(No ratings yet)

There are some books that simply cannot be ignored. And here it’s not even a matter of genre, but how the author managed to reveal the intended topic. At the same time, it is important that the reader believes in the events taking place, believes the characters and that all this could actually happen. You can't tear yourself away from a piece like this.

You can often find a request online: “Recommend an interesting book that will be difficult to put down.” And, to be honest, it is difficult to help a person with this problem. After all, everyone has different tastes. But we still managed to select a list of books that will not leave anyone indifferent.

The best works belong to different genres, written by different authors at different periods of time. But at the same time, they were and are read by fans from all over the world. Moreover, such works have deep meaning, and after reading your life will no longer be the same. This is especially important for teenagers who are just learning to live, explore the world and understand its structure.

If you want to find books that you can't put down, then this list is definitely for you. At the same time, you can take them on vacation or enjoy them with a cup of tea winter evenings. You can delve into the plot of the work or search secret meaning between the lines. In any case, you will spend time usefully and will certainly learn something for your self-improvement.

The most exciting books are written not only modern writers, but also those who created many years ago. Moreover, classics never go out of fashion, and convey the right thoughts and instructions to the minds of contemporaries.

You can read books that you can’t tear yourself away from on our website. You can also download them for free in any format. And, believe me, a book with an exciting plot will leave a pleasant aftertaste for a long time.

	The story is about how a person occupies his cell in society, what he is ready to do for this. Main character In order to get into the company of the elite, he is ready to go to great lengths. And years later he tries to understand why the tragedy happened and who is to blame.
	A book for teenagers that talks about such a main character. The boy faces misunderstandings from his parents and teachers at school. Only his grandfather sees his skills and supports him in every possible way. The point is that because of their problems, those around him almost ruined the little man’s life.
	A story about incredible love. But at the same time, it’s not about her. This work is about courage, about self-sacrifice, and about the fact that you need to preserve yourself even when there is devastation and confusion around you.
	A classic work in which mysticism and real life are closely intertwined on the pages. This is a story about love for a woman, for life, for the world, and for all humanity.
	Have you ever thought that we are all free only visually, but in reality we all follow a certain system? The book shows this very colorfully. It is not profitable for the “top” that people read books, and they simply burn them.
	The story is about how the system tries to subjugate the common people. And she succeeds, but up to a certain point. How could one simple girl restore freedom to thousands of people? You will learn about this from a very exciting, dynamic and truthful book.

Cooler than TV and Facebook.

Reading books can be very exciting activity, if you choose the author and work correctly.

There are books that can make you forget about your favorite TV series and scrolling through your Facebook news feed.

They will captivate you into an unknown world from the first pages and absorb your attention completely.

We have made for you a selection of 15 books that are suitable for both beginners and long-time literature fans.

You will not remain indifferent to these stories and their characters!

1. Stephen King, “Under the Dome.”

The small town found itself cut off from the rest of the world - it was covered by a dome of unknown origin. The military is trying to destroy it. At this time, the residents of the town suffer from the consequences of such an anomalous phenomenon - terrible heat, polluted air.

But the worst thing is not the environmental disaster that awaits them. You will be interested in observing the behavior of people in a confined space. Just a week after the incident, the residents of the small, quiet town will be unrecognizable.

2. Francoise Sagan, “A Vague Smile.”

The main character is a young girl who strives to get as much as possible from life. She falls in love, has affairs, enjoys life. A devoted friend appears in her life and passionate lover. And these are two different people.

She gives her heart to her lover, who did not appreciate such a gift. He is an accomplished lawyer and an exemplary family man who is not going to rebuild his life for the sake of the girl who is interested in him.

3. Donna Tartt, " Secret history».

This psychological thriller will grab your attention from the first pages. Together with the main character, you will return to the past, which does not always seem as we remember it. Wandering in the labyrinths of memory, Richard Papen will remember the events that preceded the murder of his friend.

He met him as a student at a college located in Vermont. With him and other young people, quite rich, educated and enthusiastic ancient culture. Which of them is still guilty of murder?

4. Neil Gaiman, “Neverwhere.”

The author of the novel created a whole world unknown to people. It is located under the streets of London. To get there, you need to find a special Door. It was precisely her that Richard Mayhew discovered in the face of a stranger whom he decided to help.

An ordinary London clerk finds himself in a place where a person faces many dangers, monsters, and murderers. But there are also angels there. Richard is forced to become a companion unknown girl whom he helped. He will help her find the answer to the death of her family.

