About Robert Greene
Robert Greene studied classical studies at University of Wisconsin-Madison and Berkeley before working over 80 jobs — including construction worker, translator, Hollywood film editor, and magazine writer. He met book packager Joost Elffers in 1995 and together they wrote The 48 Laws of Power, published in 1998.
The book was initially dismissed by mainstream critics but became a cult classic, particularly in hip-hop culture (50 Cent collaborated with Greene on The 50th Law) and in prisons — reportedly one of the most read books in the US prison system. Greene's books are dense, dark, and draw on centuries of historical examples from Machiavelli to Sun Tzu to modern corporate warfare.
All Books
Reading Guide
Where to start
The 48 Laws of Power is the essential starting point — it's the book that defines Greene's approach and remains his most famous. You can read individual laws non-linearly; it doesn't require cover-to-cover reading.
Mastery is his most constructive and inspiring book — a great second read, especially if The 48 Laws feels too cynical. The Laws of Human Nature is his masterwork for understanding people.
All books are standalone. Greene's work rewards slow reading — each historical vignette repays attention.