Best Books of All Time
How can you determine which books belong among the best books of all time? With countless titles available in libraries and bookstores worldwide, it can be difficult to distinguish the best fiction and nonfiction works. We believe that the most exceptional books have the power to expand our perspectives, introduce us to new characters and realms, and linger in our minds long after the final chapter. Our passionate readers have also contributed their recommendations of must-read books that they frequently revisit.
The books featured in our selection of the best books ever written stand out from the rest, earning a spot in the top 10. We considered a variety of factors, including popular titles, award-winning works, and books that receive high praise from both readers and critics. Many of these books have been adapted into successful films, and some are currently taught in schools. They have also been recognized on “best of” lists by prominent publications such as The New York Times, The Guardian, NPR, PBS, and Time magazine. Most importantly, these books have had a profound impact on literature, culture, or society. Our list comprises a diverse range of genres, from classic literature to contemporary favorites, biographies to children’s books. So let’s explore the best books ever written.
Top 10 Books of All Time
Here is the list of top 10 books of all time. Check below to know the author and the brief stories of the book.
|
S.No |
Books |
Author of the Books |
|
1 |
Anna Karenina |
Leo Tolstoy |
|
2 |
To Kill a Mockingbird |
Harper Lee |
|
3 |
Where the Sidewalk Ends |
Shel Silverstein |
|
4 |
Valley of the Dolls |
Jacqueline Susann |
|
5 |
The Shining |
Stephen King |
|
6 |
The Little Prince |
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry |
|
7 |
The Fellowship of the Ring |
J.R.R. Tolkien’s |
|
8 |
The Handmaid’s Tale |
Margaret Atwood |
|
9 |
A Wrinkle in Time |
Madeleine L’Engle |
|
10 |
Pride and Prejudice |
Jane Austen |
Let us see each book in detail.
1. Anna Karenina
Leo Tolstoy’s “Anna Karenina,” published in 1878, is widely regarded as one of the most iconic literary love stories of all time. Critics have hailed it as a masterpiece, and for good reason. The sweeping Russian tale of two lovers from different worlds is filled with memorable quotes, such as “He stepped down, trying not to look long at her, as if she were the sun, yet he saw her, like the sun, even without looking.” Fyodor Dostoevsky called it “flawless,” and it’s a must-read for any book enthusiast. For those who enjoy getting lost in fictional characters, there’s even a way to discover what famous book characters might look like in real life.
2. To Kill a Mockingbird
“To Kill a Mockingbird,” written by Harper Lee in 1960, is a novel that disrupts the tranquil setting of a segregated Southern town with a story of virtue and innocence, prejudice and hatred, and love and pardon. The novel follows the story of an eight-year-old girl named Scout Finch and her father, Atticus, who become embroiled in the trial of a Black man accused of assaulting a White woman. Lee recounts the events, discoveries, and lessons through the eyes of a young child in one of the most profoundly moving books. “To Kill a Mockingbird” is widely read and studied and continues to stimulate discussions about race in classrooms and libraries throughout the country.
3. Where the Sidewalk Ends
Where the Sidewalk Ends,” published in 1974, is a beloved collection of short stories and poems by the highly imaginative and artistic Shel Silverstein. The book is considered one of the greatest poetry books of all time because of its lasting appeal to both children and adults. Silverstein’s creative and masterful storytelling style shines through in the whimsical tales that he weaves. As an American poet, author, singer, and folk artist, he brings a unique blend of talents to his work, ensuring that there is something for everyone within the pages of “Where the Sidewalk Ends.”
4. Valley of the Dolls
Jacqueline Susann’s 1966 novel “Valley of the Dolls” presents the seductive but ultimately destructive allure of sex and drugs. The novel follows the stories of three young women who aspire to reach the heights of success and fame, only to spiral into a world of sex, passion, love, and abandonment. Susann’s vivid descriptions and captivating plot make this book a classic page-turner that is perfect for a beach read. “Valley of the Dolls” set the standard for similarly tantalizing vacation books that have since become popular.
