some good story books

The 100 Must-Read Books of 2021

The fiction, nonfiction and poetry that shifted our perspectives, uncovered essential truths and encouraged us forward Annabel Gutterman, Cady Lang, Arianna Rebolini and Lucas Wittmann

1000 Years of Joys and Sorrows

Acts of desperation, afterparties, aftershocks, all that she carried, all the frequent troubles of our days, america on fire, beautiful world, where are you, the book of form and emptiness, call us what we carry, the chosen and the beautiful, chronicles from the land of the happiest people on earth, cloud cuckoo land, the code breaker, the committed, the copenhagen trilogy, covered with night, crying in h mart, dear senthuran, detransition, baby, empire of pain, everyone knows your mother is a witch, the family roe, the final girl support group, finding the mother tree, four thousand weeks, the free world, great circle, harlem shuffle, hell of a book, how the word is passed, invisible child, the kissing bug, klara and the sun, the life of the mind, the lincoln highway, a little devil in america, the loneliest americans, the love songs of w.e.b. du bois, malibu rising, the man who lived underground, mike nichols: a life, milk blood heat, my darling from the lions, my monticello, my year abroad, no one is talking about this, oh william, on juneteenth, one friday in april, one last stop, orwell's roses, the other black girl, our country friends, a passage north, pilgrim bell, poet warrior, the promise, the prophets, razorblade tears, real estate, the removed, remote control, the rib king, second place, seeing ghosts, somebody's daughter, something new under the sun, the sum of us, the sunflower cast a spell to save us from the void, the sweetness of water, a swim in a pond in the rain, tastes like war, there’s no such thing as an easy job, under a white sky, until proven safe, while we were dating, white magic, who is maud dixon, who they was, who will pay reparations on my soul, you got anything stronger, you're history, by ai weiwei, by megan nolan, by anthony veasna so, by nadia owusu, by tiya miles, by rebecca donner, by elizabeth hinton, by sally rooney, by ruth ozeki, by amanda gorman, by sunjeev sahota, by wole soyinka, by anthony doerr, by walter isaacson, by viet thanh nguyen, by tove ditlevsen, by nicole eustace, by jonathan franzen, by michelle zauner, by akwaeke emezi, by torrey peters, by patrick radden keefe, by rivka galchen, by joshua prager, by grady hendrix, by suzanne simard, by oliver burkeman, by louis menand, by melissa febos, by maggie shipstead, by colson whitehead, by mieko kawakami, by jason mott, by clint smith, by katie kitamura, by andrea elliott, by daisy hernández, by kazuo ishiguro, by kaitlyn greenidge, by christine smallwood, by amor towles, by hanif abdurraqib, by jay caspian kang, by honorée fanonne jeffers, by taylor jenkins reid, by richard wright, by lauren groff, by mark harris, by dantiel w. moniz, by melissa broder.

by Rachel Long

By jocelyn nicole johnson, by chang-rae lee, by patricia lockwood, by elizabeth strout, by annette gordon-reed, by donald antrim, by casey mcquiston, by caleb azumah nelson, by rebecca solnit, by zakiya dalila harris, by gary shteyngart, by anuk arudpragasam, by kaveh akbar, by joy harjo, by larissa pham, by damon galgut, by robert jones, jr., by s.a. cosby, by deborah levy, by brandon hobson, by nnedi okorafor, by ladee hubbard, by chibundu onuzo, by rachel cusk, by kat chow, by kristen radtke, by john le carré, by sarah ruhl, by ashley c. ford, by alexandra kleeman, by rivers solomon, by heather mcghee, by jackie wang, by nathan harris, by george saunders, by grace m. cho, by percival everett, by kikuko tsumura, by tarana burke, by elizabeth kolbert, by geoff manaugh and nicola twilley, by jasmine guillory, by elissa washuta, by alexandra andrews, by gabriel krauze, by jesse mccarthy, by gabrielle union, by lesley chow.

This project is led by Lucy Feldman and Annabel Gutterman, with writing, reporting and additional editing by Eliza Berman, Kelly Conniff, Mariah Espada, Lori Fradkin, Laurin-Whitney Gottbrath, Cady Lang, Nik Popli, Arianna Rebolini, Lucas Wittmann and Julia Zorthian; art and photography editing by Whitney Matewe and Jennifer Prandato; and production by Paulina Cachero and Nadia Suleman.

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34 Great Books to Suit Any Mood or Interest

With all these choices (humor! thrills! non-snobby cultural criticism!) you're bound to find your next great read.

There are several science-backed benefits of reading real books —relaxation being one of them. Count falling asleep faster as another health benefit of reading a book before bed . It can also be a fun summer activity for when you're short on funds. And, starting or joining a book club not only boosts your cognitive skills but also fills your schedule with an activity that can improve your emotional health and combat cabin fever —all too common during COVID. The Great Gatsby, for example, is a classic book that's perfect for any book club. It's also a great book to revisit when you're feeling nostalgic for the past . Those in their 20s might want books that offer valuable lessons on life, love, and friendship. Whatever the subject, a few good books tucked in a care package can't help but brighten anyone's day.

When we're looking for good books to read, we browse bestseller lists, click around Goodreads and Instagram, and ask friends for their recommendations. But the usual blanket categories and genres can be a bit too broad, and often, we've found that we get the best recommendations when we choose books based on our mood or our interests.

If you're looking for interesting books to read, we've compiled a list of 34 super-specific recommendations you won't be able to put down. This list has you covered, no matter how you're feeling.

If You're Looking for an Honest Story About Losing a Mother

Crying in H Mart, by Michelle Zauner This is the memoir and debut book of Michelle Zauner, lead singer of the indie band Japanese Breakfast . Zauner writes about growing up Korean American and how losing her mother to cancer when she was 25 forced her to reconnect with her identity. It's a story of Zauner's grief and an exploration of all the gifts (language, food, history) her mother left behind. Zauner's memoir would be a wonderful addition to the growing list of great mother-daughter books .

If You're Looking for a Novel That Reads Like Poetry

On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous , by Ocean Vuong

Ocean Vuong is a Vietnamese-American poet and his debut novel is written in the form of a letter from a son to a mother who cannot read. Exploring race, class, and masculinity, the novel handles difficult topics with beauty and the kind of lines that will hang in the air long after you've set the book down.

If You Like Sharp Humor and Quick Reads

One Day We'll All Be Dead and None of This Will Matter , by Scaachi Koul

Written by Buzzfeed senior writer Scaachi Koul, this collection of essays is rich with relatable humor, no matter how specific the scenarios. Koul invites the reader into some of her most miserable and mortifying life moments, from feeling like an outsider as the daughter of Indian immigrants in Canada to shaving her knuckles to fit in at school.

If You Want to Remember bell hooks

All About Love , by bell hooks

Feminist scholar and activist bell hooks died in 2021 at age 69, but her works have long been and will remain timeless. Her 1999 book is, as the title says, all about love, from personal, psychological, and philosophical perspectives.

If You Really Missed Traveling (and Anthony Bourdain)

World Travel: An Irreverent Guide, by Anthony Bourdain and Laurie Woolever

Had to cancel your dream vacation due to the pandemic? This posthumous collection of essays and reflections captures the late travel and food writer and TV host Anthony Bourdain's favorite places on the planet—and may just inspire your future travels.

If You Want Something a Little Dishy

Good Company by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney

This summer-perfect read about secrets in a marriage offers an insider's glimpse into the New York theater and Hollywood scenes.

If You Need to Be Reminded of (the Greatness of) the Great Outdoors

Where the Crawdads Sing, by Delia Owens

Kya grows up wild and nearly alone along the North Carolina shores, where the natural world becomes her classroom and her great love. (It may just encourage you to go outside and commune with yourself and your nearest stretch of wilderness.)

If You're Worried You're a Helicopter Mom

Girls With Bright Futures, by Tracy Dobmeier and Wendy Katzman

This thriller follows three moms as they go into overdrive to try to get their daughters a single, coveted spot at Stanford—including possibly attempted murder. (So no, you're doing just fine!)

If You Ever Wondered What Life Was Like in Your Dream House

The Dutch House, by Ann Patchett

Spoiler alert: Life isn't as perfect on the inside of a dream house as it appears. This artful portrait of a dysfunctional family—and the house they inhabit—is worthy book club fare.

If You Appreciate Great Dialogue

Normal People , by Sally Rooney

If you haven't yet read Rooney's Normal People or her 2017 debut, Conversations with Friends , the Irish author's novels are great books to read if you like biting dialogue and stories about messy, real relationships.

If There Aren't Enough True Crime Podcasts for You

Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland , by Patrick Radden Keefe

We'll say it: There are tons of true crime books and podcasts—but very few of them actually solve said crimes or offer much in the way of new information (of course, no shame in getting a rundown or entertaining commentary!). But this fact is what sets Say Nothing apart. You don't need to know much about the conflict in Northern Ireland to immediately be sucked into Keefe's reporting and writing, then completely enraptured when he starts to figure out who murdered Jean McConville.

If You Want Something a Little...Unsettling

Trust Exercise , by Susan Choi

In Choi's experimental coming of age novel, which won the 2019 National Book Award for fiction, two theater kids, Sarah and David, fall in love and explore their relationship for their craft under the watchful eye of their drama teacher. The twists are unexpected and the setting—a high-pressure arts school in the 1980s—is pitch-perfect. You'll want to talk about it with everyone.

If You're Looking to Learn Something

Wine Simple: A Totally Approachable Guide from a World-Class Sommelier , by Aldo Sohm and Christine Muhlke

Aldo Sohm has been named the best sommelier in the world and oversees the wine program at one of New York City's top restaurants. Despite such accolades, he and Christine Muhlke have written a highly approachable handbook. Full of fun charts and illustrations, the unfussy Wine Simple demystifies everything from buzzy natural wines to tasting like a pro at your next dinner out.

If You Want to Read Cultural Criticism Without the Usual Snobbery

Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion , by Jia Tolentino

In her debut collection of nine original essays, the popular NewYorker.com writer interrogates everything from millennial scammers to the Internet. It's compulsively readable, thanks in large part to Tolentino's own self-reflection and autobiographical elements.

If You Want to Spend a Little Less Time on Your Phone

24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day a Week, by Tiffany Shlain

In 24/6, filmmaker and popular speaker Shlain introduces readers to what she calls a "Technology Shabbat"—the one day, every week, where she and her family turn off all electronic devices. Beyond detailing the many ways she and her family have benefited, Shlain gives helpful, reassuring advice for embracing your own tech shabbat and curbing device use.

If You Can't Read Enough About Hygge, Lagom, and Swedish Death Cleaning

The Book of Ichigo Ichie: The Art of Making the Most of Every Moment, the Japanese Way , by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

You've death-cleaned your home. You hygge with the best of them come winter. But have you heard of ichigo ichie, the Japanese art of savoring the moment, yet? Let the authors of The Book of Ichigo Ichie be your guides.

If You Just Finished Binge Watching and Reading The Handmaid's Tale

Women Talking, by Miriam Toews

A lot of books claim to be "the next Handmaid's Tale ," but Women Talking really fits the bill. This feminist fiction novel about a group of Mennonite women who are drugged and attacked by men from their community is particularly haunting because it's based on real events. Margaret Atwood herself says the story "could be right out of The Handmaid's Tale ," so it has the official stamp of approval. If you're feeling helpless about the state of the world, Women Talking will inspire you to stand up, use your voice, and keep fighting.

If You're Happy With a Smart, Grown-Up Romance

The Kiss Quotient, by Helen Hoang

Stella is great with numbers, but because she has Asperger's, she's not so great at romance. To gain experience, she hires an escort to practice and perfect her skills in the bedroom—and accidentally falls in love with him. Helen Hoang's #ownvoices novel is equal parts sweet and steamy. After reading The Kiss Quotient , you can jump immediately into the next book in the trilogy: The Bride Test , a companion novel about a woman searching for love and an autistic man who doesn't know if he can return her feelings.

If Oddball Families Make You Smile

Mostly Dead Things, by Kristen Arnett

Everyone's family has their strange quirks, and Jessa's is no exception. After her father commits suicide in their family's taxidermy shop, their behavior gets even stranger; for starters, her mom begins making aggressive and sexually suggestive taxidermy art. Jessa takes over the business and tries to be strong for everyone but struggles to reach her loved ones that refuse to talk about their issues. Mostly Dead Things is one of the strangest, most bizarre books you'll ever read—in the best possible way.

If You're Down for a Literary Masterpiece You Can Read in One Sitting

Looker, by Laura Sims

Sometimes, it's hard to categorize a book into just one genre. Looker isn't exactly a thriller or a mystery, but it contains elements of both. It offers a peek into the mind of an unnamed woman growing more and more unstable by the page. As she mourns her own broken life, she becomes obsessed with her neighbor, a famous actress. While Looker is short—less than 200 pages—it's packed with themes of obsession, jealousy, and madness. Laura Sims made every word count.

If You Want a Good Cry (Two Boxes of Tissues, Minimum)

The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying, by Nina Riggs

This memoir, published posthumously, sets out to answer the question: How do you make your life meaningful when you know your time is limited?

If You Wore Out Your Copy of Like Water for Chocolate

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake, by Aimee Bender

Fans of magic realism should dig into this tale of a young girl whose mother's despair is a key ingredient in her desserts.

If You Just Went Through a Breakup

Alone Time , by Stephanie Rosenbloom

​​ Four cities, four seasons, and countless tables for one. In this memoir, Stephanie Rosenbloom explores the joys of solo adventuring.

If You Love Quirky Science and Psychology

Swearing Is Good For You , by Emma Byrne

A damn good read, packed with scientific proof that sometimes it's OK to drop a few f-bombs.

If You Want to Fulfill Your Fantasies of Working on a Winery

The Shortest Way Home , by Miriam Parker

When Hannah finds herself with everything she's ever wanted (at least she thinks so?), she can't resist giving it all up for a dream she never knew she had.

If You've Been Looking for Another Book Like Where'd You Go Bernadette

What You Don't Know About About Charlie Outlaw , by Leah Stewart

A quirky tale of two Hollywood stars who break up only to find themselves needing each other more than ever—especially after one of them is kidnapped on a desert island.

If You're Breastfeeding Your Cluster Feeding Baby

Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me & You , by Lin-Manuel Miranda

You know you want Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda to be your best friend. While you may not be able to join his entourage and follow him around all day, you can get his book. Inspired by his lovely messages to his fans on Twitter, this illustrated collection of sayings will encourage you to seize the day, the night, and all of the other hours in between.

If You Want to Be Put Into a Good Mood

Becoming , by Michelle Obama

Former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama has lived an accomplished life, but it hasn't been without hardships. In Becoming , Obama weaves the story of her inspiring life, from the years she spent growing up on the South Side of Chicago to her life in the White House. You will earn to a new appreciation of the former First Lady when you learn about all the things she's experienced—and triumphed over—and her story will inspire you to live a more daring life.

If You're About to Have a Baby

Overwhelmed , by Brigid Schulte

You've probably heard by now that you won't be sleeping much after you welcome your bundle of joy (and noise) into the world. Parenthood can be challenging and exhausting, but you don't have to feel like you've lost yourself while you're creating a life for someone else. Journalist Brigid Schulte lays out how our always-on culture can get the best of us and what you can do to take back some time for yourself.

If You're in Love

Kafka on the Shore , by Haruki Murakami

A novel of fantastical magic realism, Kafka on the Shore has a vivid, dreamy plot. Even more accomplished is the novel's turn of phrase, like this quote: "Anyone who falls in love is searching for the missing pieces of themselves. So anyone who's in love gets sad when they think of their lover. It's like stepping back inside a room you have fond memories of, one you haven't seen in a long time." With hundreds of lines like that one, Kafka on the Shore will have you going back again and again to find more gorgeous words to describe your own ardor.

