The Greatest Books of All Time on Wealth

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

Follow on:

What should I read next?

Get personalized book recommendations based on your reading history and preferences. Our algorithm analyzes your favorite books and reading patterns to suggest your next great read.

Get Recommendations

Genres

Wealth

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Date Range

Filter books by their publication year. Enter the earliest year (Start) and latest year (End) to find books published within that period. Leave either field empty to search from the beginning of time or up to the present day.

Filter

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download
View: List Grid Table
Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
  1. 226. Hu Xueyan by Gao Yang

    The Merchant Prince of the Late Qing Dynasty

    The book tells the story of Hu Xueyan, a prominent Chinese businessman and philanthropist during the late Qing Dynasty. It delves into his rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in China. Through his ventures in banking, medicine, and trade, Hu Xueyan navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing society, facing both opportunities and challenges. The narrative explores themes of ambition, integrity, and the impact of socio-political changes on individual lives, offering a rich portrayal of a man who left a lasting legacy in Chinese history.

    The 15649th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  2. 227. The Mercy Of Allah by Hilaire Belloc

    A Story

    The story is a satirical exploration of wealth, greed, and morality, following the life of a cunning and unscrupulous merchant named Mahmoud. Through a series of clever schemes and manipulations, Mahmoud amasses great fortune while justifying his actions as being under the mercy and will of Allah. The narrative delves into the complexities of human nature and the ethical ambiguities of commerce, ultimately questioning the true cost of material success and the moral compromises made in its pursuit.

    The 15648th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 228. Certain People Of Importance by Kathleen Thompson Norris

    The story revolves around the intertwined lives of several characters in a small town, exploring themes of love, family, and societal expectations. The narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of individuals as they navigate personal and communal challenges. Through vivid character development and intricate plotlines, the book paints a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences, ultimately underscoring the enduring impact of personal connections and the importance of understanding and compassion in forging meaningful bonds.

    The 15651st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 229. Supermoney by George Goodman

    The Story of Power

    In this insightful exploration of the financial world, the author delves into the intricate dynamics of Wall Street, unraveling the complex interplay between money, power, and influence. Through a series of engaging anecdotes and sharp analysis, the narrative unveils the hidden mechanisms that drive the stock market and the enigmatic figures who wield significant control over it. The book offers a captivating glimpse into the world of high finance, demystifying the strategies and mindsets of those who navigate its turbulent waters, while also reflecting on the broader implications of their actions on the economy and society.

    The 15661st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  5. 230. His Children's Children by Arthur Cheney Train

    A Novel of New York Society

    The novel centers on the intertwined lives of a wealthy American family over several generations, exploring themes of legacy, ambition, and societal change. As the family navigates the complexities of maintaining their status and wealth, they face personal and moral dilemmas that challenge their values and relationships. The story delves into the impact of historical events and evolving social norms on the family's fortunes and dynamics, ultimately reflecting on the enduring influence of ancestry and the pursuit of the American Dream.

    The 15671st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  6. 231. A Mad World, My Masters by Thomas Middleton

    A Comedy

    This satirical comedy from the early 17th century presents a tapestry of London life through a series of interwoven plots featuring a diverse cast of characters, including a con artist, a lustful knight, and a cunning courtesan. The play delves into themes of deception, social corruption, and the pursuit of pleasure, revealing the vices and follies of the city's inhabitants. With a sharp wit and an unflinching eye for the absurdities of human behavior, the narrative unfolds in a series of comedic escapades, ultimately offering a biting critique of a world gone mad with greed and hedonism.

    The 15735th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  7. 232. La Triologia Della Villegiatura by Carlo Goldoni

    "La Trilogia della Villegiatura" is a series of three comedies that satirize the habits and foibles of the middle class in 18th-century Italy as they engage in the fashionable practice of taking a holiday in the countryside. The trilogy follows a group of friends and their families as they navigate the social and romantic complexities of their vacation. Throughout the plays, the characters deal with issues of love, marriage, and social status, revealing the pretentiousness and shallowness of their behavior. The author uses wit and humor to critique the obsession with appearances and the frivolity of his contemporaries, while also exploring deeper themes of human nature and relationships.

    The 15841st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 233. The Richest Man In Babylon by GEORGE S. CLASON

    The Success Secrets of the Ancients

    The book is a classic guide to financial wisdom, framed through a collection of parables set in ancient Babylon. It teaches essential principles of money management through stories of characters who learn to accumulate wealth, avoid debt, and invest wisely. Central to its narrative is the idea that a part of all you earn is yours to keep, and the importance of seeking advice from those knowledgeable in finance. The book emphasizes disciplined saving, prudent investing, and the laws of financial prosperity that are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.

