The best 81 Dystopian books

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 Road (2006) is a dystopian thriller following a father-and-son duo fighting to survive in a bleak, post-apocalyptic landscape. Forced to scavenge for food and supplies, threatened by gangs of outlaw survivors, and faced with death and illness, the duo struggle to maintain morality and hope in a world that seems to have lost all humanity.

The Trial ( 1925 ) tells the distressing story of Josef K. who wakes up one morning to find he’s under arrest for an unnamed offense. As cryptic legal proceedings unfold around him, K. struggles to make sense of his predicament or convince others of his innocence. It’s a  disturbing parable that raises philosophical questions about personal dignity and free will when pitted against entrenched bureaucracies.

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.

The Program (2019) is a hands-on guide to the winning techniques and tactics of The Program, a renowned team-building and leadership development company. Drawing from the real-life experiences of its instructors, it illustrates how military leadership and team-building concepts can elevate organizational performance and foster accountability and effective communication.

The Children of Men by P.D. James is a dystopian novel set in a future society where women have become infertile. As the human race faces extinction, the protagonist, Theo Faron, is drawn into a dangerous mission to protect a pregnant woman and her unborn child. This thought-provoking book delves into themes of hope, despair, and the essence of humanity.

Anthem is a dystopian novel by Ayn Rand that explores the concept of individualism in a society where the word “I” has been abolished. Set in a future world where collectivism is the norm, the story follows a young man named Equality 7-2521 as he dares to defy the rules and seek freedom. It delves into themes of independence, identity, and the power of the human spirit.

Never Let Me Go (2005) by Kazuo Ishiguro is a haunting and thought-provoking novel that delves into themes of love, loss, friendship, and the ethical implications of science. Set in a dystopian world, the story follows three friends who discover the unsettling truth about their existence and are forced to confront their fate. Ishiguro's beautiful prose and deep exploration of humanity make this a must-read.

The Kill Order by James Dashner is a gripping dystopian novel that serves as a prequel to the Maze Runner series. Set thirteen years before the events of the first book, it delves into the origins of the deadly Flare virus and the chaotic world it has created. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book provides a thrilling backstory to the beloved series.

Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien is a dystopian novel set in a society where babies are born and then "marked" based on their genetic traits. The protagonist, a young midwife named Gaia, uncovers dark secrets about the government and must make difficult choices to protect her family and challenge the oppressive system.

The Giver is a thought-provoking novel that explores a dystopian society where all emotions and memories are suppressed. When 12-year-old Jonas is selected to inherit the role of the Receiver of Memories, he begins to unravel the dark truths behind his seemingly perfect community. Written by Lois Lowry, this book delves into themes of individuality, freedom, and the importance of human connection.

The Elite is the second book in Kiera Cass's captivating Selection series. Set in a dystopian world, it follows America Singer as she navigates the challenges of being one of the remaining girls competing for the heart of Prince Maxon. Filled with romance, political intrigue, and tough choices, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa is a gripping novel set in a dystopian world where vampires reign and humanity is on the brink of extinction. We follow the story of Allison Sekemoto, a defiant young girl who unexpectedly becomes a vampire and must navigate this new existence while uncovering the truth about her world. Blending action, adventure, and a hint of romance, this book offers a fresh take on vampire lore.

Cinder is a captivating retelling of the classic Cinderella story, set in a futuristic world where cyborgs and androids exist. Written by Marissa Meyer, the book follows a young mechanic named Cinder who uncovers a dangerous secret about her past while navigating a forbidden romance and a looming war. With its unique blend of science fiction and fairy tale elements, this novel is sure to keep readers hooked until the very end.

Ignite Me is a captivating novel by Tahereh Mafi that delves into a dystopian world where a young woman named Juliette fights against a tyrannical regime. Filled with action, romance, and a strong-willed protagonist, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Divergent by Veronica Roth is a thrilling dystopian novel set in a society where people are divided into factions based on their personalities. When the protagonist, Beatrice Prior, discovers she doesn't fit into any one faction, she uncovers a dangerous conspiracy that threatens to unravel the entire social order. This action-packed book explores themes of identity, choice, and rebellion. A must-read for fans of dystopian fiction!

World After is a post-apocalyptic novel that follows the story of Penryn, a young girl fighting for survival in a world overrun by angels. After the events of Angelfall, Penryn is determined to find her kidnapped sister and uncover the truth behind the angelic invasion. As she navigates the dangerous new landscape, she forms unexpected alliances and discovers startling revelations about the world after the angels arrived.