If You're In a Bad Mood

I Remember Nothing , by Nora Ephron

Do you have one of those friends that can complain about anything, but their complaints are entertaining, literary delights? No? Well, Nora Ephron can satisfy that itch. In I Remember Nothing , Ephron, the late writer and creator of beloved movies like You've Got Mail, holds forth on the weird and wonderful changes that define modern life. Don't read this book in public: People will keep giving you weird looks when you can't stop laughing.

If You're Feeling Ready for a Vacation

Flâneuse , by Lauren Elkin

Each of us holds a desire to wander, but for Lauren Elkin, the urge is irresistible. In Flâneuse, Elkin meanders through the great cities of the world, including New York, Paris, Venice, and London, ruminating on the culture of strolling through cities and what it means to explore as a woman.

If You're Getting Hitched

The Wedding Date , by Jasmine Guillory

If you're about to get married, and you're planning a huge party for your nuptials, take a minute to see your wedding from your guests' perspective: attending a wedding without a plus one has the potential to be nerve-racking. In Jasmine Guillory's fun romance, The Wedding Date, Alex Monroe and Drew Nichols solve their potential date-less embarrassment by faking a relationship, and the result is as juicy and delightful as you can imagine.

If You're in the Mood for a Spine-Tingling Stories

The Thirteenth Tale , by Diane Setterfield

The Thirteenth Tale is a novel for book lovers. Although it's anything but cozy, it's the perfect book to read in chilly winter . Biographer Margaret Lea is tasked with telling the life story of the enigmatic author Vida Winter, whose lauded collection of stories is missing the eponymous 13th tale. As Winter unravels her life's story for Lea, her mysterious past of Victorian-gothic proportions unfolds.

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2021 was rough, but books about love gave us life. Here are 13 recommendations

Mia Estrada

Who doesn't love a good, well, love story? Whether it's the meet cutes, the crossed stars, the sheer passion, or a forbidden union, we're big fans.

Here are the Books We Love: 360+ great 2021 reads recommended by NPR

Books We Love , NPR's list of best reads from 2021, has hundreds of recommendations: 369 of them, to be exact. With that kind of lengthy list, it can be hard to know exactly where to start. So here are 13 suggestions from our colleagues and independent critics for what to read if you want a good love story or want to explore themes of love and relationships.

Act Your Age, Eve Brown: A Novel by Talia Hibbert

"Has there ever been a better time to read about a charming, hilarious young woman who just can't seem to get it together? This book follows Eve Brown – a talented cook, phenomenal singer, devoted sister and, at the start of the story, a notorious ne'er-do-well. As her story unspools, Eve winds up learning a lot about herself and what she's capable of; her struggle also helps illuminate how rigid and often misguided the expectations of our family, friends and communities can be." — Leah Donnella , supervising editor, Code Switch

A Lot Like Adiós by Alexis Daria

"Childhood besties Michelle and Gabriel hook up one night after high school graduation – and for a moment it looks like the two might finally get together until Michelle discovers that Gabe is planning on leaving for college across the country. After a blowout fight, the two don't speak again for years – until the gym that Gabriel owns hires Michelle to work on a rebranding campaign. Once they reconnect ... well, let's just say they collaborate on more than a marketing campaign. It's hot, it's fun and it's a great chance to brush up on your Spanish vocabulary." — Lauren Migaki , senior producer, NPR Ed

Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

"A crime novel wrapped up in a romance? Just what the doctor ordered for readers during the pandemic! There's a lot to love here, especially the criminal high jinks that Meddelin, her mother and her aunts find themselves immersed in as she rekindles a lost flame. Above and beyond, though, this is a love letter to the bonds of family and culture." — Tayla Burney , senior content manager

Fat Chance, Charlie Vega by Crystal Maldonado

"I'm glad there's a wave of YA books with fat protagonists, but the characters often possess a level of self-confidence that's too good to be true. Crystal Maldonado has created a much-needed believable protagonist with teenage and adult readers. Charlie Vega is a fat, glasses-wearing, biracial Puerto Rican with a diet-pushing mother and a beautiful, athletic best friend. When her classmate Brian pursues a romantic relationship, Charlie is plagued with-self doubt. The book is propelled by conflicts both internal and external. I'm glad this book isn't body-positive escapism, but rather a well-observed story of fat teenage life." — Jessica Reedy , producer/editor, Pop Culture Happy Hour

12 books NPR staffers loved in 2021 that might surprise you

First comes like: a novel by alisha rai.

"Alisha Rai is one of my go-to writers when I need a romance. Her books are usually quite spicy, but with First Comes Like , Rai shows she can write a great slow-burn romance. When beauty influencer Jia Ahmed learns that she has been catfished by a man pretending to be Bollywood star Dev Dixit, she ends up striking up a friendship with the real actor. A paparazzi mishap leads Jai and Dev to begin fake-dating. Will their fake relationship lead to real feelings? (Of course it will – this is a romance after all.) It's a lovely story about decent people just trying to do the right thing." — Jessica Reedy

Author Interviews

Jasmine guillory recommends 3 summer reads for the romantic at heart, honey girl by morgan rogers.

"One night, Grace Porter – burned out and aimless after finally getting her Ph.D. in astronomy – gets drunkenly married to a woman whose name she does not know, in Vegas no less. Cliché? Definitely. A bad idea? Maybe ... not? Through the mists of her epic hangover, Grace starts to piece together clues about her mysterious new wife. Yuki, as it turns out, hosts a radio show about the supernatural. What follows is a delightfully weird summer where together, Grace and Yuki learn about mythical monsters and even face down some of their own." — Lauren Migaki

Seeing 'Love In Color'

Love in color: mythical tales from around the world, retold by bolu babalola.

"This multifaceted, multitalented Nigerian-British writer – humorist, television creator and now bestselling author – searched the globe to find a radically diverse group of stories about love, from magical folk tales of West Africa to iconic Greek myths and ancient legends from the Middle East. Then, with an evocative and vivid style, she brought new life to old tales and wrote three original stories of her own. The result is a remarkable modern collection of 13 short stories about love." — Carole V. Bell , book critic

Book Reviews

Love rides the q train in this supernaturally sweet romance, one last stop: a novel by casey mcquiston.

"One Last Stop made me fall in love with Casey McQuiston's writing all over again. In this one, August, an inexperienced 20-something trying to figure out life in the big city, is an expert at keeping other people at arm's length until she meets Jane, an impossibly cool girl who always seems to be riding the subway at the same time as her. One Last Stop is queer romance with a side of time-travel shenanigans, but amid all the whip-smart banter and heartwarming rom-com tropes is a potent reminder to make room for love in all parts of your life." — Sharon Pruitt-Young , reporter, newsdesk

Your Laughing Muscles Will Get A Workout In This Sporty Romance

The dating playbook by farrah rochon.

"Any list of 2021's best romantic comedies must include Farrah Rochon's The Dating Playbook . The story she weaves about Taylor Powell, a fitness trainer in need of some clients, and Jamar Dixon, an injured football superstar in need of a secret but hard-core fitness regime, is fresh, funny and sexy. It also boasts a ripped-from-the-headlines plot that touches on topics like football and concussion, and how social media has made having a private life an artform for anyone with celebrity status. Rochon presents her themes with jump-off-the-page humor, and they go far beyond the ups and downs of romance to broader concerns about family, women, friendship and jealousy." — Denny S. Bryce , book critic

Intimacy Is Nothing To Be Ashamed Of In Helen Hoang's Powerful New Romance

The heart principle: a novel by helen hoang.

"Anna Sun is a talented violinist in the Bay Area whose disappointing boyfriend springs a proposal on her: an open relationship. While processing her boyfriend's request and battling a creative block, Anna meets Quan and wonders if he might be the real deal. I love this book because it deals with issues that feel really relevant to today, such as creative burnout, bad boyfriends and neurodivergence, which Helen Hoang explores through these deeply rich and heartfelt characters." — Candice Lim , production assistant, Pop Culture Happy Hour

Love And Hope Are At The Heart Of 'The Prophets'

The prophets: a novel by robert jones, jr..

"This book broke my heart in a necessary way. It's spectacular. A poetic queer love story and an excruciating portrait of life on a Mississippi plantation, it deserves every accolade. At the center are Samuel and Isaiah, two enslaved boys who grow up as best friends and eventually become lovers, and an older enslaved man, Amos, who takes on the role of preacher as a way of securing some semblance of safety and power. Jones excels at ensemble storytelling, treating each character with compassion while being brutally unsparing about the system they live under and the desperate compromises they have to make." — Carole V. Bell

Trust: A Novel by Domenico Starnone, translated by Jhumpa Lahiri

"In author Domenico Starnone's Italian-to-English translation, a couple named Pietro and Teresa are on-again, off-again until the day Teresa says, essentially, "Let's tell each other our worst secret." What she thinks will bind them together forever turns out to be what drives them apart; they've revealed the worst and it's unforgettable. For a lesser writer, this might be enough. For Starnone, it's a jumping-off point, even in a slim, taut book with no wasted words or ideas. When Pietro and Teresa meet again in the evening of their lives, the power one of them holds over the other still matters." — Bethanne Patrick , book critic

While We Were Dating by Jasmine Guillory

"Jasmine Guillory is the queen of charming romance novels. In her sixth book, we meet ad exec Ben Stephens and movie star Anna Gardiner, who hit it off at a marketing campaign meeting and end up falling into a just-for-cameras relationship (with some fun benefits too). Unfortunately, romantic feelings (as they always do) get in the way of this arrangement. You might remember Ben from one of Guillory's last books, The Wedding Date – the brother of uptight Theo. The best part about Guillory's books is revisiting these characters and guessing who will show up in subsequent novels. Not to mention the descriptive California references (as a California native, I eat those up). Guillory's writing style is addictive, but she also tackles heavy themes. I can guarantee you'll finish this book quickly and want to check out her other ones." — Anjuli Sastry Krbechek , producer, It's Been a Minute with Sam Sanders

To read more recommendations from staff members, you can explore the "Staff Picks" section on the 2021 Books We Love website.

An Extremely Opinionated List of the Best Romance Novels

I've read them all, and these are definitely the steamiest books.

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Whether you salivate over historical fiction that follows the fluttering hearts of yesteryear, witchy paranormal romance that proves you don't need flesh and blood to get frisky, rom-coms that pair hilarious hijinks with the steamier stuff or the type of stories that might get sidelong glances on public transit, we've got a romance book you'll want to read over and over again.

And to those who think romance is just for bored housewives picking up a bodice-ripper at the grocery store checkout counter, think again. The romance realm has a lot of romance-plus-other to offer that might surprise you — although we'd never turn down one of those fun, flirty grocery store standards either. Many of our favorite romance books also feature exciting adventure, LGBTQ+ love stories and lyrical prose. Add these to your TBR pile, and don't forget to check out the Good Housekeeping book club once you're done, for even more feel-good reads.

Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood (2023)

Rival physicists. Fake dating. Real love? Hazelwood's trio of STEM romances that sees her characters spar on both professional and personal fronts are definitely not homework. Did somebody leave a bunsen burner on, or are things heating up in here?

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang (2018)

More nerdy storylines, please! In this novel from Helen Hoang, Stella Lane is the genius mathematician who puts herself in remedial romance — by hiring escort Michael Phan to teach her the ins and outs of sex. We consider it the perfect equation for a great read.

It Ends with Us Boxed Set by Colleen Hoover (2023)

Grab the box set so you won't have to frantically order the second installment of this smash hit from Colleen Hoover. If you haven't read her books yet, start with these two and then work your way through the back catalog. In them, you'll meet Lily, a woman who finds herself in a bit of a love triangle as she grapples with her new relationship with Ryle, and re-meeting her ex lover, Atlas. It contains a lot of heartbreak, as domestic violence is a critical part of Lily's story, but it's also extremely touching.

TRY THESE NEXT: Best BookTok-Recommended Books to Read Right Now

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert (2019)

After a health scare, Chloe Brown makes a list of things to do to help her "get a life," including doing something bad. Naughty doesn't come naturally to good-girl Chloe, so she enlists the help of rough-and-tumble handyman Red. But what she finds is more than meets the eye, in this first in an absolutely devour-able series.

Happy Place by Emily Henry (2023)

Harriet and Wyn’s friend group has spent languorous summer days at the same Maine house for a decade, so when it goes up for sale, they’re determined to soak up one last week of memories. There’s just one problem: Harriet and Wyn haven’t told their crew they’re no longer engaged, so they’re stuck sharing a room to keep up the charade. But is it all really just for show, or are sparks flying? Read this one now while you wait for the queen of beach reads' next hit to drop.

Long Shot by Kennedy Ryan (2023)

Sports fans know how emotional a high-stakes game can get. Add actual romance into the mix, and all we can say is just remember to hydrate. This heartstring-tugger is all about missed connections, tarnished golden boys and the darkness that can lie beneath the most glittering exteriors.

With Love, from Cold World by Alicia Thompson (2023)

From the author of the hit Love in the Time of Serial Killers comes the perfect workplace romance for fans of a certain mouse-centric theme park. Lauren is a serious bookkeeper at a theme park where it's always winter, which doesn't get quite the crowds as its more famous counterparts. Asa is her fun-loving coworker who's always trying to spice things up around the office. Of course, their boss asks them to team up on a project. And naturally, sparks fly. Read to find out the rest.

Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland (2023)

Sage Flores has been running from her ability to commune with plants ever since her sister passed away. But after she's forced to return to her hometown and slips back into her old life — including reconnecting with a high school flame who broke her heart — she can't deny her gift or her family any longer. You could cut the tension here with a knife, or should we say, a pair of gardening shears.

The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory (2018)

You really can't go wrong with any of Jasmine Guillory's fun, romantic romps, but this sporty love story is especially great. Freelance writer Nik's boyfriend proposes at a Dodger's game, and the dude can't even spell her name right. She says no (obviously), and the video goes viral. Handsome doctor Carlos sweeps her away from the frenzy, but he can't possibly be the real deal. Or can he?

RELATED: The 50 Best Romantic Comedies of All Time to Watch With Your Friends

Delta of Venus by Anais Nin (1977)

If you've never read Anaïs Nin and call yourself a romance fan , fix that right now. This vintage short story collection's erotic vibes still hold up. But don't take our word for it — turn off the lights, slip into something slinky and try it for yourself.

Vision In White by Nora Roberts (2012)

The prolific Nora Roberts has penned more than 200 romance novels, but this one earned top marks from her fans as the first installment in The Bride Quartet . Wedding photographer Mackensie "Mac" Elliot operates a wedding planning company with three friends. When a day on the job introduces her to sweet and stable English teacher Carter Maguire, their casual fling might lead to her own happy ending.

RELATED: The 25 Best Romantic Movies on Netflix to Put You in the Mood for Love

Bared to You by Sylvia Day (2014)

If you like your romance in multiple installments, try the Crossfire series. Big city newbie Eva Tramell literally falls at the feet of billionaire tycoon Gideon Cross, kickstarting a steamy affair that reveals secrets from both their dark pasts. Sound familiar? There's a reason one Amazon reviewer called it the "soap opera version of Fifty Shades of Grey ."

The Hating Game by Sally Thorne (2016)

If you've ever carried a torch for a colleague (the scandal!) this novel will feel familiar. Coworkers Lucy Hutton and her sworn nemesis Joshua Templeman have a rivalry as bitter as they come, especially as they compete for the same promotion. At least, it starts out that way.

Love at First Like: A Novel by Hannah Orenstein (2019)

Eliza co-owns a jewelry shop with her sister, and accidentally posts an Instagram of herself wearing a diamond ring on you-know-which finger. The photo blows up, and she realizes even a fake engagement is good for the ol' bottom line. But then she meets Blake. He's great, except for one thing: Blake doesn't know about her ruse, and Eliza doesn't know how much longer she can keep it all up.

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell (2013)

They say you never forget your first love. Test that theory by taking a trip down memory lane with Eleanor and Park, two lovestruck misfit teens in 1986. They're smart enough to know young love never lasts, but brave enough to try anyway.

