Have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel back in time? To witness historical events firsthand or perhaps change the course of history? If so, you’re not alone. Countless authors have explored the concept of time travel in their works, creating captivating stories that transport us to different eras. In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best books about going back in time, guaranteeing hours of thrilling adventures and mind-bending paradoxes. So, grab a book on going back in time and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through the ages!
Contents
- 1 11/22/63
- 2 The Time Traveler’s Wife
- 3 Outlander
- 4 The Time Machine
- 5 Kindred
- 6 The Map of Time
- 7 Time and Again
- 8 The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August
- 9 The Man Who Folded Himself
- 10 Replay
- 11 The Time Ships
- 12 Timebound
- 13 The Time Traveler’s Almanac
- 14 The Anubis Gates
- 15 Time Salvager
- 16 The Psychology of Time Travel
- 17 The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England
- 18 The Gone World
- 19 The Shining Girls
- 20 The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O.
- 21 Conclusion
11/22/63
by Stephen King
Are you ready to embark on a mind-bending journey through time? Stephen King’s 11/22/63 is a captivating chronicle of a book about traveling back in time.
Imagine having the power to alter history, to prevent one of the most shocking events of the 20th century. This mesmerizing novel tells the tale of Jake Epping, an English teacher who stumbles upon a portal that allows him to travel back to 1958.
With a mission in mind, Jake decides to use this incredible opportunity to prevent the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. But altering the course of history is no easy task, as the past resists change and will fight back to maintain its order.
As Jake immerses himself in the world of the late 50s and early 60s, he encounters love, friendship, and danger. King’s masterful storytelling weaves a web of suspense and emotion, leaving readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning each page to discover what lies ahead.
With vivid descriptions and an attention to detail that transports you to another era, King brings history to life. His meticulous research shines through as he recreates the ambiance of the time, from the music to the fashion, and the political climate that set the stage for Kennedy’s fateful day.
11/22/63 is not just a book about going back in time, but a profound exploration of the consequences of altering history. It delves into the complexities of time travel, the ethical dilemmas it presents, and the lingering question of whether changing the past is truly for the better.
If you’re ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through time, 11/22/63 is a must-read. Stephen King’s compelling storytelling will keep you hooked until the very last page, leaving you contemplating the power of the past and the choices that shape our future.
The Time Traveler’s Wife
by Audrey Niffenegger
The Time Traveler’s Wife is a mesmerizing book that takes you on an extraordinary journey through the intricacies of time. It delves into the captivating story of Henry DeTamble, a man who possesses an extraordinary ability to travel through time. However, rather than being a typical ‘going back in time’ book, it explores the profound impact of time travel on relationships and the human experience.
Outlander
by Diana Gabaldon
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon is an extraordinary tale that transports readers through the corridors of time. This riveting novel takes us on an epic journey, intertwining history, romance, and adventure.
Prepare to be captivated by the story of Claire Randall, a courageous and independent woman who finds herself mysteriously thrown back in time to the 18th century Scottish Highlands. This book is not just about time travel; it’s a mesmerizing exploration of love, honor, and the complexities of human nature.
With Gabaldon’s immersive storytelling, readers will find themselves completely engrossed in the vividly depicted world of 18th century Scotland. The rich historical backdrop, filled with political upheaval and clan warfare, adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative.
But it’s not just the historical setting that makes Outlander so enthralling. At its heart, this is a love story like no other. Claire’s unexpected encounter with the dashing young Highlander, Jamie Fraser, sets in motion a passionate and unforgettable romance that transcends time itself.
Gabaldon deftly weaves together the threads of history, romance, and adventure to create a truly unputdownable read. The characters are complex and compelling, the plot is filled with twists and turns, and the writing is both lyrical and evocative.
So, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another time and keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than Outlander. This is a spellbinding tale that will leave you breathless and eager for more.