5. Diana Setterfield, “The Thirteenth Tale.”

"Tell me the truth." It is with this phrase that a cycle of fascinating events begins that draws the reader in headlong. If you want to plunge into the world of mysteries and secrets, quickly grab this book. This story is like a fairy tale. On modern fairy tale, where there is no clear boundary between good and evil.

Dreamer and lover classical literature will reveal the secret not only famous writer, but also of his birth.

6. Joan Harris, Five Quarters of an Orange.

The main character, Framboise, inherits an album with recipes from her mother. A strange injustice, because her brother got the farm. But not everything is as simple as it seems at first glance.

After all, along with the recipes, the album contains notes from the mother, in which she reveals her deepest desires and shares her thoughts. Framboise finds her too frank confessions about some events that can help the girl unravel the strange mysteries of her family’s past.

7. Katherine Stockett, “The Help.”

Events take place in the American South in the 60s of the last century. Life brings together two black maids and an inexperienced white college graduate from high society. Each of these women has their own dream for which they are ready to fight.
But to do this, they will have to confront the established traditions and stereotypes of a small, sleepy American town. Will these three be able to survive this fight? A very human story about the fate of women of different ages and social status.

8. Anna Gavalda, “35 kilos of hope.”

Every minute Gregory spends at school seems like torture to him. He feels happy only when he has the opportunity to tinker with tools. The grandfather convinces the guy to enroll in a technical college.

But to get there, you need to pass a selection. The boy writes a childishly direct, naive, slightly funny and touching letter asking to be accepted into this college. What will come of this? Will Gregory be able to fulfill his dream and live up to his grandfather's expectations?

9. Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.

A wonderfully funny and quirky novel! Arthur's house is destroyed, the Earth is destroyed. He goes on an adventurous journey, reveals the secrets of the origin of the Earth and life in the Universe...

In this brilliant book, Adams provides original answers to the most difficult philosophical questions. He created a modern classic that will be the subject of study by philosophers and physicists for many years to come!

10. Jane Austen, “Pride and Prejudice.”

This classic novel about love, which has not lost its relevance even several decades after its appearance. Jane Austen, with exquisitely subtle humor, talks about how difficult it is for a girl to get settled in life, especially if she expects to marry for love.

You will also see that misconceptions and prejudices can prevent you from seeing the true face of a person. The first impression is not always correct. Behind the image of a sweet and friendly gentleman can hide a prudent mind and practicality.
11. Paula Hawkins, The Girl on the Train.

This is a real bestseller, a mysterious and fascinating story, in the end of which it turns out that the world is not what we imagine it to be.

Rachel watches from the train window perfect couple. Perfect only in appearance. After all, behind the facade of beautiful houses there are many secrets and crimes hidden. The girl will have to reconstruct, piece by piece, what happened in the past - with her and the girl she loved to watch.

12. Sergey Dovlatov, “Suitcase”.

A story familiar to many - the main character emigrates to the USA (in Soviet time), he takes only one plywood suitcase with him. It contains all his property. At 36 years old, this is all he has acquired in his entire life.
Only a few years later the hero opens the suitcase. Every thing in it means a lot to a man. Here are childhood memories, and memories of his first wife, of his dashing youth. This work will warm your soul, you will want to re-read it again and again!

13. Niccolo Ammaniti, “I am not afraid.”

The novel talks about non-childish problems of children. An interesting and at the same time dangerous adventure befalls the main character Michele. By chance he finds a hole in which a boy is sitting chained to the wall.

The author invites us to watch how events unfold further: what Michele will do, who he will tell about his secret, what he will do, how he will behave. The boy has a lot of questions, he tries to somehow cope with all these problems, but can he do it alone?

14. Ray Bradbury, Fahrenheit 451.

In this new world, keeping and reading books is considered a real crime. Firefighters now have new job- less dangerous than before. They burn books. 451 degrees is the temperature at which paper begins to burn.

What are people doing? Watching TV programs, series, shows. Their minds are asleep. Mass culture replaces real values ​​with artificial ones. Those who try to break out of this dream are severely punished.

15. Philip K. Dick, “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”

This book became the basis for two film masterpieces - "Blade Runner" and "Blade Runner 2049".

Nuclear war destroyed life on Earth. Almost all animals became extinct. Humans have successfully colonized other planets solar system and moved there. Those who remained on Earth eke out a miserable, dull existence. Cities are gradually falling into decay.

Rick Descartes hunts androids who come to Earth illegally. He is a professional in his field. But during the hunt, Rick begins to wonder - is it humane to destroy androids?

Instead of once again sitting down in front of the TV, it is better to pick up a book and immerse yourself in its world. A completely different reality will open before you, which will absorb you completely and force you to live the life of the main characters. Don't like to read? You just haven't read really interesting books. And below are 20 such books that will appeal to both the novice reader and the fastidious and sophisticated.

