The best 40 American Literature books

Fahrenheit 451 (1953) tells the tale of a near future with fireproof homes, where firemen are now tasked with the job of burning books. It’s a dystopian future, where pleasure is catered to and intellectualism has been all but extinguished. But after a chance encounter with a free spirit, one fireman starts to question the true purpose of his job.

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.

As I Lay Dying (1930) centers on the arduous journey of the Bundren family to bury their mother, Addie, in her hometown. The story’s uniqueness lies in its delivery through the perspectives of fifteen different characters, subtly unraveling the family’s complex dynamics and individual struggles. 

Blood Meridian (1985) tells the gripping tale of “the kid,” a runaway teenager who falls in with several gangs of violent filibusters following the Mexican-American War. Inspired by historical events, the story follows the outlaws as they cut a bloody swath through the desert wilderness, murdering Mexicans, Native Americans, and fellow men alike.

The Portrait of a Lady (1881) represents a highpoint in the literary career of Henry James, one of the most accomplished novelists in the English language. It tells the story of Isabel Archer, a beautiful and spirited American brought to Europe by a wealthy aunt. Defying social expectations, she turns down two marriage proposals in order to pursue a journey of self-discovery. Her love of liberty, however, leads her into a trap of her own devising: a union with the outwardly charming yet manipulative Gilbert Osmond.

For Whom the Bell Tolls is a novel by Ernest Hemingway that takes place during the Spanish Civil War. It follows the story of an American protagonist, Robert Jordan, who is fighting for the Republican side. The book explores themes of love, honor, and the futility of war, and is known for its powerful and evocative writing style.

The Pearl by John Steinbeck tells the story of a poor Mexican diver named Kino who discovers a valuable pearl. Believing it will bring his family a better life, Kino soon finds himself in a desperate struggle against greed, envy, and violence. The novella explores themes of wealth, power, and the corrupting influence of material possessions.

Flowers for Algernon is a thought-provoking novel by Daniel Keyes that delves into the complexities of human intelligence and the impact of societal expectations. Through the eyes of Charlie Gordon, a mentally disabled man who undergoes a groundbreaking experiment to increase his intelligence, the book explores themes of identity, empathy, and the ethical implications of scientific advancement. It is a poignant and unforgettable story that challenges our perceptions of what it means to be truly intelligent.

The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful novel that explores the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Celie, the book delves into themes of racism, sexism, and the power of female relationships. It is a poignant and thought-provoking read that has left a lasting impact on its readers.

The Call of the Wild is a classic novel by Jack London that tells the story of Buck, a domestic dog who is stolen from his home and sold into the brutal life of an Alaskan sled dog. As Buck adapts to the harsh wilderness and learns to trust his instincts, he undergoes a transformation that brings out his primal nature. This gripping tale explores themes of survival, loyalty, and the untamed spirit of the wild.

Franny and Zooey is a thought-provoking novel by J.D. Salinger that delves into the complexities of family, spirituality, and the search for meaning in life. Through the stories of the two siblings, Franny and Zooey, the book explores existential questions and the struggle to find authenticity in a world filled with superficiality.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is an iconic coming-of-age novel by Betty Smith. Set in early 20th century Brooklyn, it follows the life of young Francie Nolan as she navigates poverty, family dynamics, and her own dreams for the future. With beautifully crafted characters and a poignant storytelling style, the book explores themes of resilience, hope, and the power of education.

On the Road (1957) is a novel by Jack Kerouac that follows the journey of two friends as they travel across the United States. Fueled by a sense of freedom and a desire for new experiences, the book captures the spirit of the Beat Generation and explores themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the search for meaning in life.

Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison tells the story of a nameless African American man who navigates through a world where he feels unseen and unheard. The novel explores themes of identity, race, and societal expectations, offering a powerful commentary on the realities of life for black Americans in the early 20th century.

'The Age of Innocence' is a classic novel by Edith Wharton that explores the complexities of social conventions and the consequences of defying them. Set in New York City in the 1870s, it tells the story of Newland Archer, a young man engaged to a respectable woman but drawn to her unconventional cousin. Touching on themes of love, duty, and societal expectations, the novel offers a poignant portrayal of the struggle between personal desire and societal conformity.

The Awakening by Kate Chopin is a poignant novel that delves into the inner thoughts and desires of its protagonist, Edna Pontellier. Set in the late 19th century, it challenges societal norms and explores themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the search for identity. As Edna awakens to her own needs and aspirations, the novel prompts readers to question the constraints placed upon women during that time.

Tender Is the Night is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that delves into the complexities of love, marriage, and mental illness. Set in the 1920s on the French Riviera, it follows the lives of a wealthy American couple and the impact of their deteriorating relationship on those around them. Through beautiful prose and intricate storytelling, Fitzgerald explores the dark side of the American Dream.

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of science, religion, and the destructive potential of humankind. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story follows a writer who becomes entangled in a complex web of lies surrounding the creation of a deadly substance called Ice-nine. With Vonnegut's signature dark humor and sharp wit, the book challenges our beliefs and raises important questions about the consequences of our actions.

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr is a captivating novel set during World War II. It tells the story of a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths eventually cross as they navigate the chaos and destruction of the war. Filled with beautiful prose and intricate storytelling, the book explores themes of survival, humanity, and the power of connection.

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1971) is a wild ride through the drug-fueled counterculture of the 1960s. Written by Hunter S. Thompson, this semi-autobiographical novel follows the journalist Raoul Duke and his attorney, Dr. Gonzo, as they embark on a drug-addled trip to Las Vegas. With Thompson's unique blend of satire and surrealism, the book explores themes of disillusionment, escapism, and the American Dream.