The Time Machine
by H.G. Wells
The Time Machine by H.G. Wells is an electrifying journey into the past that will leave you breathless. This captivating book on traversing the ages takes us on a thrilling adventure through time itself. Join our courageous protagonist as he embarks on a perilous quest, discovering new worlds and encountering incredible civilizations along the way. Prepare to be amazed as you delve into the captivating pages of this time-travel masterpiece that will transport you to a realm of wonder and excitement.
Kindred
by Octavia Butler
Kindred by Octavia Butler is a captivating tale that transports readers into a mesmerizing world of time travel. Brace yourself for a mind-bending adventure as you delve into this extraordinary book about traversing through the annals of history. Butler weaves a spellbinding narrative that explores the concept of going back in time, immersing readers in a thought-provoking journey through the ages. Prepare to be enthralled as the protagonist embarks on a compelling odyssey, encountering the unexpected and grappling with the complexities of the past. With a touch of brilliance, Butler crafts a tale that will leave you spellbound, questioning the very fabric of time itself. So, step into the pages of this captivating going back in time book and be prepared to have your mind forever altered.
The Map of Time
by Félix J. Palma
The Map of Time by Félix J. Palma is an enchanting literary adventure that takes readers on a thrilling journey through time. This captivating novel is not just another book about going back in time, but a masterpiece that mesmerizes with its ingenious storytelling and rich historical backdrop.
Time and Again
by Jack Finney
Time and Again by Jack Finney is a mesmerizing journey through the portals of history. This extraordinary book transports readers into the captivating world of time travel, where the concept of going back in time is beautifully explored. Prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure as Simon Morley, the protagonist, delves into the mysteries of the past.
The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August
by Claire North
The First Fifteen Lives of Harry August is an astonishing journey through the ages wrapped in a thrilling tale of time travel. This extraordinary novel by Claire North dives into the concept of reincarnation with a twist – Harry August is born again and again, living the same life over and over.
The Man Who Folded Himself
by David Gerrold
The Man Who Folded Himself by David Gerrold is a mind-bending, reality-twisting adventure that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the realms of time travel. This remarkable book delves deep into the concept of temporal manipulation, exploring the consequences and complexities of altering one’s own history.
Step into the shoes of Daniel Eakins, a young man who discovers a mysterious time belt that enables him to travel through time at will. As he embarks on his temporal escapades, Daniel experiences the exhilaration and pitfalls of altering the past and encountering various versions of himself.
With each fold in time, Daniel encounters different versions of his own life, facing moral dilemmas, challenging paradoxes, and the harrowing consequences of tampering with the fabric of reality. Gerrold masterfully captures the intricate web of cause and effect, immersing readers in a mind-bending narrative that will leave them questioning the very nature of existence.
Prepare to be captivated by Gerrold’s skillful storytelling, as he takes you on an unforgettable journey through the twists and turns of time. This ingenious book offers a unique perspective on the concept of time travel, exploring the profound effects it can have on one’s identity, relationships, and understanding of the world.
Whether you’re a fan of science fiction or simply fascinated by the notion of manipulating time, The Man Who Folded Himself is an absolute must-read. Embark on this extraordinary adventure and prepare to have your mind folded and unfolded in ways you never thought possible.
Replay
by Ken Grimwood
Are you ready to embark on a mind-bending journey through the corridors of time? Strap yourself in, because “Replay” by Ken Grimwood is about to take you on a thrilling rollercoaster ride! This captivating novel delves deep into the concept of time travel, offering a fresh and exhilarating take on the age-old question: What if you could go back in time?
The Time Ships
by Stephen Baxter
The Time Ships by Stephen Baxter is a mind-bending adventure through the depths of time. This extraordinary book delves into the realms of temporal travel, taking readers on an exhilarating journey through the ages. Prepare to be whisked away on a voyage of epic proportions as you explore the infinite possibilities of time travel.