    The 15871st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  9. 234. The Acquisitive Society by R. H. Tawney

    "The Acquisitive Society" is a critique of capitalism and a call for a more equitable society. The author argues that the capitalist system rewards acquisitiveness rather than hard work or creative contribution, leading to a society that is both inequitable and inefficient. He proposes a society in which property is more evenly distributed and wealth is generated through service to the community, not through the accumulation of possessions. The book is a call for a radical restructuring of society in the name of fairness and efficiency.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  10. 235. The Financial Expert by R. K. Narayan

    The novel follows the life of Margayya, a shrewd and ambitious financial advisor in a small South Indian town, who starts his career under a banyan tree offering advice to the local people on financial matters. With his cunning mind and understanding of the banking system, he rises to wealth and prominence, helping people with loans and investment schemes. However, his success is marred by his morally questionable methods and the eventual downfall that results from his hubris and detachment from traditional values. The story is a reflection on the complexities of financial dealings and the impact of modern capitalism on traditional Indian society, exploring themes of ambition, greed, and the consequences of a life devoted to the pursuit of money.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  11. 236. From The Terrace by John O'Hara

    The novel is a sweeping tale of ambition, love, and betrayal, following the life of Alfred Eaton, a man who emerges from the shadow of his wealthy and domineering father to carve out a successful career in the world of business. As he climbs the social and professional ladder, Alfred's personal life becomes increasingly complex and strained. He marries the beautiful but troubled Mary St. John, whose own issues and desires create further conflict. Set against the backdrop of mid-20th century America, the story delves into the intricacies of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the pursuit of success, all while questioning the true cost of the American Dream.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  12. 237. The Caxtons by Edward Bulwer-Lytton

    A Family Picture

    "The Caxtons" is a 19th-century novel that follows the life and experiences of the Caxton family, primarily through the perspective of the protagonist, Pisistratus Caxton. The narrative, rich in philosophical musings and reflective of Victorian values, delves into themes of love, duty, and the pursuit of knowledge. As Pisistratus grows and faces various trials and tribulations, the novel explores the dynamics of family relationships, the importance of education, and the complexities of personal development. The Caxton family's story is a tapestry of wit, wisdom, and the quintessential quest for a meaningful existence amidst the changing tides of English society.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  13. 238. The Harsh Voice by Rebecca West

    Four Short Novels

    "The Harsh Voice" is a collection of four novellas that delve into the lives of various characters facing moral and personal dilemmas in early 20th-century settings ranging from New York to London and Paris. Each story explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships through vividly drawn characters and emotionally charged narratives. The collection examines the harsh realities of life and the often painful consequences of human desires and decisions, showcasing the author's sharp insight into psychological and social dynamics.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  14. 239. The Masters Of Capital by John Moody

    A Chronicle of Wall Street

    "The Masters of Capital" delves into the influential world of American financiers who played pivotal roles in shaping the economic landscape of the early 20th century. The book provides an insightful analysis of how these financial leaders, often referred to as "captains of industry," utilized their wealth and power to impact the development of key industries and influence government policies. Through detailed accounts of their business dealings and personal networks, the narrative explores the complexities of financial power and its far-reaching effects on the American economy and society.

    The 15898th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  15. 240. God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater by Kurt Vonnegut

    or Pearls Before Swine

    The novel explores themes of wealth, philanthropy, and the human condition through the story of Eliot Rosewater, an eccentric millionaire who becomes disillusioned with the superficiality of his privileged life. He decides to use his family's vast fortune to help the impoverished residents of Rosewater, Indiana, challenging societal norms and the traditional values of capitalism. As Eliot grapples with his own sanity and the expectations of those around him, the narrative delves into the absurdities of American society and questions the true meaning of compassion and altruism.

    The 15891st Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 241. The Earth Is The Lord's by Taylor Caldwell

    Set in the Far East during the Middle Ages, the novel follows Temujin, a Mongol tribesman who will become known as Genghis Khan. Raised by an indomitable woman and educated by his outcast uncle, he becomes a fearsome warrior whose intelligence and charisma win loyalty and provoke hatred. In an era of treachery and savage violence, his gifts drive a relentless pursuit of power across landscapes from the Gobi Desert to Samarkand.

