Discover literary treasures, from timeless classics to contemporary gems, exploring diverse genres that captivate and resonate, making them the best reads of all time. Note: Books are not ranked in order.
1. Where The Crowdads sing. ( Delia Owens)
Genre: Historical fiction, romance, mystery
Length: 384 pages
First published: August 14, 2018
Opinion: ”Where the Crawdads Sing” is a must-read book that will enrich your mind and life, because it’s a shockingly engaging novel that had me excited from the first page. Delia Owens’ masterful storytelling made me survive all the events alongside Kya, the resilient protagonist. The vivid descriptions of the marsh, coupled with Read More
Plot: In “Where the Crawdads Sing,” the isolated marshes of North Carolina set the stage for the coming-of-age story of Kya Clark, abandoned by her family. As Kya grows up alone, she becomes intertwined with the natural world. When a local man is found dead, the small town suspects her. The novel alternates between Kya’s past and the murder investigation, revealing secrets that echo through the years and illuminate the resilience of the human spirit. As Kya navigates love, loss, and prejudice, the story unfolds into a courtroom drama. The poetic prose and atmospheric setting create a haunting tale that culminates in a surprising and emotional resolution.
2. Dieu voyage toujours incognito (God Always Travels Incognito). (Laurent Gounelle)
Genre: Fiction, psychology, self help
Length: 425 pages
First published: January 1, 2010
Opinion: Reading “God Always Travels Incognito” was an unpredictable journey that left me captivated from start to finish. Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt’s poignant exploration of faith and destiny kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to uncoverRead More
Plot:
“God Always Travels Incognito” follows the unexpected encounter between Éric, a successful Parisian lawyer, and a mysterious stranger named Dieu (“God” in French) who claims to be his long-lost friend from university. Despite initial skepticism, Éric embarks on a profound journey as Dieu challenges his beliefs, pushing him to confront his deepest fears and desires. Through their conversations and adventures across Europe, Éric grapples with questions of faith, love, and the true meaning of existence. As their bond deepens, secrets are unveiled, leading to a revelation that alters Éric’s perception of the world and his place within it.
3. Desert Flower.( Waris Dirie, Cathleen Miller)
Genre: Nonfiction, biography
Length: 256 pages
First published: August 19, 1998
Opinion: “Desert Flower” was a deeply moving experience that left me spellbound and making it extremely hard to comprehend that such things are still happening in our own world. Waris Dirie’s courageous journey from a nomadic and oppressive life in Somalia to an international Read More
Plot: “Desert Flower” recounts Waris Dirie’s remarkable journey from a nomadic existence in the Somali desert to becoming an iconic supermodel and a global advocate against female genital mutilation (FGM). Dirie’s narrative exposes the harsh realities of her upbringing, including the brutal practice of FGM she endured as a child. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, Dirie’s resilience and determination shine through as she navigates the fashion industry’s glitz and glamour. Her story is not only a testament to the power of human endurance but also a poignant call to action against the injustices inflicted upon women and girls worldwide.
4. Ashes In The Snow. (Ruta Sepetys)
Genre: Historical fiction, romance, war
Length: 384 pages
First published: March 22, 2011
Opinion: “Ashes in the Snow” by Ruta Sepetys was a profoundly emotional experience that left me breathless. The harrowing journey of Lina, a teenage girl deported to a Siberian labor camp during World War II, gripped me from the first page. Sepetys’ vivid storytelling and richly drawn characters transported me to a world of unimaginable suffering and resilience.Read More
Plot: “Ashes in the Snow” by Ruta Sepetys follows the gripping tale of Lina, a young Lithuanian artist, as she is deported to Siberia with her mother and brother by the Soviet secret police during World War II. Separated from her father, Lina struggles to survive in the harsh conditions of the labor camps while holding onto her hope and humanity through her art. Amidst the brutality of the Soviet regime, Lina forms unexpected bonds with her fellow prisoners, finding moments of love, courage, and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. The novel is a poignant exploration of the human spirit’s capacity for survival and the enduring power of art to illuminate even the darkest of times.
5. The Five Love Languages.(Gary Chapman)
Genre: Nonfiction, self help, relationships
Length: 232 pages
First published: January 1, 1990
Opinion: Reading “The 5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman was an enlightening journey that profoundly impacted my understanding of relationships. Chapman’s insightful exploration of love languages made me reassess my own connections, both romantic and platonic. Each page provided valuable insights into how to effectively communicate love and strengthen bonds with others. I felt empowered with newfound knowledge and eager to implement Chapman’s practical advice into my daily interactions, enhancing my relationships in meaningful ways.Read More
Plot:
In “The Five Book Languages” by Gary Chapman, the narrative revolves around five individuals from diverse backgrounds who discover a mysterious library. Each person finds a book that resonates deeply with them, written in a language tailored to their unique emotional needs. As they delve into their respective books, they embark on transformative journeys of self-discovery and understanding. Through their shared experiences and the guidance of a wise librarian, they learn to communicate more effectively with others, forging stronger connections and deeper relationships. Chapman’s poignant tale highlights the power of empathy, communication, and love in bridging emotional divides.
