Are you looking for a list of the best books to launch your reading journey? Whether you’re just starting or have been an avid reader all of your life, having a solid collection of reads that will interest and engage you can take your love for books to the next level.
We’ve gathered together 10 great books guaranteed to offer entertainment, thought-provoking themes, and plenty of page-turning moments – perfect for any newbie reader’s library. So keep reading to discover the best books for beginners to start reading today.
Why Should Se Read Books
Reading books is not only an enriching experience, but it can also help to strengthen your brain, increase your intelligence, and improve your memory. It exposes you to new ideas and perspectives, which helps you think more critically about the world around you.
Reading books also helps to reduce stress levels and can even be a form of relaxation or meditation. Finally, reading books increases empathy as it allows readers to see different points of view and consider others’ experiences.
All these benefits make reading books one of the best things we can do for our mental health.
Best Books For Beginners To Start Reading
Below you’ll find easy-to-read books from the following genres or types of books: contemporary fiction, literary fiction, historical fiction, light or humorous fiction, mysteries and thrillers, dystopias, alternate realities, classics, and nonfiction and memoirs.
These are my favorite book recommendations for beginner adult readers who want to enjoy reading again.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, is an award-winning novel that has captured the imagination of readers all across the globe since it was first published in 1960.
The story follows Scout Finch and her brother Jem as they experience the complexities of growing up in a small town in Alabama during the 1930s. Through their eyes, we learn about prejudice, injustice, and bravery on both sides of the racial divide.
At its heart, To Kill A Mockingbird is a coming-of-age story that explores themes such as innocence, courage, and morality.
Lee’s evocative writing style brings life to characters such as Atticus Finch – whose moral integrity guides the story – Tom Robinson – who suffers from injustice – and Boo Radley – the mysterious figure who provides comfort in the face of adversity.
To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful novel widely praised for its themes, storylines, and characters. It is an essential read for anyone looking to explore the complexities of racism within American society, examine moral dilemmas, or gift themselves with an unforgettable piece of literature.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger is one of the most celebrated coming-of-age stories ever. Set in 1950s America, this novel introduces readers to the life of Holden Caulfield, a troubled teenager who has been kicked out of his prep school.
As he wanders around New York City and reflects on his past experiences, Holden attempts to make sense of his existence amidst an ever-changing world filled with hypocrisy and superficiality.
Salinger’s writing style accurately portrays teenage struggles, emotions, and anxieties as we follow Holden’s journey to adulthood. With clever humor and vivid descriptions, Salinger captures a portrait of adolescent turmoil that resonates with readers today.
His characters are lovable and incredibly relatable, and his themes of innocence, loss, and identity provide an insightful look into the coming-of-age experience.
The Catcher in the Rye is a classic novel that has resonated throughout generations, offering readers a glimpse into teenage life as seen through Holden’s eyes. It is a must-read for all young adults looking to explore their struggles or those searching for comfort within these pages.
1984 by George Orwell
1984 by George Orwell is one of the most renowned dystopian novels ever. Published in 1949, this classic work offers a bleak view of the future where totalitarianism and government surveillance are rampant. Featuring protagonist Winston Smith, readers witness an oppressive society that monitors its citizens and restricts their freedom at every step.
As Winston navigates through this harsh environment, he embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind his government’s lies and reclaim his stolen freedom.
Orwell’s writing style is incredibly powerful and thought-provoking as he expertly presents the dangers of unchecked power. Through Winston, we learn about the human spirit’s capacity to resist oppression even against all odds.
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein
The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein is a poignant and heartfelt novel that speaks to animal lovers, race car enthusiasts, and everyone alike. It tells the story of Enzo, a wise and philosophical dog who narrates his life as he experiences it from the back seat of his owner’s car.
Although he has never raced himself, Enzo follows the world of racing through television and dreams of being able to drive one day.
As life takes its toll on Enzo and his family, readers are captivated by this unique point of view from an unlikely narrator. Stein subtly touches upon friendship, loyalty, loss, courage, faith, and love without becoming too sentimental or melodramatic.
The Art of Racing in the Rain is an entertaining novel that will leave readers with a renewed appreciation for life and all its wonders. Stein’s writing style is simple yet powerful as he expertly weaves his words together to create an emotionally charged story that will bring tears and laughter alike. It is a must-read for anyone looking to reflect upon life from a unique perspective or touch their hearts with this miraculous tale.
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh is an unforgettable novel about the power of human connection and the language of flowers. This captivating story follows Victoria, a young woman who has spent most of her life in orphanages and foster homes.
When she is finally given a chance to start over on her own, she embarks on a journey to discover the meaning of family and love with help from the Victorian language of flowers.