Matched by Ally Condie is a captivating dystopian novel set in a society where everything is decided for you, including who you will marry. When 17-year-old Cassia is matched with her best friend Xander, a glitch in the system shows her another face – that of Ky Markham. As she delves deeper into the truth behind the society, Cassia must make a choice between following the rules or following her heart.

Crossed is the second book in the Matched trilogy by Ally Condie. Set in a dystopian society, it follows the journey of Cassia as she searches for Ky, the boy she loves, in a world filled with secrets and betrayal. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this book delves deeper into the characters and the challenges they face in their quest for freedom.

Blindness by Jose Saramago is a thought-provoking novel that explores a world struck by a sudden epidemic of blindness. As society crumbles and the government struggles to maintain control, a group of strangers bands together to survive in a world of darkness. This gripping and haunting story delves into the depths of human nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

Scythe by Neal Shusterman is a gripping dystopian novel set in a future where death has been conquered and the population is controlled by a group of individuals known as "scythes." The story follows two teenagers, Citra and Rowan, who are chosen to apprentice a scythe and must grapple with the moral complexities of their new role. It delves into themes of mortality, power, and the consequences of playing god.

Son is a captivating novel by Lois Lowry that delves into the themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of truth. It follows the journey of a young girl named Claire as she sets out to find her son who was taken from her in a dystopian society. Filled with suspense and emotional depth, this book explores the power of maternal instinct and the resilience of the human spirit.

Scarlet is the second book in Marissa Meyer's captivating Lunar Chronicles series. Set in a futuristic world, this gripping retelling of Little Red Riding Hood introduces us to Scarlet Benoit, a fierce and determined young woman on a mission to find her missing grandmother. As she uncovers secrets and allies, Scarlet becomes entangled in a dangerous game that will change her life forever.

The Testaments is a gripping novel by Margaret Atwood that serves as a sequel to her iconic book The Handmaid's Tale. Set 15 years after the events of the first book, it offers a compelling exploration of the oppressive regime of Gilead and the lives of three women who are determined to bring it down. Atwood's masterful storytelling and thought-provoking themes make this a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction.

The Heir by Kiera Cass is a captivating novel set in a dystopian society where a young princess named Eadlyn is faced with the challenge of finding a suitable husband through a selection process. As she navigates through the complexities of love, duty, and family expectations, Eadlyn discovers her own strength and the power of her choices.

The Stand is a post-apocalyptic horror novel by Stephen King. Set in a world ravaged by a deadly virus, it tells the story of a group of survivors who are drawn into a final stand between the forces of good and evil. With its complex characters and gripping narrative, the book explores themes of societal collapse, redemption, and the battle for the soul of humanity.

The Death Cure is the third book in the Maze Runner series by James Dashner. It follows Thomas and his friends as they continue to uncover the truth about the mysterious organization known as WICKED. Filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Partials is a gripping science fiction novel by Dan Wells that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. Set in the year 2076, the human race is on the brink of extinction due to a deadly virus. The only hope lies in finding a cure, and a teenage medic named Kira sets out on a dangerous mission to save humanity. Filled with action, suspense, and ethical dilemmas, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Cress is a captivating science fiction novel by Marissa Meyer. The story follows a young hacker named Cress who is trapped in a satellite and forced to work for an evil queen. When she crosses paths with Cinder and her crew, they embark on a daring adventure to stop the queen's plans and save the world. Filled with action, romance, and twists, this book is a must-read for fans of fairy tale retellings.

The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau is a gripping dystopian novel set in a future world where the brightest young minds are chosen to undergo a series of tests. Sixteen-year-old Cia Vale is thrilled to be selected, but soon realizes that the tests are more dangerous than she ever imagined. As she uncovers the dark secrets behind the testing process, Cia must use all her intelligence and courage to survive and uncover the truth.

Vox by Christina Dalcher is a dystopian novel set in a near-future America where women are limited to speaking only 100 words a day. The story follows Dr. Jean McClellan as she navigates this oppressive society and joins a resistance movement to fight for women's rights and freedom. It is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of gender, power, and the importance of speaking up.

Across the Universe by Beth Revis is a captivating science fiction novel set in a future where Earth is dying. When Amy, a teenage girl, is cryogenically frozen and sent on a spaceship to a new planet, she wakes up 50 years too early. As she uncovers the dark secrets of the ship and its inhabitants, she forms an unlikely alliance with Elder, the future leader, to unravel the truth and save the lives of everyone on board.

The Host by Stephenie Meyer is a captivating science fiction novel that explores the idea of parasitic alien beings called 'Souls' who take over the minds and bodies of humans. When a Soul named Wanderer is implanted into the body of a resistant host named Melanie, they form an unexpected bond and set out on a journey to find Melanie's loved ones. Blurring the lines between love, identity, and humanity, this book will keep you hooked until the very end.