Photo: goodfon.ru

For you, the top 20 books that are read in one breath and excite the mind:

"The Dead Zone", Stephen King

John Smith suffered a concussion in a collision on the ice. It would seem that an ordinary injury led to unexpected consequences. John began to be haunted by terrible visions that he could not get rid of. But that's not all. After the disaster, he discovered amazing abilities. Smith is able to solve even the most complicated crime and help a person in trouble. And one day he comes across a politician who is eager for power and is ready to literally go over his head and plunge the whole world into chaos. And only John can save millions of people.

Just a few decades ago, this work was considered science fiction, ignoring and breaking stereotypes, going beyond all generally accepted boundaries of what is permitted, literally absorbing newfangled trends, trying on its own face modern man and expanding traditional boundaries. But today it is more relevant than ever and is one of the most humane in modern times. The author, like a jeweler, delicately develops such themes as responsibility and love. This novel has psychological power, extraordinary poignancy, literally drowning the hearts of millions of readers.

"Neverwhere", Neil Gaiman

There is a world that no one knows about. It is easy to enter there, you just need to open the Door. But only a select few can do this. In this reality, the word comes to life and gains power. Refined ladies in beautiful fluffy dresses, brave knights in heavy shining armor, cruel killers, angels, saints and monsters live here. Found here new life those who have fallen through the gaping cracks of reality. The main character Richard is a good-natured young man. Another act of kindness sends him to such a seemingly painfully familiar, but at the same time alien world under the strange name of Never, located somewhere near London.

The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins

A utopian future world called Panem is divided into districts. And in order to control the population, President-dictator Snow annually organizes a cruel tournament - the Hunger Games. Two tribute participants are selected from each district by drawing lots. All tributes fight each other, and only the strongest survive. Brave Katniss Everdeen volunteers to participate in the games instead of her younger sister. And it is this girl who must change the course of history and the whole world. But she has to fight with Pete, for whom she has developed sincere sympathy. Katniss will challenge authority and do everything to achieve justice and free Panem from all-encompassing total control.

An explosion occurred on board a regular plane. Landing is required, but the onset of a snowstorm makes it almost impossible. The airport finds itself cut off from the outside world. And this is not a detective twisted story. This is the most usual life a huge organism called the Airport. This is one day of his existence. This is the interaction of people who find themselves here. Some are working, some are trying to survive, some are waiting for a flight, and some really want to get home. Such different aspirations and desires different people, by the will of fate, found themselves in one place at one time.

The Thirteenth Tale, Diana Setterfield

Margaret Lee looks after her father's bookshop. Contemporary works she prefers Bronte and Dickens. And imagine Margaret’s surprise when she received an offer to become a personal biographer of the most famous writer of our time, Vida Winter. But she is famous not only for her books. This scandalous lady did not tell the annoying reporters and journalists a word of the truth about herself. And so, Margaret, who found herself within the walls of a huge and seemingly gloomy mansion in gothic style, finds herself involved in the mysterious story of two twin sisters. Gradually getting closer to the solution, she realizes that this life in a strange way has something in common with her own. The secret is about to be revealed.

“Suitcase”, Sergei Dovlatov

The author of the book is popular and one of the most read Russian writers of the 20th-11th centuries. His stories, short stories and even notes from notebooks are included in school curriculum and translated into dozens of languages. And his simple and so relatable and funny jokes are remembered for a lifetime.

“The Suitcase” is a simple, but at the same time, a work so close to everyone that you will certainly want to re-read it again and again.

Five Quarters of an Orange by Joan Harris

Framboise inherited an album with recipes from her mother. And everything would have been fine, but her brother received a farm, and her sister became the owner of a wine cellar. But next to the recipes in the album there are notes from the late mother. Here are her deepest desires and thoughts, as well as frank confessions about some events. And Framboise gets a real treasure. She can unravel the strange mysteries of the family's past.

"I'm not afraid" by Niccolo Ammaniti

This is a book about what human soul is measured not by age, but by the number of good and true deeds committed. And sometimes a child can do much more than an experienced adult.

He can give faith and hope to the needy. And this is so necessary when reality has shrunk to the size of a pit. There is dirt around, which is heated by the sun. And the defenseless had to face all this little man. But there was a second one who was able to overcome his fears and shout to the whole world: “I’m not afraid!” And he can.

The novels of this writer have been a kind of voice for several decades piercing love and a real revolution in literary world. “A Vague Smile” is the interweaving of the destinies of a bored and tired of everything and everyone lawyer and a confused, innocent and young student. Feelings between them are impossible, but, nevertheless, they are real. Experience means mistakes, including imperfect ones, which makes your soul even more bitter. The author does not prophesy happiness for the heroes, but there is definitely hope, and it cannot die.

Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury

This novel brought the author worldwide fame and became a real bestseller of all time. Ray Bradbury presented readers with a dystopian post-industrial future. In this world, all printed publications are mercilessly destroyed by firefighters, and possession of books is punishable by law. Television has firmly entered the minds of millions and turned them into weak-willed and obedient fools. And the remaining dissidents are pursued by an electronic dog.

451 degrees Fahrenheit is the temperature at which paper begins to melt.

"The Green Mile", Stephen King

The green mile is called the death row in a prison with a telling name"Cold Mountain" This creepy little world into which people come to leave this life forever by sitting in the electric chair.

There were different criminals here, but newly admitted John Coffey is not like the rest. He is accused of a brutal murder, but in reality he would not hurt a fly. And thanks to John, other prisoners and even prison staff will be able to understand that sometimes things are not at all what they seem.

The events take place in the 60s of the last century in the American South. Skeeter arrives in the quiet and boring town of Jackson, where nothing interesting rarely happens. She recently graduated from university and dreams of becoming a writer. But a decent lady should get married and take care of her husband. Abelline is thirty years older and much more experienced than Skeeter. Throughout her adult life, this black woman served whites and managed to raise 17 children, but she lost her son, and therefore life lost all meaning for her. Minnie is the best cook and the most obstinate maid, so she does not stay in one place for long.

What unites two black maids and a white girl from high society? The desire for justice and the desire to change the world. But will they be able to win this difficult fight?

“35 kilos of hope”, Anna Gavalda

About thirteen-year-old Gregoire, his first teacher said this: “A head like a sieve, golden hands and a huge heart.” And it is true. The boy dotes on his grandfather, loves to make interesting crafts and hates going to school. And one day he finds out that somewhere far away there is a lyceum, where only boys study, who are constantly making something. And he writes a childishly direct, naive, slightly funny and touching letter asking to be accepted into this lyceum. Gregoire attaches to it detailed drawing his first invention - a banana peeling machine. Or maybe, really, good grades are not something worth striving for?

“Manyunya”, Narine Abgaryan

Do you want to immerse yourself in your childhood? Then you should definitely read this book! She is so warm and soaked in affectionate sun rays and the smell of sweets that will not leave anyone indifferent! It's funny and interesting story about the kind and girlish Manyuna, her strict grandmother Ba and her faithful friend Nara. Manyuni also has a bunch of relatives who constantly find themselves in the most curious situations. This is a mischievous and adventurous childhood!

"The Many Minds of Billy Milligan" by Daniel Keyes

This story amazes and excites the imagination, but what is most surprising is that it is based on real events. Billy Milligan's mind is a reality divided into several worlds, 24 separate parts into which his consciousness was split. And among them there are very different, sometimes completely opposite friend friend people: women and men, children and adults, marginal and sublime creative people. And they all fight for Billy's body, not allowing him to control himself.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Douglas Adams

This is a real world bestseller, a series that is loved by everyone without exception: both readers and even sophisticated critics. Based on this book, a film of the same name was created, the screenwriter of which was Douglas Adams himself. And even if you have seen it, you will find the book even more interesting.

Be sure to start reading right now!

This novel initially consisted of two separate stories - “Universe” and “Common Sense”. Their magazine version appeared in 1941. In 1963, the author combined these stories into one book under the general title “Oxphans of the Sky.”

A huge transport starship called the Vanguard is lost in space. After the launch, several generations had already changed, and gradually the passengers were divided into two clans: mad mutants and a team whose members turned scientific data into religion.

"Pride and Prejudice", Jane Austen

This novel has not ceased to be relevant even several decades after its appearance. It is still brilliant and light, but at the same time it makes you think and even believe.

The Bennett family has five daughters. And the parents understand perfectly well that they will not be able to marry them off successfully. But the author of Jane Austen’s work, with penetrating psychologism and exquisitely subtle humor, tells readers that even the least attractive and intelligent girl can meet her “Mr. Darcy.”

"P.Sh.", Dmitry Khara

Oleg has his own fairly successful business, but he literally works his ass off, and therefore is waiting for a vacation or something more pleasant and surprising.

By chance, he stumbles upon an unusual travel agency that offers travel only to prepared people. And when the preparation begins, Oleg realizes that the training methods shock him. All exercises take place in real time and real life. The hero has to play different roles and perform ridiculous tasks, which, oddly enough, lead him to his goal. But suddenly Oleg's life is in danger.

Will he be able to save himself using his experience?

