The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason .

The Richest Man in Babylon (1926) by George S. Clason is a timeless classic of personal finance that uses parables set in ancient Babylon to teach fundamental principles of wealth-building, saving, and financial independence. Originally issued as informational pamphlets by banks and insurance companies, these stories were later compiled into a book that remains one of the most famous financial guides ever written.

Set thousands of years ago in Babylon—the wealthiest city of the ancient world—the book follows two poor friends, Bansar and Kobbi, who seek out their childhood friend Arkad. Arkad, once a humble scribe, has become the richest man in Babylon. He willingly shares the timeless financial habits that brought him fortune, framing his advice around simple rules for managing money.