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller (2012)

Look, we understand that a retelling of The Iliad sounds more like history class than a romantic read, but pick this one up and get ready to eat your words. It's an action-packed epic with one heck of a love story that will change the way you look at the classic tale forever.

Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld (2023)

If the title doesn't get your attention, and you've somehow missed Sittenfeld's other star-tier books, the sizzling plot will do it. This one's about a late-night comedy writer who falls for a pop star with a rep for dating knockouts, which she definitely is not. If you've ever shipped Saturday Night Live stars, this one's for you.

RELATED: The Best and Most-Anticipated Books of 2023

The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston (2022)

Florence is a romance ghostwriter who no longer believes in love, which is kind of a problem for her career. But then, she returns home to bury her beloved father and finds a ghost (yes, an actual ghost) who might just change her mind.

The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks (1996)

I can hardly believe it myself, but we first watched *that* rain scene over 15 years ago. Revisit Noah and Allie in the book about a South Carolina socialite separated from her summer love before their letters (and later notebooks) bring them back together.

Violeta by Isabel Allende (2022)

Allende is one of the best romance writers of our time, and her latest doesn't disappoint. This epic story of a woman who perseveres through two pandemics, war, the Great Depression and the battle for equal rights is not only a passionate love story but a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} All the Best Books to Read Next

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40 Must Read Books of All Time (2024)

Must-read books: There are so many out there – so don’t waste your time on average books!

Still, it can take time to find books worth reading. That’s why we’ve compiled this epic must-read book list to make your life easier . It features 39 top books to read in popular categories, such as fiction, business, personal development, travel, and more.

So, if you’re wondering, “what book should I read next?” we’ve got you covered. This list is jam-packed with great books to read!

Now, let’s get into it. Just use the contents to jump to the section you’re most interested in, or start scrolling.

Classic Novels to Read

1. 1984 by george orwell.

1984 tells the futuristic story of a dystopian, totalitarian world where free will and love are forbidden. Although the year 1984 has long since passed, the prophecy of a society controlled by fear and lies is arguably more relevant now than ever.

2. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

Tolkien’s fantasy epic is one of the top must-read books out there. Set in Middle Earth – a world full of hobbits, elves, orcs, goblins, and wizards – The Lord of the Rings will take you on an unbelievable adventure.

3. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner is a moving story of an unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant. Set in Afghanistan during a time of tragedy and destruction, this unforgettable novel will have you hooked from start to finish.

4. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

This global bestseller took the world by storm. So, if you haven’t read J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter, now may be the time. Join Harry Potter and his schoolmates as this must-read book transports you deep into a world of magic and monsters.

5. Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Slaughterhouse-Five is arguably one of the greatest anti-war books ever written. This rich and amusing tale follows the life of Billy Pilgrim as he experiences World War II from a peculiar perspective.

6. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe is undoubtedly one of the great books of all time. This renowned fantasy novel is set in Narnia, home to mythical beasts, talking animals, and warring kingdoms. The story follows a group of school children as they become entangled in this incredible world’s fate.

7. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the top must-read books of all time. Published in 1960, the story explores life in the Deep South during the early 20th century through the story of a man accused of a terrible crime. It’s poignant, humorous, and gripping.

8. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief is a story of bravery, hope, and friendship in a time of Nazi tyranny. Narrated by Death itself, this novel will have you holding your breath for chapters at a time.

9. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

Wuthering Heights is a classic novel published way back in 1847. This harrowing story, set on a lonely English moorland, follows Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff’s struggle with love, betrayal, and revenge. If you love dramatic novels, add this to your must-read book list.

10. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye is the classic coming-of-age story. It follows sixteen-year-old Holden Caulfield’s adolescent journey of angst and alienation as he leaves his prep school and moves to New York City.

11. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre is often considered one of the must-read books of all time. It follows the emotions and experiences of a strong, unbroken woman who continued to grow morally and spiritually despite a troubled childhood and a sexist, repressed Victorian society.

12. Animal Farm by George Orwell

Orwell tells a fairy tale of a revolution against tyranny that ends in even more unjust totalitarianism. The animals on the farm are rife with idealism and desire to create a world of justice, equality, and progress. However, the new regimen attempts to control every aspect of the animals’ lives.

13. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Ray Bradbury’s dystopian world shines a light on Western societies’ dependence on the media. The main character’s job is to find and burn any books he can find – until he begins to question everything. Considering the state of current politics and world affairs, this is one of the absolute must-read books in life.

14. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

This is a tale of four sisters with their own very different and very prominent personalities. The novel draws the reader deep into their lives as we get to know each of their flaws, joys, struggles, and fears.

15. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web is a great reminder to be kind to all living creatures. This magical story takes place on a farm where a little girl tries to save her piglet from slaughter. Fern, the little girl, enlists the help of her farm friends to execute her clever plan. 

16. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

English author Mary Shelley tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a monster and brings it to life. This gripping novel evokes questions about what makes us human and what love and kindness truly mean. 

17. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

Of Mice and Men should be on every must-read book list. Set in the Great Depression, this is a controversial tale of friendship between two migrant workers in California. Filled with hope and tragedy, the two work towards the dream of owning land and pets.

18. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

In Guardians of the Galaxy, Arthur Dent sets off on a hilarious and fantastic adventure across the stars. He learns not to take the universe seriously as he meets all kinds of interesting characters.

19. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is said to be the quintessential novel of the Jazz Age. Set in 1922 amongst unfathomable indulgence and decadence, the novel highlights a man’s struggle to earn the love of the woman he’s obsessed with.

Business and Money Must-Read Books

20. think and grow rich by napoleon hill.

Think and Grow Rich is a classic bestseller that has sold millions of copies worldwide. It’s packed full of money-making tips, techniques, and strategies. If you want to improve your mindset around money, this book can potentially change your life completely.

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 explains how wealthy people and poorer people think differently. It challenges commonly held beliefs about money and explains how you don’t need to have a high income to become rich.

22. The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham

If you want to learn how to invest, add this to your list of must-read books. Author Benjamin Graham is considered one of the greatest investment advisors of the twentieth century. In The Intelligent Investor , you’ll learn about Graham’s philosophy of ‘value investing’ and how to develop long-term strategies that are used by the most successful investors in the world.

23. Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio

Ray Dalio’s investment firm, Bridgewater Associates, has made more money for its clients than any other hedge fund in history. In Principles , Dalio shares everything he’s learned about investing, business, and life over the years.

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 apply the principles of persuasion in business and everyday life.

Personal Development Books Everyone Should Read

25. how to win friends and influence people by dale carnegie.

First published in 1936, Dale Carnegie’s classic self-help book has stood the test of time. How to Win Friends and Influence People will teach you straightforward methods to improve your relationships – and as a result, your business and personal lives.

26. The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg

If you’ve ever tried to change a habit unsuccessfully, this should be one of your must-read books. In The Power of Habit, Charles Duhigg reveals the empowering nature of how habits are formed and – crucially – how you can change them.

27. The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle

The Power of Now has sold more than two million copies and has been translated into over 30 languages. This groundbreaking book has the potential to completely revolutionize how you experience life – making life far more joyous and prosperous in the process.

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 is one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma – something that virtually everyone experiences to some degree. The Body Keeps the Score unravels the science behind emotional and psychological trauma and offers new 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 one of the most famous books in science. It discusses the history of cosmology and its development from Ancient Greece through to the 1980s.

30. Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt

If you’re interested in the truth behind controversial social issues, this book should be on your must-read book list. The authors reveal the facts behind issues, such as crime, shopping, and drugs. 

31. The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power by Shoshana Zuboff

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism is one of the top must-read books on technology. The author gives us a look at how personal data has become a new form of capital.

32. Uncanny Valley by Anna Wiener

Anna Wiener writes about the frantic, self-important, and often delusional work culture in Silicon Valley, and how millennials in tech are consumed by living a productive life. The Uncanny Valley is one of those books everyone should read. 

Travel and Adventure Books You Must-Read Before You Die

33. on the road by jack kerouac.

Inspired by Kerouac’s real-life adventures, On the Road tells the tale of two friends searching for meaning and rich experiences on a cross-country road trip.

34. Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson

In Notes From a Small Island, Bill Bryson shares a hilarious commentary of his jaunt through the United Kingdom – from the center of government at Downing Street, London, to the Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands.

35. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts

Vagabonding is perhaps the only travel guide you’ll ever need. This must-read book provides practical tips on how to travel safely and spontaneously – and the philosophies you’ll need to enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

36. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

Cheryl Strayed thought she’d lost everything at 22. Then, her mother’s passing, family trouble, and divorce drove her to an impulsive decision – to walk more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. Wild will inspire you to see your true self-worth and capabilities.

History and Biography Books Worth Reading

37. sapiens: a brief history of humankind by yuval noah harari.

If you’re looking for interesting books to read, Sapiens should be on your list. It details the development of human beings from the earliest stages until now. The author also shows how our current world systems will banish natural selection and adaptation. 

38. Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela

Lists of must-read biographies almost always include this wonderful book. Mandela started writing this autobiography in prison and finished it right before becoming the president of South Africa. This inspiring story provides a glimpse into the end of apartheid and the blatant inequality in the country.

39. The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of Their Lost World by Steve Brusatte

Do you find dinosaurs fascinating? If so, this is one of the must-read books on the subject. Steve Brusatte reveals the different dinosaurs that roamed the planet – and the different worlds in which they lived.

40. A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

In A Short History of Nearly Everything, Bryson attempts to summarize the history of the Earth. He talks about nearly every aspect of the planet – how it formed, how much it weighs, it’s size, the stages it went through, the dangers inherent to it, and how humans have evolved. If you love science and history, this is a must-read book for you.

What Should I Read Next? 

If you’re wondering “what book should I read next,” look no further. In summary, here are 40 must-read books of all time:

• 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
• The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
• Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
• Animal Farm by George Orwell
• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
• Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
• Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
• Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! 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
• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
• The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg
• The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
• The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.
• A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
• Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt
• The Age of Surveillance Capitalism: The Fight for a Human Future at the New Frontier of Power by Shoshana Zuboff
• Uncanny Valley by Anna Wiener
• On the Road by Jack Kerouac
• Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson
• Vagabonding by Rolf Potts
• Wild by Cheryl Strayed

Must-Read Biographies and History Books

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
• Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
• The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of Their Lost World by Steve Brusatte
• A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

Have we missed any must-read books? If so, leave a comment below to recommend some top books to read!

Want to Learn More?

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More From Forbes

The 25 greatest kids books of all time.

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American actor Alan Ladd reading to his daughter Alana circa 1948.

Children’s books are bodies of work that thrive on specificity. With just the right use of humor, wit, and alliteration, authors like Theodor Seuss Geisel, Lewis Carroll, and Margaret Atwood, among others, have created some of the best books for young readers of all time. The authors featured in this list have become successful because they understand that children need stories that provide comfort, teach valuable lessons, and capture their imagination. These authors recognize that children are drawn to characters they can relate to, adventures that excite them, and narratives that offer a sense of wonder and possibility. Here are some of the top children’s books of 2024 .

Top Kids Books

Many older readers who are now parents will agree that when it comes to well-known children’s books, most families have a soft spot for the classics . Books like The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, Green Eggs and Ham by Theodor Seuss Geisel, and Charlotte's Web by E.B. White represent different eras in time as they pertain to children’s literature. Regardless, they have remained childhood relics, passed on from one generation to the next.

The rankings for this list are based on reader reviews, legacy and critical acclaim. Authors like J.K. Rowling, Dr. Seuss, and Roald Dahl have consistently topped these types of lists because of their directional and compelling approach to the art form.

25. Where The Wild Things Are By Maurice Bernard Sendak

Some of the best children’s authors are good at what they do because they weave their craft into a real problem that their target audience faces. In Where The Wild Things Are , writer and illustrator Maurice Bernard Sendak tells the illustrative story of Max, a rambunctious young child who puts on a wolf costume and causes a mess in the home. His parents send him to bed without supper, and then the story unfolds. In this book, Sendak’s use of illustration captures the imagination of the readers, but he also sends a message about the big feelings young children face and how those big feelings can be normal and healthy responses to the world around them, as long as they are expressed appropriately. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

Which type of kid would like this book: Children who are 2 years old and older and enjoy being active and expressive would find this book validating.

Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor Gustavo Dudamel conducts Olive Knussen's "Where the Wild Things ... [+] Are" at Walt Disney Concert Hall on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012.

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The birkenstock memorial day sale features styles for over 50% off, the 82 best memorial day sales to shop now before they re gone, 24. the giving tree by shel silverstein.

Shel Silverstein’s 1964 children’s picture book, The Giving Tree , became popular globally because of its polarizing storyline. In the book, Silverstein tells the story of a young boy who develops a close friendship with a tree, the giving tree. Over the years, the boy repeatedly returns to the tree when he needs a favor. Regardless, the tree continues to give until it is depleted. Several critics have viewed the relationship between the boy and the tree in Silverstein’s story as manipulative and even abusive, but it has remained one of the most recognized children’s stories of all time. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids between the ages of 6 and 8 who love being in nature will find this book fascinating.

23. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! By Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss makes his first entry on this list with 1957’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas, a classic book about an ill-mannered and sour-tempered grinch who lives in the mountains alone, overlooking a merry town called Whoville. In fact, the Grinch is so unhappy with the merry residents of Whoville, the Whos, that he sets out to put an end to Christmas once and for all. What he will find, instead, is redemption from his gruff ways. The most important lesson in this book is that it teaches kids that often times, people who seem ill-tempered and angry just need to feel a sense of inclusion and belonging. The book is available at Penguin Random House.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids between the ages of 3 and 8 who love Christmas-themed stories.

22. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom By Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is another children’s classic that uses creativity and engagement to make alphabet-learning interesting for children. The plot of the book revolves around the letters of the alphabet, which are personified as lowercase letters, climbing up a coconut tree. The rhythm and repetition throughout the book add an extra appeal that most young learners cannot help but enjoy. The book creates a fun and engaging read-aloud experience for parents, caretakers and their young ones. The story concludes with the capital letters coming to the rescue, helping their lowercase colleagues recover from their fall. Martin and Archambault teach an important lesson with this book: that learning does not have to be a bore. This book is available on Simon & Schuster and was published in 1989.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids between the ages of 2 and 6 will love this fun and engaging book.

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama read "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" to children ... [+] during the White House Easter Egg Roll on April 25, 2011 in Washington, DC.

21. Winnie-the-Pooh By A.A. Milne

One of the most endearing bears in fictional history is Winnie-the-Pooh. This classic story, published in 1926, introduces readers to the whimsical world of the Hundred Acre Wood and its charming inhabitants, including Winnie-the-Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore and Tigger. The story revolves around Pooh’s simple yet memorable adventures, including his attempts to get honey and his playful encounters with his friends and the challenges that they face. Ernest H. Shepard’s iconic illustrations further captures the beauty and innocence of this story. Milne shows the purest form of friendship through this story. This book has since grown into a book series and is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: Winnie-the-Pooh is the kind of book that children who enjoy themes of friendship will love. This book is perfect for children who are between the ages of 3 and 8.

20. The Tale of Peter Rabbit By Beatrix Potter

Beatrix Potter ’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a classic children’s story that has fascinated readers since its publication in 1901. The story follows the story of a mischievous young rabbit named Peter, who lives with his mother and three siblings—Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-tail—in a cozy burrow. Readers will find Peter Rabbit’s escapades in Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden compelling. Despite Pater Rabbit’s mother’s warnings to stay away from the garden, Peter’s curiosity leads him into trouble as he sneaks in to feast on the delicious vegetables. Potter teaches a valuable lesson with this book: it is always better to obey. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a good book for children who like adventure and are open to learning to be good listeners.

An assistant holds a first edition of "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" by Beatrix Potter at Dreweatts and ... [+] Bloomsbury Auctions on July 27, 2016 in London.