Still don't have one of these books in your hands? Then be sure to pick it up and start reading!

You may also be interested in the following selection:

P.S. What books do you recommend?

Despite the abundance e-books, tablets and audio formats, it is impossible to discourage a book lover from wanting to “rustle the pages.” A cup of coffee, a soft chair, the incomparable smell of book pages - and let the whole world wait!

Here are the TOP 20 most interesting books for your attention. Read and enjoy...

• Hurry to Love (1999)

Nicholas Sparks

The genre of the book is a love story.

It is generally accepted that romance novels Only female authors succeed. “Hurry to Love” is an exception in this specific genre. Sparks' book won the love of readers around the world and became one of his most popular works.

The story of a touching and incredible love between a priest's daughter Jamie and a young man Landon. A book about a feeling that intertwines the destinies of two halves only once in a lifetime.

• Foam of days (1946)

Boris Vian

The genre of the book is a surreal love story.

A deep and surreal love story based on real events from the author's life. The allegorical presentation of the book and the unusual plane of events are the highlight of the work, which for readers has become completely postmodern with a chronology of despair, spleen, and shockingness.

The heroes of the book are gentle Chloe with a lily in her heart, the author’s alter ego is Colin, his tiny mouse and cook, friends of lovers. A work full of light sadness that everything ends sooner or later, leaving only the foam of days.

The novel has been filmed twice, in both cases unsuccessfully - no one has yet succeeded in conveying the entire atmosphere of the book without missing important details.

• The Hungry Shark Diaries

Stephen Hall

The genre of the book is fantasy.

The action takes place in the 21st century. Eric wakes up with the thought that all the events of his previous life have been erased from his memory. According to the doctor, the cause of amnesia is severe trauma, and this is the 11th relapse. From this moment on, Eric begins to receive letters from himself and hide from the “shark” that is devouring his memories. His task is to understand what is happening and find the key to salvation.

Hall's debut novel, consisting entirely of puzzles, allusions, and allegories. Not for the general reader. This is the kind of book that people don’t take with them on the train; they don’t read it “on the run,” but slowly and with pleasure.

• White Tiger (2008)

Aravind Adiga

The genre of the book is realism, novel.

A boy from a poor Indian village, Balram stands out from his sisters and brothers by his reluctance to accept fate. A coincidence of circumstances throws the “White Tiger” (approx. a rare animal) into the city, after which the boy’s fate changes dramatically - from falling to the very bottom, his steep rise to the very top begins. Either crazy or national hero– Balram tries his best to survive in real world and break out of the cage.

The White Tiger is not an Indian “soap opera” about the “prince and the pauper”, but a revolutionary work that breaks stereotypes about India. This book is about that India that you will not see in beautiful films on TV.

• Fight Club (1996)

Chuck Palahniuk

The genre of the book is a philosophical thriller.

An ordinary clerk, exhausted by insomnia and the monotony of life, by chance meets Tyler. The philosophy of the new acquaintance is self-destruction as the goal of life. An ordinary acquaintance quickly develops into friendship, culminating in the creation of a “Fight Club”, the main thing in which is not victory, but the ability to endure pain.

Palahniuk's special style launched not only the popularity of the book, but also the already well-known film adaptation with Brad Pitt in one of the main roles. A challenging book about a generation of people for whom the boundaries of good and evil have blurred, about the insignificance of life and the race for illusions, from which the world is going crazy.

A work for people with already formed consciousness (not for teenagers) - to comprehend and rethink their lives.

• Fahrenheit 451 (1953)

Ray Bradbury

The genre of the book is fantasy, novel.

The title of the book is the temperature at which the paper burns. The action takes place in a “future” in which literature is banned, reading books is a crime, and firefighters’ job is to burn books. Montag, who works as a fireman, reads a book for the first time...

The work that Bradbury wrote before us and for us. More than fifty years ago, the author was able to look into the future, where fear, indifference to others and indifference completely replace those feelings that make us human. No extra thoughts, no books - only human mannequins.

• Book of Complaints (2003)

Max Fry

Book genre - philosophical novel, fantasy.

No matter how hard it is for you, no matter how unsuccessful life turns out, never curse it - neither in your thoughts nor out loud. Because someone near you will happily live your own life for you. For example, that smiling girl over there. Or that old lady in the yard. These are the Nakhs who are always near us...

Self-irony, subtle banter, mysticism, unusual plot, realistic dialogues (sometimes too much) - time flies by with this book.

• Pride and Prejudice (1813)

Jane Austen

The genre of the book is a love story.

The time of action is the 19th century. The Bennett family has 5 unmarried daughters. The mother of this poor family, of course, dreams of marrying them off...

