Personal Finance Books that Make Great Gifts

In April 2008 I wrote a post titled Personal Finance Books that Can Change Your Life. It was a summary of new books out that MSN Money thought could change your life if you read them. I was generally unimpressed and instead made my own list -- books that I thought could change lives (mostly because they've had an impact on me.)

As we all start to look for presents this holiday season, I thought I'd review my list of life-changing personal finance books in case anyone on your list needs a boost money-wise. Here goes:

• The Millionaire Next Door - Whether or not you agree with the research in this book (some don't), the conclusions are valid. I've built my financial life and wealth on the principles in this book and it's worked very well for me. For more details on key thoughts from the book, see my category on the Millionaire Next Door.

• The Richest Man in Babylon - Good, basic, effective money principles. At $6.99, it's a steal for anyone concerned with managing their own personal finances (great stocking stuffer for college kids). I also have a category devoted to this book. 

• The Bogleheads' Guide to Investing - The best book on investing I've ever read.

• The Automatic Millionaire : A Powerful One-Step Plan to Live and Finish Rich - Simple, effective, practical strategies for making yourself wealthy.

• Career Intensity: Business Strategy for Workplace Warriors and Entrepreneurs - Probably the best book I've ever read on managing your career. It's more for professionals, but if the principles are taken to heart, I think anyone can learn how to best manage their greatest financial asset by reading this book.

How about you? What books would you add to this list? Any suggestions for other readers on personal finance books that make great gifts?

Comments

[Zach Smith]

I read Ramit Sethi's "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" over the summer and thought it was well done with practical advice/steps to put yourself in good position. It's geared towards twenty-somethings (me) and I think does a pretty good job of it. It's all about spending less than you earn, getting out of debt, and investing wisely. A good read.

[Michael Gardner]

The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey. It shows how to get out of debt and build wealth. Usually around the holidays, he sells it for $10 on his website.

I also have read The Millionaire Next Door (excellent book for learning how millionaires got that way). I have purchased The Richest Man in Babylon, but haven't read it yet. It'll be my next read.

[Moneymonk]

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki

Crush It by Gary Vaynerchuk

[Patty]

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

an classic in the field - you can get it new on Amazon for $8. It should be a must read for all young adults and a re-read for us older guys!

[Andrew]

Rich Dad, Poor Dad is all I know so thanks for the suggestions. Good timing now that I'm already doing my Christmas shopping.

[Pugs135]

Zach, Ramit Sethi's "I Will Teach You To Be Rich" is an awesome book. I think it should be a must read for all high school students.

[Strick]

Always thought "Your Money or your Life" was the perfect book for someone feeling "trapped" in a unsatisfying but well-paying career or anyone with dreams of extreme early retirement.