Top 50 Books *everyone* Should Must Read Before they Die

Life is too short to be wasted without reading, right? A single book has the power to shift your mindset, transport you to another world, or teach you lessons that would take a lifetime to learn on your own. Whether you want to dive into gripping stories, expand your knowledge, or find inspiration, the right book can change everything.

But with so many books out there, where do you start? That’s why I’ve put together this list of 50 books to read before you die—a mix of classics, modern masterpieces, thought-provoking non-fiction, and life-changing self-improvement books. If you’re looking for good books to read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page, you’re in the right place.

Ready to find your next favorite read? Let’s dive in.

1. Classic Literature That Stands the Test of Time

Some books never lose their relevance. They capture the depth of human emotions, the struggles of society, and the complexities of life in ways that still hit home, no matter how many years have passed. If you haven’t read these yet, you’re missing out on some of the most powerful storytelling ever written.

• To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee
  “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view.”
  This novel isn’t just about racial injustice in the Deep South—it’s about empathy, morality, and what it means to do the right thing, even when it’s hard. Atticus Finch is the kind of character who stays with you forever.
• 1984 – George Orwell
  A book that gets more relevant with each passing year. 1984 is a chilling look at government surveillance, propaganda, and thought control. If you’ve ever wondered where phrases like “Big Brother is watching you” came from, this is the book to read.
• Pride and Prejudice – Jane Austen
  If you think this is just a romance novel, think again. Austen’s sharp wit and social commentary make this book timeless. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s love story is iconic, but what makes this book a must-read is how it challenges gender roles and societal expectations.
• The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald
  Ever felt like you were chasing a dream that might not even be real? That’s The Great Gatsby in a nutshell. It’s a tragic but beautifully written story about wealth, love, and the illusion of the American Dream.
• Moby-Dick – Herman Melville
  An intense, philosophical deep dive into obsession and revenge. You might not think a book about hunting a whale would be life-changing, but this one is packed with powerful themes that go way beyond the surface.

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2. Life-Changing Self-Improvement Books

If you’re not reading books that help you grow, you’re leaving untapped potential on the table. The right book at the right time can shift your entire perspective and put you on a path to success, self-awareness, and real change. These are the books that will do just that.

• Atomic Habits – James Clear
  Struggling to break bad habits or build good ones? This book will teach you how small, consistent changes create massive results over time. Perfect for anyone who wants to level up their life without feeling overwhelmed.
• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey
  Want to know what separates successful people from the rest? This book lays it out. It’s all about shifting your mindset, taking control of your life, and adopting habits that make a real difference.
• The Power of Now – Eckhart Tolle
  Overthinking? Stressed? Feeling stuck? The Power of Now teaches you how to stop living in the past or future and fully embrace the present moment. This book has the kind of wisdom that can completely change your perspective on life.
• Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill
  This isn’t just about money—it’s about how your mindset determines your success. The principles in this book have helped countless people achieve their biggest goals, and they can do the same for you.
• The Four Agreements – Don Miguel Ruiz
  If you read this book and actually apply its lessons, your life will never be the same. It breaks down four simple yet powerful principles to help you stop self-sabotaging, communicate better, and live with true freedom. Also read 15  Life-Changing Books You Can’t Afford to Miss.

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3. Thought-Provoking Philosophical and Psychological Reads

Ever read a book that made you question everything? These books challenge the way you think, reshape your beliefs, and leave you with insights that stick with you for years. If you love deep conversations and mind-expanding ideas, these are for you.

• Meditations – Marcus Aurelius
  Want to learn how to handle life’s ups and downs with grace? This book is basically a Stoic wisdom manual from one of the greatest Roman emperors. It’s filled with timeless advice on resilience, discipline, and perspective.
• Man’s Search for Meaning – Viktor E. Frankl
  Imagine surviving a concentration camp and still finding meaning in life. This book is a powerful testament to human resilience, showing how even in the worst circumstances, we can find purpose.
• The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho
  A story about chasing your dreams, trusting the journey, and understanding that the universe is always working in your favor. This book will inspire you to go after what truly matters to you.
• The Courage to Be Disliked – Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga
  Ever feel like you’re living for other people’s approval? This book breaks down why that’s holding you back and how to stop caring about what others think—without being selfish.
• Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience – Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
  What if you could unlock a state of deep focus where work, creativity, and even daily life feel effortless? That’s what this book is all about. It explains how to enter “flow state” and make the most of your time and energy. Also read Manifestation Coaches Don’t Want You To Read These 5 Books

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4. Inspiring Biographies & Memoirs

Sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from real people who’ve faced struggles, overcome adversity, and accomplished the impossible. These biographies and memoirs will inspire you, challenge you, and maybe even change the way you see the world.

