Books for Investors March 2019

In the spirit of multidisciplinary learning, I’m trying to post an article once a month with book recommendations.  So far in 2019 this has helped me stay true to my commitment to read more long-form, timeless wisdom which will further my quest toward being a more thoughtful investor.

Here are links to my previous book lists:

Books for Investors February 2019

Three Books for Healthy Habits in 2019

With all of that in mind, here are four books that I’ve read in recent weeks.


Atomic Habits, James Clear

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.”  Fantastic, very quotable read about making small changes with the potential for huge impact.  This is like a field guide for being a better person, with specific steps to build more positive habits and move away from the destructive ones.  Highly recommend and worth pairing with Stephen Covey’s classic text on personal transformation.

When the Time Comes to Buy, You Won’t Want To, Walter Deemer

A quick read on investing but a powerful one.  Bite-sized quotes and commentary from a mentor of mine who ran the technical research effort at Putnam during the secular bear market in the 1970’s.  Talk about experience.  The book title is the punch line to one of my favorite stories from that period.  Full disclosure: Walter honored me by sharing my thoughts on the value of relative strength!

George Szell’s Reign: Behind the Scenes with the Cleveland Orchestra, Marcia Hansen Kraus

I started reading this last year but finally finished it this month.  I’ve sung with the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus for the last two seasons, so was very interested to learn about the man who elevated the Cleveland Orchestra to one of the top orchestras in the world.  Fantastic lessons on leadership and persistence.  Also you will learn how much time, effort, and commitment is required to perform as a musician at the highest level.

Billion Dollar Whale, Tom Wright & Bradley Hope

I visited Kuala Lumpur for the first time last year, and the 1MDB debacle was fresh on the minds of my Malaysian friends.  This book provides a rare glimpse into private banking and global finance.  There are way too many examples in life of fraud and dishonesty, but the sheer scope of what one man was able to pull off is absolutely stunning. 


I’m committed to reading more timeless content this year.  Sharing my reads with you is one way to keep myself honest.  What are you reading these days?  Tell me on Twitter.

RR#6,
Dave

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Please see the Disclaimer page for full details.