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 Pride and Prejudice

Pride and Prejudice

4.3

In the witty and timeless tale of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, Austen explores themes of love, class, and societal expectations in early …

Cover of Meditations

Meditations

4.2

Timeless wisdom from a Roman emperor, offering profound insights into leading a meaningful life and mastering one's thoughts.

Cover of The Midnight Library

The Midnight Library

3.8

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

Cover of The Secret History

The Secret History

4.2

A 'haunting, compelling, and brilliant'(The Times) novel about a group of students who, under the influence of their professor find their li…

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 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…

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/