Book clubs are a fantastic way to connect with others, explore new perspectives, and dive deep into great literature. Whether you’re looking for a book that will spark lively discussion or a novel that will resonate with young readers, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a comprehensive list of the 100 best book club book ideas that your members will absolutely love.
Top 10 Best Book Club Books
| Category | Book | Author |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Discussion | To Kill a Mockingbird | Harper Lee |
| Best for High School | The Catcher in the Rye | J.D. Salinger |
| Best for College Students | 1984 | George Orwell |
| Best for Adults | The Nightingale | Kristin Hannah |
| Best Historical Fiction | The Book Thief | Markus Zusak |
| Best Contemporary Fiction | Little Fires Everywhere | Celeste Ng |
| Best Non-Fiction | Educated | Tara Westover |
| Best Classic Literature | Pride and Prejudice | Jane Austen |
| Best Mystery/Thriller | Gone Girl | Gillian Flynn |
| Best Fantasy | Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone | J.K. Rowling |
Best Book Club Books for Discussion
Books that provoke thought and conversation are perfect for book clubs. Here are some of the best.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
A classic that deals with serious issues like racial injustice and moral growth.
This book’s themes will lead to deep and meaningful discussions about human behavior, morality, and the societal norms that shape our actions. It’s my favorite book so I’m definitely biased on this one.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
This is a story about a world where some people have all the power, and others don’t.
It shows how some rules can be unfair, especially for girls and women. This book is perfect for sparking conversations about fairness, morality, and how we interact with one another. The eerie parallels to contemporary issues make this a provocative read that challenges readers to think critically about the world around them.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
A look at race relations in the 1960s South, told through the eyes of three women. This book offers multiple perspectives and rich material for discussion. Its blend of humor and serious themes provides a balanced and engaging narrative that will resonate with readers.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison crafts a chilling narrative about the aftershocks of slavery, laced with potent symbolism and historical significance. it’s a haunting portrayal of slavery’s legacy, heavy with symbolism and history. Her powerful words and layered characters show how deeply slavery hurts both people and their communities, leaving scars that last for a long time.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
A gripping story of friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of a changing Afghanistan. The emotional depth and cultural context provide a rich tapestry for discussion, making it a compelling choice for book clubs.
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
An imaginative and thought-provoking tale of survival and spirituality. The novel’s exploration of faith, reality, and the human spirit offers endless avenues for discussion and interpretation, making it a fascinating read for book clubs.
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
A heartwarming and humorous story about a curmudgeonly old man whose life changes when new neighbors move in.
This book dives into the ups and downs of community and loneliness. And it really understands how vital connection is. It’s the kind of story that’s going to resonate deeply when your book club dives into it.
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
A coming-of-age story set in the 1960s South, exploring themes of racism, family, and female empowerment. The rich character development and emotional narrative provide plenty of material for thoughtful discussion.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
A harrowing post-apocalyptic novel that follows a father and son as they navigate a devastated world.
The stark prose and bleak setting prompt deep discussions about survival, morality, and the bond between parent and child. The novel’s exploration of hope and despair in the face of overwhelming odds makes it a powerful choice for thoughtful discussion.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
A compelling non-fiction book about the woman whose cells revolutionized medical research. This book raises important ethical questions and provides a fascinating look at the intersection of science, race, and humanity.
Best Book Club Books for High School
Engage younger readers with these captivating choices.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
A tale of teenage angst and alienation. High school students will relate to Holden Caulfield’s struggles. The novel’s exploration of identity, rebellion, and the struggles of growing up make it a story that never gets old for young readers.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
A coming-of-age story that deals with themes of mental health, friendship, and self-discovery. The relatable characters and honest portrayal of high school life provide a powerful and engaging narrative for young readers.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
A thrilling dystopian series that raises questions about society, power, and survival. The fast-paced plot and strong, relatable protagonist make it a gripping read that will keep high school students engaged and thoughtful.