    The 15878th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  17. 242. Le Comte De Monte Cristo I by Alexandre Dumas

    A young, honest sailor is betrayed by jealous rivals and a corrupt justice system, arrested on the eve of his marriage and condemned to life in a grim island prison; there he forms a bond with a learned fellow inmate who educates him, reveals the secret of a vast hidden fortune, and helps him plan a daring escape. Emerging transformed by knowledge and a newly found hope for wealth, he prepares to reclaim his life and set in motion a long, calculated quest for justice and revenge.

    The 16593rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  18. 243. The Franchiser by Stanley Elkin

    This novel revolves around the life of a young man who, despite suffering from multiple sclerosis, decides to invest his inheritance in a chain of fast-food franchises across America. As he travels from one location to another, he encounters various characters and situations, each reflecting different aspects of American society and culture. The narrative explores themes of capitalism, consumerism, and the American Dream while also providing a poignant portrayal of the protagonist's struggle with his disease.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 244. Sleeping Beauty by Ross Macdonald

    A Lew Archer Novel

    In this detective novel, a private investigator is hired to locate a wealthy alcoholic woman who has gone missing, along with her teenage daughter. As he delves into the case, he uncovers a web of deception, adultery, and murder. The narrative is filled with suspense and unexpected twists, making it a gripping read from start to finish.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  20. 245. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar by Roald Dahl

    and Six More

    The book is a collection of seven short stories. The titular story revolves around a wealthy, idle man who discovers a set of yoga exercises that allow him to "see" through playing cards. After rigorous training, he uses this ability to win at casinos, donating his winnings to orphanages worldwide. The other stories include a tale about a man who can change his appearance at will, a bet about igniting a candle from a distance, a hitchhiker with a special thumb, a boy who discovers a turtle with 117 years, a story of a swan who saves a boy, and a tale about a woman who is obsessed with her two cats. These tales are filled with magical realism and surprising twists, showcasing the author's imaginative storytelling.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 246. Women & Money by Suze Orman

    Owning the Power to Control Your Destiny

    "Women & Money" by Suze Orman provides a comprehensive guide for women to take control of their finances and achieve financial independence. With a focus on empowering women to make informed decisions about money, Orman covers various topics such as saving, investing, retirement planning, and overcoming financial obstacles. Through practical advice and real-life examples, this book offers valuable insights and strategies to help women build a secure financial future.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 247. Without My Cloak by Kate O'Brien

    "Without My Cloak" is a captivating novel set in 19th century Ireland, exploring the lives of a wealthy Anglo-Irish family and their struggles with love, loyalty, and societal expectations. The story follows the complex relationships between family members, revealing their secrets, desires, and the consequences of their actions. Through vivid descriptions and compelling characters, the book delves into themes of identity, class divisions, and the clash between tradition and modernity in a changing society.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 248. Linden Hills by Gloria Naylor

    The novel explores the lives of African Americans residing in an affluent suburban neighborhood, where success is measured by material wealth and social status. Through the experiences of two poets who take jobs as Christmas handymen in the community, the narrative delves into the complexities of race, class, and the cost of assimilation into white society. As they encounter the residents' stories, the poets uncover the hollow pursuit of the American Dream and the spiritual and moral decay festering beneath the surface of the seemingly perfect community. The book serves as a poignant critique of the sacrifices made in the name of upward mobility and the corrosive effects of systemic racism.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  24. 249. Norstrilia by Cordwainer Smith

    The Planet Buyer

    The book is a science fiction tale set in the far future, where humanity has spread across the stars and a young boy from the planet Norstrilia, which is the sole source of an incredibly valuable drug that prolongs life, becomes the wealthiest person in the galaxy due to a quirk in the drug's trade laws. To escape jealous neighbors and to experience life beyond his home, he purchases Earth, a planet that has become a historical theme park. The story weaves through his adventures and misadventures, as he navigates complex societal norms, encounters a variety of unique characters, and grapples with the meaning of wealth, power, and immortality in a universe where every human enhancement is possible, but the essence of humanity is hard to define.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 250. Family And Friends by Anita Brookner

    "Family and Friends" is a novel that delves into the lives of the Dorn family, focusing on the matriarch Sofka and her four children, Frederick, Alfred, Betty, and Mimi, as they navigate the complexities of their relationships and individual aspirations in post-World War II London. The narrative unfolds through a series of vignettes that reveal the family's dynamics, their bourgeois existence, and the personal struggles each member faces in pursuit of love and fulfillment. The novel examines themes of loneliness, the search for happiness, and the intricate web of familial bonds, all set against the backdrop of a changing society.

    The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download