The best 40 Loneliness books

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. 

Norwegian Wood (1987) transports you to late 1960s Tokyo, where Toru Watanabe's recollection of his student days unveils a haunting tale of love, loss, and the passage of time. As he navigates friendships, passionate encounters, and heart-wrenching choices, we witness his complex relationships with the troubled beauty, Naoko, and the brazen Midori. Set against a backdrop of societal upheaval, Murakami delves deep into the emotional turmoil of choosing between past and future, weaving a story that resonates with the nostalgia and unrest of youth.

Kafka on the Shore (2002) is a metaphysical adventure involving two main characters: Kafka Tamura, a 15-year-old runaway, and Satoru Nakata, an elderly man with mysterious powers. As Kafka seeks refuge in a library, strange events unfold that may reveal secrets about his past. Meanwhile, Nakata embarks on a quest to find a mystical stone that may be the key to resolving Kafka’s predicament.

Heft by Liz Moore is a poignant novel that delves into the lives of two unlikely characters, Arthur and Kel, who are both struggling with their own personal challenges. As their stories intertwine, the book explores themes of loneliness, family, and the power of human connection. It is a beautifully written and thought-provoking tale that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

A Man Called Ove tells the story of a grumpy yet endearing widower who finds new purpose in life when a boisterous young family moves in next door. Fredrik Backman's heartwarming novel explores themes of friendship, love, and the impact one person can have on the lives of others.

On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous is a debut novel by Ocean Vuong. It is a letter from a son to his illiterate mother, exploring their family history and the struggles they face as immigrants in America. Through beautiful prose and poignant reflections, the book delves into the complexities of identity, love, and the desire for connection.

The Lonely City by Olivia Laing is a captivating exploration of loneliness in the bustling metropolis of New York. Through the lens of art and the lives of famous artists, Laing delves into the profound and often overlooked experience of being alone in a crowded city. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on human connection and the ways in which we navigate our inner worlds.

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.

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 Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery tells the story of Valancy Stirling, a timid woman who discovers she has a terminal illness. Feeling liberated by her impending death, she decides to break free from her oppressive family and live life on her own terms. Set in the early 20th century, the novel explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness.

Because of Winn-Dixie is a heartwarming tale by Kate DiCamillo about a young girl named Opal who adopts a stray dog and names him Winn-Dixie. Through their adventures in a small town, they befriend an eclectic group of characters and uncover the truth about Opal's own family. It's a story about friendship, forgiveness, and the power of unconditional love.

Our Souls at Night by Kent Haruf is a poignant and tender novel that explores the unexpected friendship and companionship between two lonely widowers. Set in a small town in Colorado, the book delves into themes of love, loss, and the desire for human connection. It is a beautiful and heartwarming story that reminds us it's never too late to find happiness.

The Path of Loneliness by Elisabeth Elliot delves into the universal experience of loneliness and offers insights on how to navigate through it. Drawing from her own personal journey and faith, Elliot explores the different facets of loneliness and provides a perspective that brings comfort and hope to those who may be walking a similar path.

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a compelling novel that delves into the delicate issues of teenage suicide, bullying, and the ripple effects of our actions. Told through cassette tapes left by a girl named Hannah Baker, it follows the thirteen reasons why she decided to take her own life. This thought-provoking book challenges us to reconsider how we treat others and the impact it can have.

El Deafo by Cece Bell is a heartwarming graphic novel that tells the story of a young girl named Cece who loses her hearing due to illness. Through colorful illustrations and a touch of humor, the book explores Cece's journey as she navigates the challenges of fitting in at a new school and embracing her differences. It's a beautiful and inspiring tale of friendship, self-acceptance, and the power of communication.

We Are Okay by Nina LaCour delves into the theme of grief and the complexity of human emotions. It follows Marin, a college student who has isolated herself from her past and her best friend, Mabel. The novel unwinds with vulnerability and raw honesty as Marin confronts her pain and allows herself to heal. It is a beautifully poignant tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery.

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami is a mesmerizing blend of magical realism, mystery, and historical fiction. Set in Tokyo, the novel follows the protagonist, Toru Okada, as he embarks on a surreal journey to find his missing wife. Murakami weaves together multiple storylines and characters, delving into themes of war, trauma, and the search for identity. With its rich imagery and thought-provoking narrative, this book is a captivating exploration of the human psyche.

Eleven Kinds of Loneliness is a collection of short stories by Richard Yates that delves into the emotional isolation and disconnection experienced by various characters. Through poignant and beautifully crafted narratives, Yates explores the complexities of human relationships and the universal longing for connection.

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey is a captivating novel set in 1920s Alaska. Inspired by a Russian fairy tale, it tells the story of a childless couple who build a snow girl, only to have a real child appear in the wilderness. As they come to love the mysterious girl, they discover that she may be more connected to the harsh and enchanting land than they ever imagined.

Everything I Never Told You by Celeste Ng is a gripping novel that unravels the mystery behind a young girl's death and delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics and the weight of unspoken truths. Set in the 1970s, it explores themes of identity, belonging, and the pressure to live up to expectations.

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 Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is a captivating coming-of-age novel that follows a young Native American boy named Junior as he navigates life on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Filled with humor, honesty, and heartache, Junior's diary entries offer a unique perspective on identity, friendship, and the pursuit of a better future.

