1. The Bible
Reagan’s religious faith was central to his life, and the Bible was, without a doubt, his most cherished book. He referenced it frequently in his speeches, drawing upon its teachings and parables to inspire both himself and the American people. He saw the Bible as a moral guide and often quoted scripture, particularly passages that emphasized freedom, compassion, and resilience. In his view, the Bible offered timeless lessons that shaped his beliefs on governance and the sanctity of individual liberty.
2. The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
While Reagan didn’t fully embrace Rand’s philosophy of Objectivism, he admired The Fountainhead for its celebration of individualism. The novel’s protagonist, Howard Roark, is a fiercely independent architect who stands firm in his beliefs, regardless of social pressures. Reagan appreciated the message of personal freedom and integrity that Rand’s work conveyed, viewing it as a fitting allegory for the American spirit of perseverance and innovation.
3. Witness by Whittaker Chambers
This memoir by Whittaker Chambers, a former Communist turned anti-communist witness, had a profound impact on Reagan. Witness recounts Chambers’ disillusionment with communism and his decision to testify against prominent communist spies within the U.S. government. Reagan, who saw communism as a threat to individual freedom, found Chambers’ account both compelling and chilling. The book reinforced his views on the dangers of totalitarian ideologies and his belief in the moral righteousness of American values. Witness also shaped his perception of the Cold War and solidified his stance against the Soviet Union.
4. That Printer of Udell’s by Harold Bell Wright
Reagan often cited That Printer of Udell’s as one of the most influential books in his life. The story follows a young man, Dick Falkner, who, after overcoming poverty, becomes a successful printer and an advocate for social reform. This book resonated with Reagan’s own experiences growing up during the Great Depression, as well as his belief in self-reliance and hard work. Reagan once said that reading this book helped lead him to his faith in God and his belief in the importance of helping others—values that would guide him throughout his life and presidency.
5. The Bible and Other Stories of Faith by J. Edgar Park
This collection of Bible stories was another favorite of Reagan’s, offering simplified yet powerful retellings of biblical events. The book’s approachable style made it popular among lay readers and, for Reagan, reinforced his spiritual beliefs. He valued this work for its ability to present complex religious concepts in ways that were easy to understand and apply to daily life. These stories offered Reagan a sense of spiritual grounding and a way to connect with fundamental truths he held dear.
6. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Mark Twain’s classic novel of American life and adventure appealed to Reagan’s love of freedom and his appreciation of individualism. Huckleberry Finn tells the story of a young boy navigating the complexities of society, friendship, and morality along the Mississippi River. Reagan saw Huck Finn as a quintessentially American character, embodying the qualities of independence and a healthy skepticism of authority. This book, with its humor and deep exploration of moral themes, resonated with Reagan’s belief in self-determination and personal honor.
7. When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan
Though published after his presidency, Peggy Noonan’s biography When Character Was King offered an intimate look at Reagan’s life and values, capturing his personality and principles with grace. The book is particularly cherished among those who admired Reagan, as it paints a warm portrait of a man guided by conviction and humility. While he didn’t live to see its publication, Noonan’s portrayal reflected the values he held throughout his life, making it a posthumous favorite for those close to him and his admirers alike.
8. Air Force One Is Haunted by Robert J. Serling
Spotted reading Air Force One Is Haunted aboard his presidential plane, Reagan’s choice here hints at his enjoyment of entertaining fiction. The novel, a political thriller involving supernatural happenings on Air Force One, would’ve offered a fascinating escape and perhaps a humorous twist for Reagan, who spent many hours on the presidential aircraft. This choice reflects his playful side and suggests he didn’t mind mixing real-life settings with a bit of fictional intrigue.
List of Ronald Reagan‘s Favorite Books:
- The Bible
- The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
- Witness by Whittaker Chambers
- That Printer of Udell’s by Harold Bell Wright
- The Bible and Other Stories of Faith by J. Edgar Park
- The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
- When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan
- Air Force One Is Haunted by Robert J. Serling
List of Books on Ronald Reagan
Ronald Reagan on WikiPedia
