Top 15 Must Read Books of All Time (Books You Can’t Just Miss)

Experts say that books are portable magic. They’d transform you from an ordinary, demotivated soul to an extravagant fighter.

Books are a sanctuary for every individual with a spontaneous imagination; they are friends in the loneliest of times and they are teachers.

They are proof that time travel does exist because a book enables the voice of the writer to escape the shackles of time and speak out to the reader through its pages. 

Today, we have listed some of most must read books of all time, for you. 

Want to know what are the top picks so far for best books of all time? Scroll below:

Must Read books of 2023:

We’ve made a list of top 15 books of all time

Book NameRating
Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't 9/10 Check Price
The 4-Hour Workweek9.5/10 Check Price
Think and Grow Rich 9/10 Check Price
Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies
7.5/10 Check Price
The Richest Man in Babylon 7.5/10 Check Price
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance8/10 Check Price
You Are a Badass®: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life8/10 Check Price
Screw it, Let's do it! By Richard Branson7/10 Check Price
To Kill a Mockingbird10/10 Check Price
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho8/10 Check Price
The Book Thief9/10 Check Price
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie8.5/10 Check Price
A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Muhammad Hanif9/10 Check Price
IT, by Stephen King8/10 Check Price
"Will Grayson, Will Grayson" by John Green and David Levithan7/10 Check Price

1. Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…and Others Don’t

 Summary:

This book is definitely one of the best books to read, known to open doors for those who are struggling to make the leap and add a little extra to their ordinary and become extraordinary; it has proven to generate a lot of revenue.

This book has been written and based on a lot of research and carries careful evaluations.

The author of “Good to Great: Why some companies make the leap … and others don’t”, Jim Collins, was very curious about the factors that make a company sustainable. Good to Great has been constructed on the basis of his hard work and the results of his findings; which makes the book all the more amazing.

The book enabled six companies to take the leap from good to great! The book includes the six ingredients that the transit from good to great require. They are bound to change your life. 

Want to know what the book is all about?

It is based on the best Management Strategies out there!

“Some of the key concepts discerned in the study,” comments Jim Collins, “fly in the face of our modern business culture and will, quite frankly, upset some people.”

Reviews:

Perry Leon talked about the influence the book had on her life while writing her Campaign Blog and talked about how she would rate it as probably the top three business books of all times.

She went to reply to a question about what she had taken from the book, “I took from it that you should focus on key competencies and not get distracted by the other stuff.”

She rates it as one of the top books of all time and goes on to say that it should be included in every piece written on business books and self-help books because it has really helped her.

PROS
CONS
✅ Helps you deal with people from corporate world
❌ Does not cover anything other than management
✅ Motivate entrepreneurs towards valid conversation❌ Too long to read the same content over and over
✅ Covers a broad spectrum of management practices❌ Slight theoretical; less motivational

2. The 4-Hour Workweek

Summary:

This book is must for those people who are looking to make enough money to afford the luxurious lifestyle they want in life. 

Have you been thinking that it would take your whole life to make a million dollars?

That’s not the case:

The book chronicles the techniques of how Tim, the author of The 4-Hour Workweek, managed to jump from earning $40,000 annually to earning the sum in a month! The best part is, the book is about so much more than just making money: it’ll help you rethink your lifestyle and will enable you to make your entire life so much more productive!

Review – ( Must read books ):

The 4-Hour Work Week has been appreciated for its valor and individualism and while Tim Ferris has his critics, the book has managed to change lives. Josh Steimle has publicly announced his love for the book on Forbes and goes on to say that it saved him from working 90 days a week!

PROS
CONS

✅ Empowers everyone to dream irrespective of capital they have❌Persuades the reader towards ditching 9-5; something that’s not possible technically
✅ Helps people explore unconventional ways❌Does not considers mental health options when suggesting new businesses
✅ A highly motivating book based on personal experience; easy to believe❌Does not mention risks involved

3. Think and Grow Rich  

Summary:

This book “Think & Grow Rich” is a simplified rewrite of Napoleon Hill’s very first published version in 1937. This book has managed to carry the wisdom of two-decades-long research which has been conducted by an old and wise man who wanted to know the key to success. 

