5 page-turning books to read this summer

Summer’s the perfect time for reading, whether you’re at home in your garden or soaking up the sun on foreign shores or a UK beach.

It’s also a great time to try something a little different. So, here are five recommendations for your holiday reading, as selected by our financial planner, Jon.

1. Die With Zero: Getting all you can from your money and your life, Bill Perkins

As a financial planner, I spend a lot of time thinking and talking about retirement, explaining how to save and plan for it, and exploring strategies and timings.

This book offers a whole different philosophy, flipping traditional financial wisdom on its head. For example, it asks questions such as: “Instead of hoarding your wealth for retirement or inheritance, what if you spend your money wisely throughout your life to create truly memorable experiences?”.

Not advocating splurging until you’re penniless, however. Rather, the author takes a forensic approach to planning, to help you avoid the “oversaving, underspending” trap that it’s so easy to fall into.

It’s incredibly thought-provoking, using behavioural finance as a guide, and is especially pertinent if you ever find yourself wondering: “When is enough, enough?”

2. I Am Brian Wilson: The genius behind the Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, with Ben Greenman

This is a very personal pick, as I’m a lifelong Beach Boys fan and found this memoir deeply moving.

Brian Wilson recently passed away and this book tells us more about the man behind the music. He was complex, plagued by mental illness and drug use, and the creator of some of the most iconic and memorable music of our time.

In his book, he takes us back to his childhood, discusses his creative inspirations, talks about his band and bandmates, and gives us more insights into his innermost struggles.

3. The Algebra of Wealth: A simple formula for success, Scott Galloway

I wish this book had been around when I was starting out! It offers some clear insights into how wealth is really built. Essentially, it’s a guide for life, taking you through how to make the most of today’s opportunities, including mobility and globalisation, as well as how to rise to new challenges, such as climate change and housing shortages.

Decisions, discipline, and long-term thinking are the threads throughout, taking you towards a secure future using contemporary methods.

4. The Universe in Your Hand: A journey through space, time and beyond, Christophe Galfard

Maybe not a typical suggestion for an IFA’s reading list. No charts, no tax codes, and not a trust in sight.

But this brilliant book was handed to me recently by an old uni mate at a gig. “That looks a bit deep,” I said. “Don’t worry, Jon,” he laughed, “even you’ll understand it.”

And you know what? He was right.

This book takes you on a guided tour of the cosmos, all explained without a single terrifying equation (okay, just one: E=mc². I can handle that).

Christophe Galfard, a student of Stephen Hawking, somehow makes physics feel like a fireside story.

For me, it was a refreshing break from the usual grind of financial headlines and legislative updates. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day stresses, this book reminds you that you’re part of something far bigger than a spreadsheet.

5. The E-Myth Revisited: Why most small businesses don’t work and what to do about it,Michael Gerber

If you run your own business and are constantly spinning plates, this one’s a must-read. Essentially, it’s about working on your business, not just in it. While this sounds simple enough, it can be easy to miss the point when you’re used to wearing every single hat.

It made me realise how much time I was spending behind the scenes, instead of focusing on what I actually set out to do: help clients.

This book helps you create processes and systems, so your business can operate successfully without constantly needing you.

It’s not a new book, but its message is timeless. If you’re a business owner and wondering if there’s a smarter way, this book might just offer some answers.

Get in touch

If you’d like to talk to us, we’re always here to help. Email us at info@andersonfinancialltd.com or call us on 020 8943 0065.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.

This article, and books contained therein, are for general information only and do not constitute advice