The Elon Musk Bookshelf

Introduction. What are the favorite books of Twitter’s new owner? Over the years, Elon Musk has tweeted out his favorite books. Here are 9 of them! Discover great books on warfare, history, video games - and some fiction picks too 👇

The Age of Napoleon by Will & Ariel Durant. This book traces the road from Enlightenment to Democracy through the prism of Napoleon. It shows the bloodshed of the French Revolution, Napoleon's unstoppable rise to the top of an Empire, and his fall. Musk: "Amazing book."

Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World by Sir Edward Creasy. Musk: "Insightful analysis, ensconced in eloquent prose." Published in 1851, and spanning from 490 BC to 1815 AD, this book lists the major battles that left an enduring impact on world history.

The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein. Musk: "Great book" - he also lists it among his favorite space books. Heinlein tells the story of an anarchist colony on the Moon and its revolt against "absentee rule" from Earth. Novel noted for its libertarian themes.

12 Against The Gods by Bolitho. Bolitho tells the story of 12 adventurers from Alexander the Great to Casanova who went against the Gods in search of greatness. "All the poets are on one side, and all the laws on the other; for laws are made by and for old men." - Bolitho.

Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkien. Musk: "I know it's cliche, but LotR is my favorite book ever."

Storm of Steel by Ernst Jünger. Musk: "Intense. Great book." Jünger was wounded multiple times in WW1. He wrote this book in the thick of war while reading Nietzsche and winning medals. The book is famous for its visceral tone and depiction of war as a spiritual experience.

Masters of Doom by D. Kushner. From the cover: "A story of friendship and betrayal, commerce and artistry: a powerful...account of what it’s like to be young, driven, and wildly creative" Discover the story of the two men who changed the video game industry forever.

The Life of Greece by Will Durant. Part 2 of the 11 part series "The Story Of Civilization," this book gives a kaleidoscopic account of the Greek civilization. From its famous wars to the ideas of its great philosophers. Musk: "Incredible."

Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman by Massie. Catherine the Great ruled Russia for 34 years, aspired to be a "Benevolent despot," and set off a cultural renaissance. Musk: "I know what you're probably thinking..did she really f* a horse?"

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