6. The Light Between Oceans (M.L. Stedman)
Genre: Historical fiction, romance
Length: 362 pages
First published: March 20, 2012
Opinion: Reading “The Light Between Oceans” by M.L. Stedman was an emotional rollercoaster that left me in awe of its intricate storytelling and compelling characters. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the consequences of one’s choices, drawing readers into the moral dilemmas faced by the protagonists. Stedman’s vivid descriptions of the Australian landscape and the ocean setting create a vivid backdrop for the story, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates beautifully crafted narratives with deep emotional resonance.Read More
Plot:
“The Light Between Oceans” by M.L. Stedman follows the story of Tom Sherbourne, a World War I veteran who takes a job as a lighthouse keeper on Janus Rock, a remote island off the coast of Australia. Tom lives a solitary life until he meets Isabel, a young woman from the mainland. They marry and try to start a family, but Isabel suffers two miscarriages and a stillbirth. One day, a boat washes up on the island carrying a dead man and a crying baby. Isabel convinces Tom to keep the baby and raise her as their own, but their decision has far-reaching consequences that will test their love and morality.
7. The Great Gatsby (F. Scott Fitzgerald)
Genre: Historical fiction, classics, romance
Length: 180 pages
First published: April 10, 1925
Opinion: Reading “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald was an unforgettable journey into the glamorous and tragic world of the Jazz Age. The book’s portrayal of love, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream was both captivating and thought-provoking. Fitzgerald’s prose was beautifully crafted, immersing me in the opulence and decadence of 1920s New York. The characters, especially the enigmatic Gatsby, were vividly drawn and left a lasting impression. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature, the vibe of America’s 1920s, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.Read More
Plot:
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald follows the story of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and wealthy man who throws lavish parties at his mansion in Long Island, New York. The narrator, Nick Carraway, moves to the area and becomes Gatsby’s neighbor, eventually discovering the truth behind Gatsby’s wealth and his past. Gatsby is in love with Daisy Buchanan, who is married to Tom Buchanan. The novel explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream, as Gatsby tries to win back Daisy’s affections, ultimately leading to tragic consequences.
8. A Thousand Splendid Suns (Khaled Hosseini)
Genre: Historical fiction, classics, drama
Length: 372 pages
First published: May 1, 2007
Opinion:
“A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini was an emotional rollercoaster that left me profoundly moved. The raw portrayal of Mariam and Laila’s lives in war-torn Afghanistan stirred deep empathy within me, often bringing tears to my eyes. Hosseini’s exquisite prose beautifully captured the resilience and strength of the human spirit amidst unimaginable adversity. This powerful narrative of love, sacrifice, and redemption resonated with me long after I turned the final page, solidifying its place as one of the best books I’ve ever read.Read More
Plot:
“A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini intertwines the lives of Mariam and Laila, two Afghan women from different generations whose paths converge in Kabul. Forced into marriage to the same abusive man, their initial animosity evolves into a deep bond as they endure oppression under the Taliban regime. Amidst the backdrop of war and political upheaval, Mariam and Laila navigate friendship, motherhood, and survival, finding solace and strength in each other’s company. Their resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship and their unwavering hope for a better future make for a poignant and unforgettable tale of love and sacrifice.
9. The Kite Runner ( Khaled Hosseini)
Genre: Historical fiction, novel
Length: 371 pages
First published: May 29, 2003
Opinion:
Reading “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini was a profoundly emotional experience that left me in awe. The raw portrayal of friendship, betrayal, and redemption stirred a whirlwind of emotions within me. Hosseini’s masterful storytelling and rich character development made it impossible to put down. As I delved into the intricate layers of Amir and Hassan’s relationship,Read More
Plot:
“The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini follows Amir, an Afghan boy, and his loyal servant and friend, Hassan, whose lives are shaped by an incredible tale of friendship, betrayal, and redemption. After a tragedy fueled by hatred and guilt, they are torn apart. Years later, Amir, now living in the USA, returns to Afghanistan and confronts his past, with a chance to regain lost honor and make amends for his mistakes. Hosseini’s masterfully told story explores themes of friendship, guilt, and forgiveness, weaving a beautiful and emotional narrative about love and loyalty.
10. Verity ( Colleen Hoover )
Genre: Romance, Thriller
Length: 336 pages
First published: October 5, 2021
Plot: “Verity” by Colleen Hoover follows struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh, who is hired to complete the bestselling series of injured author Verity Crawford. Moving into Verity’s home, Lowen discovers a hidden, unfinished autobiography that reveals horrifying secrets about Verity’s life, including her twisted thoughts and dark actions. As Lowen delves deeper into the manuscript, she becomes increasingly unsettled, questioning the safety of Verity’s husband, Jeremy, and their surviving child. The plot weaves psychological tension with shocking twists, leading to a chilling climax that leaves both Lowen and the readers grappling with the blurred lines between truth and deception.