• Becoming – Michelle Obama
  A deeply personal and inspiring story about Michelle Obama’s journey from a working-class girl in Chicago to the First Lady of the United States.
• Educated – Tara Westover
  Imagine growing up in a survivalist family with no formal education—and then earning a Ph.D. at Cambridge. This memoir is proof that education and determination can change everything.
• Steve Jobs – Walter Isaacson
  Love Apple or not, Steve Jobs changed the world. This book gives you an inside look at his genius, his flaws, and the mindset that made him one of the most influential people of our time.
• Born a Crime – Trevor Noah
  A hilarious, heartbreaking, and eye-opening memoir about growing up in apartheid South Africa. Trevor Noah’s storytelling is so good, you won’t be able to put this book down.
• Long Walk to Freedom – Nelson Mandela
  If you want to understand resilience, leadership, and the power of forgiveness, read this. Mandela’s life story is nothing short of extraordinary. Learn 5 must-read Books For EXTREME Emotional Glow Up.

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5. Must-Read Science Fiction & Fantasy

Sometimes, the best way to understand the real world is by escaping into another one. These sci-fi and fantasy books don’t just entertain—they challenge your imagination, explore deep philosophical questions, and introduce you to unforgettable worlds and characters.

• The Lord of the Rings – J.R.R. Tolkien
  An epic adventure, a battle between good and evil, and one of the greatest fantasy stories ever written. If you haven’t read this yet, you’re seriously missing out.
• Dune – Frank Herbert
  A sci-fi masterpiece filled with political intrigue, powerful themes, and world-building like no other. If you loved Game of Thrones, this is the sci-fi equivalent.
• Brave New World – Aldous Huxley
  A dystopian future where happiness is manufactured, individuality is suppressed, and everything seems perfect—but at what cost? This book will make you rethink society.
• Foundation – Isaac Asimov
  If you’re a sci-fi fan, Foundation is a must. It’s a mind-blowing series about the rise and fall of civilizations, packed with ideas that are way ahead of their time.
• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone – J.K. Rowling
  This series needs no introduction. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or the tenth, the magic never fades.

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6. Powerful Historical Fiction That Brings the Past to Life

History can sometimes feel distant and dry, but these novels make it feel alive. They transport you to different eras, letting you experience the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of people who lived before us. If you love stories that blend real history with unforgettable characters, these books are a must-read.

• The Book Thief – Markus Zusak
  Set in Nazi Germany, this story is told from the perspective of Death itself. It follows a young girl, Liesel, who steals books to escape the horrors of war. A deeply moving story about love, loss, and the power of words.
• All the Light We Cannot See – Anthony Doerr
  A beautifully written novel about a blind French girl and a German soldier during World War II. Their paths cross in unexpected ways, and the storytelling is absolutely breathtaking.
• The Nightingale – Kristin Hannah
  A heart-wrenching tale of two sisters surviving Nazi-occupied France. If you love emotional, character-driven stories, this one will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
• The Kite Runner – Khaled Hosseini
  A powerful story about friendship, betrayal, and redemption set in Afghanistan. This book will break your heart and heal it at the same time.
• The Shadow of the Wind – Carlos Ruiz Zafón
  A literary mystery set in post-war Barcelona, filled with dark secrets, forbidden love, and a mysterious book that changes the protagonist’s life forever. If you love atmospheric novels with rich storytelling, this one’s for you.

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7. Unforgettable Contemporary Fiction

Not all must-read books are old classics. Some modern novels capture life so well that they deserve a place on your bookshelf forever. These are the books that reflect today’s world, with themes that feel fresh, raw, and deeply relatable.