19. The Runaway Bunny By Margaret Wise Brown

Margaret Wise Brown’s The Runaway Bunny is a fan-favorite that Brown published in 1942, with illustrations by Clement Hurd. The story follows the love that exists between a mother and her child through the story of a bunny that decides to run away from home. In the story, the bunny tells his mother that he plans to run away, and his mother, responds by reassuring him that if he were to ever run away, she would follow him. This conversation inspires a series of imaginative scenarios where the bunny transforms into various creatures and objects to escape, but each time, his mother counters with how she will find and care for him in each situation. The story underscores the need for young children to feel loved and cared for, and through the story, Brown shows what a healthy bond looks like between a child and a caregiver. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublisher .

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids between the ages of 2 and 7 who appreciate knowing that their parents love them unconditionally.

18. Oh, the Places You'll Go! By Dr. Seuss

Leave it up to Dr. Seuss to inspire children to tap into their vast imaginations. Oh, the Places You'll Go! is a rhyming monologue that follows the story of a young protagonist who is embarking on an exciting journey. The story begins with the protagonist setting off on an adventure of optimism about the boundless opportunities and experiences that lie ahead. As usual, Dr. Seuss uses vivid, imaginative landscapes to show readers the different aspects of travel, from soaring high in times of success to navigating the tougher aspects of life. Dr. Seuss teaches a valuable lesson in this book: there is no limit to what kids can accomplish and even when life gets hard, the opportunities are still endless. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids between the ages of 3 and 7 who are inspired by their boundless imagination and the endless possibilities.

Tournament of Roses Association President Sally Bixby opens the 124th annual Tournament of Roses ... [+] Parade themed "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" on January 1, 2013 in Pasadena, California.

17. The Real Mother Goose By Blanche Fisher Wright

The Real Mother Goose series is a staple in Children’s literature that has been passed down from one generation to the next. The book contains an anthology of nursery rhymes and catchy songs for children of all ages that was first published in 1916, but has since become one of the most well-loved children’s books of rhymes of all time. Although the real identity of Mother Goose is not certain, the brand has had a generational influence on children's literature. Whether inspired by a historical figure or solely folklore, Mother Goose represents the timeless tradition of storytelling that continues to appeal to young readers worldwide.

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids who are newborn up to 6 years old and enjoy music and nursery rhymes. The book is available at Scholastic .

16. The Snowy Day By Ezra Jack Keats

Ezra Jack Keats captures the imagination of young readers through his book, The Snowy Day . The beloved children’s classic was first published in 1962 but has remained timeless because of its simple yet relatable storyline. In the book, Keats tells the story of Peter, who wakes up to find that there is a snow day. As Peter steps out into the snow, he delights in making tracks with his feet, creating snow angels, and building a snowman. He experiences the thrill of sliding down a snowy hill and the joy of seeing the world through new eyes. In this book, Keats leans into the perspective of his target audience, the young reader, and inspires them to keep living in child-like wonder. This is a perfect book for children between the ages of 3 and 8.

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids who love snow and are excited about playing outside. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

15. Three Little Pigs By Steven Kellogg

First published in 1997, Steven Kellogg’s version of the well-known folktale gives a hilarious twist to the adventures of the three little pigs and their encounters with the big bad wolf, Tempesto. Kellogg’s version of this story shows the three little pigs as business owners who are thriving at what they do—that is, until the wolf shows up. Tempesto is determined to ruin the lives of the three wolves, but they are even more determined to stick together in spite of the tough times, and that is ultimately what saves them. This engaging version of the classic tale teaches the importance of having a community, working hard and staying resilient.

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids who like engaging books with elements of thrill and excitement. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublisher .

American film producer Walt Disney holds a Mickey Mouse Club edition of the "Three Little Pigs" ... [+] story, circa 1955.

14. Madeline By Ludwig Bemelmans

Ludwig Bemelmans ’ 1939 book Madeline is a fan-favorite children’s book that follows the adventures of a spunky and spirited young lady called Madeline. The plot of the story unfolds in Madeline’s Paris-based boarding school. Madeline is part of a group of 12 girls whose story the book follows as they navigate life in boarding school. Madeline, the most petite in size and also the most daring of the group, navigates life with boldness, confidence and poise. This book is known for its coming-of-age themes and its emphasis on the importance of confidence and grit even in the face of challenges.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids who are drawn to coming-of-age stories and are between the ages of 3 and 7 will enjoy this book. This book is available at Penguin Random House .

13. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone By J.K. Rowling,

First published in 1997, J.K. Rowling invites readers to the enchanting beginning of the globally renowned Harry Potter series. The book introduces readers to Harry Potter, an 11-year-old orphan living with his neglectful aunt, uncle and cousin, the Dursleys. His life changes dramatically when he receives a letter informing him that he is a wizard and has been accepted to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As Harry enters the magical world, he discovers his true heritage and learns that his parents were powerful wizards who were murdered by the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. This piece of information forever alters the trajectory of his life.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids who are drawn to coming-of-age stories and are fascinated by character-building will find this book engaging. It is appropriate for older kids between the ages of 8 and older. This book is available at Scholastic .

Christies auction house showcasing Harry Potter's magician's wand as used in "Harry Potter & the ... [+] Sorcerers Stone" on November 23, 2012 in London.

12. A Wrinkle in Time By Madeleine L’Engle

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle, published in 1962, is a science fiction novel that has all of the makings of a perfect book for older kids, including an imaginative plot and complex characters. The story follows the journey of Meg Murry, a strong-willed young girl, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe as they embark on a cosmic adventure to rescue Meg’s father from evil forces. The book has all of the heartwarming themes of unconditional love, selflessness and teamwork. This book is appropriate for readers between the ages of 8 and 12.

Which type of kid would like this book: Young readers who appreciate books with themes of science fiction will enjoy this book, which is available at Macmillan Publishers .

11. The Chronicles of Narnia Series By C.S. Lewis

C.S. Lewis created something special with The Chronicles of Narnia. The franchise, which includes seven fantasy novels, has captured the hearts of readers of all ages since the first book, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe , was published in 1950. It is rare to see a body of work that manages to interest people of various age groups, yet, somehow, Lewis’ magical Narnia does just that by relying on universally appealing themes of adventure, friendship and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers with a palette for stories with universally compelling themes will enjoy this literal masterpiece. This body of work is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

10. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory By Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl’s 1964 book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is arguably his literary crowning glory. The incredible world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, filled with brow-raising inventions and quirky characters, has managed to leave an unforgettable impression on the imagination of readers who have passed it on to their children (and grandchildren). In this book, Dahl combined an acute ability to tell stories with humor and fantasy, creating a timeless classic that continues to impress both children and adults alike.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers who like out-of-the-box storytelling will find what they are looking for in the world of Willy Wonka. This book is available at Penguin Random House .

9. Anne of Green Gables By L.M. Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables tells the story of Anne Shirley, an outspoken orphan with a wild imagination and a troubled childhood. Following the death of her parents, Anne is forced to move from one orphanage to another. L.M. Montgomery’s portrayal of Anne’s vibrant personality, her struggles to fit in, and her growth into a confident young woman gives the book a well-rounded perspective. The book’s strong character development makes it a well-loved read that many readers resonated with. Anne of Green Gables was published in 1908 and is available at Simon & Schuster .

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 8 and 12 who like to get a glimpse into the past, including the customs, lifestyles, and social norms, will like Anne of Green Gables .

8. The Cat in the Hat By Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat is one of the most well-respected works of children’s literature of all time. Dr. Seuss’ signature use of playful rhymes and storytelling skill sees the protagonist, the mischievous cat, turn a rainy day into an adventure for two children. The book underscores the importance of turning a negative experience into a positive one and acknowledges the importance of fun and creativity. The use of alliteration and rhythm, coupled with the vibrant illustrations, make it an engaging read-aloud experience for young children. Although the book was published in 1957, it remains a classic.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 2 and 6 will enjoy all of the energy contained in this book, which is available at Penguin Random House .

American author and illustrator Dr. Seuss sits at his drafting table in his home office with a copy ... [+] of his book, "The Cat in the Hat" in La Jolla, California, on April 25, 1957.

7. Sulwe By Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o’s 2019 book Sulwe is a self-affirming picture book that addresses issues of self-love, acceptance and the importance of diversity. Through the story of a young girl named Sulwe, Nyong’o encourages children to embrace their unique sense of self and to feel worthy of love, acceptance and belonging. In a world where diversity and inclusion are controversial topics, it is important for children who are underrepresented to feel that they belong, and Nyong’o offers that.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 3 and 8 who care about representation will enjoy the message in Sulwe. The book is available at Simon & Schuster .

6. The Very Hungry Caterpillar By Eric Carle

Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar follows the journey of a caterpillar who transforms into a butterfly after consuming everything within his site in increments. The book’s vibrant collage-style illustrations and layout introduce young readers to the concepts of math, counting, days of the week and the life cycle of a caterpillar. Its interactive design also makes it a fun and engaging reading experience for young readers who are curious learners.

Which type of kid would like this book: Adaptive young readers between the ages of 1 and 5 who appreciate vibrant designs will enjoy reading this book. The book is available now at Penguin Random House .

5. Goodnight Moon By Margaret Wise Brown

Margaret Wise Brown’s calming Goodnight Moon has traditionally been a bedtime must-have for families for several decades. The book’s repetitive structure offers young readers an opportunity to calm down for the day. In this book, published in 1947, Brown offers children the calming, softer side of life and lulls them to a peaceful sleep.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers three and older who enjoy soothing bedtime stories that appeal to their sensory system will enjoy this book. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

A diorama with Peeps based on the children's book "Goodnight Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown created by ... [+] MaryLea Harris of Fairfax, Virginia.

4. Matilda By Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl’s Matilda is the story of a brilliant, misunderstood young girl with neglectful parents and a power-hungry headmistress. Matilda’s intelligence and resilience seem impressive, but after getting attacked by a Trunchbull, she discovers that she has something even more impressive: telekinetic powers. Soon after she finds this out, her life—and the plot of the story— takes a drastic turn. Dahl’s dark humor, coupled with Quentin Blake’s memorable illustrations, creatively collide to create a book that addresses serious themes such as child neglect and the moral angle of good triumphing over evil. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: Young readers between the ages of 9 and 12 who have a strong sense of justice from an early age will find this book compelling.

3. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland By Lewis Carroll

Since its publication in 1865, Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a timeless story of a young girl named Alice who tumbles down a rabbit hole into a fantastical world and discovers a vast world of zany absurdity. This book has become a cornerstone of children’s literature and has an undeniable and enduring legacy. Carroll’s whimsical imagination, strange characters and playful use of language have appealed to readers of all ages from one generation to the next, making it a classic. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

Which type of kid would like this book: Curious young readers between the ages of 4 and 12 who enjoy nonsense and creative freedom will find Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland appealing.

Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" as illustrated by John Tenniel.

2. Stuart Little By E.B. White

Who knew that a tiny mouse named Stuart would make such a big impression on so many children and their families? In this book, published in 1945, White blends everyday realism with fantastical elements, creating a fictional world where a mouse named Stuart can drive a tiny car and interact with humans on equal terms. This imaginative approach adds depth and charm to the story. Although he is born to a family of humans, lives in New York City, and has experienced lots of adventure, his biggest task comes when his friend Margalo the bird goes missing and he has to find her. In this book, White focuses on some of his favorite themes: friendship, love and loyalty. Stuart Little is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 5 and 9 who enjoy stories that humanize animals will enjoy this book.

1. L ittle House on the Prairie By Laura Ingalls Wilder

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie is a cherished piece of American children’s literature that gives readers a vivid portrayal of the simplicity and straight-forwardness of frontier life. As part of the Little House series, this book recounts the experiences of the Ingalls family as they travel westward and settle on the prairie. Young Laura Ingalls is the protagonist and she does acts as a literary tour guide for readers, introducing them to the challenges, triumphs and simplicity of growing up in the late 19th century. Wilder teaches themes of family unity, friendship and hard work in this book. Although the book was published in 1935, it remains one of the most well-respected pieces of classic literature to this day. This book is available at HarperCollinsPublisher .

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 6 and 11 who are curious about what life was like over a century ago will love reading this book.

Bottom Line

The books on this list offer more than just entertainment; they provide young readers with the opportunity to read classics from different eras, face challenges alongside relatable characters and learn important life lessons in engaging and memorable ways. Whether they’re following Harry Potter into the magical halls of Hogwarts, cheering on the resilient Matilda, or furrowing their brows at Alice’s quirky experiences in Wonderland, these books create excitement, humor, and wonder, ensuring that young readers are not only captivated but also inspired to think, dream, and grow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are good books for 3-year-olds.

The best things to look for in books for 3-year-olds are straightforward storylines and vibrant and engaging illustrations. Here are some good examples:

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? By Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle (1967): This classic book uses rhythmic repetition and colorful illustrations to captivate young minds while teaching them about different animals and colors.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown (1947): This is the perfect bedtime story. The calming storyline, accompanied by beautiful illustrations, helps ease children into a peaceful slumber.

What Are Good Books For 4-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 4-year-olds are stories with predictable patterns as well as familiar daily routines and situations that they can relate to. Here are some good examples:

The Gruffalo By Julia Donaldson (1999): This engaging story about a clever mouse outwitting predators with tales of a mythical creature is perfect for 4-year-olds because of its witty rhymes and eye-catching illustrations.

We're All Wonders by R.J. Palacio (2017): This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces the themes of kindness, empathy and acceptance.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963): This made an earlier appearance in this article, but this classic tale of imagination, this story follows Max's adventures in a land of wild creatures, celebrating the power of creativity and the comfort of home.

What Are Good Books For 5-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 5-year-olds are stories that are designed for early readers with simple sentences and familiar words that can build confidence. Some good examples are:

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff (1985): Numeroff's delightful, circular tale follows the consequences of giving a mouse a cookie, which encourages older children coming out of their toddler years to think about the concept of cause and effect.

Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin (2012): This is a fun story about dragons who adore tacos (but can’t handle spicy salsa) and offers plenty of laughs and much-needed food-related humor.

What Are Good Books For 6-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 6-year-olds are books that have a bit more text and illustrations which can be a good transition from picture books. Some examples are:

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White (1952): This is a heartwarming story about the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. It introduces children to themes of loyalty and sacrifice.

The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (1902): This book also made the list in this article. It follows the adventures and misadventures of a mischievous rabbit, featuring beautiful illustrations and gentle life lessons.

What Are Good Books For 7-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 7-year-olds are books that have longer chapters as well as engaging and complex plots. Some examples are:

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (1964): This imaginative story of a boy's visit to Willy Wonka's magical chocolate factory is full of creativity and delightful characters.

Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park (1992-): These humorous and relatable stories about spirited kindergartener Junie B. Jones provides early chapter-book readers with unforgettable laugh-out-loud moments and doses of reality.

What Are Good Books For 8-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 8-year-olds are books with more complex language and sophisticated plots. Some great examples in this category are:

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (1997): J.K. Rowling uses this book as a way to usher readers into the beloved and magical world of Harry Potter; a world full of adventure, friendship and bravery.

Matilda by Roald Dahl (1988):  In Matilda , Roald Dahl tells the inspiring story of a brilliant girl with telekinetic powers who overcomes the cruelty in her life by leaning on her superpower and tapping into intelligence and kindness.

What Are Good Books For 10-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 10-year-olds are books with detailed plots and well-developed characters. Some examples are:

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (2005): Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old boy with dyslexia and ADHD, discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. He sets out on a mission to prevent a war among the gods.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (1997): Harry Potter, an orphan living with his cruel aunt and uncle, learns on his 11th birthday that he is a wizard. He is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he discovers his true heritage, which changes his life forever.

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What is the 'best' children's book? Kids, parents and authors on why some rise to the top

What was your favorite book as a kid?

