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 Robinson Crusoe

Robinson Crusoe

4.0

Join Robinson Crusoe on his thrilling journey from a young man's dream of adventure to a solitary life on a deserted island. This ESL/EFL ve…

Cover of Tom Jones

Tom Jones

4.0

A raucous and scandalous 18th-century tale of love, lust, and adventure, featuring the irrepressible Tom Jones and a cast of unforgettable c…

Cover of Vanity Fair

Vanity Fair

4.7

A biting social satire that follows the lives of two women in 19th-century England, exposing the hypocrisy and moral failings of society.

Cover of David Copperfield

David Copperfield

4.4

Follow the life of David Copperfield as he navigates the trials and tribulations of growing up in 19th-century England, filled with unforget…

Cover of Moby-Dick

Moby-Dick

4.5

Embark on a thrilling voyage with Ishmael and the enigmatic Queequeg as they join the infamous Captain Ahab's whaling ship, the Pequod, in a…

Cover of Middlemarch

Middlemarch

4.5

George Eliot's masterpiece paints a vivid portrait of life in a 19th-century provincial town, exploring the intricate lives of its diverse i…

Cover of Sister Carrie

Sister Carrie

3.9

Follow the journey of a young woman chasing her American Dream in the bustling city of Chicago, navigating love, ambition, and societal expe…

Cover of Kim

Kim

4.2

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the vibrant landscapes of India with Kim, a young orphan navigating the complexities of colonialism …

Cover of Zuleika Dobson

Zuleika Dobson

2.5

In the whimsical world of Oxford, a captivating beauty named Zuleika Dobson turns the university upside down with her charm and wit, leading…

Cover of The Thirty-Nine Steps

The Thirty-Nine Steps

3.8

A thrilling adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this classic novel is now accessible to all readers with its large print edit…

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