The plot seems to be hackneyed to the point of “eyesores,” but for hundreds of years Jane Austen’s novel has been reread by people from the most different countries again and again. Because the characters of the book are etched into the memory forever, and, despite the calm pace of events, the work does not let the reader go even after the final page. An absolute masterpiece of literature.

A pleasant “bonus” is a happy ending and the opportunity to sneak away a tear from sincere joy for the characters.

• Golden Temple (1956)

Yukio Mishima

The genre of the book is realism, philosophical drama.

The action takes place in the 20th century. The young man Mizoguchi, after the death of his father, finds himself in a school at Rinzai (approx. Buddhist Academy). It is there that the Golden Temple is located - the legendary architectural monument of Kyoto, which gradually fills Mizoguchi’s consciousness, crowding out all other thoughts. And only death, according to the author, defines the Beautiful. And everything Beautiful, sooner or later, must die.

The book is based on real fact burning of the Temple by one of the novice monks. On the bright path of Mizoguchi, temptations are constantly encountered, good fights against evil, and in the contemplation of the Temple the novice finds peace after the failures that haunt him, the death of his father, the death of a friend. And one day Mizoguchi comes up with the idea of ​​burning himself along with the Golden Temple.

A few years after writing the book, Mishima, like his hero, committed hara-kiri to himself.

• The Master and Margarita (1967)

Michael Bulgakov

The genre of the book is novel, mysticism, religion and philosophy.

An ageless masterpiece of Russian literature, a book that is worth reading at least once in your life.

• Portrait of Dorian Gray (1891)

Oscar Wilde

The genre of the book is novel, mysticism.

One day, the abandoned words of Dorian Gray (“I would give my soul for the portrait to grow old, and for me to be forever young”) became fatal for him. Not a single wrinkle on the now eternally youthful face of the protagonist, and his portrait, according to his wishes, ages and gradually dies. And, of course, you have to pay for everything in this world...

A book that has been filmed many times, once exploded a prim reading society with a Puritan past. A book about a deal with a tempter with dire consequences is a mystical novel that is worth re-reading every 10-15 years.

• Shagreen leather (1831)

Honore de Balzac

The genre of the book is novel, parable.

The action takes place in the 19th century. Raphael gets shagreen skin, with which he can make his wishes come true. True, after each wish fulfilled, both the skin itself and the hero’s life are shortened. Raphael's delight quickly gives way to insight - we have too little time on this earth to waste it so mediocrely on unaccountable momentary “joys.”

A classic, time-tested, and one of the most fascinating books from the master of words Balzac.

• Three Comrades (1936)

Erich Maria Remarque

Genre of the book: realism, psychological novel

A book about male friendship in post-war period. It is with this book that one should begin to get acquainted with the author who wrote it far from his homeland.

A work filled with emotions and events, human destinies and tragedies - heavy and bitter, but bright and life-affirming.

• Bridget Jones's Diary (1996)

Helen Fielding

The genre of the book is a love story.

An easy read for women who want a little smile and hope. You never know where you will fall into a love trap. And Bridget Jones, already desperate to find her other half, will wander in the dark for a long time before the light of her true love dawns.

No philosophy, mysticism, psychological spirals - just a story about love.

• The Man Who Laughs (1869)

Victor Hugo

The genre of the book is novel, historical prose.

The action takes place in the 17th-18th century. Once in his childhood, the boy Gwynplaine (who was a lord by birth) was sold to Comprachicos bandits. During the fashion for freaks and cripples that amused the European nobility, the boy became a fairground jester with a mask of laughter carved on his face.

Despite the trials that befell him, Gwynplaine was able to remain kind and a pure person. And even for love, the disfigured appearance and life did not become an obstacle.

• White on Black (2002)

Ruben David Gonzalez Gallego

The genre of the book is realism, autobiographical novel.

The work is true from the first to the last line. This book contains the life of the author. He can't stand pity. And when communicating with this man in a wheelchair, everyone immediately forgets that he is disabled.

A book about the love of life and the ability to fight for every moment of happiness, despite everything.

• Dark tower

Stephen King

The genre of the book is epic novel, fantasy.

The Dark Tower is Foundation stone of the universe. And the last noble knight in the world, Roland, must find her...

A book that occupies a special place in the fantasy genre - unique twists from King, closely intertwined with earthly reality, completely different, but united into one team and reliably described characters, a vivid psychologism of each situation, adventure, drive and the absolute effect of presence.

• Future (2013)

Dmitry Glukhovsky

The genre of the book is a fantasy novel.

