100 of the Best Books of All Time: A Literary Journey Through Classics and Must-Reads

Sajid Karimee
Jun 1
2 min read

Books have the power to shape minds, stir emotions, and transport us to entirely new worlds. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, this curated list of 100 of the best books of all time brings together stories that have inspired generations. While everyone’s taste in books may differ, the works below have left a significant mark on literature, culture, and readers around the globe.

Here are a few highlights from the list — and why they continue to stand out.

1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

A powerful exploration of justice, prejudice, and moral growth in the American South. Narrated through the eyes of young Scout Finch, this novel remains a cornerstone of American literature.

2. 1984 by George Orwell

A chilling dystopian tale about surveillance, truth, and totalitarianism. Orwell’s prophetic vision remains eerily relevant in today's digital world.

3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

A brilliant and witty commentary on love, class, and society in 19th-century England. Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy’s dynamic never grows old.

4. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

A poetic portrayal of the American Dream and its discontents, set during the glittering Jazz Age.

5. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez

A landmark in magical realism, this sweeping saga of the Buendía family explores the blurred lines between myth and reality.

Categories We Covered in the Full List:

Timeless Classics – From Moby-Dick to War and Peace
Modern Must-Reads – Including Beloved by Toni Morrison and The Road by Cormac McCarthy
World Literature – Gems from authors like Chinua Achebe, Haruki Murakami, and Leo Tolstoy
Science Fiction & Fantasy – Dune, The Left Hand of Darkness, The Hobbit, and more
Non-Fiction That Changed Minds – Sapiens, The Diary of Anne Frank, The Art of War
Books for Personal Growth – Man’s Search for Meaning, Atomic Habits, The Power of Now

Why This List Matters

These books aren’t just stories — they’re reflections of the human condition. They ask questions that don’t always have answers. They make us feel seen. Whether you're building a reading list, reigniting your love for literature, or simply curious about what the literary world considers “great,” this list offers a little something for everyone.