15 Underrated Books to Add to Your Collection
Looking for a new book to read? These 15 hidden gems deserve a spot on your shelf. From page-turners to thought-provoking tales, these reads are waiting to be discovered.
1. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
This dark academic novel is like a mysterious old friend who always has a new story to tell. Set in a secluded college, it’s a slow-burn thriller filled with intellectuals behaving badly. The characters are both repulsive and fascinating, making you question why you’re rooting for them at all. It’s the literary equivalent of a rich, decadent dessert – best enjoyed in small bites so you can savor every twist and turn. And just like that dessert, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds.
2. Stoner by John Williams
Not to be confused with a novel about a guy who can’t find his lighter, Stoner is actually about a quiet, unassuming professor whose life is anything but spectacular. It’s a beautifully written, introspective story that takes the mundane and makes it profound. You’ll find yourself deeply invested in the life of William Stoner, a man who seems ordinary at first glance but reveals layers of complexity. This book is proof that you don’t need explosions to make a story explode in your heart.
3. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
In a city steeped in secrets, a young boy finds a forgotten book that changes his life. The Shadow of the Wind is part mystery, part romance, and wholly enchanting. It’s a love letter to books, making it the perfect read for bibliophiles. The story is as winding as the streets of Barcelona where it’s set, filled with shadowy figures and buried truths. This book feels like discovering a hidden gem in a dusty old bookshop.
4. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor Oliphant is not your average protagonist, and that’s exactly what makes her story so captivating. This book is both hilarious and heart-wrenching, as it follows Eleanor’s journey from isolation to human connection. With her socially awkward quirks and blunt honesty, Eleanor might just become your new favorite fictional friend. It’s a reminder that even the most seemingly “fine” people can be fighting battles you know nothing about.
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5. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
If you’ve ever wished for an adventure just beneath the surface of your mundane life, Neverwhere is the book for you. Gaiman’s blend of the ordinary and the fantastical takes you to London Below, a hidden city full of strange creatures and even stranger characters. It’s a story of discovery, danger, and the occasional rat. This novel is the perfect escape from reality, where getting lost in the pages is half the fun.
6. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
This classic coming-of-age story is often overlooked, but it’s one that resonates across generations. Set in early 20th-century Brooklyn, it follows the life of Francie Nolan, a young girl with dreams as big as her city. It’s a story of poverty, hope, and resilience, told with warmth and a deep understanding of the human condition. You’ll find yourself rooting for Francie as she navigates the challenges of growing up, proving that sometimes the most powerful stories are the simplest ones.
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7. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
The Night Circus is the literary equivalent of walking into a dream. It’s a magical tale of a mysterious circus that appears without warning, open only at night. The novel’s atmosphere is as enchanting as the circus itself, with vivid descriptions and a plot that weaves in and out of reality. Each page feels like stepping into another world, one filled with intrigue, wonder, and just a hint of danger. It’s a book that will keep you spellbound until the very last word.
8. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Narrated by Death itself, The Book Thief offers a unique perspective on one of the darkest periods in history. It’s a story about the power of words, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. Set in Nazi Germany, the book follows Liesel Meminger as she steals books to find solace in a world filled with turmoil. The writing is poetic, the characters unforgettable, and the story one that will linger long after you’ve finished reading.
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9. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
This multi-generational saga follows a Korean family through several decades, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and survival. Pachinko is as much about the characters as it is about the history that shapes them. The writing is rich and immersive, pulling you into the lives of the characters as they navigate the complexities of being outsiders in Japan. It’s a powerful, emotional read that will leave you reflecting on the impact of history on individual lives.
10. The Power by Naomi Alderman
Imagine a world where women suddenly gain the power to cause physical pain with just a touch. The Power flips gender dynamics on its head, creating a chillingly plausible dystopia. The novel explores how power corrupts, regardless of who wields it, and it’s packed with sharp social commentary. It’s an electrifying read (pun intended) that will have you questioning the nature of power and gender long after you’ve finished.
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11. Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Station Eleven is a post-apocalyptic novel that focuses more on the humanity left after the world ends than on the chaos of the end itself. The story weaves between the lives of several characters, before and after a pandemic wipes out most of the population. It’s a meditation on art, memory, and what it means to be human in the face of unimaginable loss. This book is both haunting and hopeful, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there’s still beauty to be found.
12. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
This retelling of the Iliad from Patroclus’s perspective breathes new life into an ancient story. The Song of Achilles is a tragic, beautiful love story that explores themes of fate, loyalty, and the cost of glory. Miller’s writing is lush and evocative, bringing the world of Greek mythology to life in vivid detail. Whether you’re a fan of mythology or just love a good tragic romance, this book is one that will tug at your heartstrings.
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13. Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
Bel Canto is a novel that begins with a hostage situation but quickly turns into something entirely unexpected. It’s a story of art, music, and the connections that form between people in the most unlikely circumstances. The writing is elegant, the characters richly drawn, and the plot filled with moments of unexpected beauty. This is a book that lingers in your mind, reminding you of the power of human connection even in the face of danger.
14. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
For fans of space opera with a heart, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is a must-read. It’s less about epic battles and more about the diverse crew aboard a spaceship and their adventures in the vastness of space. The book is filled with warmth, humor, and a deep sense of empathy for its characters. It’s a story that reminds you that family isn’t just about blood – sometimes, it’s about the people you choose to journey through life with.
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15. The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
This epic family saga blends magical realism with the political turmoil of 20th-century Chile. The House of the Spirits is a sweeping, multi-generational tale filled with love, revenge, and the supernatural. Allende’s storytelling is rich and immersive, creating a world where the boundaries between the real and the magical blur. This book is a powerful exploration of history, memory, and the enduring strength of family ties.
20 Books to Read If You’re in Need of Inspiration
Sometimes life feels like it’s stuck in a never-ending loop of “meh.” When that happens, a good book can be the spark that reignites your fire. Whether you need a gentle nudge or a full-blown kick of inspiration, the right story or insight can change your outlook completely. Here are 20 books that could be the perfect remedy for when your motivation takes an unscheduled vacation.
20 Books to Read If You’re in Need of Inspiration
16 Books With Twists You Never Saw Coming
There’s nothing quite like a book that pulls the rug out from under you just when you think you have it all figured out. Plot twists breathe fresh life into stories and turn predictable reads into pulse-quickening page-turners. Here’s a list of 16 books with jaw-dropping twists that prove the only thing you can expect is the unexpected.
16 Books With Twists You Never Saw Coming
17 Sci-Fi Books That Will Blow Your Mind
cience fiction has a way of stretching your imagination, offering glimpses into strange futures, alien worlds, and technological wonders. These stories aren’t just about space and robots—they explore humanity, ethics, and the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re a seasoned sci-fi fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, these 17 books will leave you thinking, questioning, and amazed.
17 Sci-Fi Books That Will Blow Your Mind
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