The recoded DNA output gave immortality and eternity. True, in this case everything that previously made people live was lost. Temples have become brothels, life has turned into an endless hell, spiritual and cultural values ​​are lost, everyone who dares to have a child is destroyed.

What will humanity come to? A dystopian novel about a world of immortal, but “non-living” people without a soul.

• The Catcher in the Rye (1951)

Jerome Salinger.

The genre of the book is realism.

16-year-old Holden contains everything characteristic of a complex teenager - harsh reality and dreams, seriousness followed by childishness.

The book is a story about a boy who is thrown into the whirlwind of events by life. Childhood suddenly ends, and the chick, pushed out of the nest, does not understand where to fly and how to live in a world where everything is against you.

• You were promised to me

Elchin Safarli

The genre of the book is novel.

This is a work that people fall in love with from the first pages and are taken away for quotes. A terrible and irreparable loss of a soul mate.

Is it possible to start living again? Will the main character cope with his pain?

A good book is like a friend with whom you want to talk non-stop. In reading, as in life, there are fleeting acquaintances, but there are also those that last forever. From time to time you meet such friends again, feel nostalgic and certainly learn something new.

The ancient Roman philosopher Cicero said that he did not value reading without any pleasure. Superficial, joyless browsing is a problem for many people. Navigating the modern literary space is quite difficult. Much of what has been written and actively circulated is not worth attention. These are one-day books whose voice will be drowned out for decades. But among the paper pulp there are true literary diamonds that will always sparkle. To help passionate readers, we have made a selection of 10 books that you won’t be able to put down.

Somerset Maugham "The Burden of Human Passions" (1915)

"The Burden of Human Passions" ( original name Of Human Bondage) is one of the most famous works classic of the twentieth century by Englishman Somerset Maugham.

This is a philosophical drama about the life and existential quest of Philip Carey. WITH early childhood he was haunted by misfortunes: orphanhood, congenital lameness, ridicule of schoolmates, loneliness. Adult Carey still remains timid and shy, falls in love with the wayward, vicious Mildred and dutifully endures his beloved’s repeated betrayals. Life is damn unfair to Philip, and therefore he is trying to find out what its meaning is, what laws existence is based on. Why does it give everything to some, while it mercilessly takes away even the most basic grains of happiness from others? On the path to the truth, Carey turns to many philosophical teachings, becomes disillusioned with God and faith, tries himself in various fields, trying to find his calling, falls in love, breaks hearts. Will the main character be able to throw off the burden of human passions and answer the question of what life is?

Tartt "The Secret History" (1992)

“The Secret Story” (originally The Secret Story) is the debut novel by American writer, Pulitzer Prize winner Donna Tartt. It sold five million copies around the world and was heard in 24 languages. It was with “The Secret History” that the great fame of its “parent” began.

This psychological thriller tells the story of students at a Vermont private college. Young people came to educational institution study ancient Greek. There are very few of them, they are young, smart, talented and fanatically in love with antiquity. Soon the guys have a fix idea - they are superhumans, a special caste, the chosen ones. Many years later, student Richard Papen recalls those days when he lived within the walls of a secluded college, believed in his uniqueness, and when that terrible murder happened...

Donna Tartt knows how to intrigue, dissect characters and break stereotypes. We recommend it to fans of suspense and talented forensic science.

Fannie Flagg "Fried Green Tomatoes" (1987)

Evelyn Couch's life is over. She is 48 and, despite the fact that she is married, she is endlessly lonely. Evelyn stopped taking care of herself long ago, and chocolate bars became the main joy of her life. On top of everything else, she now has to go to a nursing home to visit her mother-in-law. It is here that the woman meets Ninny Threadgoode. This 86-year-old woman lived a long and difficult life, but she was not at all disappointed in it and did not lose optimism. Sitting in a government chair in a nursing home, Ninny revives multiple memories and thereby inspires her listener.

The novel “Fried Green Tomatoes” (original – Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe) from the talented American Fannie Flagg became a real bestseller in its time. Four years later, in 1991, a film of the same name was made based on it. The film was directed by Jon Avnet (“War”, “Close to the Heart”).

For those who have lost faith, who have succumbed to pessimism, who love a little sad nostalgia and touching life prose, we recommend the novel by Fanny Flagg.

Alexandre Dumas (father) "The Count of Monte Cristo" (1844-45)

Even those who have not read The Count of Monte Cristo certainly know this literary character and at least in general outline heard the story of the prisoner of the Château d'If.

Alexandre Dumas (father) is a true titan of literature. Centuries later, he is no longer tied to any particular country and culture, Dumas is a citizen of the world, and his legacy is the pride of humanity.