Looking for Alaska by John Green
A poignant story about love, loss, and the search for meaning. The novel’s exploration of life’s big questions and its relatable teenage characters make it a great choice for high school book clubs.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
A powerful story about a young girl dealing with the aftermath of sexual assault. The book’s sensitive handling of difficult topics provides a meaningful and impactful read for high school students.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
A heart-wrenching yet uplifting story about two teens with cancer who find love and meaning in their lives. The emotional depth and relatable characters make it a moving read that resonates with young readers.
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
A gripping tale about the reasons behind a young girl’s suicide. The novel’s unique narrative structure and its exploration of bullying, mental health, and the impact of our actions make it a thought-provoking read for high school students.
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
A sweet and realistic love story between two misfit teens. The book’s authentic portrayal of first love and the challenges of high school life make it a relatable and engaging read for young readers.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Set in Nazi Germany, this novel is narrated by Death and offers a unique perspective on war and humanity. The compelling characters and emotional narrative make it a powerful read that will resonate with high school students.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
The story of a young boy with a facial deformity navigating school life. It’s like wrapping kids in a warm blanket of kindness, acceptance, and empathy come together to create a story that feels both comforting and uplifting.
Best Book Club Books for College Students
These books are perfect for the intellectually curious.
1984 by George Orwell
A chilling dystopian novel that explores themes of surveillance, totalitarianism, and individuality. The novel’s insights into the nature of power and control provide rich material for thoughtful discussion and critical analysis.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
A provocative look at a future society driven by technological advancements and control. The novel’s exploration of freedom, individuality, and the cost of technological progress make it a compelling read for college students.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
It’s a story that lingers in your thoughts, exploring the lasting impact of slavery, rich with symbolism and deep historical meaning. Morrison’s powerful prose and complex characters offer profound insights into the legacy of slavery and its impact on individual and collective identity.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
A classic novel about the American Dream, wealth, and societal change in the 1920s. The novel’s exploration of ambition, love, and the pursuit of happiness provides rich material for analysis and discussion.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
A tale of teenage angst and alienation. College students will relate to Holden Caulfield’s struggles and the novel’s exploration of identity, rebellion, and the challenges of growing up.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
This semi-autobiographical novel provides a deep dive into the mind of Esther Greenwood, a young woman battling mental illness.
College students often resonate with the novel’s exploration of identity, societal expectations, and the pressures of transitioning into adulthood. The poetic language and haunting portrayal of mental health make it a powerful and introspective read.
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
A magical realism novel that tells the multi-generational story of the Buendía family. The novel’s rich narrative and exploration of themes like love, power, and destiny make it a fascinating read for college students.
Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
A psychological novel about guilt, redemption, and the nature of evil. The novel’s deep philosophical themes and complex characters provide plenty of material for thoughtful discussion and analysis.
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
A satirical novel about the absurdities of war and bureaucracy. The novel’s dark humor and critique of institutional power make it a thought-provoking read for college students.
Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
A novel that blends science fiction and anti-war themes. The novel’s unique narrative structure and exploration of free will, fate, and the trauma of war make it a compelling read for college students.
Best Book Club Books for Adults
Books that resonate with adult readers and offer profound insights.
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This one tugs at the heartstrings, telling the gripping story of two sisters during the Nazi occupation in France.
It highlights the strength of women and the complexities of family relationships. With its deep emotional layers and well-crafted historical backdrop, this novel is a captivating pick for adult readers.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
A tale of secrets and lies in a seemingly perfect community. This book delves into the lives of three women, each dealing with their own issues. Its exploration of domestic abuse, friendship, and the facades people maintain offers plenty of discussion points.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that spans decades and explores themes of loss, beauty, and obsession. The intricate plot and deeply developed characters provide a rich narrative that will engage readers and spark meaningful conversations.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A mystery set in the marshes of North Carolina, blending nature writing with a gripping storyline. The novel’s exploration of isolation, resilience, and the impact of environment on human behavior makes it an engaging read for adults.
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
A powerful exploration of love and injustice, told through the lens of a young couple. The novel’s timely themes of race, loyalty, and the criminal justice system offer a profound narrative that will resonate deeply with readers.
