The 100 Best Novels Written in English

A curated list of the 100 greatest novels written in English, compiled by Robert McCrum. This list spans centuries and includes iconic works that have shaped literature.

Cover of In Cold Blood

In Cold Blood

4.4

A chilling true crime masterpiece that blurs the lines between fact and fiction, exploring the brutal murder of the Clutter family and the h…

Cover of To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird

4.6

In the racially charged atmosphere of 1930s Alabama, a white lawyer defends a black man accused of attacking a white girl, seen through the …

Cover of Brave New World

Brave New World

3.8

Aldous Huxley's dystopian masterpiece explores a future where technological advancement and societal conditioning prioritize stability over …

Cover of Jane Eyre

Jane Eyre

4.2

Orphaned Jane Eyre grows up in the harsh environment of Lowood School, where she endures abuse and hardship. Her life takes a dramatic turn …

Cover of Catch-22

Catch-22

4.3

A darkly comedic and satirical tale of a WWII airman navigating the absurdities and horrors of war.

Cover of Dracula

Dracula

4.1

A chilling tale of vampiric horror that reflects the anxieties of late 19th-century society, with London as the true heart of darkness.

Cover of The Big Sleep

The Big Sleep

4.1

Dive into the gritty world of Philip Marlowe in Raymond Chandler's classic crime novel, where secrets and double-crosses abound in the sun-s…

Cover of On the Road

On the Road

4.2

Join Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty on a wild, cross-country journey that captures the spirit of the Beat Generation and redefined American …

Cover of Heart of Darkness

Heart of Darkness

4.2

Embark on a haunting journey into the Congo River's depths, where the enigmatic Mr. Kurtz holds sway over the untamed wilderness and the hum…

Cover of Emma

Emma

4.1

Meet Emma Woodhouse, a wealthy, beautiful, and somewhat spoiled young woman who meddles in the romantic lives of those around her, only to f…

Cover of The Bell Jar

The Bell Jar

4.4

A hauntingly vivid portrayal of a young woman's descent into mental illness, blending raw emotion with sharp wit.

Cover of Breathing Lessons

Breathing Lessons

3.7

Join Maggie Moran on a journey of self-discovery and love as she navigates the lives of old friends and family, testing her eternal optimism…

The 100 Best Novels Written in English is a comprehensive list compiled by Robert McCrum, featuring the most influential and celebrated novels in the English language. After two years of careful consideration, McCrum selected these works based on their literary merit, cultural impact, and enduring relevance. The list includes classics from various genres and time periods, from John Bunyan's 'The Pilgrim’s Progress' to Peter Carey's 'True History of the Kelly Gang'. Each novel on this list has made a significant contribution to literature, offering unique insights into the human condition and the societies in which they were written. This collection is a must-read for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of English literature and its evolution over the centuries.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/the-100-best-novels-written-in-english-the-full-list