You may be wondering, what exactly has the author proposed in this book?

Eventually, after a lot of struggle, he became successful and proposed the thirteen steps to success and the seventeen principles of success

Review:

Several people on good reads went on to say that the book has been a life changing experience for them and that it was very realistic and beautiful. The book has managed to change the lives of several high profile celebrities and there is a lot everyone can learn from it!

This book has received several great reviews on Reddit as well and has been rated one of the most read pieces of the 21st century.

PROS
CONS
✅ This book probes its reader to become proficient in disciplines like Specialized Knowledge, Decision Making, Imagination, Organized Planning, and teamwork.❌ It can be said that the book is lengthy to the point of being extreme
✅Being one of the business world’s favorite books, the book can be purchased in only in $ 3.29 at Amazon❌Its language may be classified as difficult for non-native readers.

4. Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies

Summary:

This book is an entire framework: a blueprint which can be implemented by managers and entrepreneurs at all levels, who are looking to make their ideas flourish in the present time and in the future. I think the cost of the book is a small amount of money in comparison to the immense knowledge one will receive through this book. 

The book was written during an era where no business thrived for more than 8 years.

Review:

Several people left their review on good reads about Build to Last, and one such review stated, “Built to Last is such a thought-provoking book, that it has left me dumbfounded about how the author managed to come up with such spot-on points in ’94.”

PROS
CONS
✅ This book provides practical implications to succeed,❌ It's excessively lengthy
✅ A valid framework, an action plan, and influential language❌It's being implementable to certain businesses and may include measures which may become outdated in the next 5 years following due to rapid globalization.
✅ It helps in provoking a call of action inside a person.

This is one of the highly recommended books by Reddit users. It is perfect for people who are looking for some self-help books or books on business.

5. The Richest Man in Babylon

Summary:

This book is unique for the way it has been constructed. It is based on stories of ancient people, it has entertaining tales of merchants, tradesmen, and herdsmen and keeps a person on their toes and engaged. The Richest Man in Babylon jots down all the lessons one must have on their fingertips to keep more out what they earn, get out of debt, invest in the right ventures, attract good luck, choose wise investments, and safeguard a lasting fortune.

Want to know what makes it really engaging and got it into the must read books of 2023 list?

The most fascinating aspect of the book is its connection to history; how it proves that life is a never-ending, repeating concept, and how the nature of humans remains similar despite the time that has past.

The author compares the recent era to the people of Babylon who were the first to discover and implement prosperity.

Review:

Several people on good reads went on to give many positive reviews on the book, and while many went on to say that the book was realistic and simple, it gave some very important lessons: save your money, be smart while making choices and move on!

PROS
CONS
✅ Based on real stories❌ Part of it seems like fiction
✅ Perfectly connects past world to modern era practices❌ The story involves too many characters making it difficult to link
✅ Considers the risk factors involved❌ Success in the book is measured only through money

6. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth

Summary:

The pioneering psychologist Angela Duckworth introduces the concept of “grit”, which she claims is a special blend of passion and persistence.

Wondering what’s the core lesson?

This book makes entrepreneurs realize that grit actually serves as an enzyme in the path to proficiency. Angela proves her theory of ‘grit’ by telling success stories of different people in different scenarios. This is a good motivational technique and keeps the book interesting by making you reflect on;

Why any effort you make ultimately counts twice towards your goal and how lifelong interest is triggered.

Review:

Dustin Flanary talks about Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth and comments that one of the best things that she has shown through her book is that adversity leads people to bloom in ways that comfort doesn’t.

Making it one of the toppers of the nonfiction edition list we’ve put together, it is definitely one of the best books of 2023, and it tops the category of most read books!

PROS
CONS
✅ Connects success to the science of thinking and perceiving
❌ The language used for explanation is difficult to understand
✅ Every claim is backed by logical justification❌ The book is only motivational with no action plan
✅ Stresses on the role of cognitive thinking
❌ At times, very irrelevant and casual stuff is written

7. You Are a Badass®: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life

Summary:

You are a badass is an essential read in 2023 due to its refreshing and relatable content. The author, Jen Sincero, has plotted 27 chapters which are the complete package.