The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo
A poignant story about love, loss, and the choices that define our lives. The novel’s emotional depth and relatable characters make it a moving read that will spark introspective discussions among readers.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
A quirky and heartwarming story about a socially awkward woman who learns to open up and connect with others. The book’s exploration of loneliness, trauma, and the healing power of friendship offers a touching and uplifting narrative.
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
The story of a Russian aristocrat sentenced to house arrest in a grand hotel. The novel’s rich historical context and the protagonist’s charming resilience make it a delightful and thought-provoking read.
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate
Based on a true story of a scandal involving an adoption agency, this novel explores themes of family, identity, and resilience. The emotional narrative and historical backdrop provide a compelling and heart-wrenching read.
The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
A dual timeline novel that intertwines the stories of a female spy in World War I and an American socialite searching for her cousin in 1947. The novel’s strong female characters and thrilling plot make it an engaging and empowering read.
Best Historical Fiction Book Club Books
Dive into the past with these immersive reads.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
This powerful novel tells the story of Celie, an African American woman in the early 20th-century American South, and her journey to self-empowerment. Through letters written to God and later to her sister, Celie’s voice comes alive, offering a raw and unflinching look at racism, sexism, and resilience.
The novel’s emotional depth, historical context, and strong character arcs make it an impactful choice for historical fiction lovers.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
A beautiful story of a blind French girl and a German soldier whose paths collide in occupied France. The novel’s lyrical prose and rich historical detail provide a deeply moving and immersive reading experience.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A magical tale set in the late 19th century, filled with wonder and intrigue. The enchanting atmosphere and complex characters make it a captivating read that will spark lively discussions about love, fate, and the nature of competition.
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
An epic tale set in the Middle Ages, centered around the building of a cathedral. The novel’s rich historical context and intricate plot provide a fascinating and immersive reading experience.
The Paris Architect by Charles Belfoure
A gripping story of an architect in Nazi-occupied Paris who designs hiding places for Jews. The novel’s exploration of courage, morality, and the complexities of human nature make it a thought-provoking read.
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
A historical drama about the rise and fall of Anne Boleyn, told through the eyes of her sister Mary. The novel’s rich historical detail and compelling characters provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See
A moving story that explores the lives of an Akha ethnic minority girl from a remote mountain village and her daughter who is adopted by an American couple. The novel’s rich cultural detail and emotional depth make it a compelling read.
Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
Based on the true story of a young Italian who becomes a spy for the Allies during World War II. The novel’s thrilling plot and historical detail provide a gripping and inspiring reading experience.
Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline
A dual timeline novel that intertwines the stories of a young Irish immigrant in the 1920s and a foster teen in present-day Maine. The novel’s exploration of identity, resilience, and the bonds of family make it a moving and thought-provoking read.
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
A sweeping multi-generational novel that traces the descendants of two half-sisters, one sold into slavery and the other married to a British slaver. The novel’s rich historical context and emotional depth provide a powerful and immersive reading experience.
Best Contemporary Fiction Book Club Books
Modern stories that resonate with today’s readers.
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
A compelling novel about race, class, and family secrets in a suburban community. The novel’s complex characters and exploration of societal issues provide a rich narrative that will spark thoughtful discussions.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
A mystery set in the marshes of North Carolina, blending nature writing with a gripping storyline. The novel’s exploration of isolation, resilience, and the impact of environment on human behavior makes it an engaging read for adults.
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
A powerful exploration of love and injustice, told through the lens of a young couple. The novel’s timely themes of race, loyalty, and the criminal justice system offer a profound narrative that will resonate deeply with readers.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
A nuanced story about the complex relationship between two young adults as they navigate life from high school to university. The novel’s exploration of love, identity, and the intricacies of human relationships provides a rich narrative that will engage readers.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A magical tale set in the late 19th century, filled with wonder and intrigue. The enchanting atmosphere and complex characters make it a captivating read that will spark lively discussions about love, fate, and the nature of competition.
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
A heartwarming and humorous story about a curmudgeonly old man whose life changes when new neighbors move in. This book’s exploration of community, loneliness, and the human need for connection makes it a touching and relatable choice for discussion.