That question makes for a surprisingly effective icebreaker. You can tell a lot about someone from the books they read as a child. Case in point: I’m a journalist, a talker, a storyteller. Many of my childhood favorites had equally yappy and imaginative characters – “Junie B. Jones” by Barbara Park, “Olivia” by Ian Falconer, “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” by Kevin Henkes.

The stories we read at bedtime seldom stay there . Here’s what parents, booksellers, authors and – most importantly – kids told me about what makes the best children’s book.

What makes the best children’s book?

Reading is subjective, of course. But in the quest for the “best” children’s books, parents should look out for a story that’s as entertaining to them as it is to their kids. 

Check out: USA TODAY's weekly Best-selling Booklist

“The secret to a really successful picture book is a picture book that both the parent and child can each enjoy on their own level,” says Peter Glassman, the owner of children’s bookstore “Books of Wonder” in New York City.

At a minimum, you have to make sure it’s a book you’re willing to read over and over.

“Sometimes I view children’s book authors as parenting partners where they’re like ‘This book is for the kid, but I’m going to make sure there’s a joke in here for you,'" said Tocarra Mallard , a TV writer from New York and a mother of two who makes TikToks about children’s books.

A good children’s book may teach kids about colors or numbers, but the best children's books can give them a voice to process and experience emotions.

In “The Pout-Pout Fish” by Deborah Diesen, a favorite in Mallard’s house, an act of acceptance helps turn a frown upside down. It has a silly, catchy rhyme that makes her 2-year-old laugh , but also a lesson for her 5-year-old that it's OK to feel blue sometimes. Kids aren't just kids – they're small people who live in a world that can foster anxiety, depression and other complicated feelings," Mallard says.

“For us to pretend that children (exist in) light and love and goodness at all times is denying them their humanity,” she says.

In their words: Kids tell us what makes a good book

Sometimes, finding the “best” book for your kid is just about knowing your kid. Some children want a picture-heavy book while others, like Mallard's son, who is autistic and hyperlexic, need a strong story with lots of words.

I spent the day at “Books of Wonder” earlier this spring to ask kids what makes the best children’s book.

Iago and Nico Akerman, both 11, told me the books they liked reading in school were about human history, how money works and agriculture in Latin America. Reading is a tool for the brothers to help decode the world around them.

Eight-year-old Valerie Song also loves to learn through reading. It “helps your brain grow,” she told me. 

She’s drawn to series because she’s a speed reader – and they help her feel connected to characters. Valerie was reading the last "Harry Potter" book when we spoke. Fantasy books can help you “go anywhere you want,” she said. As for everyday adventures, “I get enough of that in real life,” she reported. 

Frog and Toad are everywhere: How 50-year-old children's characters became Gen Z icons

What makes an award-winning children’s book?

A captivating story is the foundation for an award-winning book, says Shannon DeVito, the senior director of books at Barnes & Noble, which hosts an annual “Children’s and YA Book Awards.” Witty characters and dynamic illustrations aren’t powerful if there isn’t a story that inspires young readers to keep reading, she says.

But beyond that, a book should have characters or lessons that young readers can identify with. Last year’s overall winner was “ The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels ” by Beth Lincoln, a chapter book with a vibrant cast of characters. This year’s winner, “ A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits ) ” by Lisa Yee, is described by Barnes & Noble as a book for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.

One pair of young sisters I spoke to at Books of Wonder, 3-year-old Azadeh and 5-year-old Arya Hashemi-Sohi, love “Saffron Ice Cream” by Rashin Kheiriyeh because one of the characters is named Azadeh. The sisters are half Persian, so their mom, Jeunelle Cunningham, told me they keep an eye out for books with Persian characters.

Glassman has been a bookseller for decades and says it excites him to see different childhood experiences represented in books.

“ Max and The House of Spies” by Adam Gidwitz , for example, is a story he wished he had growing up. It follows a Jewish boy living in London after leaving Germany during World War II. Max has red hair and freckles, just as Glassman did when he was growing up. 

Children’s books have gotten more diverse, both in the authors and the characters they write. A 2022 breakdown from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center noted 40% of books published in 2022 and received by the CCBC were by authors of color. On the other hand, an analysis of award-winning children’s books showed white characters are overrepresented .

“A good book that talks about modern culture, (and has a) diverse cast of characters is better than something that doesn’t,” DeVito says.

How to write a children’s book

Author Dan Gutman knows a thing or two about writing successful children’s books. His “My Weird School” books have sold over 35 million copies and he published the series’ 100th book earlier this year.

His secret sauce? Target the kids who don’t like to read. He focuses on short chapters and paragraphs, a linear, easy-to-follow storyline and, his personal favorite, “grown-ups doing dumb things.”

“I wasn’t a big reader myself, I relate really well to kids, especially boys, who don’t like to read,” Gutman says. “My goal is that that kid will open up one of my books and an hour later look up and think ‘Wow, that didn’t even feel like I was reading. I felt like I was watching a movie in my head.’”

That feeling is what Glassman looks for in a book as well. “I go to a book not to be impressed with someone’s writing – which sometimes I am – but I go to a book for the story. I love story, that is my great love,” he says.

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6 New Books We Recommend This Week

Suggested reading from critics and editors at The New York Times.

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Monday is Memorial Day, when Americans pause to remember those who have lost their lives in the country’s wars, and if that somber occasion puts you in the mood to think about global politics and foreign policy, this would be a good weekend to settle in with “New Cold Wars,” in which my Times colleague David E. Sanger and his collaborator Mary K. Brooks evaluate the current state of tensions among China, Russia and America.

Elsewhere, we also recommend new fiction from Colm Tóibín, Juli Min and Monica Wood, along with a biography of the groundbreaking transgender actress Candy Darling and a book of photos by the incomparable Corky Lee, documenting moments in Asian American life. Happy reading. — Gregory Cowles

NEW COLD WARS: China’s Rise, Russia’s Invasion, and America’s Struggle to Defend the West David E. Sanger with Mary K. Brooks

In this compelling first draft of history, Sanger reveals how a generation of American officials have grappled with dangerous developments in great war competition, from the war in Ukraine to the technological arms race with China.

“Vividly captures the view from Washington. But, as Sanger makes clear, … the fate of the U.S.-led order rests more than ever on the ideas, beliefs and emotions of people far outside the Beltway.”

From Justin Vogt’s review

Crown | $33

LONG ISLAND Colm Tóibín

More than a decade after Tóibín introduced us to Eilis Lacey, the finely wrought Irish émigré heroine of his novel “Brooklyn,” he’s conjured her again, this time as a married mother whose suburban New York life is disrupted by a crisis that propels her back to Ireland once more.

“Eilis is hardly passive. She is an interesting and vivid character because she manages to make her destiny her choice. … In her own mind, and in the eyes of sympathetic readers, she is free.”

From A.O. Scott’s review

Scribner | $28

SHANGHAILANDERS Juli Min

Min’s debut is a sweeping story, told in reverse. The novel opens in 2040 with the Yangs, a wealthy family tense with frustrations and troubles. Then the novel gradually moves backward to 2014, revealing along the way the complex lives of each family member and how they got to their anguished present.

“Having knowledge of these characters’ futures before we know about their past makes stumbling on their bygone days all the more touching.”

From Jean Kwok’s review

Spiegel & Grau | $28

HOW TO READ A BOOK Monica Wood

The latest from Wood (“When We Were the Kennedys”) brings together three lonely people in and around Portland, Maine — a retired teacher, a widower and a young woman recently released from prison — for a dextrous and warmhearted tale of unlikely redemption and connection.

“A charming, openhearted novel, deceptively easy to read but layered with sharp observations, hard truths and rich ideas.”

From Helen Simonson’s review

Mariner | $28

CANDY DARLING: Dreamer, Icon, Superstar Cynthia Carr

Carr, an astute guide to the Manhattan demimonde, offers a compassionate and meticulous biography of the transgender actress, who flitted in and out of Andy Warhol’s orbit before dying of cancer at 29 in 1974, after being immortalized in a famous photograph by Peter Hujar and in the Lou Reed song “Walk on the Wild Side.”

“There wasn’t really vocabulary to describe the territory Darling was exploring back then … and her biographer extends a sure hand across the breach. To push her from the Warhol wings to center stage, at a moment when transgender rights are in roiling flux, just makes sense.”

From Alexandra Jacobs’s review

Farrar, Straus & Giroux | $30

CORKY LEE’S ASIAN AMERICA: Fifty Years of Photographic Justice Photographs Corky Lee; edited by Chee Wang Ng and Mae Ngai

Several years after his death from Covid at age 73, the famed photographer’s work remains enduringly relevant. This new book, a sort of survey course in Asian Americans’ decades-long fight for social and political equality, offers both intimate, atomized portraits of the everyday and galvanizing visions of a larger unified movement.

“A man with an intimate understanding of the invisible, turning his lens on behind-the-scenes fragments and people that the annals of history have largely ignored.”

From Wilson Wong’s review

Clarkson Potter | $50

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

John S. Jacobs was a fugitive, an abolitionist — and the brother of the canonical author Harriet Jacobs. Now, his own fierce autobiography has re-emerged .

Don DeLillo’s fascination with terrorism, cults and mass culture’s weirder turns has given his work a prophetic air. Here are his essential books .

Jenny Erpenbeck’s “ Kairos ,” a novel about a torrid love affair in the final years of East Germany, won the International Booker Prize , the renowned award for fiction translated into English.

Kevin Kwan, the author of “Crazy Rich Asians,” left Singapore’s opulent, status-obsessed, upper crust when he was 11. He’s still writing about it .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

15 short books for when you have no time to read

I s there anything more satisfying than turning over the final page of a good book? And is there anything more incrementally dissatisfying than one that seems to go on, and on, and on, and on? (Current readers of Paul Murray’s popular but 650-page novel The Bee Sting , hang in there.)

Long books have their benefits. Much like The Bee Sting, they can be rich and complex and ultimately very satisfying; they can improve our patience and stamina and probably even our physical strength, if we spend enough time carrying such weights around.

However, when you are busy, tired, or lacking in energy, it is not a great tome you ought to reach for. Short books – those that can be consumed in one deliciously gratifying reading gulp – are far less overwhelming when you feel as though your life doesn’t have much space for reading. They are also far more appealing for sleepy end-of-day eyes only able to deal with a page or two. And if the following 15 are anything to go by, just because you can read them in an afternoon if you wanted to, it doesn’t mean they can’t be as profound and affecting as their longer counterparts.

West by Carys Davies (160 pages, Granta, £9.99)

It’s 1815 in Pennsylvania, and Cy Bellman, a widower, sets off on a 1,000-mile journey to find out if the rumours of giants roaming in the West are true. He leaves behind his 10-year-old daughter, Bess, in the care of her aunt Julie, promising to return in a year or two. Flitting between Cy’s epic adventure and Bess’s emotional journey of her own at home, this is a page-turning mini-masterpiece with a great ending. Once you are finished reading West , try Davies’ equally good – and just as minute – novel Clear , which came out this year.

Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 by Cho Nam-Joo (176 pages, Scribner, £9.99)

This novel sparked an entire #MeToo -like movement in South Korea when it was first published in 2016, due its portrayal of sexism and inequality in the country. Kim Jiyoung, Born 1982 is a deceptively simple read, which uses the life story of our eponymous everywoman as a vehicle for exploring stifling gender roles. A short, sharp, firecracker of a book.

The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes (160 pages, Vintage, £9.99)

In their all-boys school in the 60s, the arrival of Adrian made a late addition to Tony’s already tight-knit friendship group. Now, Tony is retired and divorced, and Adrian is dead. When a lawyer’s letter arrives, Tony must confront the fact that his memory of their friendship might be somewhat skewed. For such a slim book, The Sense of an Ending packs in an impressive number of ideas around regret, memory, and male friendship, and was a very worthy winner of the Booker Prize in 2011.

Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson (160 pages, Viking, £9.99)

Both a delicate will they/won’t they love story between a photographer and a dancer, and a powerful exploration of Black British masculinity, Open Water is the hard-to-believe-it’s-a-debut from the now Dylan Thomas prize-winning writer. Set in south-east London and written in the second person, this novel is so immersive you will look up and forget where you were.

The Unbroken Beauty of Rosalind Bone by Alex McCarthy (176 pages, Penguin, £9.99)

In a sleepy village deep in the Welsh Valleys, 16-year-old Catrin is beginning to question versions of the past she has been told, including why her mother’s sister really disappeared all those years ago. The Unbroken Beauty of Rosalind Bone is a simmering, atmospheric story about community, family and female resilience, in which not a word is out of place.

Lullaby by Leïla Slimani (224 pages, Faber, £9.99)

This international bestseller is the definition of a one-sitting read. When a Parisian couple hire the eerily perfect Louise to help look after their two children, they think that they have lucked out with the dream nanny. The truth is far more twisted, and as we know from the novel’s haunting opening lines, the children will end up dead. But this isn’t violence for violence’s sake: Lullaby is an intelligently done literary thriller.

Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan (128 pages, Faber, £8.99)

Claire Keegan’s work is the epitome of fine Irish fiction, and her Booker-shortlisted Small Things Like These really is quite sublime – demonstrating how the tiniest slice of fiction can speak volumes. Set in a small town in 1985 during the runup to Christmas, it centres on Bill, an ordinary man who slowly grasps the truth and the horrors of one of Ireland’s infamous Magdalene laundries .

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho (224 pages, HarperCollins, £9.99)

Santiago is a young Andalusian shepherd whose yearning for adventure sends him to the Egyptian pyramids, on a quest to find treasure he has recurring dreams about. This 1988 phenomenon is a gorgeous fable steeped in magic and mysticism, and manages to teach you more about life than classics three times its length.

The End We Start From by Megan Hunter (144 pages, Pan Macmillan, £9.99)

Earlier this year, Jodie Comer starred in the film adaptation of this chilling dystopian novel , which is set during the midst of an all-too-real environmental crisis. As London is submerged by floods, we follow a new mother as she is forced to flee and continue to fight for her family’s survival. The film was highly acclaimed, but, as ever, the book is even better.

Elevation by Stephen King (192 pages, Hodder & Stoughton, £9.99)

Very few crime or thriller authors seem willing or capable of writing short books, but the master of the genre is not one of them. Set in the small town of Castle Rock, Elevation is an eerie novella about one man’s mysterious affliction and the suffocating gossip of a tight-knit community. This is one of King’s quieter works – don’t expect Carrie -style horror – but the supernatural twist that runs through it will keep you guessing.

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa (160 pages, Bonnier, £10.99)

Twenty-five-year-old Takako is broken-hearted. Since her ex-boyfriend – and former coworker – announced his plans to marry someone else, she has taken up refuge in the tiny flat above her uncle’s secondhand bookstore. Despite the shop being in her family for three generations, Tatako has never much enjoyed reading. Her discovery of the healing power of books makes up this sweet story, which feels a bit like a hug.

Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates (166 pages, Text Publishing, £10.99)

Framed as a letter to his then 15-year-old son, Coates weaves together personal narrative, reportage and essay in order to dissect big questions about race in contemporary America. It doesn’t matter that you could read it in a couple of hours, Between the World and Me has rightly become a seminal text – one that Toni Morrison hailed as “required reading”.

How to Stay Sane in an Age of Division by Elif Shafak (96 pages, Wellcome Collection, £6.99)

Whether it’s 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in this Strange World or The Island of Missing Trees, Elif Shafak’s novels are always infused with wisdom, so it should perhaps come as little surprise that her nonfiction is just as intelligent. Delving into the age of crises, conflict and contagious anxiety, and offering a hopeful way forward, here is a handbook for the modern world – distilled into pocket-book size.

What If We Stopped Pretending? by Jonathan Franzen (80 pages, Fourth Estate, £7.99)

Essayist, environmentalist and esteemed novelist of The Correction s and Crossroads , Jonathan Franzen has a very simple question. What if we stopped pretending we can still “save the planet”, and instead actually prepare for the inevitabilities of the climate crisis? This book may be tiny but it is also incisive, thought-provoking and really rather rallying.

