Getting into the habit of reading can be a bit overwhelming. With countless books and genres, you might feel lost and may even think where do you even start?
Whether you’re a newbie to reading or picking it up after a long time, this blog is tailored to make your journey enjoyable plus rewarding. These Books to read as a beginner are diverse enough to suit various tastes.
Books To Read As A Beginner
1. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
Just imagine a place where you can explore every alternate version of your life. That’s the premise of The Midnight Library. The novel is introspective yet quite easy to follow, which makes it ideal for beginners.
The main lead, Nora Seed, finds herself in a library between life and death, in which every book is representing a different life she could have led. Its blend of fantasy and self-help elements ensures that you’ll be entertained while pondering life’s big questions.
2. “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
This is a heart-wrenching novel that tells the story of Amir, a boy from Afghanistan, and his journey of redemption. The book spans decades, delving into themes of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness.
While the subject matter can be quite heavy, the prose is straightforward, making it accessible for beginners. The emotional depth of the story will leave a really lasting impact.
3. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
This is set in a seemingly perfect society, The Giver follows Jonas, a boy who is chosen to inherit the memories of the past from an old man known as the Giver.
As Jonas learns the truth about his world, he faces difficult choices. The novel’s simple language and compelling plot make it an excellent choice especially for beginners, while its thought-provoking themes will linger long after you finish.
4. “Circe” by Madeline Miller
If you enjoy mythology and fantasy this one is for you, Circe is a beautifully written retelling of the life of the witch Circe from Greek mythology.
The story is rich with drama, emotion, and magic, but Miller’s accessible prose makes it really easy to follow. Beginners will appreciate the strong character development and immersive storytelling that bring ancient myths to life.
5. “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman
This heartwarming story follows Ove, grumpy yet lovable old man whose life changes when a lively family moves in next door.
The novel has humor, emotional depth, and simple prose which make it a delightful read for beginners. It’s a story about love, loss, and the unexpected ways people touch our lives, one way or other.
6. “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes
This one is a heartfelt romance novel that tells the story of Louisa Clark, a quirky young woman who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor, a paralyzed man with a cynical outlook on life.
Their unexpected bond transforms both of them. With its emotional depth and accessible writing, this book is absolutely perfect for readers looking for an engaging love story.
7. “Red Queen” by Victoria Aveyard
For beginners curious about dystopian fantasy, Red Queen will offer a fast-paced, action-packed story. Mare Barrow lives in a world divided by blood—red for commoners and silver for the elite.
Her discovery of hidden powers sets the stage for rebellion. The accessible writing style and gripping plot make it an excellent choice for beginners or new readers.
8. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
The iconice “to kill a mockingbird”, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a powerful exploration of race, justice, and morality in the American South. It is told through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl, the story combines humor, innocence, and profound social commentary.
The straightforward writing and memorable characters make it a compelling and accessible read for beginners and the themes of empathy and standing up for what’s right are as relevant today as ever.
9. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
This beautifully written novel is part coming-of-age story, part murder mystery. Kya Clark, also known as the “Marsh Girl,” grows up isolated in the swamps of North Carolina and as she matures, her connection to nature becomes her refuge, even as she’s drawn into the complexities of human relationships.
The narrative alternates between Kya’s upbringing and a local murder investigation, blending poetic prose with suspenseful storytelling. Owens’ language is vivid yet accessible, making this a captivating read for beginners.
10. “Daisy Jones & The Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Told in a documentary-style format, this novel chronicles the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band. The story focuses on Daisy Jones, a talented but troubled singer, and her complicated relationship with the band’s lead singer, Billy Dunne.
The unique format, conversational tone, and nostalgic vibe make this a page-turner for new readers. Its themes of love, ambition, and creativity will resonate with anyone who enjoys music and drama.
Related: Best Psychological Books
Conclusion
With these 10 books to read as a beginner, you now have an extensive list to explore and enjoy. Each book will offer a unique perspective, whether it’s through heartfelt characters, gripping plots, or by thought-provoking themes.
As a beginner, the key is to choose stories that resonate with your interests. Reading isn’t just about finishing a book—it’s about immersing yourself in new experiences and beautiful ideas.
