Ask HN: I want to start a web company what books should I read?

Founders at Work;

I cannot recommend enough "Founders at Work" by Jessica Livingston.

Founders at Work - Jessica Livingston

4 Steps to Epiphany;

Agree on Four Steps

Agreed. But note that it's more like a textbook rather than an inspirational read. Don't expect to "finish" over a few bathroom breaks (unlike rework (which is great also (but more "easy"))).

"Four steps to the epiphany." (its about customer development). Many angel investors wont even invest in someone who hasn't read it - which is how I learned about it. I went to business school and that book taught me more than 4 years of wasted time.

The Four Steps to the Epiphany by Steve Blank - about finding product / market fit, customer development, how to manage the process. Peppered with interesting and entertaining anecdotes.

"Crossing the Chasm" - Geoffrey Moore (for company in general, can apply to web co)

Crossing the Chasm;

These are great and really get your mind thinking about alternatives to what most people believe.

I really like this book. It helps put things into perspective, especially for smaller companies.

I agree that this is a fantastic and almost essential choice.

it's a great book (with a cheesy pie shop metaphor) on how to start a business that is a system you own rather than a business that owns you.

Good to Great - Collins;

Getting Real by 37signals

These are great and really get your mind thinking about alternatives to what most people believe.

Finally 'Founders at work' is definitely worth a read.

Loosing My Virginity - Richard Brandson;

Purple Cow and The Dip by Seth Godin

If you must pick one, Getting Real is all what you need.

Agree on Four Steps and Getting Real, also check out: Purple Cow and The Dip by Seth Godin The Long Tail and Free by Anderson

The Long Tail and Free by Anderson