We all have our favourite books, the ones we return to time and time again but how did you discover those you favour most. Was it a friend’s recommendation, a gift, or perhaps you are making your way through the ones that come most recommended. You could do worse than browsing Goodreads – a website catered to listing and reviewing pretty much single every book out there. So which ones do they recommend most? Here are Goodreads top 10 best books ever as voted for by readers.
10. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars tells the story of a 16-year-old girl who is diagnosed with terminal cancer. She meets a cancer survivor at her support group and the two fall in love, forced to grapple with the challenges of their illnesses while naviagting a romatic relationship. The book’s main themes include love, loss and the power of human connection.
9. The Chronicles of Narnia (The Chronicles of Narnia, #1-7) by C.S. Lewis
Goodreads readers have voted for the entire Narnia Chronicles at number nine. This series explores the fantasy land of Narnia where mystical animals and creatures live. The stories are told through the eyes of children who have been magically transported into the world of Narnia. The books detail themes of good versus evil and sacrifice.
8. The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
This covers the three books of Tolkien’s iconic trilogy that was famously adapted for film alongside the Hobbit, which was the precursor to the series. The books follow The One Ring, a powerful artifact forged by the Dark Lord Sauron, and so it becomes hobbit Frodo Baggins’ mission to destroy it. This journey, with the help of the Fellowship, is what the novels follow and is crucial in attempting to defeat Sauron and saving Middle-earth.
7. Animal Farm by George Orwell
George Orwell’s iconic novel Animal Farm follows a group of farm animals as they revolt against their human owner, Farmer Jones. The book’s main theme of power mirrors society. Initially, the animals achieve equality and therefore success, but quickly, the pigs abuse their power and exploit their fellow animals.
6. Twilight (The Twilight Saga, #1) by Stephenie Meyer
The first book of the infamous Twilight series, Stephenie Meyer divided audiences with this one.
Indeed, the inaugural book in the series was rated as the worst by Goodreads users. This book introduces readers to Bella Swan and Edward Cullen and is largely focused on the world of vampires and wolves. Essentially, it’s a coming-of-age tale with a sprinkle of supernatural elements.
5. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
This historical fiction story is set in Nazi Germany in the Second World War. It tells the story of a girl growing up during this time. The girl finds comfort in words and so she steals books and learns to read alongside this, her family is protecting a Jew. The book’s themes include death, love and literature.
4. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Harper Lee’s poignant story follows a young girl and her brother as they deal with the prejudice of their small town. When their father must defend a Black man who is falsely accused of rape, the children must face the harsh realities of racism. The story’s themes include morality and innocence through a young lens.
3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s most famous book, Pride and Prejudice, follows the Bennet family, particularly Elizabeth, as they navigate the societal pressures of finding husbands in the English countryside in the 19th century. It centres on Elizabeth’s relationship with the wealthy and seemingly arrogant Mr. Darcy. It also explores other romantic interests and the complexities of class, social standing and marriage.
2. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Harry Potter, #5) by J.K. Rowling
The fifth book in J.K. Rowling’s series tells the story of Harry Potter, a young boy who lost his parents when he was a baby and discovers he is a wizard. Now in his fifth year at Hogwarts, Harry learns that many in the wizarding community do not know the truth of his past encounters with Lord Voldemort. The series explores themes of the importance of family and love.
1. The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games, #1) by Suzanne Collins
Suzanne Collin’s Hunger Games trilogy explores the post-apocalyptic nation of Panem and 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives in District 12. She volunteers to take the place of her younger sister is the annual Hunger Games, which is a televised battle to the death involving two people from each of the 12 districts. The book’s themes include poverty, suppression and the effects of war.
