10 Best Investing Books to Read in 2025 According to Goodreads Ratings

10 Best Investing Books According to Goodreads (2025 Edition)

Investing can be daunting, especially in an ever-changing financial landscape. Fortunately, a wealth of wisdom is available at your fingertips through books written by some of the greatest minds in finance. Whether you’re a beginner trying to grasp basic concepts or a seasoned investor looking to refine your strategy, reading the right books can make all the difference.

According to thousands of reviews and ratings on Goodreads, here are the 10 best investing books that stand out for their practical insights, timeless strategies, and powerful perspectives.

1. What I Learned About Investing from Darwin by Pulak Prasad

Pulak Prasad draws fascinating parallels between the principles of evolution and successful investing. This book argues that adaptability, patience, and long-term thinking are crucial traits not just for organisms, but for investors too.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how biology can inform financial strategy.

• Emphasizes the importance of “do nothing” in volatile markets.

• Ideal for long-term investors with a philosophical mindset.

Goodreads Rating: 4.5/5

2. Richer, Wiser, Happier by William Green

William Green interviews some of the world’s top investors and distills their wisdom into life lessons. The book blends practical financial advice with philosophical reflections on wealth, happiness, and success.

Key Takeaways:

• Success in investing goes beyond numbers—mindset matters.

• Learn from Ray Dalio, Charlie Munger, and others.

• Offers both investing frameworks and personal development strategies.

Goodreads Rating: 4.4/5

3. The Joys of Compounding by Gautam Baid (Foreword by Guy Spier)

This book is a celebration of lifelong learning and compounding—not just in money but in knowledge and relationships. Gautam Baid introduces readers to value investing with an Indian perspective and global context.

Key Takeaways:

• Combines Eastern wisdom with Western investing principles.

• Advocates for humility, patience, and curiosity.

• Focuses on the long-term benefits of small, consistent improvements.

Goodreads Rating: 4.6/5

4. The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins

Known as one of the most approachable guides to financial independence, this book simplifies investing for the everyday person. JL Collins provides a roadmap to building wealth through low-cost index funds and disciplined saving.

Key Takeaways:

• Focuses on financial freedom through minimalism and simplicity.

• Introduces the “FIRE” (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement.

• Easy-to-follow advice on managing personal finance and investing.

Goodreads Rating: 4.7/5

5. Poor Charlie’s Almanack by Charlie Munger (Expanded Third Edition)

A brilliant compilation of speeches and thoughts by Charlie Munger, Warren Buffett’s right-hand man. This book offers timeless wisdom on decision-making, mental models, and rational thinking in investing.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn to think like a billionaire investor.

• Emphasizes multidisciplinary thinking and lifelong learning.

• Munger’s wit and wisdom make complex ideas accessible.

Goodreads Rating: 4.8/5

6. Invest Like the Best

With over 6,800 ratings, this book compiles the most impactful investment insights from interviews, podcasts, and industry research. It’s less of a narrative and more of a tactical guide for modern investors.

Key Takeaways:

• Diverse range of investing strategies and expert interviews.

• Practical, quick-read sections for busy professionals.

• Covers stocks, ETFs, real estate, and more.

Goodreads Rating: 4.3/5

7. How to Avoid Loss and Earn Consistently in the Stock Market by Prasenjit Paul

An excellent guide for Indian and international investors alike, this book focuses on value investing and common-sense principles to preserve capital and earn consistent returns.

Key Takeaways:

• Clear rules for buying, holding, and selling stocks.

• Simplifies technical jargon for everyday readers.

• Encourages patience and smart risk management.

Goodreads Rating: 4.2/5

8. Margin of Safety by Seth Klarman

This cult classic, though out of print and highly collectible, is considered one of the holy grails of value investing. Klarman discusses risk-averse strategies that emphasize protecting capital above chasing returns.

Key Takeaways:

• Teaches you how to avoid losing money.

• A must-read for contrarian and value investors.

• Often quoted but hard to find—worth every page.

Goodreads Rating: 4.9/5

9. The Most Important Thing by Howard Marks

Howard Marks, co-founder of Oaktree Capital, delivers 20 essential investment insights. This book highlights the subtle skills that separate great investors from average ones.

Key Takeaways:

• Risk assessment is the cornerstone of investing.

• Teaches emotional discipline and second-level thinking.

• Focuses on clarity, not complexity.

Goodreads Rating: 4.7/5

10. Security Analysis by Benjamin Graham & David Dodd

First published in 1934, this foundational text in value investing still holds relevance today. Co-authored by Benjamin Graham, the mentor of Warren Buffett, it emphasizes deep fundamental analysis.

Key Takeaways:

• Essential reading for serious investors.

• In-depth focus on company valuation and financial statements.

• The Bible of value investing for over 90 years.

Goodreads Rating: 4.5/5

Why Reading the Best Investing Books Matters

Reading these best investing books can elevate your mindset, teach you proven strategies, and help you avoid common financial mistakes. Whether you’re managing a retirement portfolio or exploring your first investment, these titles provide a strong foundation.

Benefits of Reading Investing Books:

• Learn from experts with decades of experience.

• Gain frameworks to make better decisions.

• Improve financial literacy and confidence.

• Reduce emotional investing mistakes.

Curate Your Own Investing Library

Investing is a lifelong journey. The more knowledge you accumulate, the better your decisions become. These 10 books aren’t just highly rated on Goodreads—they’re highly actionable in real life.

Start with the title that speaks to your current goals or challenges. With each book, you’ll uncover new tools, insights, and philosophies to help you grow not only your wealth but your wisdom.