Timebound
by Rysa Walker
Step into a thrilling adventure with Timebound, a mesmerizing journey through the ages. This captivating novel takes readers on a wild ride, diving headfirst into the enigmatic world of time travel. Delve into the gripping narrative of this chronological escapade, where the past and present collide in a high-stakes battle against destiny.
The Time Traveler’s Almanac
by Ann VanderMeer (Editor) and Jeff VanderMeer (Editor)
The Time Traveler’s Almanac is a captivating anthology curated by Ann VanderMeer and Jeff VanderMeer. This remarkable collection of stories takes readers on an exhilarating journey through time, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary possibilities of the past, present, and future.
The Anubis Gates
by Tim Powers
The Anubis Gates by Tim Powers is an extraordinary journey through the corridors of time. This spellbinding masterpiece takes readers on an unforgettable expedition into the past, where history and fantasy intertwine in the most mesmerizing way imaginable.
Time Salvager
by Wesley Chu
Time Salvager, written by Wesley Chu, is a thrilling and captivating book that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the concept of temporal manipulation. This sci-fi masterpiece delves into the fascinating premise of time travel, exploring the consequences and dangers that come with the ability to venture into the past. Prepare to be immersed in a world where the past becomes a playground for those who possess the skill to salvage it. Brace yourself for an adventure that will transport you through the ages, as this extraordinary book unveils the thrilling intricacies of temporal manipulation.
The Psychology of Time Travel
by Kate Mascarenhas
The Psychology of Time Travel is an extraordinary journey through the depths of time, written by the talented Kate Mascarenhas. This captivating tale takes us on a thrilling ride into the intriguing world of time travel. But hold on tight, because this isn’t just any ordinary book about going back in time – it’s a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche and the consequences of tampering with time.
The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England
by Ian Mortimer
Imagine if you could step into a time machine and travel back to medieval England. How fascinating would that be? Well, Ian Mortimer’s mesmerizing book on journeying through time, The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England, allows you to do just that! This extraordinary guide takes you on an exhilarating adventure, plunging you into the heart of the Middle Ages.
Forget everything you thought you knew about history textbooks, because Mortimer’s eloquent and immersive writing style brings the past to life like never before. This isn’t just a dry recollection of facts and dates; it’s an enthralling tale of knights and castles, bustling markets and grand cathedrals. Mortimer’s meticulous research and attention to detail transport you to a world that once was, allowing you to experience it with all your senses.
As you delve deeper into the pages of this captivating book, you’ll find yourself wandering through medieval towns, mingling with peasants and nobles alike. You’ll witness jousting tournaments and feasts, and even get a taste of the food and drink that fueled the people of that time. Mortimer’s vivid descriptions make it feel as though you’re right there, in the midst of the action.
But this book is more than just a thrilling journey; it’s also a fascinating exploration of the social, political, and cultural aspects of medieval England. Mortimer delves into the lives of ordinary people, revealing their hopes, fears, and daily struggles. He uncovers the complex web of power and hierarchy that governed society, shedding light on the lives of both the privileged and the oppressed.
So, if you’ve ever dreamt of going back in time and experiencing the wonders of medieval England firsthand, this is the book for you. Mortimer’s masterful storytelling and wealth of knowledge make The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England an absolute must-read for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through time and immerse yourself in a world that will captivate your imagination.
The Gone World
by Tom Sweterlitsch
The Gone World by Tom Sweterlitsch is a mind-bending, time-twisting masterpiece that will leave you questioning the very fabric of reality. Strap yourself in for a thrilling ride through the depths of space and time in this gripping novel.
This sensational book takes the concept of going back in time and turns it on its head. Sweterlitsch weaves together elements of science fiction, mystery, and thriller genres to create a unique and captivating story. Prepare to be engrossed in a narrative that will keep you guessing until the very last page.
The protagonist, Shannon Moss, is an elite investigator working for the secretive Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Tasked with solving a perplexing murder case, Moss must rely on her training and intuition to navigate a world where time travel is a reality. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers a shocking truth that threatens not only her own existence but the fate of humanity itself.
