5 Books Bill Gates Says You Should Read This Summer The billionaire co-founder of Microsoft issues his summer reading list.

Looking for books to read this summer? Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates today issued his latest recommendations.

Gates posted the following five book recommendations on his blog, adding that none of them are a "light read."

Upheaval by Jared Diamond (Amazon)

Why Gates recommends it: "I'm a big fan of everything Jared has written, and his latest is no exception. The book explores how societies react during moments of crisis. He uses a series of fascinating case studies to show how nations managed existential challenges like civil war, foreign threats, and general malaise. It sounds a bit depressing, but I finished the book even more optimistic about our ability to solve problems than I started."

Nine Pints by Rose George (Amazon)

Why Gates recommends it: "If you get grossed out by blood, this one probably isn't for you. But if you're like me and find it fascinating, you'll enjoy this book by a British journalist with an especially personal connection to the subject. I'm a big fan of books that go deep on one specific topic, so Nine Pints (the title refers to the volume of blood in the average adult) was right up my alley. It's filled with super-interesting facts that will leave you with a new appreciation for blood."

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles (Amazon)

Why Gates recommends it: "It seems like everyone I know has read this book. I finally joined the club after my brother-in-law sent me a copy, and I'm glad I did. Towles's novel about a count sentenced to life under house arrest in a Moscow hotel is fun, clever, and surprisingly upbeat. Even if you don't enjoy reading about Russia as much as I do (I've read every book by Dostoyevsky), A Gentleman in Moscow is an amazing story that anyone can enjoy."

Presidents of War by Michael Beschloss (Amazon)

Why Gates recommends it: "My interest in all aspects of the Vietnam War is the main reason I decided to pick up this book. By the time I finished it, I learned a lot not only about Vietnam but about the eight other major conflicts the U.S. entered between the turn of the 19th century and the 1970s. Beschloss's broad scope lets you draw important cross-cutting lessons about presidential leadership."

The Future of Capitalism by Paul Collier (Amazon)

Why Gates recommends it: "Collier's latest book is a thought-provoking look at a topic that's top of mind for a lot of people right now. Although I don't agree with him about everything -- I think his analysis of the problem is better than his proposed solutions -- his background as a development economist gives him a smart perspective on where capitalism is headed."