The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo
A poignant story about love, loss, and the choices that define our lives. The novel’s emotional depth and relatable characters make it a moving read that will spark introspective discussions among readers.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
A quirky and heartwarming story about a socially awkward woman who learns to open up and connect with others. The book’s exploration of loneliness, trauma, and the healing power of friendship offers a touching and uplifting narrative.
The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
A thought-provoking novel about four siblings who learn the dates of their deaths from a fortune teller. The novel’s exploration of fate, family, and the choices that shape our lives provides a rich narrative that will engage readers.
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
A multi-generational family saga that explores themes of inheritance, loss, and forgiveness. The novel’s rich character development and emotional depth provide a compelling and thought-provoking reading experience.
Best Non-Fiction Book Club Books
Real-life stories that uplift and educate.
Educated by Tara Westover
A memoir about a woman who grows up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho and her journey to education. The book’s exploration of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of education provides a powerful and inspiring narrative.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
This memoir feels like a heart-to-heart, with her sharing her life and career—it’s motivating, personal, and offers a strong perspective on leadership and living in the public eye.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
An ambitious overview of human history, perfect for stimulating discussions on our past and future. The book’s broad scope and engaging narrative provide a thought-provoking and informative reading experience.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
It’s the kind of book that hooks you with the real story of one woman’s cells changing medical science forever, while also making you think about tough ethical questions and the complex issues of race and humanity.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
This memoir shares the journey of a woman hiking the Pacific Crest Trail alone, searching for peace after personal loss—it’s a touching look at how nature can heal and renew the spirit.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah
A memoir by the comedian and host of The Daily Show, detailing his experiences growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. The book’s blend of humor and serious themes provides a compelling and insightful reading experience.
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
This book takes a deep look at the power of introverts in a world that tends to prioritize extroversion. Through an engaging narrative and well-researched insights, it offers a thought-provoking and empowering message for everyone.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
A memoir about the author’s unconventional and poverty-stricken upbringing. The honest look at family relationships, the strength to keep going, and the quest for dreams makes this book a compelling and reflective journey.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance
Through the lens of their own family, the author’s memoir deeply examines the challenges of America’s white working-class. It’s a powerful story that dives into identity, culture, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
A biography of the pioneering aviators who invented the airplane. The book’s rich historical detail and engaging storytelling provide a fascinating look at innovation, perseverance, and the spirit of discovery.
Best Classic Literature Book Club Books
Timeless tales that never lose their appeal.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
A beloved classic that explores themes of love, class, and societal expectations. Austen’s sharp wit and memorable characters provide a delightful and thought-provoking read that continues to resonate with readers.
Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
An epic tale of obsession and adventure on the high seas. The novel’s rich symbolism and complex characters provide a deep and immersive reading experience that will spark lively discussions.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
A novel about the emotional and moral growth of the protagonist, exploring themes of love, independence, and religion. Brontë’s powerful prose and compelling characters provide a rich and engaging narrative.
Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë
A dark and passionate tale of love and revenge set on the moors of Yorkshire. The novel’s intense emotions and complex characters provide a haunting and memorable reading experience.
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
A coming-of-age story about an orphan named Pip and his journey to maturity. The novel’s exploration of social class, ambition, and personal growth provides a rich and engaging narrative.
Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
It’s a psychological tale that dives into guilt, redemption, and what it means to be truly evil. With its deep philosophical questions and intricate characters, there’s a lot to think about and discuss.
Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert
This classic novel tells the tragic story of Emma Bovary, a woman trapped in a provincial marriage who seeks escape through romantic fantasies and extramarital affairs. Flaubert’s exploration of the human condition, materialism, and the pursuit of happiness resonates deeply, making it a timeless choice for book clubs.
The novel’s intricate psychological portrait of its protagonist provides rich material for discussion.
Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
A sweeping novel about love, society, and the human condition. Tolstoy’s intricate plot and deep psychological insights provide a rich and immersive reading experience.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
A gothic novel about a scientist who creates a living being, only to be horrified by his own creation. The novel’s exploration of ambition, hubris, and the consequences of scientific experimentation provides a thought-provoking read.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
A classic that deals with serious issues like racial injustice and moral growth. This book’s themes will lead to deep and meaningful discussions about human behavior, morality, and the societal norms that shape our actions.
Best Mystery/Thriller Book Club Books
Keep your members on the edge of their seats with these gripping reads.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A dark and twisted tale of a marriage gone wrong, full of surprises and psychological depth. The novel’s intricate plot and unreliable narrators provide a thrilling and unpredictable reading experience.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
A thrilling mystery with a strong and enigmatic heroine at its center. The novel’s complex characters and intricate plot provide a gripping and immersive reading experience.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Not just for adults, but a mystery that unfolds in a suburban setting, keeping readers guessing till the end. The novel’s exploration of secrets, lies, and the complexities of human relationships provides a rich and engaging narrative.
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
A fast-paced thriller that combines art, history, and religion in a gripping narrative. The novel’s intricate puzzles and conspiracies provide a thrilling and thought-provoking reading experience.
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
When a journalist returns home, she gets caught up in a chilling murder investigation. The novel’s complex characters and intense psychological twists make it a gripping, can’t-put-it-down mystery.
In the Woods by Tana French
A psychological thriller about a detective investigating a murder that may be connected to a traumatic event from his childhood. The novel’s rich character development and intricate plot provide a gripping and thought-provoking reading experience.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
The novel takes readers into the haunting silence of a woman accused of murder, where psychological twists and turns create a tense, nail-biting journey.
The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn
The novel follows an agoraphobic woman who is convinced she witnessed a crime. With an unreliable narrator and suspenseful twists, it’s a gripping and intense read.
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
A psychological thriller about a woman who becomes entangled in a missing person investigation. The novel’s complex characters and intricate plot provide a gripping and thought-provoking reading experience.
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
A domestic thriller about a couple whose baby goes missing while they are at a dinner party next door. The novel’s twists and turns provide a thrilling and unpredictable reading experience.
Best Fantasy Book Club Books
Escape to fantastical worlds with these captivating stories.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
The start of an iconic series that introduces the magical world of Hogwarts. The novel’s rich world-building and memorable characters provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
A classic adventure that sets the stage for Tolkien’s epic fantasy world. The novel’s rich narrative and enchanting characters provide a delightful and immersive reading experience.
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
A modern fantasy that blends mythology and contemporary life in a unique and engaging way. The novel’s intricate plot and rich mythology provide a captivating and thought-provoking reading experience.
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
A beautifully written fantasy novel about a young man’s journey to become a legendary hero. The novel’s rich world-building and compelling characters provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
A thrilling fantasy novel about a world where the Dark Lord has won. The novel’s unique magic system and intricate plot provide a gripping and immersive reading experience.
A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
The start of an epic fantasy series filled with political intrigue, complex characters, and rich world-building. The novel’s intricate plot and memorable characters provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch
A thrilling fantasy novel about a group of skilled thieves in a richly imagined city. The novel’s intricate plot and witty dialogue provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
A beautifully written fantasy novel about a young woman who becomes the apprentice to a powerful wizard. The novel’s rich world-building and compelling characters provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A magical tale set in the late 19th century, filled with wonder and intrigue.
The enchanting atmosphere and complex characters make it a captivating read that will definitely provoke vibrant discussions about the nuances of love, the shadows of fate, and what powers competition.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
A sweeping epic fantasy about a world on the brink of war with dragons. The novel’s rich world-building and compelling characters provide a captivating and immersive reading experience.
If you want even more ideas, here is a good video with even more book club book ideas:
Final Thoughts: Best Book Club Book Ideas
Choosing the right book for your book club can make all the difference.
These 100 book ideas cover a wide range of genres and themes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you want deep discussions, historical insights, or pure escapism, this list has you covered.
You can get these books from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, or your favorite local bookseller.
Happy reading and enjoy the lively conversations these books will inspire!
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