Things I Don’t Want to Know by Deborah Levy (176 pages, Penguin, £10.99)

The first book in Deborah Levy ’s autobiographical trilogy – later followed up with equally brilliant The Cost of Living and Real Estate – takes inspiration from George Orwell’s essay “Why I Write” in order to reflect on her own writing life, and how it might differ from a man’s. Witty and wry and suffused with sheer brilliance, this is a book to treasure.

'Readers loved the fisting': Why novels need good sex scenes

Money blog: This savings account could bag you a free £8,500 in five years

Savings Champion founder Anna Bowes is back with tips on the savings market and how to make the most of your money. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog below, and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Thursday 30 May 2024 11:58, UK

• Sellers warned 'be realistic' as most homes on market in eight years
• Think twice before buying clothes from Zara before your holiday
• Prospective parents putting off having children by cost of living crisis
• Manchester United staff 'given week to resign' in Sir Jim Ratcliffe's WFH crackdown

Essential reads

• The savings account that could bag you a free £8,500 in five years  
• Head chef at UK's number one gastropub shares favourite cheap pasta recipe
• Women in Business : 'A truck unloaded a £600 car that her son bought on eBay thinking it was a toy' - the schoolgate stories that led to GoHenry
• Money Problem : 'My mortgage lender is ending my two-year fix and I haven't been in the house for two years - can they do this?'
• Best of the Money blog - an archive

Ask a question or make a comment

The Conservatives and Labour have ruled out VAT hikes if either party wins the election.

Jeremy Hunt, the chancellor, said tax rises on products and services would "hammer families' finances", while shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves said Labour did not plan to raise tax, national insurance or VAT.

The pledges come after the Institute for Fiscal Studies said the next UK government would face the toughest fiscal inheritance in 70 years.

Ms Reeves said: "I want taxes on working people to be lower, not higher."

New tax rises were restricted to those policies already announced, such as a plan to charge 20% VAT on private school fees, she said.

Writing in The Telegraph, Mr Hunt said: "We won't increase the main rate of VAT for the duration of the next Parliament."

He continued: "A VAT increase will hammer families' finances and push inflation back up."

He urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to make a similar commitment "on camera".

Follow all the latest election campaign news live in the Politics Hub ...

People who bank with TSB have had trouble getting into the mobile app this morning.

Many took to social media to report difficulty logging in to their accounts.

The official X account of TSB, responding to several complaints about the app being down earlier, said: "We're aware that customers are experiencing issues with our digital services. We're sorry for any inconvenience and are working hard to resolve it."

One customer reported that the app had remained down overnight:

In an updated statement, the bank said the issue has now been resolved.

"We're sorry for any inconvenience it caused," it said.

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

Shares in Auto Trader have rocketed more than 13% to a record high this morning.

It comes after the company reported a bumper set of results for the 2023/24 financial year - including a 26% rise in group operating profits.

The online car marketplace says recent demand has been strong - and it expects its performance to continue.

Dr Martens is also up on the FTSE 250 index - despite revealing it suffered an almost 43% fall in pre-tax profits during the 12 months to March (read more below...)

Its shares climbed more than 9% at one point earlier this morning, but have since eased back to almost 6%.

The British footwear brand has said it is "confident" it can revive its fortunes and says it plans to make savings of up to £25m to turn things around.

Elsewhere, the FTSE 100 is pretty flat - it opened 0.2% down but is currently up by a tiny 0.03%.

Mining firm Anglo American is among the companies hit by falls this morning.

Its shares have dropped by just over 1% after its rival BHP Group walked away from a proposed £38.5bn takeover of the company.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.27 US or €1.17 (or €1.1753, to be precise).

It comes after the pound reached a 19-month high against the Euro at one point yesterday - with £1 equalling €1.1784 - before later dropping back down.

The cost of a barrel of benchmark Brent crude has dipped slightly compared to yesterday. The price is $83 (£65).

If you're heading to Spain this summer and might get some of your holiday clothes from Zara, you might be better off waiting until you're over there.

The Spanish company sells items much cheaper over there - whether it's women's, men's or kids' clothes.

You can search prices in English on their Spanish website to get an idea of how much you'd save. 

We found big potential savings on just about every item we looked at - and the savings are even bigger than usual, with the pound reaching a two-year high against the euro yesterday.

For example, this white mini dress with ruffled hem is €27.95 in Spain but £32.99 (or €38.74).

A black dress described as "flowing voluminous" is €29.95 over there, but £35.99 (€42.27) in the UK.

These men's "balloon fit" jeans are €35.95 in Spain, but £45.99 (€54.01) in the UK.

A double-breasted blazer suit and trousers is €129.9 in Spain, but in the UK you'd pay £158.99 (€186.72).

Finally, a ruffled gingham kids' jumpsuit is €22.95 compared with £25.99 (€30.52).

Martin Lewis first highlighted these potential savings in 2015 when he wrote: "This isn't just about Zara similar pricing structures apply for other members of the same group, Massimo Dutti, Pull & Bear and Uterqüe."

A Zara spokesperson told the Money blog: "Zara's fashion offer is the same in the over 200 markets where it is available: quality, well-designed products at compelling prices. 

"These prices do vary between markets due to a number of factors which include shipping costs and exchange rates."

The supply of homes for sale has reached its highest level in eight years, according to a new report on the state of the housing market.

Zoopla said a 20% annual increase in properties has boosted choice for buyers and could help to steady house price growth over the rest of the year.

This idea is supported by Tom Bill, head of UK residential research at Knight Frank, who said growing supply is "one reason that UK house price growth this year will be limited to low single digits". 

According to Zoopla, the average estate agent office has 31 homes for sale - the highest level in eight years and up from a low of 16 in 2022.

The South West has seen "well above average" growth in the number of homes for sale, the property portal said, with a third more homes on the market across the region compared to a year ago.

The increase has likely been fuelled by planning changes in relation to holiday lets and the prospect of double council tax for second homes, Zoopla said.

According to Zoopla, a 13% increase in sales agreed has failed to keep pace with growth in the number of properties on the market.

Growth supply across the UK has been driven by a "rebound" in the number of three and four+ bed homes for sales as mover confidence improves, it said.

On property prices, Zoopla said there are still geographical divides with southern regions seeing "modest" falls, while the strongest price growth is seen in Belfast (3.6%), Burnley (2.5%) and Bolton (2.4%).

This compares to the biggest falls in Ipswich (-3%), Hasting (-2.7%) and Norwich (-2.4%).

The north-south divide is "primarily driven by affordability pressures in the face of higher mortgage rates", according to Zoopla - and it is expected to persist throughout 2024.

Richard Donnell, executive director at Zoopla said growth in the supply of homes for sale is "evidence of renewed confidence amongst homeowners".

Homeowners who are "serious about moving in 2024" should price their homes "realistically" to achieve a sale, he added.

Mr Bill said the "main obstacle" faced by buyers is "stubborn" inflation, which is keeping mortgage rates high.

"Asking prices therefore need to reflect the fact that buyers have more choice and tighter budgets," he said.

More than a fifth of would-be parents have made changes to their plans to start a family or have put it off altogether due to the cost of living, a new poll suggests.

Inflation has pushed expenses for the average family with young children up by more than £1,000 a month, research by mutual Royal London has found.

And despite inflation falling to its lowest level in nearly three years in April, the annual rate of price rises still stands at 2.3%, meaning life is still more expensive than it used to be.

Its survey of more than 4,000 adults reveals that 22% of people aged 18 to 34 have made alterations to their family planning due to the cost of living crisis.

Some 8% of people in this age bracket said they have delayed having children due to a lack of funds.

Nearly a fifth (18%) of surveyed adults who are parents said rising costs mean they have been left with no money for unexpected bills or emergencies.

Sarah Pennells, consumer finance specialist at Royal London, said it's clear that people are now "making changes to their longer-term life plans".

"When prices for food and energy were increasing, we saw people cut back and make changes to their spending and shopping habits, but now we're seeing that some major life decisions are being delayed as people are weighing up whether or not they can afford to act on the plans they'd made."

Lender Creditspring says having children is "fast becoming a luxury that is financially out of reach for a huge number of prospective parents". 

"Millions of younger people are in the impossible position of having to choose between children and their financial security," chief executive Neil Kadagathur said.

Every Thursday  Savings Champion founder Anna Bowes  gives us an insight into the savings market and how to make the most of your money.  This week, she's looking at Lifetime ISAs. 

With inflation falling and savings rates staying pretty stable, the majority of savings accounts are paying more than inflation. 

But if the interest is tax-free and you can benefit from a 25% government bonus on each deposit, that makes the Lifetime ISA (LISA) an even more important savings account to consider if you are eligible.

The top two accounts are not actually offered directly by banks but instead they are financial apps that use various partner banks which will vary from time to time. 

So you need to do your research to check that opening a LISA with either provider will not take you over the Financial Services Compensation (FSCS) limit, which is £85,000 per banking licence.

Introduced in April 2017, the LISA offers a much-needed boost for younger savers who are looking to save for a deposit on their first home or for retirement.

The LISA is the obvious choice for anyone aged 18-39, as you can deposit up to £4,000 a year and you'll receive a government bonus of 25% on each deposit, which you can keep as long as you use the proceeds to buy your first house - or until you are aged at least 60 as a retirement pot. 

And the proceeds are tax-free.

If you deposited a lump sum of £4,000 a year for five years, you would receive £1,000 bonus in the month after the deposit - and after five years, assuming an interest rate of 4.40%, which is the best cash LISA rate available, you would have around £28,500 - made up of:

• £20,000 personal deposit
• £5,000 government bonus
• £3,500 tax-free interest

There are plenty of rules to watch out for with a LISA too, so it's important to know the restrictions as well as the benefits before committing the money. 

For example, there is a penalty for withdrawing the cash before the age of 60 for anything other than a first home purchase and the LISA must be held for a minimum of 12 months to avoid the charge.

The penalty, if it were to apply, is 25% of the amount withdrawn.

Although this would seem to simply be a return of the government bonus, it actually works out that there is an extra penalty of roughly 6.25% that will apply. 

So, as well as losing the bonus, some of the money deposited would also be taken.

A LISA can be held in cash or in stocks & shares. 

The most appropriate choice would depend on timelines, with shorter term funds usually better kept as cash and invested stocks and shares ISAs being more suitable for long-term money (five-plus years). 

Any interest or growth would be tax-free within that Lifetime ISA wrapper.

If you've missed any of the features we've been running in Money this year, or want to check back on something you've previously seen in the blog, this archive of our most popular articles may help...

Pets At Home has reported a dip in profits – which it has partly blamed on owners spending less on toys and accessories for their animals.

The chain, which also provides vet services, said pre-tax profit for the year to March was £105.7m, down 13.7% on the same period the year before.

The retailer said on Wednesday that profitability had been "impacted by short-term availability issues as we transitioned to our new DC [distribution centre] and weaker performance of discretionary accessories".

However, the company also said it was confident in its growth strategy and insisted it was "not threatened" by a new watchdog investigation into the vet industry.

The Competition and Markets Authority recently launched the probe following concerns that pet owners could be paying too much for healthcare.

Pets At Home also reported that revenues for its vet business jumped 16.8% as it continued to expand into the sector.

It said total revenue grew by 5.2% to £1.5bn for the year.

Whoever wins the general election, one potential headache for the new administration will be Thames Water.

The current government has already drawn up contingency plans, known as Project Timber, for the possible collapse of a company currently saddled with debt of £15.4bn.

The scenario also features strongly on a dossier of potential crises compiled by Sue Gray, Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff, that an incoming Labour government would face.

Talk of a potential collapse has moved up the agenda because Thames Water's owners, which include the Canadian pensions giant Omers, the Universities Superannuation Scheme, a unit of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and the China Investment Corporation, have declined to inject more equity into the business. They had previously offered to inject a further £3.25bn, on top of £500m last year, were Ofwat, the regulator, to support the company's plans.

But Ofwat is refusing to allow Thames to raise its levels of investment and customer bills to the extent that the company is proposing . 

Thames had asked Ofwat to approve an £18.7bn investment which would have entailed a 44% average increase in customer bills over the next regulatory period due to run from 2025-30. It tweaked this submission in April to raise investment to £19.8bn during the period with no extra increase in bills.

Ofwat was due to publish its "final deliberation" on investment plans and customer bills for the entire water industry, including Thames, on 12 June but has moved it back to 11 July due to the general election.

The Guardian reported earlier this week that Ofwat is set to refuse the requests of most water companies, including Thames, with some operators being allowed to raise bills by as little as half of what they had asked for.

Such an approach is consistent with Ofwat's historic approach of keeping water bills low as its main priority rather than, for example, permitting higher investment to tackle sewage spills.

However, there are signs that Ofwat may be prepared to compromise, at least to an extent.

The Financial Times reports today that the regulator is drawing up plans for a special "recovery regime" for Thames and other financially stressed UK water companies in a bid to avoid nationalisation.

It suggests that companies with "recovery regime" status could receive fewer or no regulatory penalties to encourage them to invest in infrastructure improvements instead, as well as being given more "realistic" targets for reducing sewage and water leaks and outages.

The regulator finds itself with a dilemma. Ofwat does not want Thames to collapse, not least because such an event would intensify criticism that the regulator allowed Thames's previous owners – most notably the Australian investment bank Macquarie – to load the company with debt while extracting enormous dividends (the current investors have received no dividends since 2017).

Ofwat's ministerial overlords – of both parties – will also be aware that an administration of Thames would deter the very international investors the UK desperately needs to attract to pay for infrastructure improvements.

On the other hand, though, Ofwat does not want to face accusations that it is being unduly lenient on a company that has been badly behaved in the past.

Now, it is fair to say that Ofwat is offering an olive branch here. Only two weeks ago, it said it was "minded" to punish Thames for breaching licence conditions over a £37.5m dividend paid to shareholders in October last year (Thames points out the payment was made to Kemble Water, its parent holding company, and was necessary to maintain the latter's solvency). That could result in another fine worth tens of millions of pounds.

The big question is whether this compromise will be enough to shore up Thames's financial situation. Ofwat has fined Thames £175m during the last three years which, while being a large sum, is a relatively trifling amount set against Thames's debts.

So it probably would not be enough, of itself, to persuade Thames's owner to pump more equity into the business. Omers, the biggest single shareholder in Thames, has already written down the entire value of its 31.7% stake in the company to nothing. USS, which has more than half a million scheme members in British universities and which owns nearly 20% of Thames, has written down the value of its shareholding from £956m at the end of 2022 to just £364.4m as at the end of last year.

What today's news reveals is that there is a compromise to be reached here. The extra month before Ofwat is due to publish its draft deliberation has bought both sides a little more time.

But it feels as if, with Ofwat in no mood to back down with Thames over its proposed increase in investment and customer bills, the latter's shareholders have run out of patience.

A "special administration" of Thames – something neither Rishi Sunak or Sir Keir Starmer would want to see – still feels like the way to be betting.

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Blog – Posted on Friday, May 21

45 best history books of all time.

If the mere mention of ‘history books’ is enough to conjure up memories of fighting back yawns in your middle school classroom, then chances are you haven’t been looking in the right places. But fear not — this list is here to bring you some of the most well-researched, entertaining, and readable works by the most preeminent historians of today and generations past.

On this list, you not only find some of the best American history books, on topics spanning slavery and empire, Civil War, and Indigenous histories, but also stories ranging from Asia to Africa, and everywhere in between. This list traverses continents, historical eras, the rise and fall of once-great empires, while occasionally stopping off to hone in on specific, localized events that you might never have heard of.

Whether you’re a history buff looking to flex your muscles, or you struggle to distinguish your Nelson from your Nefertiti, there’ll be something suitable for you. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into our 45 best history books of all time.