5. The Shining
Stephen King’s 1977 masterpiece, The Shining, is a must-read for any fans of suspense and horror. The story follows the character of Jack Torrance, a middle-aged man who takes a job as the caretaker of the remote Overlook Hotel during the off-season in hopes of a fresh start. However, as the isolation and ominous atmosphere of the hotel close in around him, Jack’s sanity begins to unravel, leading to a terrifying descent into madness. The novel has become a classic in the horror genre, and its adaptation into a film by Jack Nicholson only adds to its legacy. Anyone who enjoys a good scare should add The Shining to their list of must-reads.
6. The Little Prince
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet in search of adventure, encountering adults who leave him feeling disappointed and disillusioned. After arriving in the Sahara Desert, he meets the book’s narrator, and the two embark on an eight-day journey filled with valuable lessons. Although it is a short book, it is a captivating and unforgettable tale. This classic has been widely read all over the world and is available in numerous languages, making it accessible to readers of all backgrounds.
7. The Fellowship of the Ring
Embark on a journey to Middle-earth in The Fellowship of the Ring, the first book in J.R.R. Tolkien’s renowned Lord of the Rings trilogy. Follow Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Gandalf the Grey, and a host of other unforgettable characters as they set out to destroy the all-powerful One Ring, the creation of the dark lord Sauron. Along the way, they encounter many unique and captivating characters and face an epic adventure that will test their strength and courage. Despite the fact that the world of Middle-earth is entirely fictional, the trilogy explores universal themes of good versus evil that have resonated with readers from all walks of life. Widely acclaimed as one of the best fantasy books of all time, The Fellowship of the Ring is a must-read for anyone who loves the genre.
8. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a gripping story of Offred, a handmaid living in the Republic of Gilead where she has been taken from her former life and family to become a servant and reproductive vessel. Set in a dystopian future where a woman’s worth is measured by her fertility, Offred’s story is both a warning and a captivating narrative. Despite being written in the 1980s, the book remains relevant and hauntingly prophetic as evidenced by the popularity of its on-screen adaptation. With the upcoming release of season 6, fans can catch up on previous seasons by streaming the show on Hulu. The Handmaid’s Tale has earned its place as one of the best feminist books and is a must-read for anyone interested in powerful and thought-provoking literature.
9. A Wrinkle in Time
Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time has been a beloved must-read since its publication in 1962, but its recent adaptation in 2018 film featuring Oprah Winfrey, Mindy Kaling, and Reese Witherspoon has attracted a new generation of readers. This science-fantasy novel, which won the Newbery Medal, tells the story of Meg Murry, a stubborn and troublesome young girl who sets out to find her father, who has mysteriously disappeared. Along the way, she meets an array of peculiar neighbors, including Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which, and embarks on a fantastical adventure that involves bending the fabric of time and space. A Wrinkle in Time weaves themes of love, trust, and overcoming fear into its enchanting coming-of-age story, making it a timeless classic. We always recommend reading the book before watching the film adaptation, and once you’ve enjoyed this story, you may want to explore other excellent books that have been made into movies.
10. Pride and Prejudice
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, published in 1813, remains a beloved classic with enduring appeal. Set in the early 19th century, the novel tells the story of the Bennet family, particularly the five daughters who must navigate the marriage market of their time. As eligible bachelors enter their lives, the Bennet sisters’ personalities and charms are revealed, bringing about both humorous and thought-provoking situations. Despite being primarily classified as a romance novel, Pride and Prejudice also explores themes of societal expectations, first impressions, and the consequences of hasty judgments. This timeless work has captured the hearts of readers for over two centuries and is a staple on many bookshelves and school reading lists.
TRENDING
Which is the Best Book of All Time?
