Bill Gates has spent decades studying technology, business, science, and global challenges.
While most people know him as Microsoft’s co-founder, Gates has also become one of the world’s most influential readers. Every year, investors, entrepreneurs, and executives closely follow his recommendations for insights into the future.
Here are seven books that continue to stand out on Gates’ reading list heading into 2026.
1. The Coming Wave — Mustafa Suleyman
Artificial intelligence is transforming industries at an unprecedented pace.
Suleyman explores how AI, biotechnology, and other emerging technologies could reshape governments, economies, and society itself.
Why Gates recommends it: understanding the forces that will define the next decade.
2. Chip War — Chris Miller
The battle for semiconductor dominance has become one of the most important geopolitical stories in the world.
This book explains how computer chips became the foundation of modern civilization.
Why Gates recommends it: technology starts with infrastructure.
3. The Road To Character — David Brooks
Success is often measured by achievements.
Brooks argues that character, humility, and purpose may matter even more.
Why Gates recommends it: leadership extends beyond intelligence.
4. How To Know A Person — David Brooks
A guide to building deeper relationships and understanding people more effectively.
In an age dominated by technology, human connection remains a competitive advantage.
Why Gates recommends it: communication is a superpower.
5. Surrender — Bono
Part memoir and part leadership lesson, Bono’s story explores ambition, resilience, creativity, and impact.
Why Gates recommends it: great leaders often emerge from unexpected places.
6. The Anxious Generation — Jonathan Haidt
One of the most discussed books of recent years.
Haidt examines how smartphones and social media have transformed childhood, mental health, and society.
Why Gates recommends it: technology’s impact must be understood, not just celebrated.
7. Business Adventures — John Brooks
Often cited by both Bill Gates and Warren Buffett as one of the best business books ever written.
Decades after publication, its lessons remain surprisingly relevant.
Why Gates recommends it: human behavior changes far less than technology.
What Makes Gates’ Reading List Different?
Most reading lists focus on business.
Bill Gates’ recommendations focus on understanding the world.
Technology, psychology, leadership, geopolitics, innovation, and human behavior all appear repeatedly in the books he chooses.
That’s not a coincidence.
The people who shape the future tend to spend a lot of time trying to understand it first.
