The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

 Musk has cited this classic fantasy series as one of his early inspirations, teaching him about the power of heroism and fighting for a cause.

Structures: Or Why Things Don’t Fall Down by J.E. Gordon

A fascinating dive into engineering and material science, this book helped Musk better understand the principles of structural design.

Benjamin Franklin: An American Life  by Walter Isaacson

Musk draws inspiration from Franklin's journey as an inventor, diplomat, and self-made individual who shaped the course of history.

Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies by Nick Bostrom

This thought-provoking book explores the future of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on humanity, a topic Musk is deeply passionate about.

Zero to One by Peter Thiel

Co-written by Musk's PayPal co-founder, this book emphasizes the importance of innovation and creating something truly new, rather than competing in established markets.

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

A sci-fi comedy favorite of Musk's, this book offers a humorous and thought-provoking perspective on life, technology, and the universe.

Einstein: His Life and Universe by Walter Isaacson

Another biography by Isaacson, this book reveals the mind of Albert Einstein, a figure who greatly influenced Musk’s approach to science and problem-solving.

Ignition!: An Informal History of Liquid Rocket Propellants by John D. Clark

A must-read for space enthusiasts, this book dives into the history and development of rocket propellants, an area critical to Musk’s SpaceX ambitions.