Best Books to Read For Beginners

Introduction 

Reading is a gateway to knowledge, imagination, and personal growth. For beginners, diving into the world of books can be both exciting and overwhelming. With countless options available, it’s essential to have a guide to the best books to start reading for beginners. In this comprehensive article, we will explore 20 engaging genres in English literature, providing interesting books to read for beginners. Whether you’re seeking fiction, non-fiction, or something in between, these books will captivate your imagination, broaden your horizons, and ignite your passion for reading.

1. Mystery/Thriller

“The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown: This gripping thriller is one of the best books to read for beginners. It combines art, history, and secret societies as a symbologist race against time to solve a centuries-old mystery.

2. Fantasy

“The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien: It is one of the best fantasy books to read for beginners. Embark on an epic adventure with Bilbo Baggins as he joins a band of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from a fearsome dragon.

3. Science Fiction

“Dune” by Frank Herbert: This is one of the best books to read for beginners who are interested in this genre. Set in a distant future, this sci-fi masterpiece explores political intrigue, religion, and ecology in a desert planet filled with power struggles.

4. Historical Fiction

“The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett: Immerse yourself in medieval England as a master builder and his family navigate the challenges of constructing a magnificent cathedral.

5. Biography/Memoir

“Educated” by Tara Westover: If you are someone interested in reading mmoirsDiscover the powerful true story of a woman who overcomes a challenging upbringing in a strict, isolated family to pursue education and independence.

6. Classic Literature

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: Set in the 1930s, this American classic addresses themes of racial injustice, empathy, and the loss of innocence through the eyes of young Scout Finch. If you are someone who likes to travel to an imaginative phase through reading, this is one of the best books to read for beginners.

7. Self-Help/Personal Development

“The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle: Dive into this transformative book that explores the concept of living in the present moment and finding inner peace. It is an interesting book to read for beginners.

8. Young Adult

“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: Follow Katniss Everdeen’s journey as she becomes a symbol of hope in a dystopian society, fighting for survival in a deadly televised competition.

9. Romance

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen: If you are someone who loves to read books inthe romance genre, you should delve into a classic love story as Elizabeth Bennet navigates societal expectations, misunderstandings, and her evolving feelings for Mr Darcy.

10. Contemporary Fiction

“The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini: Explore friendship, guilt, and redemption in this emotionally charged tale set against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan. It is a famous book and also one of the best fiction books to read for beginners.

11. Historical Non-Fiction

“The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank: Read the poignant diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl in hiding during World War II, providing an intimate glimpse into a dark chapter of history.

12. Science and Nature

“Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari: Uncover the fascinating journey of human evolution, exploring the impact of biology, culture, and technology on our species. It is an interesting book which presents important facts relating to human evolution which makes it one of the best books to read for beginners. 

13. Travel Writing

“Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert: Embark on a soul-searching journey as the author travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia, seeking self-discovery, spirituality, and love. This book will help you experience the journey.

14. Poetry

“Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur: Experience the raw emotions and empowering verses of this poetry collection that explores themes of love, heartbreak, and healing. This is the best poetry book to read for beginners.

15. Historical Romance

“Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon Transport yourself to 18th-century Scotland with this blend of historical fiction and romance, following Claire Randall’s time-travelling adventures.

16. Crime Fiction

“Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn: Dive into a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing as a husband becomes the prime suspect in his wife’s mysterious disappearance. It is a favourite genre among young readers. If you are someone who is interested, this is one of the best books for beginners to read.

17. Young Adult Fantasy

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling: Begin the magical journey of Harry Potter as he discovers his true identity and enrols at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It is a must read and also one of the best books to read for beginners.

18. Social Issues

“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas: Explore themes of racism, identity, and activism through the eyes of Starr Carter, a young Black girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed friend by a police officer.

19. Satire/Humor

“Catch-22” by Joseph Heller: Engage in this satirical novel set during World War II, which exposes the absurdity of bureaucracy and war through a series of humorous and tragic events. It is one of the best books to start reading for beginners.

20. Graphic Novels

“Maus” by Art Spiegelman: Delve into this Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel that tells the poignant story of a Holocaust survivor and his strained relationship with his father. It is one of the best novels to read for beginners.

Conclusion

As a beginner, embarking on a reading journey can feel overwhelming, but with this comprehensive guide, you now have a rich collection of 20 genres to explore. These books, ranging from mystery/thriller to graphic novels, offer something for every taste and interest. Each selection promises captivating narratives, diverse perspectives, and thought-provoking themes that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Remember, reading is a personal and subjective experience, so feel free to explore beyond this list and discover your own literary treasures. Enjoy the magic of books, embrace the power of storytelling, and let your reading journey take you on countless adventures. Happy reading!

Check Out Most Inspirational Books to Motivate Yourself.

 

Frequently Asked Questions