Nine Stories is a collection of short stories by J.D. Salinger that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggles faced by individuals in their pursuit of authenticity. Each story offers a unique perspective and leaves a lasting impact on the reader, making it a timeless classic.

American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins is a gripping novel that tells the story of a mother and son fleeing drug cartel violence in Mexico and seeking asylum in the United States. It offers a powerful and emotional portrayal of the hardships faced by migrants and the lengths they will go to in search of safety and a better life.

Middlesex is a novel by Jeffrey Eugenides that tells the story of Calliope Stephanides, a hermaphrodite who grows up in Detroit. The book explores themes of identity, family, and the immigrant experience, as Calliope navigates her unique journey towards self-discovery and acceptance.

Lolita is a novel by Vladimir Nabokov that delves into the controversial and taboo topic of a middle-aged man's obsession 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 the nature of love, desire, and the power dynamics in relationships.

No Country for Old Men is a thrilling novel by Cormac McCarthy that takes place in the desolate landscape of West Texas. When a man stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and a case full of money, he sets off a chain of events that leads to relentless pursuit by a ruthless killer. Filled with tension and moral dilemmas, this book delves into the darkness of human nature and the unpredictable consequences of our actions.

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson is a powerful historical fiction novel that tells the story of Cussy Mary, a pack horse librarian in 1930s Kentucky. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the harsh realities of rural Appalachia, the book explores themes of literacy, prejudice, and the strength of the human spirit. It shines a light on a little-known piece of history and celebrates the importance of books and the people who bring them to others.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a poignant coming-of-age story that follows Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager. Through a series of letters, Charlie shares his experiences as he navigates high school, friendship, love, and loss. The book delves into themes of mental health, identity, and the complexities of growing up.

The Martian by Andy Weir follows astronaut Mark Watney, who is mistakenly left behind on Mars after a dust storm forces his crew to evacuate. With limited supplies and ingenuity, Watney must find a way to survive on the desolate planet while NASA works tirelessly to bring him home. A thrilling tale of resilience, problem-solving, and the power of the human spirit.

The Old Man and the Sea, the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Ernest Hemingway tells the story of an aging Cuban fisherman named Santiago, who struggles with a giant marlin in the Gulf Stream. Filled with themes of struggle, resilience, and the nature of mankind, it is a timeless classic that explores the relationship between man and the natural world.

The Fault in Our Stars is actually written by John Green and tells the story of two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet at a cancer support group. As they bond over their favorite books and share their fears and dreams, they embark on a journey that challenges their perspectives on life and love. It is a poignant and beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of living with illness and the power of human connection.

Cannery Row (1945) is a novel by John Steinbeck that takes place in a rundown area of Monterey, California during the Great Depression. It tells the story of a group of colorful characters who live and work in the area, focusing on their everyday lives and relationships. Through Steinbeck's vivid descriptions and poignant storytelling, the book explores themes of friendship, community, and the human spirit.

The Things They Carried is a powerful book by Tim O'Brien that tells the story of a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War. Blurring the line between fiction and memoir, it delves into the emotional and psychological weight that soldiers carry with them. Through gripping storytelling, O'Brien takes readers on a journey that examines the realities of war and the burden of memory.

The Shining is a gripping novel by Stephen King that tells the story of the Torrance family, who move into the isolated Overlook Hotel for the winter. As the hotel becomes snowbound, terrifying supernatural forces start to take hold, driving the father, Jack, to madness and putting his wife and son in grave danger. This chilling tale explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the power of the supernatural.

Memoirs of a Geisha is a captivating novel that delves into the hidden world of 1930s Kyoto, Japan. Written by Arthur Golden, it tells the story of a young girl named Chiyo who is sold into the life of a geisha. From her training to her eventual rise as one of the most renowned geishas of her time, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into the customs, traditions, and sacrifices of the geisha culture.

Cannery Row is a novel by John Steinbeck that takes place during the Great Depression in Monterey, California. It tells the story of a group of colorful characters who live and work in a run-down area known as Cannery Row. Through vivid descriptions and rich storytelling, Steinbeck explores themes of friendship, community, and the struggle for survival.

For Whom the Bell Tolls is a novel by Ernest Hemingway that takes place during the Spanish Civil War. It follows the story of an American volunteer named Robert Jordan who is tasked with blowing up a bridge behind enemy lines. The book explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the brutality of war, and is considered one of Hemingway's greatest works.

Franny and Zooey is a thought-provoking novel by J.D. Salinger that delves into the complexities of spirituality, identity, and family relationships. Through the stories of the two siblings, Franny and Zooey, the book offers profound insights into the human condition and the search for meaning in life.

Nine Stories is a collection of short stories by J.D. Salinger that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of everyday life. From the haunting tale of a war veteran in "A Perfect Day for Bananafish" to the whimsical account of a precocious child in "Teddy," Salinger captivates readers with his unique storytelling and profound insights into the human experience.

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson is a powerful historical novel that tells the story of Cussy Mary, a pack horse librarian in 1930s Kentucky. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the hardships faced by the people of the Appalachian mountains, this book explores the importance of literacy, the bond between humans and animals, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Pearl by John Steinbeck tells the story of a poor Mexican diver named Kino who discovers a magnificent pearl. Believing it will bring his family a better life, Kino soon finds himself consumed by greed and facing unforeseen consequences. This novella explores themes of wealth, power, and the destructive nature of materialism.