Have you been planning to start a reading habit for a while now? Do you have the time and access to a physical or online library but feel overwhelmed by so many book titles and genres?
Well, there’s no better time to start reading than now. I’ll tell you why.
Reading books will help you gain valuable knowledge, boost your memory, bolster your communication skills, exercise your brain, relieve stress, improve your analytical thinking, and enhance your empathic abilities.
If you think these benefits are worth developing the reading habit, this article will make it easy for you to get started.
I have compiled a list of the best books to read for beginners. These books are categorized into various genres for effortless selection.
Let’s get started.
Best Books to Read for Beginners
Mystery Thrillers
Mystery thrillers often contain investigations revolving around the whodunit technique (a murder mystery story in which the murderer’s identity isn’t shown until the end).
Common elements in psychological and dramatic thrillers are obsession, psychology, plot twists, and mind games. Here are the best books to read for beginners in this genre.
1. The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie
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The classic mystery focuses on two young detectives, Tommy and Tuppence, who get caught up in conspiracy and espionage.
They have one mission: to locate a missing person and annihilate a secretive crime organization. Christie narrates the story by combining suspense, unexpected twists, and subtle deductions.
Christie uses a concise and straightforward writing style with a plot comprising suspects and clues, making this piece a perfect introduction to anyone getting into classic mystery fiction.
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2. Still Life: A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel by Louise Penny
In this mystery novel, a chief inspector, Armand Gamache, is invited to Three Pines, a peaceful village, to investigate a case involving a famous artist’s murder.
As Armand navigates the intriguing yet mysterious living of the villagers, he stumbles on long-buried secrets and clues that help him crack the case.
Penny uses a descriptive but accessible style to draw readers into a cozy, mysterious world filled with vivid characters. This straightforward writing style encourages beginners to follow the story effortlessly.
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3. The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
In this exciting story, Precious Ramotswe is Botswana’s female detective who launches her own investigative agency to uncover various mysteries and help others in the area.
You will discover the different cases Precious takes and solves as you read. Each case reflects her clients and Botswana’s rich culture in general.
Alexander McCall Smith uses relatable characters, and uplifting and gentle storytelling, making this novel a perfect fit for readers new to mysteries.
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4. The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
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In this thriller, Lo Blacklock is a travel journalist who starts out on a luxurious cruise covering the boutique cruise liner’s maiden voyage.
Everything seems to proceed smoothly until Lo witnesses a murder in a nearby cabin. While Lo wants to uncover the truth, she plunges herself into a suspenseful and perilous path onboard.
Beginners will find Ruth Ware’s novel a page-turner due to its suspenseful and gripping elements. The cruise ship’s confined setting adds more tension to this story. Plus, the accessible writing style guarantees an immersive reading session.
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5. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
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A renowned painter, Alicia Berenson, faces serious murder accusations but keeps quiet. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, takes up the case to find out why Alicia is silent.
This story is based within a psychiatric facility and also in Alicia’s residence. Theo’s resolve to break Alicia’s silence takes up most of the plot.
As Theo continues to explore Alicia’s art and past, themes of the human psyche, obsession, and trauma come to the surface.
This psychological thriller is concise yet intriguing, making it suitable for those seeking a quick but engaging read. Also, the book’s structured plot is easy to follow.
6. The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)
The Cuckoo’s Calling is J.K. Rowling’s work, but she uses a pseudonym: Robert Galbraith.
When Lula Landry, a troubled supermodel, falls from a snow-covered balcony and dies, many believe it’s suicide. However, her brother thinks it’s murder and calls in Cormoran Strike, a private investigator, to investigate the case.
Strike delves deeper into the exciting but treacherous world of wealth and fame that Lula worked in. He soon stumbles on a maze of deception, secrets, and troubled family ties.
Strike probes further but starts battling his own past and personal demons. The Cuckoo’s Calling is a narrative around an exciting mystery that you won’t want to stop reading until the end.
