In the relentless pursuit of entrepreneurial excellence, the wisdom of those who’ve tread similar paths is invaluable.
The biographies of successful entrepreneurs not only provide a blueprint of the highs and lows of business but also serve as a source of inspiration and education.
The following curated list of biographies is more than just stories; they are lessons in resilience, innovation, leadership, and strategy from some of the most successful entrepreneurs in history.
Here are the 14 best entrepreneur biography books:
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson (2011)
This biography offers an exhaustive journey through the life of Steve Jobs, from his early days in Silicon Valley to his return to Apple and the development of groundbreaking products. It’s based on more than forty interviews with Jobs conducted over two years.
Isaacson’s narrative is a masterclass in biographical writing, weaving in themes of creativity, innovation, and personal struggle. Aspiring writers can learn from the way the author balances the darker aspects of Jobs’s personality with his genius, crafting a complex, engaging portrait.
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike by Phil Knight (2016)
Phil Knight shares the inside story of building Nike from a startup to one of the world’s most iconic, game-changing, and profitable brands, starting with just $50 borrowed from his father.
Knight’s candid and witty narrative captures the essence of entrepreneurial spirit. Writers can draw from Knight’s honest and vivid storytelling approach, particularly how he addresses failure and success.
The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life by Alice Schroeder (2008)
This biography details the life and philosophy of Warren Buffett, offering insights into how his mind works and why he made the investment decisions that made him the “Oracle of Omaha.”
Schroeder’s comprehensive research and access to Buffett himself provides a template for writers on the importance of detail and access in biographical writing. The book’s analytical depth can inspire writers to delve deeply into their subject’s psyche.
Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance (2015)
The book chronicles the life of Elon Musk, one of the most unusual and impactful entrepreneurs of our time, covering his upbringing, ventures, and vision for the future.
Vance’s biography is notable for its balanced portrayal and narrative pace. Writers can learn from how Vance deals with a living, controversial figure, presenting a nuanced view that includes both criticism and praise.
The Everything Store: Jeff Bezos and the Age of Amazon by Brad Stone (2013)
This book offers an expansive look at the life of Jeff Bezos and the rise of Amazon, detailing its evolution from a book store to a everything store.
Stone’s investigative narrative is an excellent example of how to construct a compelling business story. Writers should note the meticulous research and the way Stone brings complex business concepts to life.
Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. by Ron Chernow (1998)
Chernow’s biography details the complex life of America’s first billionaire, John D. Rockefeller, Sr., from his early life to his role in shaping the U.S. economy.
This biography is a lesson in scale and detail. Writers can learn from Chernow’s ability to humanize a historical figure while providing a comprehensive view of their life and times.
The Virgin Way: Everything I Know About Leadership by Richard Branson (2014)
This book is less a traditional biography and more a series of lessons from Richard Branson’s personal and professional life, offering insights into his unique leadership style.
Branson’s book is a model for how personal anecdotes can effectively convey business principles. Writers can draw from his conversational and engaging style.
Made in America by Sam Walton (1992)
Sam Walton shares his thoughts and experiences on building Walmart, one of the most powerful retailers in the world, from a single store in Arkansas.
Walton’s autobiography is written with a straightforward, no-nonsense tone that reflects his business style. Writers can learn from the authenticity and clarity in his narrative.
Grinding It Out: The Making of McDonald’s by Ray Kroc (1977)
This autobiography tells the story of Ray Kroc, who turned McDonald’s into the biggest fast-food chain in the world, reflecting on his journey and the principles that led to his success.
Kroc’s book is notable for its engaging storytelling and personal voice. Writers can take note of how effectively he shares business insights through personal stories.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz (2014)
This book offers essential advice on building and running a startup based on the author’s own experiences and lessons learned from various other entrepreneurial ventures.
Horowitz’s candid and often humorous approach can inspire writers to tackle difficult subjects with honesty and a bit of humor.
Onward: How Starbucks Fought for Its Life without Losing Its Soul by Howard Schultz (2011)
Howard Schultz recounts the story of Starbucks’ decline and resurgence, detailing the decisions and leadership strategies that revived the company.
Schultz’s narrative is a primer on how to write about business strategy and leadership in a way that is both informative and deeply personal.
Losing My Virginity: How I Survived, Had Fun, and Made a Fortune Doing Business My Way by Richard Branson (1998)
This autobiography chronicles Richard Branson’s journey in creating the Virgin brand, filled with his adventures and business escapades.
Branson’s flamboyant narrative style and adventurous spirit can inspire writers to inject their own personality and flair into their work.
Bloomberg by Bloomberg by Michael Bloomberg (1997)
Michael Bloomberg shares his journey of creating Bloomberg L.P., detailing his business principles and the challenges he faced.
Bloomberg’s book is a lesson in writing with authority and conviction, two qualities that can greatly enhance a business biography.
Idea Man: A Memoir by the Cofounder of Microsoft by Paul Allen (2011)
This memoir reflects on Paul Allen’s journey with Microsoft and his broader impact on technology, sharing insights into his partnership with Bill Gates and his own ventures.
Allen’s introspective and thoughtful narrative style provides a model for writing reflective and engaging business stories.
Are you ready to write your own book?
These biographies illustrate the power of storytelling in business and the profound impact it can have. Let them be your guide and inspiration as you write and self-publish a business biography yourself.
Or let them inspire to share YOUR story.
Your journey in business is unique, and sharing it can inspire others and solidify your legacy. Rather than writing a business biography about another person’s life and business, you may want to write a business memoir about your own journey (we explain the differences between a biography and a memoir here)
The world is eager to learn from your experiences, your challenges, and your victories. Don’t deprive them of the lessons you’ve learned – preserve them in a book of your own.
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