Looking for great books to read? We’ve got you covered! Check out this awesome list of 39 must-read books in different categories like fiction, business, personal development, travel, and more. Whether you’re into stories or self-improvement, there’s something for everyone. Use the contents to find the section you’re interested in, and let’s dive in!
Awesome Novels to Check Out:
1. 1984 by George Orwell
Dive into a world where freedom and love are banned in a society ruled by fear and lies. Even though 1984 has come and gone, this futuristic tale is more relevant than ever.
2. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Join hobbits, elves, orcs, and wizards in Middle Earth for an incredible adventure. Tolkien’s fantasy epic is a must-read for any book lover.
3. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Experience the moving story of an unlikely friendship in Afghanistan during a time of tragedy. This unforgettable novel will keep you hooked from start to finish.
4. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
If you haven’t already, it’s time to enter the magical world of Harry Potter. Follow Harry and his schoolmates on a thrilling journey filled with magic and monsters.
5. Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Explore one of the greatest anti-war books ever written. Follow Billy Pilgrim’s peculiar perspective during World War II in this rich and amusing tale.
6. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Narnia, where school children become entangled in a fate filled with mythical beasts, talking animals, and warring kingdoms.
7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Explore life in the Deep South during the early 20th century through the gripping story of a man accused of a terrible crime. It’s a poignant and humorous must-read.
8. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Narrated by Death itself, this story of bravery, hope, and friendship unfolds during the time of Nazi tyranny. Brace yourself for a novel that will leave you breathless.
9. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Published in 1847, this classic novel set on a lonely English moorland delves into the struggles of love, betrayal, and revenge between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff.
10. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinge
Join sixteen-year-old Holden Caulfield on his coming-of-age journey filled with angst and alienation as he leaves his prep school for New York City.
11. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Jane Eyre is often seen as a must-read because it tells the story of a strong woman who grows morally and spiritually despite a tough childhood and a society that wasn’t fair to women.
12. Animal Farm by George Orwell
George Orwell’s book is like a fairy tale about a revolution against a bad ruler that turns into an even worse system. The animals on the farm want justice and equality, but the new leaders end up controlling everything.
13. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
In Ray Bradbury’s world, people depend too much on the media. The main character burns books, but then starts questioning everything. With today’s politics and world events, this book is a must-read.
14. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
This story is about four sisters with different personalities. It takes you deep into their lives, showing their flaws, joys, struggles, and fears.
15. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
This magical tale is a reminder to be kind to all living creatures. On a farm, a girl tries to save her piglet with the help of her animal friends.
16. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley’s story is about a scientist who creates a monster. It makes us think about what it means to be human and what love and kindness truly are.
17. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Set in the Great Depression, this book tells a controversial tale of friendship between two workers in California. It’s filled with hope and tragedy as they dream of owning land and pets.
18. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Join Arthur Dent on a funny and fantastic adventure across the stars. He learns not to take the universe too seriously as he meets interesting characters.
19. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
This novel is considered the quintessential story of the Jazz Age. Set in 1922, it shows a man’s struggle to win the love of a woman in a time of indulgence and decadence.
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Business and Money Must-Read Books
20. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
Think and Grow Rich is a popular book that many people around the world have enjoyed. It’s filled with tips and strategies for making money. If you want to change how you think about money, this book might really help.
21. Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Rich Dad Poor Dad talks about how rich and poor people have different ways of thinking about money. It challenges common ideas about money and shows that you don’t need a high income to become rich.
22. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham
If you want to learn about investing, add this book to your list. Benjamin Graham, the author, is considered one of the greatest investment advisors. In The Intelligent Investor, you’ll learn about ‘value investing’ and long-term strategies used by successful investors.
23. Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio
Ray Dalio, from Bridgewater Associates, shares what he’s learned about investing, business, and life in Principles.
24. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
In this New York Times bestseller, Dr. Robert B. Cialdini reveals the psychology behind influence and how to use it in business and everyday life.
Personal Development Books Everyone Should Read
25. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Dale Carnegie’s classic self-help book from 1936 teaches simple methods to improve relationships, benefiting both your business and personal life.
26. The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg
Charles Duhigg’s book explores how habits are formed and how you can change them, making it a must-read if you’ve struggled with habits.
27. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
The Power of Now has sold millions of copies and can change how you experience life, making it more joyous and prosperous.
28. The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, an expert on trauma, explores the science behind emotional and psychological trauma and offers paths to recovery.
Science and Technology Books You Must-Read
29. A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
Stephen Hawking’s A Brief History of Time is a famous book discussing the history of cosmology from Ancient Greece to the 1980s.
30. Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt
This book reveals the facts behind social issues like crime, shopping, and drugs, making it a must-read for those interested in controversial topics.
31. The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power by Shoshana Zuboff
This book explores how personal data has become a new form of capital, making it a top must-read on technology.
32. Uncanny Valley by Anna Wiener
Anna Wiener talks about the busy, self-important, and sometimes unrealistic work environment in Silicon Valley. She discusses how young people in the tech industry are obsessed with leading a productive life. Her book, “The Uncanny Valley,” is a must-read for everyone.
Here are some great books to read in different genres:
Travel and Adventure
33. On the Road by Jack Kerouac
Follows two friends on a cross-country road trip in search of meaning and rich experiences.
34. Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson
A funny account of Bryson’s journey through the United Kingdom, from Downing Street in London to Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands.
35. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
A comprehensive travel guide with practical tips on safe and spontaneous travel, offering philosophies for a trip of a lifetime.
36. Wild by Cheryl Strayed
Chronicles Strayed’s impulsive decision to walk over a thousand miles on the Pacific Crest Trail, inspiring self-discovery.
37. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
Details the development of humans from ancient times to the present, exploring the impact of current world systems.
38. Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
Mandela’s autobiography, written in prison, provides insight into the end of apartheid and inequality in South Africa.
39. The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs by Steve Brusatte
Explores the fascinating world of dinosaurs and the different environments they lived in.
40. A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
Summarizes Earth’s history, covering its formation, size, stages, dangers, and human evolution, making it a must-read for science and history enthusiasts.
Book Recommendations
If you’re wondering what to read next, here are some suggestions across various genres:
Classic Novels
- – 1984 by George Orwell
- – The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
- – The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
- – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
- – Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Business and Money
- – Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
- – Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
- – The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham
- – Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio
- – Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
Personal Development
- – How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- – The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
- – The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- – The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
Science and Technology
- – A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
- – Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt
- – The Age of Surveillance Capitalism by Shoshana Zuboff
- – Uncanny Valley by Anna Wiener