disaster
by Bill Gates
In this book, Gates presents a practical and comprehensive plan for how the world can avoid a climate catastrophe, with actionable steps for achieving zero carbon emissions.
6. The Gene: An Intimate History
by Siddhartha Mukherjee
A fascinating exploration of the history and science of genetics, combined with personal stories about the implications of gene research.
7. Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World—and Why Things Are Better Than You Think
by Hans Rosling
This optimistic book uses data to debunk common misconceptions about the state of the world, showing that, in many ways, things are improving.
8. Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
by Steven Pinker
Pinker champions the power of enlightenment values like reason, science, and progress, arguing that these ideals have led to great advancements in human welfare.
9. Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from the World of Wall Street
by John Brooks
A collection of stories about significant events in business history, offering lessons on success, failure, and innovation in the corporate world.
10. The Rosie Project
by Graeme Simsion
A heartwarming and humorous novel about a socially awkward professor who creates a scientific plan to find a wife, only to discover love doesn’t follow formulas.
