Retirement isn’t just a number, it’s a strategy. And the earlier you start preparing, the more freedom and clarity you’ll have when it counts. If you’re in your 30s or 40s and want to get serious about planning your future, these books are must-reads. They cover everything from mindset and money to investing and tax-smart withdrawal strategies.
Here are our top picks—and why they matter.
1. “The Psychology of Money” by Morgan Housel
Why read it: Because behavior drives more outcomes than spreadsheets. This book is a powerful reminder that managing money well has more to do with discipline than math.
Best for: Resetting your financial mindset before it’s too late.
2. “How Much Money Do I Need to Retire?” by Todd Tresidder
Why read it: It demystifies retirement math and gives real-world formulas based on your spending—not generic rules of thumb.
Best for: DIY planners who want to work backward from the finish line.
3. “Can I Retire?” by Mike Piper, CPA
Why read it: Short, simple, and filled with insight about taxes, withdrawals, and sustainable income strategies.
Best for: Busy professionals who want clarity without complexity.
4. “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas Stanley & William Danko
Why read it: Not technically about retirement—but a must-read for anyone wanting to get to retirement. It explains the habits of everyday wealthy families.
Best for: Building wealth with intentionality and humility.
5. “Beyond the 4% Rule” by Abraham Okusanya
Why read it:Because today’s retirement landscape is more complex than ever. This book explores safe withdrawal rates, sequence of returns risk, and dynamic planning.
Best for: Those who want to stress-test retirement assumptions.
6. “Die With Zero” by Bill Perkins
Why read it: A controversial but thought-provoking take on how to optimize your money for experiences, not just savings.
Best for: Anyone who fears hoarding wealth but missing life.
7. “Money Bitch: A No-BS Guide for Smart Women Who Want to Own Their Financial Future” by Sarah Blankenship and Nicholle Overkamp
Why read it: Direct, empowering, and full of actionable advice—this book helps women take control of their finances with clarity and confidence. Written by the very team behind Wilcox Financial Group, it’s real talk with a strategy.
Best for: Women who are ready to ditch the jargon, claim their financial power, and start planning with intention.
Bonus Recommendation:
“The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey – While not tailored for HNW readers, it’s a great reset for anyone wanting to simplify debt, saving, and discipline.
At Wilcox, we build the book around you. We love books, but we know no one’s life fits neatly into a chapter. If you’ve read one (or all) of these and are ready to put real numbers to paper, let’s design a retirement plan that’s uniquely yours. Because the best retirement strategy? It’s the one that fits your life, not just a theory.
The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of MML Investors Services LLC. The material is not intended as a recommendation and you should always seek advice from your own investment professional. Securities and
investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC, member SIPC (www.sipc.org). Supervisory address: 300 Corporate PKWY, STE 216 N, Amherst, NY 14226. 716-276-1138. Wilcox Financial Group is not a subsidiary or affiliate of MML Investors Services, LLC, or its affiliated companies. CRN202810-9588526