Ready Player One is a science fiction novel by Ernest Cline that takes place in a dystopian future where people escape their reality by immersing themselves in a virtual reality world called the OASIS. When the creator of the OASIS dies, he leaves behind a series of challenges that lead to an Easter egg hidden within the virtual world, and the one who finds it will inherit his fortune. The story follows teenage gamer Wade Watts as he embarks on a thrilling quest filled with 80s pop culture references, friendship, and adventure.

Wool by Hugh Howey is a gripping dystopian novel set in a future where the last remaining humans live in a giant underground silo. As society is strictly controlled and shrouded in mystery, one woman dares to uncover the truth about their existence. This thought-provoking book explores themes of power, control, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Gone by Michael Grant is a gripping young adult novel set in a town where everyone over the age of 15 suddenly disappears. As the remaining kids try to establish order and figure out what happened, they uncover dark secrets and must navigate new dangers. This thrilling book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

'The Scorch Trials' is a captivating novel by James Dashner, filled with suspense and unexpected twists. It follows the journey of a group of young survivors as they navigate through a harsh and desolate landscape known as the Scorch, facing unimaginable challenges along the way. This gripping sequel to 'The Maze Runner' will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Delirium by Lauren Oliver is a gripping dystopian novel set in a world where love is considered a disease and is eradicated at the age of 18. When main character Lena unexpectedly falls in love just before her treatment, she begins to question the society's beliefs and is faced with a choice that could change her life forever.

Red Rising by Pierce Brown is a gripping science fiction novel set in a dystopian future. It follows the story of Darrow, a member of the lowest caste in society, as he infiltrates the ruling class in a bid to bring about revolution. Filled with action, political intrigue, and thought-provoking themes, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Insurgent tells the gripping story of Tris Prior as she continues to fight against a corrupt and oppressive society. Set in a dystopian world, this thrilling novel delves into themes of power, identity, and the consequences of taking a stand. As Tris becomes increasingly involved in the resistance, she discovers shocking truths about her society and herself.

Under the Never Sky is a dystopian novel set in a future world where society is divided into two groups: those who live in the safety of enclosed pods and those who brave the dangerous outside world. When Aria, a girl from the pods, is exiled to the outside, she meets Perry, a savage outsider. Together, they must navigate the treacherous landscape and uncover the truth about their world. This thrilling tale explores themes of survival, friendship, and the power of human connection.

Glass Sword is the second book in the Red Queen series by Victoria Aveyard. It follows the story of Mare Barrow, a girl with unique powers in a world divided by blood – the red-blooded commoners and the silver-blooded elite. As Mare embarks on a mission to find and recruit others like her, she discovers the extent of her own abilities and the challenges she must face in the fight against the oppressive regime.

Champion is the third and final book in the Legend trilogy by Marie Lu. Set in a dystopian future, it follows the story of June and Day as they fight against a corrupt government. In this thrilling conclusion, they must make sacrifices and face difficult choices in order to bring about change and secure a better future for their world.

The Knife of Never Letting Go is a gripping dystopian novel by Patrick Ness. Set in a world where all living creatures can hear each other's thoughts in a stream of constant noise called "The Noise," the story follows a young boy named Todd who discovers a patch of silence and learns that everything he has been told about his town and its inhabitants is a lie. Filled with suspense and thought-provoking themes, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Selection by Kiera Cass introduces a world where a group of girls compete for the heart of a prince in a televised competition. As America Singer unexpectedly becomes a participant in the Selection, she faces challenges, romance, and unexpected choices that will change her life forever. This captivating dystopian novel explores themes of love, class, and the power of individual agency.

Never Fade is a gripping young adult novel by Alexandra Bracken. It follows the story of Ruby, a teenager with special abilities, as she joins a group of rebel kids fighting against a corrupt government. Filled with action, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Mockingjay is the third book in Suzanne Collins's thrilling Hunger Games trilogy. Set in a dystopian world, it follows the courageous protagonist Katniss Everdeen as she becomes the symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol. Filled with action, suspense, and thought-provoking themes, this book explores the consequences of war and the power of individual choice.

The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau is a captivating dystopian novel set in an underground city where the lights are beginning to flicker and supplies are running out. Follow the story of two brave teenagers, Lina and Doon, as they race against time to find a way out of Ember and uncover the truth about their world.

Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of race, discrimination, and forbidden love. Set in an alternate society where dark-skinned Crosses are the ruling class and light-skinned Noughts are oppressed, the story follows the lives of two young individuals, Sephy and Callum, as they challenge the unjust system and fight for equality.

Prodigy is the second book in the Legend trilogy by Marie Lu. Set in a dystopian future, it follows the story of June and Day as they become involved in a rebel group fighting against a corrupt government. Filled with action, suspense, and a touch of romance, this book delves deeper into the characters' struggles and the complexities of their world.

Catching Fire is the second book in Suzanne Collins's thrilling Hunger Games trilogy. It continues the story of Katniss Everdeen as she unwittingly becomes a symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol. Filled with action, suspense, and political intrigue, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Monsters of Men is the final book in Patrick Ness's thrilling Chaos Walking trilogy. Set in a world where all living creatures can hear each other's thoughts, it follows the intense conflict between humans and the native species known as the Spackle. As war looms and tensions rise, the book delves into themes of power, morality, and the true nature of monsters.

Dark Age is a gripping science fiction novel by Pierce Brown that takes place in a dystopian future where society is divided by color and ruled by a brutal hierarchy. As a revolution brews and old alliances are tested, the characters must navigate through political intrigue, betrayal, and war to fight for their freedom and the future of their world.

A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess is a dystopian novel that delves into themes of free will, morality, and the effects of psychological conditioning. Set in a future society, the story follows Alex, a delinquent who undergoes a controversial treatment aimed at suppressing his violent tendencies. This thought-provoking book challenges the reader to question the nature of good and evil.

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver is a gripping dystopian novel that delves into the consequences of a society where love is considered a disease. The story follows protagonist Lena as she navigates the dangerous and unpredictable world outside the walls of her former life, and the choices she must make to survive and fight for freedom.

In The Afterlight is a gripping novel by Alexandra Bracken that follows a group of teenagers with special abilities as they fight against a corrupt government. As they plan their final stand, they must confront their own fears and doubts while navigating a world filled with danger and uncertainty. This thrilling conclusion to the Darkest Minds series will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi is a captivating dystopian novel that follows the story of Juliette, a girl with a deadly touch. Locked away in isolation for years, she is suddenly thrust into a world of political intrigue and rebellion. As she navigates this dangerous new reality, she discovers the true extent of her powers and must decide where her loyalties lie. With beautiful prose and a unique narrative style, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Gathering Blue is a thought-provoking novel by Lois Lowry that delves into themes of creativity, individuality, and societal norms. Set in a dystopian world, it follows the story of a young girl named Kira who possesses a unique talent for weaving. As she uncovers the truth about her society and her own abilities, Kira embarks on a journey of self-discovery and rebellion against the oppressive forces around her.

Oryx and Crake is a thought-provoking novel by Margaret Atwood that takes place in a dystopian future. It tells the story of Snowman, the last human left on Earth, as he reflects on his past and the events that led to the downfall of civilization. Filled with themes of science, morality, and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement, this book challenges our ideas about the future and the world we live in.

The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin is a gripping tale set in a world constantly ravaged by catastrophic climate events. It follows three women with extraordinary abilities as they navigate a society that fears and oppresses them. This thought-provoking novel delves into themes of power, oppression, and resilience, and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Requiem by Lauren Oliver is a captivating dystopian novel that explores the consequences of love and resistance in a society where emotions are regulated. As the final installment of the Delirium trilogy, it delves into the fight for freedom and the complexities of relationships in a world where love is considered a disease.

World War Z by Max Brooks is a gripping novel that presents a unique take on the zombie apocalypse. Through a series of interviews with survivors from around the world, the book explores how different countries and individuals responded to the global outbreak. It delves into themes of survival, government response, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Unwind by Neal Shusterman is a gripping dystopian novel that explores a world where unwanted teenagers are harvested for their body parts. Set in a society where parents can choose to 'unwind' their children, the book follows three teens who escape this fate and go on the run. It raises thought-provoking questions about ethics, autonomy, and the value of human life.

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard is a thrilling fantasy novel set in a world divided by blood. Mare Barrow, a Red-blooded commoner, discovers she has a unique power that could change the balance of power between the Silver-blooded elite and the oppressed Reds. Filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and a touch of romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Angelfall is a gripping novel by Susan Ee that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. It follows the story of a young girl named Penryn who forms an unlikely alliance with an injured angel in order to save her kidnapped sister. Filled with action, suspense, and a hint of romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Through the Ever Night is a captivating young adult novel by Veronica Rossi. It continues the story of Aria and Perry as they navigate a treacherous world filled with danger and deception. As they fight to be together and protect their loved ones, they uncover shocking truths about their world and themselves. This thrilling sequel is filled with action, romance, and unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Blood Red Road by Moira Young is a gripping dystopian novel set in a post-apocalyptic world. It follows the story of Saba, a fierce and determined girl who sets out on a dangerous journey to rescue her kidnapped twin brother. Filled with action, adventure, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner delves into a dystopian world where a group of boys are trapped in a mysterious maze with their memories erased. As they navigate through the dangerous maze and try to find a way out, they uncover dark secrets about their past and the outside world. Filled with suspense and thrilling twists, this book is a gripping journey into a hauntingly unique reality.

