The Richest Man in Babylon

The Richest Man in Babylon is the oldest personal finance book still in wide circulation, and its staying power is a testament to how little the fundamentals of money management have changed in nearly a century. Originally distributed as a series of informational pamphlets by banks and insurance companies, Clason's parables set in ancient Babylon teach timeless principles through storytelling.

The book's most famous lesson — 'Pay yourself first. A part of all you earn is yours to keep' — is the foundation of modern savings advice. Arkad, the richest man in Babylon, teaches that setting aside at least one-tenth of your income before any other expenditure is the first step to building wealth. Other lessons cover the importance of making your gold work for you, seeking counsel from those who handle money daily, and insuring a future income.

The parable format makes these lessons memorable and accessible, even if the ancient Babylonian setting can feel quaint to modern readers. The book has sold millions of copies and remains a popular recommendation for young people just beginning to learn about money.