Celebrated on April 23rd, World Book Day is more than a tribute to literature; it is an invitation to reflect on the transformative power of reading. In the corporate context, it becomes a strategic ally, helping leaders make more assertive decisions, stimulate creativity, and build more innovative business visions.
For many executives, reading is part of their continuous development routine, as is the case with Bill Gates, who has already stated that he reads about 50 books a year, a habit he considers essential for his personal and professional growth. On this special date, we gather the titles that shaped the way great market leaders think, lead, and undertake. They are works that go beyond theory and offer practical lessons on management, organizational behavior, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. Check the recommendations
John Victorinois the founder of the channelThe Hour of Moneybusiness administrator, MBA professor at Ibmec, and financial educator
"The book"Fast and Slow: Two Ways of Thinking, written by Daniel Kahneman, made me aware of how there are moments when our decisions are influenced externally and could be better. It destroys the belief that the human being is a rational animal. Sometimes, small situations can create biases that impact us deeply.
Maria Fernanda Antunes Junqueira is the founder of theCUPONATION, the largest platform for deals, savings, and shopping inspirations in Brazil
"The book"The Power of Habitby Charles Duhigg, deeply resonated with me for showing how small daily choices shape great results — both in personal and professional life. As a leader of a company, woman, and mother, I have an intense routine full of demands. I learned that creating good habits and consistent routines is the key to balancing priorities, leading with focus, and still having space for what matters most. The book helped me understand that real change happens in the details of everyday life – and that's what I seek to apply in my way of leading.
Peter Signorelliis the founder ofPragmaticsand one of the largest specialists in Brazil in management, with an emphasis on OKRs.
"A book that changed my perspective was the"Seven Habits of Highly Effective Peopleby Stephen Covey, which I read in 2001 when I was in my final year of college. There is a chapter that addresses the spheres of control, that is, what is within and outside of your control, what you can or cannot influence, and the level of concern you assign to each of these topics. That was very important to me! And I have already suggested to several people that they also consider these topics, as it would help a lot.
Rafael Rojasis co-founder and CTO ofBudsa Brazilian pet tech that uses artificial intelligence to empower pet owners.
"The book"Skin in the Game, Nassim Nicholas Taleb explores the importance of taking real risks when making decisions that affect other people. In my view, this means that leading is not enough; one must be exposed to the consequences of their own choices. Having 'skin in the game' aligns interests, fosters greater responsibility, and strengthens the company's long-term vision. This reading helped me build this vision about business: those who lead need to be willing to truly commit to the impact of strategic decisions.
Rodrigo Vitor é founder and CEO ofIssueagency specialized in events and live marketing
"I chose the book"Reinventing Organizationsby Frederic Laloux, because he presents a deeply innovative approach to how companies can be more human, evolutionary, and purpose-driven. At a time when Fito is experiencing a cycle of expansion and consolidation, the lessons from the project resonate directly with what we aim to build: a collaborative organization, with autonomous teams and a strong culture. Reading made me rethink the role of leadership, more as a facilitator than a directive, and reinforced the importance of active listening, a sense of ownership, and freedom with responsibility. Since then, strategic decisions have been guided by this more organic perspective, connected to the essence of who we are: a brand that creates memorable experiences with meaning.