So, what’s the big deal about the book that is titled in slang?

Witty inspirational stories, sage advice, easy exercises, and the occasional swear word, this book helps one identify and change the self-sabotaging beliefs and behaviors that stop them from getting what you want. It enables one to create the life they want and gives them the power to create it NOW

Reviews:

Several people shared their enthusiasm for the book on Good reads and some even went on to say things like; “Does it kick you as a badass, really? It does man! You’re not the same after going through it.”

Making it one of the toppers of the nonfiction edition list we’ve made, it is definitely one of the must-read pieces.

PROS
CONS
✅ The book is very engaging
❌ It doesn’t have anything for people who are working on outdated technologies
✅ The tone of the author is friendly and good enough to connect
❌ It tells people to do what they love irrespective of gauging the scope of the project
✅ The book has complete action plan rather than advices
❌ Does not appreciate people as they are
✅ It is all about the recent era

If you’re still hungry check out: 10 Books Straight Out Of Billionaires’ Bookshelves

8. Screw it, Let’s do it! By Richard Branson

Summary:

Screw it, Let’s do it! is one of Richard Branson’s favorite sayings and in the book he’s written, which he’s given the same name, he writes the life lessons he’s learned while conducting business successfully and trying to

balance his personal life along the way.

He brings forth, the concept that while criticism can be crippling and sometimes leads to indecision, trying, again and again, is the only way a person can reach greatness. He urges his readers to only do what they love.

Review:

People on Quora had a lot say about “Screw it, Let’s do it!” and most of everyone had positive reviews;
P.s Quora is famous for highlighting the best stuff so if I were you I would consider this in my must have list.

Priya Gupta highlighted that it was essential for people to stop complaining to God about the things they didn’t have and start being thankful for the resources and things that they were given instead.

Making it the topper of the most read nonfiction edition, it is definitely is one the best books of  2023.

PROS
CONS
✅ The book is globally praised. ❌ In this book Richard has managed to ignore several real-world issues.
✅ It has humorous language and the engaging content.

MUST READ BOOKS FICTION:

9. To Kill a Mockingbird

Summary:

What better way to tame your wanderlust than to enjoy Harper Lee’s, To Kill a Mockingbird.

The plot puts your imagination in turmoil, the story allows you to see things through the point of view of a young girl, who is coming-of-age in the South. She lives with her father, a lawyer, who puts everything at stake to defend a black man unjustly accused of a crime.

Over a million copies of this book have been sold out and are still selling! 

Review:

To Kill a Mockingbird is a best seller worldwide and has also been adopted by the US education board as a course book for primary schoolers. Several people on Goodreads left bright and promising comments, one of which was,

“I must say this book is a must-read fiction, and the best part is that you can have it in your preferred language; the book has forty different translations.”

PROS
CONS
✅ Breaks the barriers of an ideal conventional expected story plot
❌ Use of racial epithets go too far
✅ Covers topics like racial injustice❌ Invites segmented readers; the author has partial opinions
✅ Connects to the characters while maintaining the interest level❌ Portrayed only the negative side of USA
✅ Promotes tolerance among readers

10. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Summary:

Paulo Coelho is one of the famous writers of our era. Almost all of his work is brilliant, but nothing has been able to beat The Alchemist yet. This mystical novel takes its readers into a magical journey following Santiago, readers have been known to discover themselves while enjoying this masterpiece.

Review:

People have been a fan of The Alchemist since the time it was released, several readers on Good reads went on to say positive things about it.

One such gentleman stated that,

“This is the book which helps a person understand the significance of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, most importantly, it teaches us to follow our dreams.”

PROS
CONS
✅ Lessons evolve from the simplicity of life making it easier to adopt
❌ The story has become slightly outdated in comparison to the recent era
✅ Stresses on identifying one’s true self
✅ Does not glorify nationalities, money and material belongings

11. The Book Thief: Enhanced Movie Tie-in Edition 13.99

Summary:

Markus Zusak has written some of the most inspiring books of all time. The book thief is another example, the books will change your perspective of life and you’ll never be able to put it down!

