The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
This beautifully illustrated edition of the New York Times bestselling classic celebrates the 42nd anniversary of the original publication—w…
The BBC Big Read Top 21
Discover the BBC's curated list of the Top 21 books as voted by readers across the UK. This collection features timeless classics and modern favorites that have captured the hearts of many.
Winnie the Pooh
Join Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood for timeless adventures filled with charm and whimsy.
Birdsong
While staying as the guest of a factory owner in pre-First World War France, Stephen Wraysford embarks on a passionate affair with Isabelle,…
Captain Corelli's Mandolin
"Set on the Greek island of Cephallonia during World War II, this is the story of a beautiful young woman and her two suitors: a gentle fish…
His Dark Materials
Join Lyra Belacqua on an extraordinary adventure through a world as vivid as Narnia, where a half-wild girl's life is forever changed by mys…
Great Expectations
A gripping coming-of-age tale of an orphan's journey through love, loss, and self-discovery in Victorian England.
Gone with the Wind
Scarlett O'Hara's life is forever changed by the Civil War in this sweeping epic of love, loss, and resilience in the American South.
The Wind in the Willows
Join Toad, Mole, Rat, and Badger on their charming adventures along the English countryside.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter faces deadly challenges in the Triwizard Tournament while Voldemort's dark forces grow stronger, making this year at Hogwarts m…
Catch-22
A satirical masterpiece that explores the absurdities of war and bureaucracy, Catch-22 is a darkly comedic novel that will leave you questio…
Wuthering Heights
A haunting tale of love and revenge, Wuthering Heights explores the intense bond between Catherine Earnshaw and the mysterious Heathcliff, s…
War and Peace
Experience the epic sweep of history and human life in Tolstoy's masterpiece, brought to life by a celebrated translation.
The Lord of the Rings
Embark on an epic journey through Middle-earth in this classic trilogy that inspired the beloved films, now featuring a special 50th anniver…
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Step through the wardrobe into Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter, where four adventurers must face the White Witch and the power of th…
Jane Eyre
Orphaned Jane Eyre grows up in harsh circumstances, eventually becoming a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with the mys…
The Catcher in the Rye
Holden Caulfield's disillusioned voice and rebellious spirit capture the angst of adolescence in this iconic American novel.
Little Women
A timeless tale of four sisters navigating love, loss, and identity during the Civil War era.
To Kill a Mockingbird
In the racially charged atmosphere of 1930s Alabama, a young girl witnesses her father's fight for justice and learns about the complexities…
Rebecca
A haunting tale of a new bride who must contend with the lingering shadow of her husband's first wife, Rebecca, and the sinister housekeeper…
Pride and Prejudice
Elizabeth Bennet's wit and independence clash with the proud Mr. Darcy in this timeless tale of love, class, and societal expectations.
The BBC Big Read Top 21 is a celebrated compilation of the most beloved books in the UK, as determined by a nationwide voting campaign conducted by the BBC in 2003. This list features a diverse array of genres and styles, showcasing literary masterpieces such as J.R.R. Tolkien's epic 'The Lord of the Rings' and Jane Austen's enduring romance 'Pride and Prejudice'. Other notable entries include Philip Pullman's 'His Dark Materials', Douglas Adams' humorous 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy', and J.K. Rowling's 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire'. The list not only highlights the preferences of readers but also serves as a reflection of cultural and literary trends over the years. Whether you're a lifelong reader or looking to explore new titles, the Top 21 offers a rich selection that spans generations, making it a perfect starting point for anyone interested in the literary landscape of the UK.