The Great American Book List: Must-Read Works of American Literature

Reading is an enlightening and entertaining experience. It takes you to places you’ve never been and introduces you to characters you’ve never met before. For book lovers everywhere, the Great American Book List is a selection of must-read books in American literature that will transport you to the heart of the American experience.

The Classics

The classics are classic for a reason. They’re timeless, insightful, and powerful works that have withstood the test of time. Here are a few selections:

• Moby Dick by Herman Melville
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
• The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Modern Classics

The modern age of American literature has produced some captivating and thought-provoking works that are just as relevant today as they were when they were published. Make sure to check these out:

• The Color Purple by Alice Walker
• Beloved by Toni Morrison
• The Road by Cormac McCarthy
• One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

Contemporary Works

There’s a lot of hot-off-the-press American literature waiting to be discovered. Here are some contemporary selections that are making waves:

• Normal People by Sally Rooney
• The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
• Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
• The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel
• The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead

Final Thoughts

The Great American Book List is a snapshot of some of the best literature the United States has to offer. From the classics to modern and contemporary literature, there’s something here for everyone. So dive in, explore, and enjoy the rich and vibrant world of American literature.