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that delves into the nature of humanity and empathy. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story follows Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter tasked with 'retiring' rogue androids. As Deckard questions his own morality and reality, the book raises profound questions about what it means to be human.

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir is a gripping fantasy novel set in a brutal world inspired by ancient Rome. It follows the intertwined stories of Laia, a slave fighting for her family's freedom, and Elias, a soldier fighting for his own. As they navigate the dangers of their society, they must make difficult choices that will determine the fate of their world.

Ender's Game (1985) is a science fiction novel that follows the story of a young boy, Ender Wiggin, who is recruited into a prestigious military academy in space. Trained to lead Earth's defense against an alien race, Ender must navigate complex simulations and intense challenges that test his strategic genius. As the fate of humanity hangs in the balance, Ender prepares for a final battle that will determine the outcome of the war.

Morning Star is a thrilling science fiction novel by Pierce Brown. It is the third book in the Red Rising series and follows the story of Darrow, a rebel leading a revolution against a tyrannical society. Filled with action, political intrigue, and complex characters, the book explores themes of power, loyalty, and the fight for freedom.

Pretties by Scott Westerfeld is a captivating young adult novel set in a future world where everyone undergoes a surgical procedure at age 16 to become 'pretty'. The story follows Tally Youngblood as she navigates the glamorous yet sinister world of the pretties, uncovering dark secrets along the way. It delves into themes of beauty, conformity, and individuality, making it a thought-provoking read for teens and adults alike.

Steelheart is a gripping science fiction novel by Brandon Sanderson. Set in a world where superpowered individuals known as Epics rule with an iron fist, the story follows a young man named David who seeks revenge against the most powerful Epic of all: Steelheart. Filled with action, suspense, and a unique take on the superhero genre, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

In a world where storytelling is forbidden, a young girl named Petra discovers she is the last remaining cuentista, a magical storyteller. As she embarks on a dangerous journey to save her family and preserve the power of storytelling, she uncovers long-buried secrets and learns the true importance of keeping the ancient tales alive. "The Last Cuentista" is a captivating blend of fantasy and Mexican folklore that celebrates the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.

Golden Son is the second book in the Red Rising trilogy, a gripping science fiction series set in a dystopian future. Written by Pierce Brown, the novel follows the protagonist Darrow as he navigates the dangerous world of interplanetary politics and warfare. Filled with action, intrigue, and complex characters, Golden Son explores themes of power, loyalty, and the cost of revolution. It's a thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The 5th Wave is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of Cassie Sullivan, a teenage girl trying to survive in a world devastated by alien attacks. As the waves of destruction continue, Cassie must navigate through danger and betrayal to find her brother and uncover the truth about the alien invasion. With its intense action and thought-provoking themes, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Illuminae is a gripping science fiction novel that follows the story of two teenagers, Kady and Ezra, as they fight for survival in the midst of a galactic war. Told through a series of hacked documents, emails, and interviews, the book takes readers on a thrilling journey through space, filled with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. It's a unique and immersive reading experience that will leave you wanting more.

A Canticle for Leibowitz is a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel that explores the cyclical nature of human civilization. Set in a future where knowledge has been lost, the story follows a group of monks dedicated to preserving the remnants of scientific and technological knowledge. Through three interconnected novellas, the novel delves into themes of religion, progress, and the consequences of human folly. It offers a thought-provoking reflection on the potential for history to repeat itself.

Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell is a captivating novel that weaves together six different stories, spanning from the 19th century to a distant post-apocalyptic future. Each story is linked to the next, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of interconnected lives. Through its unique structure and thought-provoking themes, the book explores the power of human connection, the ripple effects of our actions, and the enduring nature of storytelling.

for anyone interested in dystopian literature. Set in the early 20th century, the novel explores a future society ruled by a tyrannical oligarchy known as "The Iron Heel." Through the eyes of the protagonist, it delves into themes of class struggle, political oppression, and the power of resistance. A thought-provoking and gripping tale that remains relevant to this day.