The most popular books of all time
Imagine a world without books—a world where stories, knowledge, and ideas are not passed down through generations in the form of the written word. It’s a daunting thought, as books have been an essential part of human civilisation for thousands of years.
Where would we be without them? Over time, certain stories have captured our imagination more than others. As we launch our new Howden book exchange, we decided to leaf through some of the most-read works of fiction!
1. Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
Published in two parts in 1605 and 1615, Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes is widely regarded as the first modern novel. This tale of an aging nobleman who becomes obsessed with chivalric ideals and sets off on absurd adventures with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, has been translated into numerous languages and remains a cornerstone of Western literature. Its influence can be seen in countless works that followed, and its characters have become cultural icons.
2. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities, first published in 1859, is one of the most famous and widely read novels in history. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the novel explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the clash between aristocracy and the oppressed. The opening line, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” is among the most famous in literature, and the book’s dramatic conclusion continues to resonate with readers.
3. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkein
J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy trilogy, The Lord of the Rings has become a literary phenomenon since its publication in the 1950s. Set in the richly imagined world of Middle-Earth, the story follows the quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the dark lord Sauron. The trilogy’s blend of mythology, adventure, and deep philosophical themes has captivated readers for generations, making it one of the best-selling books of all time. Its influence on the fantasy genre is unparalleled.
4. Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Few book series have had as profound an impact on popular culture as J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter. The seven-book series, beginning with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone follows the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he confronts the dark wizard Voldemort. The series has sold over 500 million copies worldwide, been translated into more than 80 languages, and spawned an entire media franchise, including movies, theme parks, and merchandise. The books have inspired a generation of readers and remain a beloved touchstone in children’s and young adult literature.
5. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince (1943) is one of the most translated and best-selling books in the world. This novella, ostensibly a children’s story, explores deep themes of love, loss, and human nature through the eyes of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting strange and wonderful characters. Its simple yet profound narrative has resonated with readers of all ages, making it a timeless classic in world literature.
6. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Since its publication in 1951, The Catcher in the Rye has become a defining novel of teenage angst and alienation. Salinger’s story of Holden Caulfield, a disenchanted teenager who rebels against the phoniness of the adult world, struck a chord with readers and quickly became a classic of modern American literature. Its impact on popular culture and its role as a touchstone for the youth rebellion of the 1950s and 1960s cannot be overstated.
7. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, first published in 1813, remains one of the most beloved and widely read novels in the English language. The story of Elizabeth Bennet and her tumultuous relationship with the proud Mr. Darcy has been adapted into numerous films, television series, and other media. Austen’s sharp wit, memorable characters, and exploration of social mores have ensured that Pride and Prejudice continues to be a favourite among readers two centuries after its publication.
8. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
A modern classic, The Alchemist has touched the hearts of millions since its publication in 1988. The novel follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on his journey to discover his personal legend and find a hidden treasure. Written in a simple, allegorical style, “The Alchemist” is a philosophical novel about following one’s dreams and listening to one’s heart. It has been translated into dozens of languages and is one of the best-selling books of all time.
9. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, published in 1960, is a powerful exploration of racism and injustice in the American South. Through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl, readers witness the trial of a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, defended by Scout’s father, the principled lawyer Atticus Finch. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize and has become a staple in American literature, continuing to be taught in schools and read by millions worldwide.
10. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
First published in 1967, Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, is a landmark of world literature and one of the most beloved novels of the 20th century. This epic tale chronicles the multi-generational story of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo, blending the real and the magical in a narrative style that came to be known as magical realism. The novel’s exploration of themes such as fate, love, and the cyclical nature of history has resonated with readers across the globe. One Hundred Years of Solitude has been translated into dozens of languages and continues to be a cornerstone of Latin American literature.
Feeling inspired? Pick up your free book!
We ended our list with ‘solitude’ but reading doesn’t have to be a lonely activity! In fact, we’re making reading more social, with our new Howden Book Exchange in branches. Simply come in and donate, swap or collect a book from our bookshelves, and share your favourite reads with your community.
And, to celebrate the launch we’re giving away books in branch. Don’t miss out on your copy – head into branch and pick up your free book! Plus, see what exciting reading socials we’re hosting, from children’s storytimes to coffee mornings…
