Our Finalists share some books that have helped them on their entrepreneurial journey. The result? Some great summer reads ideas for you!

Hard Things About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

Silicon Valleys well-known entrepreneur, Ben Horowitz, wrote this book to describe the uncertainties that all entrepreneur’s face when they start their own company. From co-founder relationships to fundraising, the book covers it all, with deep insights that comes from experience of the entrepreneur’s journey. Get this book, read it and put it on your bedside table for future reference – you won’t regret it.

Recommended by: Felipe Infante de Castro, NewsCoin

 

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyoski

 

A meaningful read that will give you a new perspective on financial security. As an entrepreneur you can make billions, but should that be your ultimate goal? If these and other questions keep you awake at night, get this book, and be challenged to think differently about money, risk and intrinsic goals.

 

 

Recommended by: Mahesh Vishwanathan, LeakSpotter

 

 

The Founder’s Dilemmas by Noam Wasserman

 

Founding a company is probably one of the most intense, yet exciting experiences in one’s life. It’s also an experience that can be fraught with pitfalls. Noam Wasserman’s book presents results from years of researching and working with startups, highlighting common – and avoidable – mistakes that entrepreneurs make.

 

 

Recommended by: Dylan Husted, SaveOhno

 

Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon

 

In this book, Austin Kleon argues that entrepreneurship provides many opportunities to explore our creativity. But by playing it safe or following the rule book, we actually stop those creative juices from flowing. This book is perfect for any entrepreneur who would like to unleash their creative side on all aspects of their business. Read and be challenged to do things a bit more differently!

 

Recommended by: Jorge Sanchez Lopez, ConquerX

 

Big Magic! By Elizabeth Gilbert

 

Entrepreneurship is very much like an obstacle race. Ever so often, you come across and trip over obstacles, but you keep running until you get to the finish line. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert is for anyone who would like to do things differently; it provides ways for you to inspire yourself and be creative in the things you do. It’s also a great book, not least of its writing style, which is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

 

 

Recommended by: Melissa Gersin, Tranquilo

 

 

 

 

Deep Work by Cal Newport

As an entrepreneur you have committed a large part of your life to your company and its vision. But, how do you keep going with the same amount of passion and motivation? Cal Newports Deep Work answers a lot of these questions by showing highly effective methods for professionals to commit themselves to their work, even with all the noise and chaos that surrounds them.

 

 

Recommended by: Devin Donaldson, The Optimist Company