J.K. Rowling’s storytelling style shines throughout this mystery series, offering an entry point for readers who want to transition to mature mystery stories. The book is also moderately sized, making it less intimidating for beginners.
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Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction entails novels based on the recent past or present day. This genre explores contemporary society’s experiences, lives, and issues. It typically reflects on the time’s social, cultural, and political aspects.
Here are the best books to read for beginners in contemporary fiction
7. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor is a socially clumsy yet organized woman with an enigmatic past. Her daily life concerns work, weekly phone calls, frozen pizza, and a controlling mother.
However, when IT guy Raymond enters her office, Eleanor’s life changes dramatically. They become friends, transforming each other’s lives in meaningful ways. They start dealing with their past and healing from it.
The uplifting and humorous novel delves into themes of mental health, loneliness, and the impact of human connection.
As Eleanor embarks on her journey of self-discovery, readers start witnessing her becoming more compassionate and open.
The novel’s endearing and relatable characters make it more accessible. It portrays real-life issues without getting overly heavy and offers moments of growth and hope.
The novel’s simple narrative style and captivating storytelling make it ideal for readers starting their journey into contemporary fiction.
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8. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
The novel’s setting is the Nazi-occupied France during the Second World War. The story revolves around two sisters, Isabelle and Vianne, who must overcome the hurdles of survival and resistance.
Vianne is the elder sister who focuses on motherhood and protecting her daughter. On the other hand, Isabelle’s bold and fierce character makes her join the French Resistance.
As the lives of the two sisters unfold in the face of the war, their experiences reflect the women’s strength and resilience in the most challenging times.
The Nightingale’s narrative is about everyday sacrifices people make in trying times that turn them into heroes.
Despite the historical context, this book suits readers new to contemporary fiction. It is easy to relate to, thanks to the themes of love, parenting, sacrifice, and determination.
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9. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
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This atmospheric and lyrical novel narrates the story of Kya Clark (the “Marsh Girl”). Kya grows up in isolation in North Carolina’s marshes after her family abandons her.
Soon, a young man dies, and people suspect Kya for his murder. The investigation brings her life’s secrets to light. The story alternates between a 1969 murder investigation and Kya’s upbringing.
As Kya gets entwined with her immediate world, she faces survival challenges, loneliness, and love.
This novel weaves together a murder mystery, maturing, and a love story. The common themes include prejudice, resilience, and determination during adversity.
The novel’s dual narration and emotional writing style make it captivating for readers who want to explore contemporary fiction.
The story combines romance, mystery, and literary fiction, providing new readers with an immersive and well-balanced experience.
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10. Where the Crawdads Sing by Tara Westover
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Educated is an exciting memoir highlighting Tara Westover’s journey from growing up as a child in an abusive and conservative home in rural Idaho to becoming a Cambridge University Ph.D. holder.
Tara’s story is about self-discovery, tenacity, and educational pursuit despite the challenges. Although Tara grows up under difficult circumstances, such as lacking formal education, her persistence catapults her to a place of enlightenment and growth.
This book takes you on a journey with Tara from her remote rural home in Idaho to famous academic institutions, where she fights her past challenges and confronts her future possibilities.
The memoir is perfect for beginner readers because it focuses on an inspirational and familiar tale of determination and personal growth.
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11. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
This symbolic and philosophical novel is about a shepherd boy, Santiago, who starts a quest to find a hidden treasure around the Egyptian pyramids.
When Santiago starts commuting across North Africa’s oases and deserts, he faces various experiences and characters that open his eyes about pursuing dreams and life’s true purpose.
This novel contains symbolic elements that make readers start analyzing their own life’s paths and why it’s essential to pursue one’s heart.
The novel’s philosophical and inspirational themes appeal to readers who want to acquaint themselves with contemporary fiction. It encourages introspection and self-reflection, making it an excellent choice for beginner readers.