The story is extremely intriguing and is set in 1939, the period of Nazis during the War.

The main character Liesel Meminger resides outside Munish and is a serial thief of books! 

She shares the books that she has stolen with her foster father and the residents nearby during the bombings in her city.

The story is one of the most engaging books ever written and is piled up with plots and twists to keep its reader bound.

Review:

People have been crazy about this book ever since it came out in 2005. Today, several thousands of copies have been printed and read.
Shannon on Good reads went on to say;

“This is a book to treasure, a new classic. I absolutely loved it.”

Seeing as its a fan favorite, it has earned its place on our 2023 list!

PROS
CONS
✅ The book emphasizes helping people with knowledge❌ Promotes the concept of robbery
✅ Sentences are well structured; short and precise❌ It is a religion-oriented book
✅ Recreates the era of Nazis in a light manner

12. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

Summary:

“And then there were none” is one the best mystery books ever written. The story features a host of main characters all traveling to a mysterious place called the Indian Island. They have been invited by  Mr. or Mrs. U.N. Owen, or a Mrs. Constance Culmington. Slowly everyone starts dying, and the best part is, the killer is one of them.

Review:

Janet Lingel Aldrich talks about loving all of Agatha Christe’s books but always finding “and then there were none” more interesting in the re-reads.

PROS
CONS
✅ This book captures enthralling, a page-turner❌The book is considered a classic
✅ Agatha Christie is by far the best thriller writer to have ever lived❌Language is a bit difficult
❌ It tells the story of people living in more cultured times than ours

13. A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Muhammad Hanif

Summary:

One of the best novels ever written, A case of exploding mangoes, chronicles the story of the plane crash that killed General Zia-ul-Haq, the former President of Pakistan. It has been internationally acclaimed and is something of a classic.

Review:

In his comprehensive review, Chandak Sengoopta goes on to say that while the book explores all very serious historic characters with much glee, it still manages to portray a real-life ending and a sad but realistic explanation to the events unfolding during that time, making it a must read.

Making it one of the most famous books in the fiction category!

PROS
CONS
✅The book is humorous❌People who don’t enjoy historical fictions aren’t going to enjoy this book
✅ It is definitely a page-turner and easy to read!❌It has been said by critics that the novel fails to build tension and then finishes it all too quickly leaving the reader feeling deflated

14. IT, by Stephen King

Summary:

Praised as one of the best thriller and horror novels of our era, IT by Stephen King weaves a story of a small town, infested by a mysterious and creepy spirit that has taken the shape of a clown and is kidnapping children. A group of children on the verge of becoming teenagers are caught in the middle of the chaos and confusion, and without really choosing to, have to save the town from the demon.

Review:

Jeffrey M. Anderson talks about IT with great admiration and says, “This terrifying clown book builds “It”s fright from fear “It” self.”

Making it one of the most famous books in the fiction category!

PROS
CONS
✅ The story is beautifully written and scary❌ People are not sure whether the movie adaptations of the book have done it justice or have managed to ruin the entire series.
✅ Stephen King manages to scare us and highlight real-life issues at the same time!

15. “Will Grayson, Will Grayson” by John Green and David Levithan

Summary:

Will Grayson, Will Grayson is a unique and beautifully written story that follows two boys of the same age, sharing the same name but living different lives and with demons of their own to overcome. Their paths cross in what can only be called a miracle and they manage to help each other find their way.

Review:

The Guardian’s writers have loved Will Grayson, Will Grayson and have several positive things to say;

 “In fact, it is a book I never even expected to like. But my love of John Green drew me towards it, and I’d left it untouched in my bag on holiday until I had no more books left to read, then later loved it!”

Making it one of the most famous books in the fiction category!

PROS
CONS
✅ The book is a page-turner❌ Critics of John Green say that Will Grayson, Will Grayson is just another books written on the model of John Green’s Let it snow
✅ It is short and easy to read
✅ It deals with real-world issues like most of John Green’s books do