Throughout the book, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster as they follow Victoria’s struggles to find her place in a world where she feels out of place. As she learns how to communicate through the language of flowers, Victoria finds solace in its beauty and discovers new ways to express herself and her emotions.
The Language of Flowers is an inspiring story that will touch readers’ hearts as they journey with Victoria through heartache, joy, loss, and redemption.
This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel
This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel is a heartbreaking and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of gender identity. The story follows the Walsh family, whose young son Claude wishes to be a girl. As an understanding parent, Rosie attempts to make her child’s dreams come true despite society’s constraints.
This unique family journey gives readers insight into what it means to go against societal norms and embrace empathy and acceptance for all identities.
Frankel artfully weaves themes of love, struggle, ambiguity, courage, and hope as she tells an honest yet uplifting story about growing up in today’s world. Her characters are incredibly endearing as they offer readers the chance to experience their journey from the inside.
With her vivid and honest writing style, Frankel creates a beautiful and captivating story that will linger in readers’ hearts long after they finish reading it. This Is How It Always Is will be an unforgettable novel for all ages as it explores difficult topics gracefully and sensibly.
Malgudi Days by R K Narayan
Malgudi Days by R K Narayan is a beloved collection of short stories set in the fictional town of Malgudi. Readers experience the vibrant culture and everyday life in small-town India through these tales with great detail. With its unforgettable cast of characters and vivid descriptions, Narayan’s writing style transports readers to a place filled with warmth, humor, and joy.
The stories explore themes such as friendship, family, love, and loss as they delve into the lives of ordinary people who face extraordinary situations. Each story offers an insight into how humans cope with difficulties while staying true to themselves.
From Swami’s adventures in school to Mani’s relationship with his widowed mother, no two stories are alike, but each leaves readers with a newfound appreciation for life.
The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai
The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai is a beautiful and powerful novel that follows the lives of two generations of characters in 1980s Chicago. Through this story, readers witness the devastating consequences of the AIDS epidemic on a community as they follow Yale’s journey to find his estranged daughter from 1985 to 2015.
Along the way, we meet Fiona, who navigates her struggles with loss and grief as she tries to make sense of her world.
Makkai’s writing style is both poetic and heartbreaking as she captures the fragility of life through vivid imagery and raw emotion.
This story touches upon how one family survives tragedy and presents an intimate history lesson about art, activism, love, friendship, and loss amid a devastating epidemic.
The Great Believers is an essential read that will stay with readers long after reading. It is a heartbreaking yet hopeful novel that skillfully combines history and fiction to create an unforgettable story about resilience, courage, and love in the face of overwhelming adversity.
FAQS
How do I choose my first book?
Choosing your first book can be daunting, especially if you don’t know where to start. To make Considerterests and choose a book that fits into those categories. Think to make the process easier about the genre you want to read (fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, etc.) and topics that interest you (history, science fiction, romance, etc.). Once you have narrowed your choices, read reviews or ask your friends and family for recommendations.
How can I teach myself to read books?
The best way to teach yourself to read books is to start slowly. Begin with shorter, easier books and gradually move to longer, more complex stories. As you read, take time to analyze the text, make connections between characters and events, and practice reading out loud so that you can hear how words are pronounced.
What age are you choosing books for?
The age range for books varies widely, depending on the type of book and the subject matter. While some books are written specifically for children or young adults, there are also many books that readers of all ages can enjoy. Some popular genres that span multiple age ranges include fantasy, science fiction, mystery, romance, and historical fiction.
How does the brain learn to read?
The brain learns to read through visual, auditory, and memory processes. First, the reader must learn to recognize individual letters and sounds and how they fit together. Then, they must learn to recognize words by sight and sound. Finally, the reader must build up an understanding of what each word means to comprehend the text. With practice and repetition, these skills will become second nature.
What are the benefits of reading books?
Reading books has many benefits, both physical and psychological. Physically, it can improve concentration, memory, and critical thinking. Mentally, it can reduce stress levels and improve overall mood by providing an escape from everyday life. Reading helps increase empathy by allowing readers to explore new perspectives and better understand the world. Finally, reading can also help to expand vocabulary and improve writing skills.
Conclusion
If you are looking for the best books to start reading as a beginner, this has provided a great start for well-reviewed and recommended books. There is something out there for everyone to get started on their journey of exploration into the literary world. Guided by the inspiring words of Ursula K. LeGuin, “Reading is a discount ticket to everywhere,” set forth on your intellectual voyage and discover all the realms waiting to be explored. You may discover more than you imagined; these books have provided that first step.