Sputnik Sweetheart is a novel by Haruki Murakami that delves into themes of unrequited love, longing, and the search for identity. The story follows a young teacher named Sumire who falls in love with an older woman named Miu. When Sumire mysteriously disappears on a Greek island, her friend K sets out to uncover the truth. Blending elements of mystery and magical realism, the book explores the complexities of human relationships and the enigmatic nature of existence.

The Arrival by Shaun Tan is a beautifully illustrated graphic novel that tells the story of a man who leaves his family to seek a better life in a new country. Without using any words, Tan captures the immigrant experience, the challenges of adapting to a new culture, and the universal themes of hope and resilience. It is a poignant and thought-provoking book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

The Anatomy of Loneliness delves deep into the psychological and emotional factors that contribute to feelings of isolation and disconnection. Teal Swan offers profound insights and practical guidance for healing and transforming loneliness, bringing greater awareness and understanding to this universal human experience.

A Christmas Carol is a timeless classic that tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Through these visits, Scrooge is forced to confront his own selfishness and lack of compassion, ultimately leading to his redemption. This heartwarming tale reminds us of the true spirit of Christmas and the power of kindness and generosity.

The Storm Whale by Benji Davies is a touching story about a young boy named Noi who discovers a beached whale during a storm. He takes the whale home and cares for it in secret, forming a special bond. As Noi's father learns about the whale, he helps Noi return it to the sea. The book beautifully portrays themes of friendship, compassion, and the importance of family.

The Book of Disquiet (1982) by Fernando Pessoa, translated by Richard Zenith, is a thought-provoking collection of fragmentary writings that delves into the inner musings and reflections of a solitary bookkeeper named Bernardo Soares. Throughout the book, Soares grapples with themes of existentialism, identity, and the complexities of the human experience, offering profound insights and challenging the reader to contemplate the nature of life itself.

The Death of Ivan Ilych is a powerful novella by Leo Tolstoy that delves into the themes of mortality and the meaning of life. It tells the story of a high-ranking judge who is forced to confront his own impending death and reflects on the emptiness of his life. Through Ivan Ilych's journey, Tolstoy prompts readers to contemplate the choices they make and the way they live their lives.

Tell the Wolves I'm Home by Carol Rifka Brunt is a poignant novel that delves into themes of love, loss, and family. Set in the 1980s, it tells the story of fourteen-year-old June Elbus who forms an unlikely bond with her late uncle's partner, Toby. As their friendship blossoms, they navigate through their grief and secrets, ultimately learning the true meaning of acceptance and forgiveness.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a compelling novel that delves into the life of the quirky and solitary Eleanor Oliphant. As Eleanor navigates through everyday life with her unique perspective, her carefully constructed world begins to unravel. This heartwarming and thought-provoking story explores themes of loneliness, the power of human connection, and the possibility of healing.

Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the mind of a troubled teenager named Leonard Peacock. On his 18th birthday, Leonard plans to shoot his former best friend and then himself. The book takes us through Leonard's day as he says his goodbyes and reflects on the events that led him to this decision. It explores themes of friendship, mental illness, and the impact of our actions on others.

Uninvited Study Guide by Lysa TerKeurst is a companion to the bestselling book Uninvited. It provides thought-provoking discussion questions, insightful reflections, and practical exercises to help readers explore the themes of rejection, loneliness, and finding their true identity in God. This study guide is perfect for individuals or groups looking to delve deeper into the book's powerful message.

Uninvited by Lysa TerKeurst explores the universal experience of feeling rejected and shows readers how to overcome the pain and power of rejection. Drawing from her own personal struggles and biblical wisdom, TerKeurst offers a message of hope and acceptance, reminding us that we are loved and valued by a God who invites us to live a life of freedom and purpose.

Eleven Kinds of Loneliness is a collection of short stories by Richard Yates that delves into the various forms of isolation and disconnection experienced by ordinary people. Through poignant and beautifully written narratives, Yates explores the complexities of human relationships and the universal longing for connection. Each story offers a glimpse into the inner lives of its characters, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Heft by Liz Moore is a poignant and beautifully written novel that delves into the lives of two unlikely individuals brought together by circumstance. It explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the power of human relationships. Through rich character development and intricate storytelling, Moore captivates readers and leaves them reflecting on the complexities of life.

Our Souls at Night is a novel by Kent Haruf that tells the story of Addie Moore and Louis Waters, two elderly widowed neighbors who form an unexpected connection. Seeking companionship and comfort in their twilight years, they embark on a unique and heartwarming journey that challenges societal norms and explores the true meaning of love and friendship.

The Anatomy of Loneliness by Teal Swan delves into the deep-rooted causes and effects of loneliness. Through personal anecdotes, psychological insights, and spiritual teachings, Swan offers a unique perspective on how we can overcome loneliness and find true connection with ourselves and others. This thought-provoking book provides a roadmap for healing and transforming our relationships with loneliness.

The Path of Loneliness by Elisabeth Elliot explores the universal experience of loneliness and offers profound insights on how to navigate this challenging emotion. Drawing from her own personal journey and faith, Elliot provides wisdom and comfort for those who may feel isolated or disconnected, guiding them towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship with God.

Uninvited Study Guide by Lysa TerKeurst is a companion to the bestselling book Uninvited. This study guide provides thought-provoking questions, insightful reflections, and practical exercises to help readers explore the root of their rejections and embrace God's unconditional love. It is designed for individuals or groups who want to delve deeper into the themes of the book and apply its principles to their own lives.