If you love adventure, intrigue, and exciting plot twists and turns, put aside modern reading for a while and turn to the classics. The story of the sailor Edmond Dantes, his ups, downs, love, “death” and magical resurrection, will give you an unforgettable experience!

After reading, you should reinforce your emotions with a good film adaptation; more than two dozen of them have been filmed. For example, you can watch the film by Jose Dayan (“Balzac”, “Dangerous Liaisons”) with Gerard Depardieu in leading role.

Francoise Sagan "Leash" (1989)

The famous Frenchwoman Françoise Sagan became famous throughout the world for her unusual stories. This woman knows how to surprise. The novel "The Leash" (originally La Laisse) was written in the last decade creative career writers. It talks about married couple Vincent and Laurent. One of them is rich, earns money, the other plays the role of a toy, forced to live according to the rules of a whimsical patron. A familiar story, isn't it? However, the wayward Sagan turned everything upside down: for her, Vincent is a doll, and Laurent is a puppeteer.

“Leash” will certainly appeal to fans of everyday drama, atmospheric French prose and the recognizable style of the great Sagan.

Arthur Haley "Airport" (1968)

On a January evening in 1967, a snowstorm struck Lincoln International Airport. At this time, a passenger plane crashes and urgently needs to land. The airport administration, led by Mel Bakersfeld, needs to quickly organize landing at extreme conditions.

The novel "Airport" (in the original "Airport"), like other works of the Canadian Arthur Haley, belongs to the genre of the so-called industrial novel, in which a person (a professional in his field) comes face to face with the solution of a complex informal problem. As a rule, it needs to be solved in a short time. So, Mr. Bakersfeld has 24 hours to fight the snowy elements. One day in the life of Lincoln Airport turned out to be quite stressful.

Stefan Zweig "24 Hours in the Life of a Woman" (1927)

Stefan Zweig always writes wonderfully, whether historical novel, biography, essay, long work or laconic short story. “24 Hours in the Life of a Woman” tells the story of an unprecedented incident - a 33-year-old respectable lady abandoned two children and a wealthy husband because of a charming stranger whom she met the day before.

The narrator, who was vacationing in the same boarding house where the family drama took place, became an involuntary participant in a circle that was actively discussing the act of the frivolous fugitive. He, out of the goodness of his heart, joined the camp of those who tried to justify Madame. Among them was one elderly person - 67-year-old Madame K. Having taken a liking to young man, she told him her own love story, which broke out in just 24 hours, but left a mark on her soul for the rest of her life.

Zweig's short stories are always sincere, deep, aphoristic, sensual and at the same time very chaste. We recommend it to connoisseurs of the romantic genre, rather than “pink” literature.

Winston Groom "Forest Gump" (1986)

The novel “Forrest Gump” (original – Forrest Gamp) is a vivid example when the fame of a literary character significantly outstripped the fame of the writer. Not everyone knows that the story about a mentally retarded man named Forrest Gump was created by the American writer and documentarian Winston Groom.

This fascinating, touching, sometimes funny and tear-jerking novel will not leave anyone indifferent. A masterpiece film will reinforce the impression of the book. The novel was filmed by the outstanding director Robert Zemeckis (“Back to the Future”, “Cast Away”). The role of Forest was brilliantly played by Tom Hanks (“Cast Away,” “The Green Mile”). The film was so successful that it won six Oscars, including Best Director, Best Actor and best movie 1994.

Joan Harris "Five Quarters of an Orange" (2001)

Another creation from the author of the masterpiece “Chocolate” will not leave sensual people indifferent. Five Quortes of the Orange is the thrilling story of a woman named Framboise and the secret hidden in her mother's cookbook.

Even a seemingly trivial plot will turn into a magical mystery in Harris’ creative treatment. Those who have read or at least watched the film “Chocolate” will certainly understand what it is about and will want to read this amazing book.

Sebastien Japrisot "A Lady with Glasses and a Gun in a Car" (1966)

Fans of the detective genre will appreciate the bestseller from the Frenchman Sebastien Japrizo. “The Lady with Glasses and a Gun in the Car” is an action-packed story about a 26-year-old advertising agency worker named Dani.

Is there any meaning and benefit in our time and why many people still cannot give up this pleasure.

They are now very popular, having become real encyclopedias for those who are seriously thinking about the premature end of the world.

All her life Dani has lived by the rules, but one day the girl decides to play a little prank - take a ride in her boss’s car to the sea. However, instead of basking on the Cote d'Azur, Dani will have to hide from justice. An unpleasant surprise awaited her in the trunk of the car - the corpse of a man with a gunshot wound. Now Dani is the main suspect in the murder case. To escape, she will have to conduct her own detective investigation.

10 books you can't tear yourself away from