Napoleon Hill Books: 7 Recommended Reads for 2024

A List of Napoleon Hill’s Must-Read Books

Steve P Walton
6 min readDec 1, 2023

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Napoleon Hill, a name synonymous with self-help and personal success, has left an indelible mark on the world of motivational literature.

His works, transcending time and cultural barriers, continue to inspire and guide individuals in their quest for personal and professional achievement.

Hill’s philosophy, grounded in the belief that positive thinking and a clear vision are the bedrocks of success, has not only shaped the self-improvement genre but also transformed the lives of millions worldwide.

In this article, we delve into the life and legacy of Napoleon Hill, exploring his most influential works that have become cornerstones for those seeking to unlock their true potential.

>>Join Napoleon Hill’s (Free) 3-Day “Think and Grow Rich Challenge”

Who is Napoleon Hill? A Brief Biography

Born in a small cabin in Southwest Virginia in 1883, Napoleon Hill rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most esteemed authors in the self-help genre.

His early life was marked by hardship and poverty, which fueled his determination to succeed. After studying law, Hill embarked on a career as a journalist, which led to a pivotal assignment in 1908 — interviewing the industrial giant Andrew Carnegie.

This encounter proved transformative, as Carnegie challenged Hill to study successful individuals and distill the formula for success.

Over the next two decades, Hill dedicated himself to this mission, interviewing over 500 successful people, including Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Theodore Roosevelt. The culmination of this extensive research was his 1937 masterpiece, “Think and Grow Rich,” which encapsulated his philosophy of personal achievement and positive thinking.

Hill’s other works further elaborated on these principles, offering practical advice and motivational insights. His teachings emphasized the power of personal beliefs, the importance of setting goals, and the value of persistence.

Hill’s legacy extends far beyond his publications; he has influenced countless individuals and has been cited as a foundational figure in the personal development field. His principles of success, though formulated nearly a century ago, remain relevant and continue to guide those seeking to realize their aspirations.

Learn more about Napoleon Hill’s legacy in this short documentary.

Thumbnail image for video revealing the secrets inside “Think and Grow Rich”
Click here for video revealing secrets of “Think and Grow Rich”

Napoleon Hill’s 7 Most Influential Books

Think and Grow Rich (1937)

Often hailed as Hill’s magnum opus, “Think and Grow Rich” is a distillation of his philosophy on success. This book, based on his interviews with successful individuals, outlines the 13 key principles of success, emphasizing the power of personal belief and the role of desire in achieving one’s goals. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless advice and practical approach to personal development.

Click Here to Get Your Copy of Think & Grow Rich (Free)

The Law of Success (1928)

This comprehensive work, initially published in multiple volumes, is a detailed study of the qualities that constitute success. Covering topics like the Master Mind, self-confidence, and the subconscious mind, this book is a precursor to “Think and Grow Rich” and lays the foundation for Hill’s later theories.

Note: Russell Brunson recently purchased the original manuscript for “The Law of Success” from a Napoleon Hill collector. The seller asked for $1,550,000 for this book.

Russell Brunson has recorded an audiobook version of the manuscript and is giving free access to it inside his new “Secrets of Success” Mastermind group. Learn more here.

Claim Your Ticket: The 3-Day “Think and Grow Rich Challenge” with Napoleon Hill and Russell Brunson

Outwitting the Devil (1938)

Published posthumously in 2011, this provocative book delves into the psychological barriers to success. Hill engages in an imaginary conversation with the Devil, uncovering insights into fear, procrastination, and other obstacles that impede success. Its candid exploration of the human psyche makes it a compelling read.

The best-selling book is available on Amazon.

Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude (1960)

Co-authored with W. Clement Stone, this book focuses on how a positive mental attitude can be the single most important factor in achieving success. It combines Hill’s philosophy with Stone’s life experiences, offering practical advice on cultivating a mindset geared towards success.

Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude is available for sale on Amazon.

The Master-Key to Riches (1945)

This book expands on the principles outlined in “Think and Grow Rich,” offering a more in-depth exploration of his philosophy. It discusses concepts like the power of the mastermind, personal initiative, and the subconscious mind, providing readers with tools to unlock their potential.

“The Master-Key to Riches” is available for sale on Amazon.

How to Sell Your Way Through Life (1939)

Focusing on the art of persuasion and salesmanship, this book is notable for its practical application of Hill’s principles in the context of sales and business. It offers strategies for effective communication, negotiation, and relationship-building, essential skills in any professional field.

You can find the best-seller on Amazon.com here.

You Can Work Your Own Miracles (1971)

One of Hill’s final works, this book emphasizes that the power to achieve miracles lies within oneself. It explores the idea that success is not a matter of luck but the result of deliberate action, planning, and belief in one’s abilities.

Get your copy of “You Can Work Your Own Miracles” on Amazon.

The Enduring Legacy of Napoleon Hill

The teachings of Napoleon Hill, encapsulated in his books, transcend mere self-help literature; they are a blueprint for personal and professional success that has stood the test of time.

Hill’s emphasis on the power of positive thinking, the importance of setting clear goals, and the value of persistence resonate as much today as they did in the early 20th century.

His insights into the human psyche, his understanding of the principles of success, and his ability to distill these into practical, actionable advice have made his works a staple in the libraries of entrepreneurs, educators, and individuals seeking self-improvement.

Related: Join the “Think & Grow Rich” Challenge — Starts Soon

Hill’s legacy is not just in the principles he espoused but in the countless lives he has influenced.

His teachings have been adopted by modern motivational speakers and business leaders, proving that his concepts are not only universal but also adaptable to the evolving challenges of different eras.

The books listed above are more than historical texts; they are a continuing source of inspiration and guidance for anyone looking to navigate the path of personal achievement and success.

In an age where the pursuit of success and personal fulfillment has become more complex and challenging, Napoleon Hill’s works offer a timeless guide.

They remind us that the principles of success are constant and that the journey to personal achievement begins with a clear vision and a positive mindset.

Learn more about Napoleon Hill’s books and courses inside the new “Secrets of Success” Mastermind.

This is a Mastermind community centered around the teachings of Napoleon Hill and other New Thought Movement philosophers.

You’ll find Hill’s books and courses along with others such as Elsie Lincoln Benedict, Charles F. Haanel, Dale Carnegie, P.T. Barnum, and more.

Test-Drive the new members’ area for 30 days (free). Click here to learn more.

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Steve P Walton

10+ years as an online writer, editor, and ghostwriter. I enjoy writing about personal finance, entrepreneurship, and the US economy.