On World Book Day, discover the titles that shaped the vision of C-level executives

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 stated that he reads about 50 books per year—a habit he considers essential for his personal and professional growth. On this special date, we have gathered the titles that shaped the thinking, leadership, and entrepreneurship of major market figures. These are works that go beyond theory and offer practical lessons on management, organizational behavior, innovation, and purposeful leadership. Check out the recommendations:

João Victorino is the founder of the channel A Hora do Dinheiro, a business administrator, MBA professor at Ibmec, and financial educator

“The book Thinking, Fast and Slow, written by Daniel Kahneman, opened my eyes to how often our decisions are influenced by external factors and could be improved. It debunks the belief that humans are rational animals. Sometimes, small situations can create biases that deeply impact us.”

Maria Fernanda Antunes Junqueira is the founder of CUPONATION, the largest platform for offers, savings, and shopping inspiration in Brazil

“The book The Power of Habit, by Charles Duhigg, deeply impacted me by showing how small daily choices shape significant outcomes—both in personal and professional life. As a leader of a company, a woman, and a mother, I have an intense and demanding routine. I learned that creating good habits and consistent routines is the key to balancing priorities, leading with focus, and still making room for what matters most. The book helped me understand that real change happens in the details of everyday life—and that’s what I strive to apply in my leadership style.”

Pedro Signorelli is the founder of Pragmática and one of Brazil’s leading management experts, with an emphasis on OKRs.

“A book that changed my perspective was The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen Covey, which I read in 2001 during my final year of college. There is a chapter that discusses spheres of control—what is within and outside your control, what you can or cannot influence, and the level of concern you place on each of these topics. This was very important to me! And I have suggested to many people that they also reflect on these themes, as it would be highly beneficial.”

Rafael Rojas is co-founder and CTO of Budz, a Brazilian pet tech company that uses artificial intelligence to empower pet owners.

“The book Skin in the Game, by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, explores the importance of taking real risks when making decisions that affect others. In my view, this means that it is not enough to lead; one must also be exposed to the consequences of their own choices. Having ‘skin in the game’ aligns interests, generates greater responsibility, and strengthens the company’s long-term vision. This reading helped me build this business perspective: those who lead must be willing to truly commit to the impact of strategic decisions.”

Rodrigo Vitor is founder and CEO of Fito, an agency specialized in events and live marketing

“I chose the book Reinventing Organizations, by Frederic Laloux, because it presents a deeply innovative approach to how companies can be more human, evolutionary, and purpose-driven. At a time when Fito is undergoing a cycle of expansion and consolidation, the lessons from the work resonate directly with what we aim to build: a collaborative organization with autonomous teams and a strong culture. The reading made me rethink the role of leadership—more as facilitative than directive—and reinforced the importance of active listening, ownership mindset, 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 meaningful and memorable experiences.”