Readers of any background will enjoy The Alchemist’s universal themes of personal legends, destiny, and the human spirit.
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Literary Fiction
This genre focuses on the intellectual and artistic elements of storytelling.
Whereas genre fiction emphasizes particular plot-based aspects like romance, science fiction, and mystery, literary fiction emphasizes the depth of characterization, quality of writing, and complex themes, such as identity, morality, and human nature.
Here are books in the literary fiction genre.
12. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
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The 1930s story is based in the American South, riddled with racism. To Kill a Mockingbird focuses on Scout Finch, a young woman who navigates the challenges of morality, justice, and empathy.
Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, is a professional lawyer tasked with fighting for a black man facing the false accusations of defiling a white woman.
From Scout’s perception, readers see the racial tensions and moral struggles that affect the town of Maycomb. This book portrays the themes of social justice, racism, and loss of innocence.
Harper Lee’s classic novel blends an engaging narrative with profound social commentary, making it a stimulating piece for readers new to the literary fiction genre.
13. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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The Great Gatsby focuses on the story of Jay Gatsby, an affluent and enigmatic man who attempts to get Daisy Buchanan, his lost love, back.
The novel is set in the Roaring Twenties and delves into various themes, including greed, violence, love, and the American Dream.
The main point in this book is that we can’t relive the past, and everyone needs to move forward.
The author’s compelling characters and concise prose make the book suitable for readers new to literary fiction. It’s an excellent exploration of the intricacies of human desire and the hopeless pursuit of the American dream.
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14. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
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Do you like books with a first-person narration style? You should start reading The Catcher in the Rye, narrated by Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager.
The book follows the teen’s story across New York after expulsion from prep school. Holden is the epitome of a complex character struggling with the adult world’s phoniness in the pursuit of connection and authenticity.
This novel reveals the themes of alienation, identity, and the troubles teenagers face growing up. Both teenagers and parents new to literary fiction will find this book exciting and relatable.
15. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
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The Kite Runner focuses on Amir, an Afghan boy, and his relationship with Hassan, a childhood friend.
In this unforgettable but heartbreaking tale of the unusual friendship between an affluent boy and the son of his dad’s servant, caught in history’s tragic sweep, Khaled Hosseini takes readers back to Afghanistan at a crucial but tense moment of transition and destruction.
After a traumatic occurrence separates the two friends, Amir starts a journey of forgiveness and making amends.
This book explores the themes of redemption, guilt, sacrifice, and friendship in the context of Afghanistan’s political upheaval.
Hosseini’s storytelling resonates emotionally with most readers, making it suitable for those exploring literary fiction books.
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16. Beloved by Toni Morrison
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After the American Civil War, Sethe, a former slave, seeks refuge in Ohio but can’t escape from the memories of her disturbing past.
The book delves into slavery’s destructive legacy as it explores the life of Sethe, from her time as a slave in Kentucky before the Civil War to her time and life in Ohio as a free woman.
When Sethe finally meets Beloved, a young woman, her life unfolds as she faces up to her years of slavery.
Beloved reveals how slavery can devastate victims physically, spiritually, and emotionally. This devastation keeps haunting former slaves even in their freedom.
Slavery’s most significant danger is its impact on the victim’s identity.
Toni Morrison tackles weighty themes with poetic and powerful prose. This style allows beginners to understand complex social and historical issues.
Feel-Good Fiction
The feel-good fiction literary category focuses on providing an enjoyable and positive reading experience. Books in this genre can uplift the readers’ spirits, trigger laughter, and leave them optimistic and happy after reading.
Most books in this genre are typically short and quick to read. Here are some of the books.
17. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
The story is about Ove, a routine-loving and crusty man, who turns his lonely life upside down after a lively young family becomes his neighbor.
Through various heartwarming and comical events, the grumpy old man connects with the new neighbors, learning to move on from his past and live in the moment.
As Ove interacts with his new neighbors, he finds joy and purpose, reminding us that it’s never too late to discover happiness and create new connections.