If you’re looking for history books that give the broader picture as well as the finer details, let us introduce you to some of the most seminal texts on global history. These reads cover the moments and events that form the connective tissue between continents, cultures, and eras. Whether you’re looking for more abstract, theoretical writing on what ‘history’ is and does, or just a broader volume that pans out, rather than in, there’ll be something for you.

1. What Is History? by Edward Hallett Carr

Famous for his hefty History of Soviet Russia , E. H. Carr’s foray into historiography (that is, the study of written history) was panned by critics at first. Initially written off as ‘dangerous relativism’, it is now considered a foundational text for historians, one which probes at the very seams of the discipline. By asking what exactly historical knowledge is and what constitutes history as we have come to understand it, Carr provides a compelling and masterful critique of the biases of historians and their moralized narratives of history. This groundbreaking text also interrogates such notions as fact, science, morality, individualism, and society. Carr’s masterpiece is referenced in countless college applications for a reason — it’s a formidable dive into history as a discipline, and laid the foundations for the subject as it exists in the modern world.

2. The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx

Though first and foremost considered a political theorist, much of Marxist thought can be a means to understand history with attention to economic systems and principles. In this seminal text, Marx argues that all of history has been defined by the struggles between the proletariat working-class and the capital-owning bourgeoisie. According to Marx, economic structures have been defined by class relations, and the various revolutions that have occurred throughout history have been instigated by antagonism between these two forces. As Marx famously opined in his 1852 essay, The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte, “history repeats itself, first as tragedy, second as farce”, and he lays out those repetitions with striking clarity here. As an added bonus, since this was originally intended as a pamphlet, the manifesto comes in at under 100 pages, so you have no reason not to prime yourself on one of modern history’s greatest thinkers.

3. Orientalism by Edward W. Said

A titan of Middle Eastern political and historical study, Edward Said coined the titular phrase ‘Orientalism’ to describe the West's often reductive and derisive depiction and portrayal of "The East." This book is an explanation of this concept and the application of this framework to understand the global power dynamics between the East and the West. Orientalism is considered by many a challenging read, but don’t let its formidable reputation put you off — it’ll all be worth it when you find yourself thinking about global history in ways you haven’t before.

4. Lies My Teacher Told Me by James W. Loewen

It’s no big secret that the US school curriculum is more than a little biased — governments have a tendency to rewrite history textbooks in their favour, and the US government is no exception, keeping quiet on the grizzly, harrowing details and episodes which made the USA the country it is today. With particular focus on the American Civil War, Native Americans and the Atlantic Slave Trade, Loewen tries to interrogate and override simplistic, recountings of these events that portray White settlers as heroes and everybody else as uncivilized and barbarous. This is essential reading for anybody wanting to challenge their own preconceptions about American history and challenge the elevated status of American ‘heroes’.

5. Democracy: A Life by Paul Cartledge

From its birth in the city-state of Ancient Athens to contemporary times, democracy’s definition, application, and practice have been fiercely discussed and debated. With this book, Cartledge presents a biography of a political system that has been alternately lauded as the only means to govern a liberal society and derided as doomed to ineffectiveness.

Based on a near-legendary course of lectures Cartledge taught at Cambridge University, this book charts the social, cultural, and political dimensions of democracy, displaying a mastery of the scholarship to brilliant effect. For those that want to know more about democracy beyond ‘governance for the masses’.

6. Destiny Disrupted: A History of the World Through Islamic Eyes by Tamim Ansary

When history is so often focalized through a Western lens, reading from alternative positions is essential to challenge these normative understandings of the past. Ansary’s Destiny Disrupted does exactly this. By centering on an Islamic recounting of historical events, it challenges preconceived ideas about Western dominance, colonialism, and stereotyped depictions of Islamic culture and custom. Ansary discusses the history of the Islamic world from the time of Mohammed, through the various empires that have ruled the Middle Eastern region and beyond, right up to contemporary conflicts and the status of Islam in a modern, globalizing world. 

7. Salt: A World History by Mark Kurlansky

If you think salt is a substance useful for not much more than topping fries, let journalist Mark Kurlansky prove otherwise. In this book, Kurlansky charts the origins of civilization using a surprising narrative throughline — salt. Many early settlements were established near natural sources of salt because of its many beneficial properties, and this surprisingly precious mineral has continued to play an important role in societies ever since. From its use as a medium of exchange in ancient times to its preservative properties (which allowed ancient civilizations to store essential food throughout the winter), this innocuous substance has been fundamental to the health and wealth of societies across the globe.

8. A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

With his collective bibliography having sold over 16 million copies, you’re probably already familiar with Bryson’s work documenting his travels around the world, or his meditations on the brilliant diversity of global culture. Though primarily a travel writer, he’s also turned his hand to history, and A Short History of Nearly Everything specifically focuses on the scientific discoveries of yore that have defined human society. From quantum theory to mass extinction, Bryson recounts these miraculous, unplanned, sometimes ill-fated marvels of human achievement with humor and insight. If there’s a book that’ll have you repeatedly saying “can you believe this?” to random passers-by, this’ll be it!

9. The Sea and Civilization: A Maritime History of the World by Lincoln Paine

A nation's ability to conquer the seas has always been a mark of prestige and greatness, especially for empires looking to expand beyond their borders and nations wanting to trade and connect with other peoples. Paine discusses how many societies managed to transform the murky depths of the ocean from natural obstacle to a means of transporting goods, people, and ideas — from the Mesopotamians wanting to trade with their neighbors in ancient Aegea and Egypt, to those in East Asia who fine-tuned their shipbuilding techniques to conquer foreign lands.

10. Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond

Here’s another book that frequents the reading lists of politics and history majors the world over! Many have theorized on why certain human societies have failed while others have thrived — but perhaps none have done it as astutely as Jared Diamond has in Guns, Germs, and Steel . The three things featured in the book’s title make up the nexus that Diamond presents as being fundamental to the development (or lack thereof) of human society. Though Diamond's thesis has as many detractors as it has supporters, it’s worth reading to see which side of the debate you fall on.

11. The Argumentative Indian: Writings on Indian History, Culture and Identity by Amartya Sen

In this collection of sixteen essays, esteemed economist Amartya Sen explores the Indian subcontinent, with particular focus on the rich history and culture that has made it the country it is today. The title refers to what Sen believes is inherent to the Indian disposition: argument and constructive criticism as a means to further progress. In his essays, Sen presents careful and considered analysis on a range of subjects that other academics have often tiptoe around, from the nature of Hindu traditions to the major economic disparities existing in certain regions today (and what their roots might be). Whether you’re an expert or new to the topic, you’ll be sure to learn something from Sen’s incisive commentary.

Ancient kingdoms are shrouded in mystery — a lot of what we know has been painstakingly pieced together by brilliant archaeologists and historians who have uncovered ancient artifacts, documents, and remains, and dedicated their working lives to understanding their significance to ancient people. Aren’t the rest of us lucky they’ve done the hard work for us?

12. Fifth Sun: A New History of the Aztecs by Camilla Townsend

The pre-colonial Central America ruled by the Aztecs was one characterized by remarkable innovation and progressiveness. Western historians, however, often failed to acknowledge this or pay the region and its ancient empires much academic attention. Moreover, the history of the Mexican people as recounted by the Spanish has often leaned into stereotyped, whitewashed versions of events. Townsend’s Fifth Sun changes this by presenting a history of the Aztecs solely using sources and documents written by the Aztec people themselves in their native Nahuatl language. What results is an empathetic and invigorating interpretation of Aztec history for newbies and long-time enthusiasts alike.

13. When Women Ruled the World: Six Queens of Egypt by Kara Cooney

When you think of Ancient Egyptian queens, Cleopatra probably comes to mind — but did you know that the various Egyptian dynasties boasted a whole host of prominent women? Cooney’s When Women Ruled The World shifts the spotlight away from the more frequently discussed Egyptian pharaohs, placing attention on the likes of Hatshepsut, Nefertiti, and Cleopatra, all of whom commanded great armies, oversaw the conquering of new lands, and implemented innovative economic systems. In this captivating read, Cooney reveals more about these complex characters and explores why accounts of ancient empires have been so prone to placing powerful women on the margins of historical narratives. 

14. The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, Vol. 1 by Edward Gibbon

If you’re a fan of serious, in-depth scholarship on ancient history, then this first volume of Gibbon's classic treatise on the Roman Empire is a perfect fit for you. Despite being published in 1776, Gibbon’s work on the Roman Empire is still revered by historians today. Along with five other volumes of this monumental work, this text is considered one of the most comprehensive and pre-eminent accounts in the field. Gibbon offers theories on exactly how and why the Roman Empire fell, arguing controversially that it succumbed to barbarian attacks mainly due to the decline of “civic virtue” within Roman culture. If this thesis has piqued your interest, then we naturally suggest you start with Volume I to understand what exactly Gibbon considers “virtue” to be, and how it was lost. 

15. The History of the Ancient World: From the Earliest Accounts to the Fall of Rome by Susan Wise Bauer

Historians are often wont to focus on a particular historical era or location when producing historical nonfiction — but Susan Wise Bauer had grander ambitions. In this text, Bauer weaves together events that spanned continents and eras, from the East to the Americas. This book, described as an “engrossing tapestry,” primarily aims to connect tales of rulers to the everyday lives of those they ruled in vivid detail. With an eloquently explained model, she reveals how the ancient world shaped, and was shaped by, its peoples.

16. Foundations of Chinese Civilization: The Yellow Emperor to the Han Dynasty by Jing Liu

Believe it or not, history doesn’t always mean slogging through page after page of dense, footnoted text. This comic by Beijing native Jing Liu turns history on its head by presenting it in a fun, digestible manner for anybody that has an interest in Chinese history (but isn’t quite ready to tackle an 800-page book on the subject yet). Spanning nearly 3,000 years of ancient history, this comic covers the Silk Road, the birth of Confucianism and Daoism, China's numerous internal wars, and finally the process of modern unification.

Middle Ages and renaissance

Some of the most fearsome and formidable characters in history had their heyday during the Middle Ages and renaissance periods — though it’s hard to know whether their larger-than-life reputations are owed to actual attributes they had, or from their mythologizing during a time where fewer reliable sources exist. Either way, we think they’re great fun to read about — as are their various exploits and conquests. From Genghis Khan to Cosimo de Medici, we’ve got you covered.

17. The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan

The Silk Road, an artery of commerce running from Europe through Russia to Asia (and a vital means of connecting the West with the East), has long been of interest to historians of the old world. In this book, Frankopan goes one step further, to claim that there has been more than one silk road throughout history — and that the region stretching from the Mediterranean to China (modern-day Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan) remains the crossroads of civilization and the center of global affairs. Frankopan argues compellingly that this region should be afforded more attention when historians theorize on centers of power and how they have shifted across time. It’s a convincing argument, and one that is expertly executed by Frankopan’s engaging writing and scrupulous research.

18. Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World by Jack Weatherford

Genghis Khan is perhaps one of the most formidable figures in global history. Many recognize his iconic topknot-and-horseback image despite not knowing all too much about his life or the military successes he oversaw as leader of the Mongolian empire. Weatherford’s book takes a deep dive into this complex character and explores new dimensions of the society and culture he imposed upon the many peoples he conquered. As a civilization, Khan's was more keenly progressive than its European counterparts — having abolished torture, granted religious freedoms, and deposed the feudal systems that subordinated so many to so few. If you’re in the mood for an epic tale that’ll challenge your understanding of the global past, you’ll want to pick this book up.

19. Precolonial Black Africa by Cheikh Anta Diop

Cheikh Anta Diop, a Senegalese historian, anthropologist, physicist, and politician, dedicated his working life to the study of pre-colonial African culture and the origins of human civilization itself. This book, arguably his most influential text, draws out comparisons between European empires and societies with the often overlooked African civilizations. Diop carefully shows that Africa contributed far more to the world’s development than just its exploited labor and natural resources. Precolonial Black Africa thus sets out to reorient our knowledge of a period that is so often derided by non-African thinkers as “uncivilized” and “barbarous” with brilliant attention to detail.

20. The Crusades: The Authoritative History of the War for the Holy Land by Thomas Asbridge

In the 11th century, a vast Christian army was summoned and ordered by the Pope to march across Europe. Their aim was to seize Jerusalem and claim back the city considered the holy seat of Christianity. As it happened, Jerusalem was also a land strongly associated with the Prophets of Islam. The Christian mission thus manifested in the Crusaders’ rampage through the Muslim world, devastating many parts of the Eastern Mediterranean. Asbridge’s innovative recounting of this momentous event is unique in the way it even-handedly unpacks the perspective of both the Christian and Muslim experiences and their memorializing of the Holy Wars. With rich and detailed scholarship, this book reveals how the Crusades shaped the Medieval world and continue to impact the present day.

21. The House of Medici: Its Rise and Fall by Christopher Hibbert

Renaissance Florence is perhaps most famous as the cradle of revered art, sculpture, and architecture by the likes of Michelangelo and Leonardo — but in the 15th century, it was also home to the Medicis, one of the most powerful banking dynasties in Europe. Starting with enterprising Cosimo de Medici in the 1430s, Hibbert chronicles the impressive rise of a family that dominated a city where mercantile families jostled for political and social influence, often to bloody ends. And — spoiler alert, if you can spoil history — as with every great period, the rise of the Medicis naturally involves a spectacular fall. It’s the kind of stuff soap operas are made of: an unmissable tale of family intrigue and the corrupting influence of money. 

In this groundbreaking work of science, history, and archaeology, Charles C. Mann radically alters our understanding of the Americas before the arrival of Columbus in 1492. Contrary to what so many Americans learn in school, the pre-Columbian Indians were not sparsely settled in a pristine wilderness; rather, there were huge numbers of Indians who actively molded and influenced the land around them. The astonishing Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan had running water and immaculately clean streets, and was larger than any contemporary European city. Mexican cultures created corn in a specialized breeding process that it has been called man’s first feat of genetic engineering. Indeed, Indians were not living lightly on the land but were landscaping and manipulating their world in ways that we are only now beginning to understand. Challenging and surprising, this a transformative new look at a rich and fascinating world we only thought we knew.

22. 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles C. Mann

Mainstream history has too often made it seem as though the Americas was all but a vacant wasteland before Columbus and other European conquerors drifted upon its shores in the 15th century. Of course, this couldn’t be further from the truth — from the Aztecs to the Incas to the tribes of Northern America, many complex social and cultural structures existed prior to the arrival of Europeans. Southern American peoples in particular had sophisticated societies and infrastructures (including running water!) that have unfortunately been obliviated from the popular (or at least white Western) consciousness. A classic book that challenges the victor’s story, Charles C. Mann’s 1491 provides exciting new information on civilizations that have more to teach us than we have previously acknowledged. 

23. The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England by Dan Jones

Is there a more abiding emblem of British history than that of Medieval England’s monarchy and the Wars of the Roses? Though its historical figures and events have often been portrayed in television dramas, plays, and books, little is commonly known about the House of Plantagenets, who ruled from the 12th to the 15th century — an era packed with royal drama, intrigue, and internal division. For a witty, acerbic account of the whole ordeal, visit Dan Jones’s The Plantagenets . He approaches the subject with dazzling storytelling skills and charm that it will feel like you’re reading a novel, not a nonfiction book.

Enlightenment, empire, and revolution

You can’t make sense of the present without understanding the forces that got us here. The mechanized and globalized, mass-producing and mass-consuming world we live in today was forged in the fiery hearth of the Industrial Revolution, on the decks of ships setting out in search of uncharted territory, and in battles that were fought over supposedly ‘undiscovered’ lands. A lot changed for the common man in this period, and a lot has been written about it too — here are some of the best works.