Sweterlitsch’s writing is nothing short of extraordinary. His vivid descriptions bring the settings to life, immersing readers in a richly detailed world. The pacing is relentless, with each chapter building upon the last, creating a sense of urgency and suspense that is impossible to resist.
The Gone World is not your typical “going back in time” book. It transcends the boundaries of the genre, exploring complex themes such as love, destiny, and the nature of time itself. Sweterlitsch’s masterful storytelling will leave you questioning your own perception of reality and pondering the possibilities of what lies beyond.
If you’re ready for an exhilarating journey through time and space, then The Gone World is the book for you. Be prepared to have your mind blown and your imagination ignited as you embark on this unforgettable adventure.
The Shining Girls
by Lauren Beukes
Step into a world where time is both a haunting mystery and a deadly weapon in The Shining Girls by Lauren Beukes. This mesmerizing thriller takes readers on a mind-bending journey through the ages, as a relentless time-traveling serial killer leaves a trail of victims in his wake.
Prepare to be captivated by a narrative that seamlessly weaves together multiple timelines, transporting you from the 1930s to the 1990s and beyond. With each turn of the page, the gripping story unfolds, revealing the chilling cat-and-mouse game between a determined survivor and her elusive predator.
Beukes’ masterful storytelling delves deep into the psychology of her characters, painting a vivid portrait of the killer’s twisted mind and the unwavering resilience of his chosen targets, known as the “shining girls.” As the protagonist, Kirby Mazrachi, fights to understand the connection between the victims and the enigmatic house that allows the killer to travel through time, readers are drawn into a gripping race against both past and future.
This spellbinding novel is not just a book about going back in time; it’s a heart-pounding exploration of the consequences of tampering with the fabric of time itself. Beukes skillfully blends elements of crime, sci-fi, and horror, crafting a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
Prepare yourself for a journey through the ages, as you embark on this unforgettable adventure in the realm of time and terror. With its intricate plot, vivid characters, and relentless suspense, The Shining Girls is a must-read for anyone craving a thrilling, mind-bending experience that will leave you questioning the very nature of time.
The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O.
by Neal Stephenson and Nicole Galland
The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O. takes readers on an exhilarating journey through time, as two masterful authors, Neal Stephenson and Nicole Galland, team up to deliver a thrilling adventure in this captivating book on temporal travel.
In this mesmerizing tale, the story follows a secret government agency known as D.O.D.O. (Department of Diachronic Operations) that specializes in manipulating time. When linguist Melisande Stokes is recruited by the enigmatic Tristan Lyons to decipher ancient documents, she discovers a shocking truth – magic once existed, and it could be harnessed to change the course of history.
As Melisande and Tristan delve deeper into their research, they uncover a plan to alter the past and reshape the present. With the aid of a motley crew of experts, including a physicist, a historian, and a witch, they embark on a dangerous mission to travel back in time and save magic from extinction.
Set across various historical eras, from Elizabethan England to World War II, this book about going back in time weaves together an intricate tapestry of adventure, romance, and intrigue. The authors skillfully blend elements of science fiction and fantasy, creating a spellbinding narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
As the protagonists encounter twisted politics, unexpected alliances, and formidable enemies, they must navigate treacherous waters, both in the past and the present. The authors’ meticulous attention to detail brings each era to life, immersing readers in a richly textured world that seamlessly blends history and fiction.
The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O. is a gripping and thought-provoking tale that explores the consequences of meddling with time. With its compelling characters, witty dialogue, and intricate plot, this going back in time book offers a captivating reading experience that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages until the very end.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about going back in time offer readers a thrilling journey through different eras, exploring the possibilities and consequences of time travel. From classic novels to modern-day tales, these stories captivate readers with their vivid characters, intricate plots, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, fantasy, or historical fiction, there’s a book on this list that will transport you to a different time and ignite your imagination. So, grab one of these books and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the ages.