• Where the Crawdads Sing – Delia Owens
  A mix of mystery, romance, and survival set in the marshes of North Carolina. Kya, the “Marsh Girl,” is an unforgettable character, and the writing is absolutely stunning.
• A Man Called Ove – Fredrik Backman
  A grumpy old man who seems impossible to love—but this book will make you fall for him. It’s a heartwarming story about loneliness, love, and how the smallest acts of kindness can change a life.
• The Midnight Library – Matt Haig
  Ever wondered what your life would be like if you had made different choices? This book explores the idea of parallel lives and second chances in a way that’s both emotional and thought-provoking.
• The Road – Cormac McCarthy
  A haunting yet beautiful story about a father and son navigating a post-apocalyptic world. Dark, gripping, and filled with raw emotion.
• Circe – Madeline Miller
  A fresh, feminist retelling of Greek mythology centered around Circe, the witch from The Odyssey. The writing is poetic, the story is powerful, and it completely redefines a classic character.

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8. Page-Turning Mystery & Thriller Novels

If you love books that keep you up all night, turning pages like your life depends on it, this section is for you. These thrillers and mysteries are packed with twists, suspense, and characters who keep you guessing until the very end.

• Gone Girl – Gillian Flynn
  A psychological thriller that will make you question everything you know about relationships. Twisted, dark, and full of surprises.
• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Stieg Larsson
  A gripping mystery featuring Lisbeth Salander, one of the most fascinating female protagonists in modern fiction. If you love investigative thrillers, this one is a must.
• Big Little Lies – Liane Moriarty
  A mix of drama, dark humor, and mystery that revolves around a group of suburban moms hiding secrets. The kind of book you binge-read in one sitting.
• The Silent Patient – Alex Michaelides
  A woman shoots her husband five times in the face—and never speaks another word. Why did she do it? A must-read thriller with an ending that will leave you shocked.
• The Da Vinci Code – Dan Brown
  A fast-paced, conspiracy-filled novel that blends art, history, and religion into a thrilling adventure. Once you start, you won’t be able to stop. Also read 4 Relationship Books (secretly) Every Woman Should Read

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9. Sci-Fi & Dystopian Novels That Will Blow Your Mind

If you love books that make you think about the future, society, and the limits of human potential, these sci-fi and dystopian novels are essential reads. They explore everything from artificial intelligence to alternate realities in ways that feel eerily possible.

• Neuromancer – William Gibson
  The book that basically invented cyberpunk. If you’re into high-tech dystopian futures, hackers, and AI, this one’s a classic.
• Snow Crash – Neal Stephenson
  A wild, fast-paced book that predicted the concept of the metaverse decades before it became reality. Sci-fi fans, this is a must-read.
• The Handmaid’s Tale – Margaret Atwood
  A chilling look at a future where women are stripped of their rights in a totalitarian regime. If you haven’t read it yet, now is the time.
• Station Eleven – Emily St. John Mandel
  A hauntingly beautiful novel about life after a pandemic wipes out most of humanity. More than just dystopian—it’s about art, memory, and what truly matters when everything falls apart.
• Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? – Philip K. Dick
  The inspiration behind Blade Runner. It questions what it means to be human in a world where machines are almost indistinguishable from people.

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10. Books That Will Make You Laugh Out Loud

Not every book needs to be deep and serious. Sometimes, you just need a good laugh. These books are packed with humor, witty observations, and the kind of writing that makes life feel a little lighter.

• Good Omens – Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett
  The apocalypse has never been funnier. This book is a hilarious take on good vs. evil, featuring an angel and a demon who aren’t quite sure they want the world to end.
• Me Talk Pretty One Day – David Sedaris
  If you love dry, self-deprecating humor, Sedaris’ essays about life, family, and trying to learn French will have you laughing out loud.
• Bridget Jones’s Diary – Helen Fielding
  A modern classic in the rom-com world. Bridget is awkward, hilarious, and completely relatable—perfect for when you need a feel-good read.
• Catch-22 – Joseph Heller
  A satirical war novel that makes fun of bureaucracy and the absurdity of war. Dark humor at its best.
• Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? – Mindy Kaling
  A lighthearted, funny memoir filled with personal stories and observations from one of the funniest women in Hollywood. Perfect for a quick, entertaining read.

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This wraps up the 50 books to read before you die! Whether you love classics, thrillers, self-improvement, or mind-bending sci-fi, there’s something on this list for you. Which of these books have you read, and which ones are you adding to your TBR? Let me know in the comments!

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