McKinsey’s 2026 annual reading list is back. Explore nearly 100 book recommendations from more than 50 influential voices around the world, including 14 McKinsey leaders. Discover the books that have inspired them, see who shares your interests, and track your own reading journey. Below are some highlights.
Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life by Shigehiro Oishi
Recommended by Yuval Atsmon, senior partner and CFO
“In this book, Shigehiro Oishi challenges the idea that a good life is defined solely by happiness or meaning, introducing a third dimension—psychological richness: a life shaped by novelty, complexity, and perspective-changing experiences. This deeply reflective book offers a compelling framework for thinking about ambition, curiosity, and what makes life truly fulfilling.”
Foundation by Isaac Asimov
Recommended by Carolyn Dewar, senior partner and coauthor, A CEO for All Seasons: Mastering the Cycles of Leadership
“Isaac Asimov’s classic explores the rise and fall of civilizations and the challenge of thinking across decades rather than quarters. In a moment shaped by AI and rapid change, it feels newly relevant—a reminder that imagination is also a leadership capability.”
The Art of Spending Money: Simple Choices for a Richer Life by Morgan Housel
Recommended by Gautam Kumra, senior partner and chair for Asia (ex-China)
“In this phase of life, I’ve been thinking a lot about how to best optimize my most valuable resources to live in a more contented and meaningful way. I’m hoping to get some practical, thought-provoking advice on how to better align my aspirations, intentions, and goals toward building a richer (in all senses of the word!) life.”
What We Can Know by Ian McEwan
Recommended by Nora Gardner, senior partner
“Ian McEwan’s What We Can Know is one of those books that lingers. Wide ranging and deeply human, it made me think differently about how future generations may see our moment—and about the beautiful complexity of relationships. Enjoy.”