$$ Top 5 Summer Money Reads $$

This summer when you are lounging by the pool or on the beach with SPF 45 smeared all over you pale body pick up one of these books. They may not help with that sunburn but they will help your stock picking. Some are classics that deserve another look, while others are new this year.
1. The World is Flat, Thomas L. Friedman
As suggested in the title this book analysis the effect that technology has had on the globalization of business. Technology has created an even playing field for the entire world, allowing workers in India to compete for US jobs and vise versa. The World is Flat is a great read for anyone wanting a global economic outlook from a fresh perspective.

2. The Brand Gap, Marty Neumeier
“A book you can finish in a short plane ride,” is the author’s accurate description of this short but effective book. Having a recognizable and identifiable brand is essential to the success of any business. The Brand Gap is a quick and entertaining read that will leave you with a different perspective on what a brand really is.

3. The Richest Man in Babylon, George S. Clason
A classic every serious investor should read.

4. The Warren Buffett Way, Robert G. Hadstrom
Although I am not a Warren Buffett enthusiast or fanatic, I do admire his overwhelming success. His conservatism on investing is different from my approach, but I do have an appreciation for his thoroughness and analytic abilities. I am currently reading this book myself and really enjoying it. There are a ton of Warren Buffett books out there, but The Warren Buffett Way differentiates itself by taking a broad look at not only his success but also his mentors.

5. Freakonomics, Steven D. Levitt & Stephen J. Dubner
Very interesting looks at how data can be misunderstood and misrepresented do to inadequate analysis. Written by a New York Times journalist and a young MIT economist, the blend of intellectual energy spills on to the pages. Freakonomics questions and analysis many taboo subjects including abortion and the Ku Klux Klan. This is a great book to read in a group because you will want to discuss it in detail when you are done.

This list is just a few of my personal favorites, if you think I have overlooked any great pieces of literature or you have read anything recently that should join the list please feel free to add a comment.