The novel Anna Karenina captivates and intrigues its readers with its fascinating world and memorable characters. Although the outward forms of social disapproval have changed over time, the harsh reality of society’s intolerance of those who do not conform to prescribed ways of thinking and feeling remains. The themes explored in Anna Karenina and War and Peace are fundamentally similar, focusing on how we decide whom and what we should love and to whom and what we should give our loyalty, belief, and faith. While War and Peace explores these themes amid historical events, Anna Karenina deals with them on a smaller scale. Despite the novel’s title, the eponymous heroine’s story takes a backseat to the stories of Kitty and Levin and Dolly and Stiva, all of which center on the formation, dissolution, glories, and perils of love and marriage. Anna’s character is intelligent, charming, and beautiful, and readers cannot help but fall in love with her, just like Vronsky and Kitty. The novel’s characters are so human and relatable that readers can see themselves in them, and each reading of the book offers a new perspective on the characters and their struggles. Tolstoy is not afraid to tell as well as show, providing readers with access to the characters’ innermost thoughts through their inner monologue and actions. Overall, Anna Karenina is a timeless novel that continues to captivate and engage readers with its relatable characters and themes.
Most Popular Books of All Time
We have also updated the Most popular books that most people prefer to read. Check below.
1. The Holy Bible
The Bible, regarded as sacred scripture by many religions including Samaritans, Christians, Jews, and Rastafari, is a widely recognized and famous book that has been read by billions of people worldwide. It comprises a collection of teachings centered on God and the Lord Jesus Christ, and is divided into two parts, the Old and New Testaments. The Bible contains a variety of literary genres including historical accounts, prayers, hymns, parables, prophecies, and numerous other stories. Following his resurrection in the New Testament, Jesus spreads his teachings about the Christian faith. With over 3.9 billion copies sold in the past half-century, the Bible is considered the most widely read book in the world.
After the Bible, the other Non Fiction book that is most famous was Don Quixote. If you want to try something new other than the Holy Bible, you must try this one.
2. Don Quixote
Don Quixote is a novel written by Miguel de Cervantes, published in two volumes in 1605 and 1615. It is considered one of the greatest works of fiction in world literature and is regarded as a masterpiece of Spanish literature. The book tells the story of a middle-aged gentleman named Alonso Quixano, who becomes so enamored with the stories of knights and chivalry that he decides to become a knight himself, adopting the name Don Quixote. He sets out on a series of adventures with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, in search of glory, justice, and the love of a woman he calls Dulcinea. Throughout the novel, Don Quixote’s idealistic vision of the world clashes with reality, leading him to engage in absurd and often comical situations. He attacks windmills, mistaking them for giants, and tries to free prisoners who are not actually in captivity. Despite the setbacks and humiliations he faces, Don Quixote remains steadfast in his belief in the chivalric code of honor and his quest for adventure. The novel is celebrated for its wit, humor, and insightful commentary on human nature, as well as its exploration of the nature of reality and illusion. It has been adapted into numerous films, plays, and operas and has had a lasting impact on literature and popular culture.
Conclusion
Reading books can help improve cognitive function, such as memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. It can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, providing an escape from daily life. Reading novels and books can help increase empathy and understanding of other people’s perspectives and experiences. Reading can help expand your vocabulary and improve your language skills, including writing and speaking. Reading books can provide a wealth of knowledge and learning on a variety of topics, from history to science to philosophy. If you are struggling to set time for reading , do follow these steps , Schedule a specific time each day for reading, whether it’s in the morning, afternoon, or evening, and stick to it as much as possible. Choose a comfortable spot where you can relax and focus on reading, such as a cozy chair or a quiet room. Select books that you find interesting or that align with your goals and interests. Taking notes and highlighting key passages can help you better remember and understand the content.Join a book club or discuss the book with friends and family to gain different perspectives and insights.
Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of any information on the Site.
Categories: Top 10 News
Source: ptivs2.edu.vn