30 Books You Should Read at Least Once in Your Lifetime

There's nothing quite as satisfying as settling down with an exhilarating new read on a rare day off. But while we're always on the hunt for brand new books to binge-read, there are certain literary staples that every bibliophile should read at least *once* in their lifetime — plus, it doesn't hurt that you can sometimes score these classic novels on Amazon for a mere penny. So before you pick up the latest summer rom-com at the grocery store, here are 30 adult books you should consider adding to your reading list first.

<em>To Kill a Mockingbird</em>

An instant bestseller and critical success, this is the thought-provoking tale of eight-year-old Scout Finch, her brother, Jem, and their father, Atticus. Combining both the innocence of a coming-of-age novel with serious social justice motifs (one of the main conflicts is regarding a black man accused of raping a white woman), this epic novel is a short read that you’ll definitely wish you picked up sooner.

<em>Brave New World</em>

Written in the shadow of fascism during the 1930s, this dystopian world is one of the most famous in all of literature. In Huxley’s universe, humans are genetically bred and pumped with pharmaceuticals to null them enough to obey the authoritarian order. It’s thought-provoking and a *tad* scary, but it’s surely a great read to have under your literary belt.

<em>The Great Gatsby</em>

Almost always cited as one of the best American novels ever written, Fitzgerald’s fabulous Jazz Age tale had to be included on our list. Full of lavish Long Island parties and OTT decadence, Jay Gatsby’s fascinating and extravagant life is always a great one to (re)discover.

<em>Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone</em>

The Harry Potter saga is iconic of a generation. Dive into the magical world by rereading the story of how a young orphan of a mere age of 11 learns he is a wizard and sets off on a magical adventure full of friendship, danger, and love. Fair warning: This is a gateway book that’ll probably lead to at *least* six more book splurges.

<em>The Sun Also Rises</em>

This classic novel takes readers from the wild nightlife of 1920s Paris to the bullfighting rings of Spain with Jake Barnes and Lady Brett Ashley as your larger-than-life guides. Featuring many of the iconic trials of the time, it’s a beautifully written story that’s not to be missed.

<em>Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close</em>

After his father died in the World Trade Center on the morning of September 11, nine-year-old Oskar Schell embarks on a secret mission to find the lock that matches a mysterious key that belonged to his dearly departed father.

<em>The Underground Railroad</em>

Chronicling a young slave’s adventures as she fights for freedom, this epic tale boasts a ton of prestigious awards. Not only is it a harrowing in-depth look at a shameful common history, but it’s also a passionate tale about one young woman’s fierce determination to survive despite every obstacle.