What to Read: Elon Musk’s Favorite Books

“Benjamin Franklin: An American Life” by Walter Isaacson
Walter Isaacson — a renowned biographer, journalist, former head of CNN, and editor of Time — wrote this book based on Franklin’s letters, writings, and contemporary accounts.
“I love biographies, they’re really useful,” says Musk. “I liked Isaacson’s biography of Franklin. He started off poor, basically a runaway. It was fascinating to learn how he built his business and then moved into science and politics. He’s someone I truly admire — he did the right things at the right time.”

“Tesla: Inventor of the Electrical Age” by W. Bernard Carlson
“I enjoy biographies of scientists. Naturally, you have to mention Tesla — a truly unique individual,” says Musk.
This book offers a deep dive into the life of the brilliant inventor, placing his achievements within the technological and cultural context of his time. Tesla is often called the man who “invented the 20th century” thanks to his groundbreaking contributions to electricity, radio, and more.

“Our Final Invention: Artificial Intelligence and the End of the Human Era” by James Barrat
In this eye-opening work, documentary filmmaker James Barrat explores the long-term implications of artificial intelligence. Once AI reaches a certain level, it may begin to improve itself exponentially — potentially beyond human control.
The book gathers insights from scientists and AI experts, making it a powerful warning about humanity’s future with intelligent machines.

“Stranger in a Strange Land” by Robert A. Heinlein
This Hugo Award–winning sci-fi classic tells the story of Michael Smith, a human raised by Martians who returns to Earth and becomes a spiritual leader.
“I liked this book, though the ending kind of fizzled,” Musk noted.
The novel explores politics, religion, and what it means to be human — and remains one of the most influential science fiction works of the 20th century.

“Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down” by J.E. Gordon
“If you’re into engineering, there’s this excellent book called Structures. It’s very, very good — a solid primer on design,” Musk recommends.
J.E. Gordon explains structural engineering concepts in an accessible way, from how dams hold back water to why suspension bridges don’t collapse. This book is still required reading in many military academies.

“Einstein: His Life and Universe” by Walter Isaacson
“Like the Franklin bio, this book tells the story of a genius who changed the world with his mind and ambition,” says Musk.
Based on Einstein’s letters and other sources, Isaacson explores not only his theories and scientific legacy, but also the man behind the genius.

“Foundation” series by Isaac Asimov
“As far as sci-fi goes, Asimov is just brilliant. I think the Foundation series is his best work,” Musk once said.
The seven-book saga tells the story of a group of scientists on the edge of the galaxy trying to preserve civilization after the fall of a galactic empire. It’s widely regarded as the greatest sci-fi series of all time.

“Howard Hughes: His Life and Madness” by Donald L. Barlett and James B. Steele
Howard Hughes was a billionaire entrepreneur, daring inventor, and eccentric genius who flew around the world in a plane he designed, produced hit films, and lived a legendary — and often bizarre — life.
“This story is a good cautionary tale. He was a fascinating guy,” Musk said.
This biography was the basis for Martin Scorsese’s film The Aviator.

“The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien
“You really have to read this trilogy slowly and attentively, though you don’t have to be a crazy fan to follow the plot. The epic war in Middle-earth spans every class — from the humble to the mighty,” Musk once said.
He considers it one of the most important series he read in his youth.

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams
“Douglas Adams is amazing. What stuck with me is the idea that the question is harder than the answer,” Musk shared. “We form questions based on our assumptions. But are we asking the right question? That’s the real challenge.”
According to Musk, Adams is one of the greatest modern philosophers.
This hilarious sci-fi adventure follows Arthur Dent and Ford Prefect as they survive Earth’s destruction and explore the absurdities of the universe.