I LOVE to read. Books can transport me to another place and time and just allow me to forget about any chaos life has brought my way. I love the art of storytelling and if it’s done well, it can allow the reader to fall in love with characters, learn about foreign places or even teach rich world history in a unique and fun way.
Perhaps old fashioned, I still love to read a real physical book that I can smell, touch and have rest upon my nightstand. Cozying up in a chair in my comfies with a good book is the best…throw in a rainy day and a fire in the fireplace…well, now I’m in heaven!
Over the years, I’ve read countless novels across genres, but today I’m sharing what I consider the best books I’ve ever read — my favorite books of all time. My bookshelves are filled with these tried-and-true favorites, and I’m constantly sharing my book recommendations with friends, lending them out like a little “fun-size” library. Who doesn’t love a great book recommendation, especially from someone you know and trust? Life is busy, so when we do carve out time to read, we want it to be worthy of those precious spare moments.
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I have a long list of books I’ve truly enjoyed, so narrowing it down to just twelve must-read books was no easy task. (Full disclosure: I originally set out to pick my top ten, but just couldn’t do it!) These are stories that, if they aren’t already considered classics, are well on their way to the distinction.
Interestingly, many lean toward historical fiction. I’m listing my top two picks first and then the remaining favorites in no particular order. I do, however, reserve the right to update this list as I continue tackling my ever-growing “to be read” pile.
Here Are the Top 12 Best Books I’ve Ever Read:
Okay, here goes:
- Gone With the Wind – Margaret Mitchell
I read this book many years ago while backpacking through Europe with a girlfriend the summer after college. Being over 1,000 pages I was able to fall in love with this beautifully written novel throughout our travels and it has remained my favorite book of all time.
Set in the south during the Civil War, Scarlet O’Hara is selfish and vain and courageous and strong…and her life and romance with Rhett Butler captivating. It’s hard for me to imagine someone reading this book and not being totally swept away in this epic story of love and war.
2. East of Eden – John Steinbeck
I can’t believe it took me so long to read this incredible book. It was always on the “to read” list and I’m so grateful I finally did. Steinbeck is a master storyteller making this multi-generational story truly come to life. A Northern California native myself, I especially enjoyed his rich imagery of California’s Salinas Valley having grown up with those colors and smells.
Based on the lives of the Hamiltons and the Trasks, Steinbeck draws on the biblical story of Cain and Abel. But it was so much more than just good vs evil. It was about human nature and our imperfections, relationships and life’s choices. A tad longer than average at 600 pages, yet I hated to turn the final page. Amazing.
And now in no particular order ‘cuz I just couldn’t decide…
3. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn – Betty Smith
When I read this book, my husband’s then 85-year old grandmother, Ida, shared with me that she had read the book 50 years prior and it was still one of her favorite books. It speaks to the timelessness of this wonderfully simple yet heart-warming book.
It’s about a family living in poverty in the early 20th century in Brooklyn; a coming of age story of Francie the daughter of a hard-working mom and dreamer father struggling to survive. Betty Smith was ahead of her time touching on such sensitive topics as alcoholism and politics while creating lovable flawed characters. A lovely story you’ll want to revisit again.
4. Little Women – Louisa May Alcott
I attempted to read this book in the 4th grade having received it as a Christmas present. I just couldn’t get through it and looking back I think it was just a little too early for me to attempt. Having had it line my bookshelf unread for an embarrassing number of years, I thought I’d give it another go. Well, what a gift I’d unknowingly received all those years ago!
It’s the story of the four March sisters: Jo, Meg, Amy & Beth home with their mom while their father serves in the Civil War. Louisa May Alcott writes a classic tale about love, character, hard work and the unbreakable bond of family. Just loved it (AND loved the 2019 film version, too!).
5. Outlander – Diana Gabaldon
I have to say, I was reluctant to read this book when recommended by my Book Club. A happily married nurse on a second honeymoon in the Scottish Highlands with her hubbie Frank in 1945 is teleported to 1743 where she meets and falls in love with sexy highlander, Jaime? Hmmm…
But with Diana Gabaldon’s complex plot and rich characters, it didn’t take long for me to be teleported to 18th century Scotland during the Jacobite movement and be completely enthralled by this story. A woman in love with two men two hundred years apart? You have to at least give it a try. Go Team Jaime!
6. The Nightingale – Kristin Hannah
The first book I read by Kristin Hannah was Firefly Lane which I thoroughly enjoyed (and highly recommend). But I honestly wasn’t prepared for the powerful journey Ms. Hannah took me on in The Nightingale.
It is the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, in German occupied France during World War II as they embark on two very different paths of survival. I found myself completely immersed in the characters—their strength and resiliency amongst atrocities was painful and heartbreaking yet inspiring. This book was a reminder that there were not just heroes fighting on the front lines, but also those back at home. An incredible book that keeps you thinking long after you turn the last page.
7. Redeeming Love – Francine Rivers
I’d never read a book written by Francine Rivers until Redeeming Love was chosen by my Christian Book Club…and I completely fell in love with her storytelling. Set in the 1850’s California Gold Rush, the book’s author draws you into this beautiful love story of Angel who was sold into prostitution as a child and Michael, a kind, hard-working and faith-filled farmer.
The book is sweet and heartbreaking, telling a powerful story of redemption, healing and grace. While interwoven with Christian principles, it will be enjoyed by Christians and non-Christian alike. An easy read you won’t want to put down. (For me, the 2022 movie version didn’t do this book justice.)
8. Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen
I was late to the party for this literary gem, but oh so glad I finally made it. Written in 1813, it’s the story of the Bennet family and their five daughters’ 19th century courtships, most central being the turbulent relationship between Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy.
With humor, wit and clever dialogue, Jane Austen artfully introduces memorable characters as they navigate love and marriage and how first impressions can sometimes be (and often are) wrong. It also gives a great appreciation for the freedom of choice women of today enjoy. This book is a treat.
9. Harry Potter Series (I mean, how can you pick just one?!) – J.K. Rowling
Honestly, I had zero interest in reading a Harry Potter book as the fantasy genre is typically not my jam. It was my kids’ interest in the series that inspired me to give it a try. J.K. Rowling’s writing is just brilliant and I found myself quickly immersed in the enchanting world of wizards.
Twists and turns with delightful characters and good vs. evil abound, I enjoyed the entire series tremendously. 7 books with 600 million copies sold, translated into 85 languages. Do I really need to say more? (Mic drop)
10. The Pillars of the Earth – Ken Follett
While an attempt at a nearly 1,000 page book seemed daunting, Ken Follett’s epic tale of the monk Philip’s vision to build a new gothic cathedral in 12th century England drew me right in. Rather unfamiliar with life in the middle ages, I found the thoroughly researched and detailed history of the time fascinating.
Using an extensive cast of characters like Tom, Jack, Aliena & William, he was able to weave a convincing story of ambition, perseverance, betrayal, revenge, loss and love. While certainly not a short read, it was absolutely a compelling one I highly recommend.
And now an unlikely addition, but my childhood favorite:
11. The Phantom Tollbooth – Norton Juster
Perhaps an odd choice, but my 3rd grade teacher read this book to our class and I still have my original copy. Hoping my fond memory of this tale held up, I read it to my own kidlets when they were of similar age…and it was as magical as I remembered.
A 10-year old boy named Milo who is always bored finds a tollbooth mysteriously appears in his room. It’s about his memorable journey to “foreign lands” teaching him valuable lessons along the way. This enchanting book has delightful play with words and numbers and puns but also offers profound insights and just pure FUN! (Some suggest waiting until the kiddos are 12 or over so they can understand the word play, but you be the judge.)
And maybe the most meaningful for last…
12. Holy Bible
After years of feeling intimidated by this #1 best-seller, I took a bible study class given by Dr. Bill Creasy (now available online at: Logosbiblestudy.com). Dr. Creasy has an incredible gift of bringing scripture to life and I was hooked. Then a couple years ago, I was introduced to the Bible in a Year podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz. 365 sessions walk you through as Fr. Schmitz reads scripture from The Great Adventure Catholic Bible breaking it down in simple and relatable terms.
While the editorial leans in to the Catechism of the Catholic faith, it by no means limits its beautiful message to anyone of faith. It’s a great way to start my day and definitely a book to read over and over again, gaining new insight each and every time I read it. With over 6 billion copies sold, I’d say it would be considered a must read.
Wrapping it up:
So, there ya have it. My FAVS. The ones that have lingered long after the last page was turned…that I’ve recommended over coffee, pressed into a friend’s hands, or re-read when I needed the comfort of a familiar story.
Narrowing it down was no small feat. There are so many others that nearly made the cut. Different seasons call for different genres — and while many of these lean toward historical fiction, summer reads truly are in a class of their own. (In fact, I shared a full summer reading list last year, so if you’re already dreaming of poolside pages, be sure to check that out as well!)
For now, I hope this nudges you to try one you haven’t yet read — or revisit an old favorite. There’s something so restorative about carving out quiet time with a story that transports you somewhere new.
And now I’d love to hear from you…
What book has stayed with you long after the final chapter? What should I add to my ever-growing bedside stack? Leave your recommendations in the comments — you know I love expanding my “fun-size library.”
PS: If this has you inspired to gather your own group of fellow book lovers, don’t miss:
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Happy reading, friends. May your nightstand always hold something wonderful. 📚
Great picks!! I too loved East of Eden, Redeeming Love and a Tree Grows in Brooklyn- I’ll have to read a few more of your top 12. Thanks for the recommendations! 📚💖
They’re such amazing reads, I’m so glad you, too enjoyed~ 🙂
Be sure to read Kristen Hanna’s latest book, The Women. It is a must read
Agreed! Read it and loved it! Thanks for sharing~
Love a good book recommendation! Thanks!
Thanks for stopping by~
Travelling light, as one does in their twenties, “Pillars of the Earth” got me through several countries in Europe. Rich and thick, I sometimes used it as a pillow, too!☺️
It’s a fantastic read! You have great taste. 😉 My “pillow” for my European youth hostel travels was Gone with The Wind. lol
I LOVE that you have the Phantom Tollbooth on your list!!! I’ve loved it since I was a kid and even asked for it for Christmas when I was grown up. It really sparked my mind as a little kid. I’m glad it’s not forgotten.
Oh that makes me happy! I had so much fun reading it with my kids when they got old enough 🙂
You’re my type of reader!! I love all these books! Since you liked “Redeeming Love”, you MUST read “The Mark Of The Lion” series, or at least the first 2 books of it, also by Francine Rivers. You will absolutely love them and won’t be able to put them down!
I’m writing it down to put them in my queue. Thanks for the tip! There’s nothing like a good book referral. 🙂