The best 38 20th Century books

The Alchemist (1988) follows the story of a young Andalusian shepherd, who travels to the pyramids of Egypt to find a treasure he has recurrently dreamed about. On his journey, he has to overcome multiple obstacles – through which he learns valuable life lessons. Based on a thirteenth-century folktale, it explores topics such as following your dreams, finding your destiny, and the nature of love.

The Secret History (1992) is the gripping tale of a group of Classics students at a New England college who are involved in the murder of a classmate. The novel explores the complex relationships between the friends, and the impact the incident has on their lives.

Brave New World (1932) is a dystopian novel set in a world where citizens are socially engineered to be complacent and pleasure-seeking. It’s a world that worships Henry Ford –⁠ a scaled-up version of an assembly line that’s mass produced, homogenous, and ultimately consumable. 

Of Mice and Men (1937) is a poignant tale that traces an unlikely friendship between two impoverished workers in California during the Great Depression: compact, quick-witted George Milton, and huge, childlike Lennie Small.

The Hobbit (1937) is the classic fantasy adventure story of an unsuspecting hobbit named Bilbo Baggins. Ripped unexpectedly from his idle epicurean life by the wizard Gandalf, Bilbo finds himself on a journey to help a group of dwarves take back their stolen treasure from the jealous dragon Smaug. Along the way, he encounters trolls, elves, goblins, and spiders –⁠ plus a certain magic ring –⁠ and eventually finds that he had what it took to be a hero all along.

Death of a Salesman (1949) is widely regarded as one of the twentieth century’s greatest plays. A poignant critique of the promises and pitfalls of capitalism and the American Dream, it follows the salesman Willy Loman, his increasingly tense relationships with his family and colleagues, and his tragic, hallucinatory descent into fantasy and madness. 

East of Eden (1952) is a sweeping epic that centers around three generations of the Trask family. Growing up, Adam Trask competed with his brother for his father’s love – with jealousy and vengeance leading to violent consequences. When Adam has children of his own, he struggles to spare them the same fate.

The Handmaid’s Tale (1985) is a contemporary classic – the story of a patriarchal dystopia that inspired the hit television series of the same name and remains as relevant today as it did when it was first published.

The Metamorphosis (1915) is an allegorical novella about what happens when the main character, Gregor Samsa, is transformed into a bug. It grapples with the themes of alienation, the absurdity of life, and the power of change.

The Book Thief (2006) is a story about a young girl living in Nazi Germany who makes her way in the world by stealing books. With Death as the narrator, it follows her coming of age in the most difficult of times and places. 

To the Lighthouse (1927) places you squarely in the heart of the Ramsay family’s summer home, providing intimate insights into their complex dynamics. It weaves an intricate web of familial relationships, artistic inspiration, and philosophical musings, while contemplating the concept of time and death.

A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (1916) explores the maturation of Stephen Dedalus, an introspective and artistically inclined young man grappling with personal and national identity, religion, and aesthetic philosophy. It frames the universally relatable struggle of growing up and self-discovery.

The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1984) tells the story of the intertwined lives of two couples navigating love, politics, and existential dilemmas in Soviet-era Czechoslovakia. By exploring the concepts of “lightness” and “weight” it offers reflections on fate, the choices we make in life, and the very nature of existence.

Their Eyes Were Watching God (1937) is a defining work in African-American and feminist literature. It explores love, independence, and identity through the eyes of a Black woman in the rural American South.

The Remains of the Day (1989) features one of contemporary literature’s most unforgettable narrators, Stevens, a butler who reminisces on his life in service at one of England’s stately homes in the years leading up to World War II. 

The Wanderer is a captivating novel that follows the journey of a young man who sets out on a quest to find meaning and purpose in his life. As he travels through different countries and encounters various people, he learns valuable lessons about love, friendship, and the importance of following one's own path. This thought-provoking book delves into themes of self-discovery and the universal search for fulfillment.

Set in the Mississippi Delta, "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" is a powerful drama that delves into the complexities of family relationships, greed, and societal expectations. The play revolves around the wealthy Pollitt family as they gather to celebrate the birthday of patriarch Big Daddy. Tensions rise as long-buried secrets and desires come to the surface, ultimately exposing the fragile facade of their lives. Williams' masterful storytelling and rich character development make this a timeless classic.

Set in a Soviet labor camp in the 1950s, this novel follows a day in the life of prisoner Ivan Denisovich Shukhov. Through vivid descriptions and powerful storytelling, Solzhenitsyn exposes the harsh realities of life in the gulag and the resilience of the human spirit. It offers a poignant reflection on the struggle for survival and dignity in the face of oppression.

Set in the early 20th century, "Death in Venice" tells the story of a renowned writer named Gustav von Aschenbach who becomes infatuated with a young boy during his stay in Venice. As his obsession grows, Aschenbach's life begins to unravel, leading to a tragic and haunting conclusion. This novella explores themes of beauty, desire, and the inevitability of death.

Narcissus and Goldmund is a novel by Hermann Hesse that explores the contrasting lives and philosophies of two friends, Narcissus and Goldmund. Set in medieval Germany, the book delves into themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the pursuit of meaning in life. Through their unique journeys, the characters ultimately come to understand and appreciate the different paths they have chosen. It is a thought-provoking and introspective tale that delves into the complexities of human existence.