24. The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective by Robert C. Allen

The Industrial Revolution is perhaps the most important phenomenon in modern history. It started in 18th-century Britain, where inventions like the mechanical loom and the steam engine were introduced, changing the nature of work and production. But why did this happen in Britain and not elsewhere in the world, and how precisely did it change things? These questions are answered lucidly in Robert C. Allen’s informative book. From the preconditions for growth to the industries and trades that grew out of them, The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspectives has it all covered. Though it leans a bit on the academic side, it provides valuable knowledge that will vastly improve your understanding of today’s mass-producing, mass-consuming world.

25. A People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn

For an overview of the history of the US, try this impressive treatise by historian and political scientist Howard Zinn. There’s a reason why this book is so often assigned as mandatory reading for high school and college history courses — it challenges readers to rethink what they’ve been told about America’s past. Rather than focusing on ‘great’ men and their achievements, A People’s History dives unflinchingly into the societal conditions and changes of the last few centuries. Exploring the motives behind events like the Civil War and US international interventions in the 20th century, Zinn shows that while patriotism and morality have often been used to justify America’s social movements and wars, it’s often been economic growth and wealth accumulation that truly drove leaders’ decisions.

26. Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West by Dee Brown

At Wounded Knee Creek in 1890, the Lakota people confronted the encroaching US Army to protect their homeland and community. What followed was a massacre that for decades was viewed as a heroic victory — exemplifying how history is truly shaped by the victors, unless someone else speaks up. In 2010, Dee Brown did just this, exploring the colonialist treatment that Indigenous Americans suffered throughout the late 19th century in Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee. Using council records and personal accounts from people of various Native American tribes, Brown demonstrates just how destructive the US administration was to these communities: in the name of Manifest Destiny and building new infrastructure, white settlers destroyed the culture and heritage of the Indigenous population. It’s something that's sadly still too familiar now, making this an even more pressing read.

27. Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019 by Ibram X. Kendi

While this isn’t strictly a history book, Four Hundred Souls is certainly an eye-opening volume if you’re looking to explore oft-hidden aspects of history. This collection of essays, personal reflections, and short stories is written by ninety different authors, all providing unique insights into the experiences of Black Americans throughout history. Editors Kendi and Blain do a brilliant job of amalgamating a variety of emotions and perspectives: from the pains of slavery and its legacy to the heartfelt poetry of younger generations. If you’re looking for your fix of African American Literature and nonfiction in one go, consider this your go-to.

Since its U.S. debut a quarter-century ago, this brilliant text has set a new standard for historical scholarship of Latin America. It is also an outstanding political economy, a social and cultural narrative of the highest quality, and perhaps the finest description of primitive capital accumulation since Marx.

Rather than chronology, geography, or political successions, Eduardo Galeano has organized the various facets of Latin American history according to the patterns of five centuries of exploitation. Thus he is concerned with gold and silver, cacao and cotton, rubber and coffee, fruit, hides and wool, petroleum, iron, nickel, manganese, copper, aluminum ore, nitrates, and tin. These are the veins which he traces through the body of the entire continent, up to the Rio Grande and throughout the Caribbean, and all the way to their open ends where they empty into the coffers of wealth in the United States and Europe.

Weaving fact and imagery into a rich tapestry, Galeano fuses scientific analysis with the passions of a plundered and suffering people. An immense gathering of materials is framed with a vigorous style that never falters in its command of themes. All readers interested in great historical, economic, political, and social writing will find a singular analytical achievement, and an overwhelming narrative that makes history speak, unforgettably.

This classic is now further honored by Isabel Allende’s inspiring introduction. Universally recognized as one of the most important writers of our time, Allende once again contributes her talents to literature, to political principles, and to enlightenment.

28. Open Veins of Latin America: Five Centuries of the Pillage of a Continent by Eduardo Galeano

The instabilities of Latin America over the last century have largely stemmed from its turbulent and violent past, its land and people having been exploited by European imperial powers, followed by American interventionism. In Open Veins of Latin America, Uruguayan journalist Eduardo Galeano passionately and compellingly recounts this history while also keeping it accessible to modern readers. Still on the fence? Let the foreword by Latinx literary giant Isabel Allende convince you: “Galeano denounces exploitation with uncompromising ferocity, yet this book is almost poetic in its description of solidarity and human capacity for survival in the midst of the worst kind of despoliation.”

29. The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano Illustrated by Olaudah Equiano

Though it was published in the late 18th century, this autobiography is still being reprinted today. It follows the life of Equiano, a slave who was kidnapped from his village in Nigeria and trafficked to Britain. In this foreign land, he was traded like merchandise time and again, struggling against adversity to find his freedom and define his identity. The accuracy of the story has been called into question, which is why reprinted editions have footnotes and additional details to better explain the social context of the situation. Regardless, the narrative style of the book makes it a hypnotizing read, immersing readers in the world of Georgian England and the horrors of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.

The World Wars

We thought the biggest events of the 20th century deserved their own section. The fact that so many people across the globe lived to experience these two momentous, destructive wars is perhaps why so much has been written about them — and how they reinvented life as we know it. The books below, covering a variety of perspectives, will intrigue, surprise, and hopefully teach you a thing or two.

30. Ten Days That Shook The World by John Reed

If you’re interested in firsthand accounts of people who've lived through historical moments, then this is the book for you. Published in 1919, Ten Days that Shook the World is the thrilling political memoir of someone who witnessed the October Revolution unfold in St Petersburg, Russia. Reed was a socialist and a newspaper correspondent who happened to be in close contact with the likes of Lenin and Trotsky, aka the innermost circle of the Bolsheviks. His account of the revolution thus provides a very unique perspective — one of both an insider and an outsider. While Reed couldn’t be as impartial as he intended as a journalist, this book is still a useful insight into one of the most important moments in modern history.

31. The Guns of August by Barbara W. Tuchman

If you’re a fan of history books, then you’ve probably heard of Barbara Tuchman: she was a historian and author who twice won the Pulitzer Prize, once for this very book. In The Guns of August , Tuchman uncovers the beginnings of World War I. She starts by examining the alliances and military plans that each country had in case of warfare, demonstrating how delicate this moment was before the declarations and the first battles on various fronts. The militaristic theme of the book could’ve made the tone dry, yet Tuchman lets the stories unravel in a way that intrigues and enthralls. As the granddaughter of the American ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, Tuchman was in Constantinople as the war began, and as a result, her work takes on the gravity of someone who was in the thick of it.,

32. Appeasement: Chamberlain, Hitler, Churchill, and the Road to War by Tim Bouverie

In the 1930s, when Hitler was making moves to acquire land from neighboring countries, the rest of the Allies pursued a policy they called appeasement. In the book of the same name (previously known as Appeasing Hitler ), the reasoning behind such a policy — despite the Nazis’ blatant antisemitism and aggressive nationalism — reveals how that led to World War II. Spoiler alert: ironically, this was all done with the assumption that if Hitler got what he wanted, there wouldn’t be another large-scale war that would last another four years. As informative as it is, Appeasement is also a valuable reminder that what happened in the past wasn’t a given — at that moment in time, things could have gone any number of ways. What matters, looking back, is what we can learn from it for the future.

33. Leningrad: The Epic Siege of World War II, 1941-1944 by Anna Reid

From historical fiction novels like Atonement to the somber box office hit Dunkirk , our mainstream knowledge about the Second World War has predominantly featured the French Western Front. Possibly because American forces were much more involved in this side of the war, we tend to overlook the biggest battles, which took place in Eastern Europe.

In Leningrad , Anna Reid sheds a light on one of these epic battles. Breaking Hitler’s vow of non-aggression, German forces poured into the Soviet Union in the autumn of 1941, expecting a quick victory. Little did they know that Leningrad (modern-day St Petersburg) was not about to go down without a vicious fight. Over the next three years, this massive city was put under a siege that resulted in destruction, famine, and countless deaths, though the Germans were ultimately defeated. What was life like in this prolonged blockade, and was it truly a Soviet victory? You’ll have to read Leningrad to find out.

34. Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Wake of World War II by John W. Dower

As the only country to have been a victim of nuclear attacks, Japan’s postwar experience has arguably been one of the most unique and difficult of all the countries that took part in the world wars. Prior to and during WW2, Japan was a major power that had annexed much of East Asia by 1941. After the war, Japan was a defeated nation, strong-armed into surrendering by the Soviet army and two American atomic bombs.

Embracing Defeat is about a nation coming to terms with its new reality in the following years, during which the US-occupied Japan and was actively involved in its rebuilding. Shock, devastation, and humiliation were just a few of the emotions that society had to live through. In this Pulitzer Prize-winning book, MIT professor John Dower explores these sentiments and how they translated into social and cultural changes in Japan.

35. Broken Lives: How Ordinary Germans Experienced the 20th Century by Konrad H. Jarausch

Over the course of the 20th century, Germany truly experienced all possible transformations. From a key European imperial power to an economically crippled state, to Nazism and the Holocaust, and then to Cold War partition — there’s certainly been no shortage of tumult in Germany over the past hundred years. Collecting stories from over 60 people who lived through these ups and downs, Konrad Jarausch presents a down-to-earth picture of what it was like to undergo these changes in everyday life. While we often see historical changes as a given in hindsight, for the people who lived through the period, these transformations were sometimes far from foreseeable — yet have been formative to their individual and collective identities.

It’s remarkable to consider what humanity has achieved in the last century alone, from the first manned flight to landing people on the moon. But that’s not all: world wars were fought, empires were toppled, living conditions improved for many across the world and human rights were advanced in ways many would not have been able to fathom even a few decades before. To absorb more of our “modern” history, peruse the books below.

36. Stalin's Englishman: Guy Burgess, the Cold War, and the Cambridge Spy Ring by Andrew Lownie

If you’re a fan of thrilling spy novels , then Stalin’s Englishman is the history book for you: it’s the biography of Guy Burgess, an English-born Soviet spy from the 1930s onward. In a way, Burgess was made for the job — he was born into a wealthy family, attended prestigious schools like Eton and Cambridge, worked at the BBC and then for MI6, making him entirely beyond suspicion in the eyes of his own people. Though little is officially recorded about Burgess’s life, Andrew Lownie has compiled plenty of oral evidence related to this charming spy, weaving together an exciting narrative that will keep you turning the pages.

37. The State of Africa: A History of the Continent Since Independence by Martin Meredith

Since the end of World War II, Africa has seen several waves of independence movements. And while it was once a vision of hope, the effects of colonialism have frequently made post-independence life in Africa unstable and dangerous. Martin Meredith looks into the nuances of this legacy and how it has played out in the post-independence era. Rather than focusing on individual countries, Meredith widens his scope and presents a thorough overview of the continent, making this book an essential read for anyone new to modern African history.

38. Age of Extremes: The Short Twentieth Century 1914-1991 by Eric Hobsbawm

Eric Hobsbawm is a well-known Marxist historian, and so it’s no surprise that his account of 20th-century history leans on the critical side. The Age of Extremes is all about failures: of communism, of state socialism, of market capitalism, and even of nationalism. 

Dividing the century into three parts — the Age of Catastrophe, the Golden Age, and the Landslide — Hobsbawm tracks Western powers and their struggles with world wars, economic failures, and new world orders that involved them losing colonies and influence. In their place, new systems rose to prominence, though all exhibited fundamental faults that made it difficult for them to last. The Age of Extremes is not a jovial read, but it provides an interesting perspective on modern world history. If you’re up for some harsh social commentary, you should definitely pick this book up.

39. Nothing Ever Dies: Vietnam and the Memory of War by Viet Thanh Nguyen

The Vietnam War, as it is commonly called in the US, still looms large in the American imagination. But while the trauma and camaraderie of American soldiers in the tropical jungles of Vietnam have often been often highlighted, shamefully little has been said about the sufferings of the Vietnamese people — both those who remained in Vietnam and those who eventually left as “boat people.”

The gap in mainstream memory of this heavily politicized war is what Viet Thanh Nguyen addresses in his thought-provoking nonfiction book, Nothing Ever Dies . Having lived through the tail end of that conflict himself, Nguyen offers a perspective that’s too often swept under the rug. Through his writing, he reminds readers that history as we know it is often selective and subjective; it’s more than what we choose to remember, it’s also about why we choose to remember the things we do, and how sinister political motives that can factor in.

40. Age Of Ambition : Chasing Fortune, Truth, and Faith in the New China by Evan Osnos

History isn’t all about the distant past, and with such rapid changes over the last several decades, the contemporary history of China grows ever more fascinating by the year. Following economic reforms in the 1980s, China has grown exponentially and become one of the biggest economies in the world. But this opening up also meant that the Communist Party could no longer control the people’s discourses as effectively as before. In Age of Ambition , Evan Osnos draws on his firsthand observations as a journalist in China, talking about the recent transformation of Chinese people’s aspirations and plans to reach beyond the border of their country through their studies, their work, their consumption, and their communications.

41. Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland by Patrick Radden Keefe

If you think history can’t be gripping, then let Patrick Radden Keefe convince you otherwise: in this modern history book, he uses a murder investigation as a window into the bitter ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland. The book begins in 1972, in the middle of the Troubles — a 30-year conflict between the Catholic Irish, who wanted to leave the UK, and the Protestants who wanted to stay. A 38-year-old woman by the name of Jean McConville, married to a Catholic former soldier of the British Army, has disappeared. The suspects are members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), known to have executed people they believed were spying on them for the British. All deny the accusation, of course — some even going as far as to deny their involvement in the IRA altogether. Looking back at the incident and its suspects four decades later, Keefe highlights the atrocities that were committed by all parties during this period, and how they still resonate through NI today.

42. Wayward Lives, Beautiful Experiments

An esteemed researcher of African American literature and history, Hartman has produced a trove of work on the practices and legacies of slavery in the US. Wayward Lives, Beautiful Experiments is but one of the insightful titles she’s produced, discussing the lives of Black women in late 19th-century New York and Philadelphia. Looking at the concept and understanding of sexuality in these communities, Hartman found that despite the criminalization practiced by the state, there was space for women to own their sexuality and gender identity. It was a small space, and it would have slipped into oblivion if no one cared to explore the nuances of the urbanizing life of the 1890s — but this book ensures that they can never be left in the dust.

43. Black and British: A Forgotten History by David Olusoga

This book, written to accompany the 4-episode docuseries of the same name, is a must-read for everyone interested in British history. The common understanding of this island nation’s history is usually related to its seaborne conquests and longstanding monarchies. But what of the servants and slaves, the people that actually did the work and fought the battles? What of the people who were moved here through colonial exchanges? Retracing British history with an eye upon the waves of immigration, Olusoga gives a comprehensive overview of the complexity of Black Britishness in the UK, a group whose stories are often obscured. He also shows that these people were and are integral to the nation’s development, and are thus not to be forgotten.

44. The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America by Erik Larson

For those who enjoy storytelling, check out this thrilling novel-style history book on H. H. Holmes, the man considered to be one of the first modern serial killers. Holmes was only ever convicted for one murder but is thought to have had up to 27 victims, many lured to the World’s Fair Hotel that he owned. The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago is thus the immersive setting of The Devil in the White City , and is written from the point of view of the designers who contributed to the fair. It reads like suspense — think The Alienist — but it also informs on the excitement and uncertainty of the early stages of urbanization, coming together as a marvelous blend of mystery novel and true crime . 

45. Bitter Fruit: The Story of the American Coup in Guatemala by Stephen Schlesinger

In 1954, Guatemalan President Árbenz was overthrown. As with many Cold War-era coups in Asia and Latin America, the US was heavily involved in the plot. Even more absurdly, one of the main forces lobbying for this intervention was the United Fruit Company, which has been benefiting from labor exploitation in Guatemala. The result of this was the installation of an undemocratic and oppressive government, supremely heightened political unrest, and ultimately a prolonged civil war. Bitter Fruit dives into the rationales (or rather irrationalities) behind American involvement, highlighting the powerful paranoia that underlay many decisions throughout the Cold War.

Seeking more fodder for your non-fiction shelf? Why not check out the 60 best non-fiction books of the 21st century !

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