So, you’ve decided you want to start reading and honestly, that’s amazing. Whether you’re picking up a book after a long time or reading for the very first time, welcome to a world of imagination, learning, and emotion. But let’s be real — with so many books out there, it can be a little overwhelming to know where to begin.
1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
This one’s a beautiful, simple story with a deep message. It follows a young shepherd named Santiago on a journey to find treasure, but what he finds is even more valuable. It’s short, meaningful, and filled with quotes that will stay with you long after the last page.
2. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
If you’re into emotional stories and characters that feel real, this book is a great place to start. It’s about love, loss, and the beauty of life — told through the eyes of two teenagers with a unique bond. It’s heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time.
3. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
Written in a very unique style, this book is both a mystery and a look into the mind of a teenager with autism. It’s simple to read, but the story pulls you in completely. Great if you like short chapters and something a bit different.
4. Ikigai by Héctor García & Francesc Miralles
Not ready to dive into fiction yet? Ikigai is a gentle, inspiring non-fiction book about finding purpose and living a happy life. It’s calm, thoughtful, and full of little lessons that can shift your mindset — plus, it’s very easy to read.
5. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
This book is like sitting with a wise old friend who tells you everything you need to hear about life. It’s a real story about a man meeting his dying professor every Tuesday, learning about love, work, regrets, and what truly matters.
6. The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
This is a true diary written by Anne Frank during World War II. Even though it’s historical, her voice is so honest and relatable — it almost feels like reading a letter from a friend. It’s touching, powerful, and eye-opening.
7. Wonder by R.J. Palacio
This one’s technically a children’s book, but honestly, everyone should read it. It’s about a boy with a facial difference starting school for the first time. It’s kind, warm, and teaches us a lot about empathy and kindness — and the writing is super easy to follow.
8. Sapiens (Beginner’s Edition) by Yuval Noah Harari
If you’re curious about history and humanity but don’t want a heavy textbook, the beginner’s version of Sapiens is a fantastic pick. It gives a big-picture view of how we humans came to be, in an easy and engaging tone.
9. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
This is fiction with heart. Eleanor is quirky, lonely, and slowly learning how to open up to the world. It’s written simply, but the story is layered and beautiful. You’ll laugh, feel, and root for her from start to finish.
10. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
Looking for something light, practical, and a little fun? This bestselling book about decluttering your life (and your mind) is a great intro to non-fiction. It’s short, motivating, and might just inspire you to clean your room while you’re at it!