Wide Sargasso Sea is a novel by Jean Rhys that serves as a prequel to Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre. Set in Jamaica, it tells the story of Antoinette Cosway, a Creole woman who becomes the first wife of Mr. Rochester. The book explores themes of colonialism, racial inequality, and the oppression of women.

A Clockwork Orange is a dystopian novel by Anthony Burgess that takes place in a future society. It follows the story of Alex, a teenage delinquent who enjoys classical music and acts of ultraviolence. After being imprisoned, Alex undergoes an experimental treatment that aims to "cure" him of his violent tendencies. The book raises profound questions about free will, morality, and the power of choice.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a poignant coming-of-age novel that follows the life of young Francie Nolan as she navigates poverty, family, and her own dreams in early 20th century Brooklyn. Written by Betty Smith, this timeless classic beautifully captures the resilience and hope found in the human spirit.

Cat's Cradle is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of science, religion, and human nature. Written by Kurt Vonnegut, it tells the story of a writer who becomes entangled in a web of lies and secrets surrounding the creation of a deadly substance called Ice-nine. Through dark humor and sharp wit, the book explores the potential consequences of scientific advancement and the power dynamics that shape our world.

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? is a thought-provoking science fiction novel by Philip K. Dick. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it explores complex themes such as empathy, artificial intelligence, and what it means to be human. The story follows a bounty hunter named Rick Deckard as he hunts down rogue androids, known as 'replicants', and grapples with his own moral dilemmas along the way.

Fight Club is a gripping novel by Chuck Palahniuk that delves into the world of underground fighting and the disillusionment of modern life. The story follows an unnamed protagonist who forms an underground fight club as a form of male bonding and rebellion against societal norms. As the club gains popularity, it takes a dark and unexpected turn, leading to a shocking climax that challenges the reader's perceptions of identity and reality.

Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the ethical and moral implications of scientific advancement. Through the story of Charlie Gordon, a mentally disabled man who undergoes a groundbreaking experiment to increase his intelligence, the book raises important questions about the nature of intelligence, the treatment of individuals with disabilities, and the pursuit of knowledge at any cost.

Invisible Man is a groundbreaking novel by Ralph Ellison that delves into the complexities of race and identity in America. Through the story of an unnamed African American protagonist, the book explores themes of invisibility, power, and the search for selfhood in a society rife with prejudice and inequality. Ellison's masterful storytelling and thought-provoking narrative make this a must-read for anyone interested in the social and political landscape of the mid-20th century.

Lolita is a novel by Vladimir Nabokov that delves into the controversial and taboo subject of a middle-aged man's infatuation with a twelve-year-old girl. Through beautiful prose and intricate storytelling, Nabokov challenges the reader to confront their own moral boundaries and raises questions about love, obsession, and the complexity of human nature.

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden is a captivating novel that delves into the life of a young Japanese girl who is sold into a geisha house. Set in 20th century Japan, it offers a unique glimpse into the intricate world of geishas, their training, and the sacrifices they make in pursuit of their art. Through beautiful storytelling, the book explores themes of love, betrayal, and the resilience of the human spirit.

On the Road is a groundbreaking novel by Jack Kerouac that captures the spirit of the Beat Generation in post-war America. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Sal Paradise, the book takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, freedom, and rebellion as he travels across the country with his friend Dean Moriarty. With its spontaneous prose and exploration of existential themes, this novel continues to inspire generations of readers.

The Color Purple is a powerful novel by Alice Walker that tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman who faces oppression and abuse in the early 1900s. Through a series of letters, Celie shares her journey of self-discovery and empowerment, ultimately finding strength and independence. The book explores themes of racism, sexism, and the power of female relationships.

The Old Man and the Sea is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Ernest Hemingway. Set in Cuba, it tells the story of an aging fisherman named Santiago who goes on a relentless battle with a giant marlin in the Gulf Stream. Through Santiago's struggle, the novel explores themes of perseverance, resilience, and the struggle against the forces of nature.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager navigating his way through high school. Through a series of letters to an anonymous friend, Charlie explores themes of friendship, love, and the challenges of growing up. The book delves into the complexities of adolescence and the importance of finding one's place in the world.

The Shining is a chilling novel by Stephen King that tells the story of the Torrance family as they become the winter caretakers of the Overlook Hotel. As the hotel becomes snowbound, eerie and malevolent forces begin to influence the father, Jack Torrance, driving him to madness. His psychic son, Danny, must confront the terrifying visions and powers that the hotel unleashes.

The Things They Carried is a powerful collection of interconnected short stories that delves into the experiences of American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Author Tim O'Brien blurs the line between fiction and reality as he explores the weight of physical and emotional burdens carried by the soldiers. Through vivid storytelling and poignant reflection, the book offers a unique perspective on the impact of war on individuals and society.

Waiting for Godot is a thought-provoking play that delves into the themes of existentialism and the human condition. Set in a desolate landscape, it follows two characters, Vladimir and Estragon, as they wait endlessly for someone named Godot. Through their conversations and interactions with other characters, the play raises profound questions about the meaning of life, the passage of time, and the search for purpose.

Watership Down by Richard Adams is a captivating novel that follows a group of rabbits as they escape their warren and embark on a perilous journey to find a new home. Filled with adventure, friendship, and the struggle for survival, this classic tale explores themes of courage, leadership, and the bond between animals and humans.