22 Books To Read Before You Die

Discover a curated list of 22 must-read books that span genres and eras, each offering profound insights and unforgettable narratives. This collection includes classics, contemporary works, and powerful memoirs that are essential for any avid reader.

Cover of The Bluest Eye

The Bluest Eye

4.4

Read the searing first novel from the celebrated author of Beloved, which immerses us in the tragic, torn lives of a poor black family in po…

Cover of There There

There There

4.4

Discover Tommy Orange’s searing debut novel, following a multi-generational cast of characters as they gather for the Big Oakland Powwow. 'A…

Cover of The Midnight Library

The Midnight Library

3.9

Discover a heartwarming and thought-provoking journey through the what-ifs of life in Matt Haig's enchanting novel, The Midnight Library.

Cover of Unaccustomed Earth

Unaccustomed Earth

4.2

The stories of Unaccustomed Earth focus on second-generation immigrants making and remaking lives, loves and identities in England and Ameri…

Cover of The Secret History

The Secret History

3.9

A group of elite college students, under the influence of their enigmatic professor, uncover a dark truth that changes their lives forever.

Cover of Tenth of December

Tenth of December

4.2

A collection of darkly humorous and surreal stories that explore the human condition in a failing America, blending past, present, and futur…

Cover of Meditations

Meditations

4.2

Discover timeless wisdom from Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor, in this profound collection of personal reflections and spiritual exercise…

Cover of Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice

4.3

Witty and timeless, 'Pride and Prejudice' explores love, class, and societal expectations through the spirited Elizabeth Bennet and the enig…

The '22 Books To Read Before You Die' list is a carefully curated selection of literary masterpieces that every book lover should experience at least once in their lifetime. This diverse collection features a mix of timeless classics, contemporary novels, and impactful memoirs, each chosen for its ability to resonate deeply with readers and provoke thought. From Jane Austen's witty exploration of love and society in 'Pride and Prejudice' to the haunting and poignant narratives found in Toni Morrison's 'The Bluest Eye', these books offer a rich tapestry of human experience. Readers will also find modern gems like Matt Haig's 'The Midnight Library', which delves into the choices that shape our lives, and Khaled Hosseini's 'The Kite Runner', a powerful tale of friendship and redemption set against the backdrop of Afghanistan's tumultuous history. This list not only serves as a guide for your reading journey but also as an invitation to explore the profound themes of love, loss, identity, and resilience that these works encapsulate.

Source: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/the-read-down/books-to-read-before-you-die/