This story blends humor with themes of resilience and friendship, making it suitable for beginners longing for an enjoyable and heartwarming read.
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18. The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
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The intriguing story is set in Sweden, and it revolves around the adventures and life of Allan Karlsson. On his hundredth birthday, Allan climbed out the window of the old people’s home and vanished.
He journeys and steals a suitcase containing a fortune that a Russian criminal organization paid to a group of bikers as compensation for a drug deal.
Next is an exciting series of events where the drug dealers try to track their cash down while the police issue a warrant against Allan for a triple murder and start a nationwide hunt.
The book also contains flashbacks of how Allan found himself in the wrong place at the wrong time and influenced various events that transformed the twentieth century.
Jonas Jonasson’s straightforward storytelling and quirky humor make the book entertaining. You will always want to pick up from where you left off.
19. Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
This book is about Bernadette Fox, an eccentric and quirky architect who disappears, and Bee, her daughter, starts a quest to discover the truth behind her mother’s disappearance.
Where’d You Go, Bernadette combines satire, humor, and a gripping narrative style to showcase the themes of family and creativity.
Maria Semple’s mystery-driven and witty storytelling plot makes the reading experience engaging. Using documents, emails, and other forms of correspondence adds to the book’s humor and accessibility, making it an entertaining pick for beginners.
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Romance
A romance novel typically focuses on the romantic love and relationship between two individuals. It often has an optimistic and emotionally gratifying ending.
20. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
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Joshua Templeman and Lucy Hutton are executive assistants in a publishing company, and they loathe one another a lot.
Their hatred gets worse when they have to compete in an interview for a promotion. But as they start playing different games at work, they realize that beneath the hate lies something surprising – love.
This captivating story exudes office politics, witty dialogue, and growing romance.
This novel is one of the best books to read for beginners due to its contemporary, straightforward style. Besides, the enemies–to-romance theme is common in most romance books.
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21. Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella
In this novel, Emma Corrigan, a marketing assistant, reveals all of her secrets to a stranger amidst a turbulent flight. To her surprise, the stranger is Jack Harper, the elusive CEO of the company Emma works for.
As Emma grapples with the aftermath, she struggles with falling for Jack and unveiling her true colors. The novel blends comedy and romance, suitable for beginners seeking a light-hearted read.
The humorous circumstances and awkward connections help break the tradition common in heavier, dramatic romance novels.
22. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
The novel is about Don Tillman, a professor of genetics with an intelligent mind but inadequate social skills. Don starts the Wife Project, aiming to use a scientific survey to find his life partner.
One day, Don meets Rosie, an unpredictable and spontaneous bartender who transforms his life. The two start looking for Rosie’s biological father. This quest involves exciting adventures, personal growth, and a growing romance.
The Rosie Project is a straightforward story with clear characters that beginner readers can relate to. It combines romance and humor. The captivating storyline, featuring heartfelt moments and humorous situations, makes the book enjoyable.
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23. The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary
In this intriguing and developing romance, Leon and Tiffy share an apartment and a bed, but shockingly, they have never met.
Tiffy is available in the flat in the daytime, while Leon works night shifts and goes out on weekends. Over time, the two flatmates start exchanging heartfelt and humorous post-it notes.
Their unique communication experiences and ups and downs culminate in an unexpected romance.
The slow-building romantic story and the gradual unfolding of the characters’ backstories are straightforward for beginners to engage with and not get overwhelmed.
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Conclusion
Starting a reading journey can be a life-transforming activity, particularly for beginners. The books above, ranging from mystery thrillers to works of romance, are creatively written to entertain, enlighten, and uplift you.
The listed books are engaging, easy to understand, and are a great starting point for those looking to develop a reading habit.
Remember to reflect, absorb, and grow from the knowledge and wisdom these pages offer as you read.
Now, select your first book from the list and start soaking in the knowledge.
Happy reading!
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