20 best books on stories – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a lover of stories? Whether you enjoy getting lost in fantasy worlds or diving deep into the lives of fascinating characters, there’s nothing quite like a good book on stories to transport you to a different realm. If you’re looking to expand your collection, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the 20 best books about stories that are guaranteed to captivate your imagination and leave you wanting more. So, grab your reading glasses and get ready to embark on a literary adventure like no other!


The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a mesmerizing book about tales. It transports readers into a world of captivating narratives and keeps them spellbound until the very last page. This book on stories weaves together a tapestry of emotions, taking readers on an unforgettable journey through the power of storytelling.

Little Fires Everywhere

by Celeste Ng

Little Fires Everywhere is a captivating book on stories that will ignite your imagination and leave you breathless. Celeste Ng weaves a mesmerizing tale that explores the intricate web of human connections and the secrets that lie within every family.

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is not just another book on stories, it is an absolute masterpiece that will leave you breathless. This gripping psychological thriller will take you on a twisted journey into the mind of a woman who hasn’t spoken a word since she was accused of a brutal murder.

Where the Crawdads Sing

by Delia Owens

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a mesmerizing book about the power of storytelling. Set in the marshlands of North Carolina, this enchanting novel weaves a captivating tale of survival, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

At its core, Where the Crawdads Sing is a book on stories. It follows the life of Kya Clark, a young girl abandoned by her family and left to fend for herself in the wild marsh. As Kya grows up isolated from society, she finds solace in the beauty of her surroundings and in the stories she creates to make sense of her world.

With vivid prose and a deep understanding of the human condition, Delia Owens takes readers on a journey through the heart and mind of a remarkable protagonist. Kya’s story is a testament to the power of imagination and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

As the plot unfolds, Where the Crawdads Sing explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Through Kya’s unique perspective, the book offers profound insights into the nature of loneliness, the importance of connection, and the ways in which stories can shape our lives.

Delia Owens’ debut novel is a true masterpiece, a stories book that will captivate readers from the very first page. With its richly drawn characters, evocative setting, and poignant storytelling, Where the Crawdads Sing is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the transformative power of a great story.

Educated

by Tara Westover

Educated, a captivating memoir by Tara Westover, is a remarkable book on tales of resilience, growth, and self-discovery.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

by Gail Honeyman

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a captivating book about stories that will leave you spellbound from start to finish. This remarkable tale takes you on a journey through the life of Eleanor Oliphant, a quirky and introverted woman who has spent most of her life in isolation.

With a unique writing style that is both poignant and witty, Honeyman weaves a stories book that explores the power of human connection and the importance of empathy. Through Eleanor’s eyes, we witness her struggle to navigate the complexities of social interactions and her relentless pursuit of a happier, more fulfilling life.

As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of unforgettable characters who impact Eleanor’s life in unexpected ways. From the warm-hearted Raymond, who becomes her unlikely friend, to the enigmatic musician Johnnie Lomond, each character brings their own book on stories that adds depth and richness to the narrative.

What sets this book about stories apart is its ability to tackle difficult themes such as loneliness, trauma, and mental health with sensitivity and grace. Honeyman delves into the complexities of Eleanor’s past, gradually revealing the haunting events that have shaped her into the person she is today.

However, amidst the darkness, there are moments of hope and redemption that shine through. Through Eleanor’s journey of self-discovery, we witness her gradual transformation from a lonely outsider to a woman who learns to embrace her imperfections and find joy in the simplest of pleasures.

With its compelling characters, evocative storytelling, and powerful exploration of the human spirit, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is a stories book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. It is a testament to the resilience of the human heart and a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a little kindness to change someone’s life.

The Tattooist of Auschwitz

by Heather Morris

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris is a remarkable book about the power of storytelling. Set during one of the darkest periods in history, this poignant novel takes us on a journey through the harrowing experiences of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who becomes the tattooist at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.

Within the confines of this unimaginable horror, Lale finds solace and strength in his role as the tattooist, marking the bodies of his fellow prisoners with their assigned numbers. Through this act, he becomes intimately connected to the stories of those around him, each tattoo representing a life, a history, and a struggle.

As Lale navigates the brutal reality of Auschwitz, he forms a forbidden connection with Gita, a young woman he tattoos. Their love story becomes a beacon of hope and resilience amidst the darkness, reminding us of the indomitable human spirit in the face of evil.

The Tattooist of Auschwitz is not just a book about stories; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling itself. Through Lale’s narrative, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and sharing our own stories, as well as the stories of others, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a profoundly moving and unforgettable read, serving as a reminder that even in the darkest times, the power of stories can illuminate our path towards hope and healing.

A Gentleman in Moscow

by Amor Towles

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles is a captivating book about stories. Set in the backdrop of post-revolutionary Russia, the novel follows the life of Count Alexander Rostov, who is sentenced to house arrest in the luxurious Metropol Hotel. As the count navigates his confined existence, he discovers that the hotel is a microcosm of the changing world outside, filled with a fascinating cast of characters and their intertwining tales.

The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is not just another book on stories; it is a powerful and gripping narrative that delves deep into the heart of our society. This book about stories is a thought-provoking exploration of race, identity, and injustice that will leave you both shaken and inspired.

The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is an enchanting book about stories that will transport you on a thrilling journey through the power of dreams, destiny, and the pursuit of one’s true purpose. This mesmerizing tale takes place in the mystical world of Andalusia, where a young shepherd named Santiago embarks on an epic adventure in search of a hidden treasure.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping book about stories that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This thrilling novel takes readers on a journey through the lives of three women, each with their own book on stories to tell.

Rachel, the main character, is a troubled woman who finds solace in observing the lives of others during her daily train commute. From her seat, she becomes captivated by a seemingly perfect couple she sees every day, constructing an intricate stories book about their lives in her mind.

However, when Rachel witnesses something shocking one day, her book on stories takes a dark turn. She becomes entangled in a mystery that unravels the true nature of the couple and the secrets they are hiding. As Rachel’s obsession with the couple grows, so does the suspense of the stories book.

The Girl on the Train is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its twists and turns, it is a book about stories that will keep you hooked from the first page to the last, eagerly trying to uncover the truth behind the tangled web of lies. Prepare to be immersed in a world where stories book can be dangerous and appearances can be deceiving.

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale is an extraordinary book on tales. Kristin Hannah has masterfully woven a captivating narrative that will leave you breathless. This book about stories will transport you to the tumultuous era of World War II, where two sisters embark on an unforgettable journey of survival, sacrifice, and resilience. Prepare to be mesmerized by the power of storytelling as you delve into this remarkable stories book. Get ready to be immersed in a world where courage and hope shine amidst the darkest of times.

The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a mesmerizing book about narratives, a true gem in the realm of stories. This literary masterpiece delves into the life of Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a tragic accident that changes the course of his existence. As he navigates through grief, loss, and the dark corners of the art underworld, Theo clings to a small painting that becomes his anchor in a turbulent sea of emotions. This novel is not merely a book on stories, but a profound exploration of human nature, the power of art, and the intricacies of our own personal narratives. Tartt’s prose is exquisite, weaving a tale that will captivate and haunt you long after you turn the final page. If you’re searching for a stories book that will transport you to another world and make you question the very essence of storytelling, then The Goldfinch is an absolute must-read.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a mesmerizing book about the power of stories. It is a captivating book on tales that explores the lives of Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group and embark on an extraordinary journey together. As their friendship grows, they discover the beauty and significance of sharing their own stories and finding solace in the power of narratives.

Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

If you are looking for a captivating book about stories, then look no further than Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. This thrilling masterpiece will leave you on the edge of your seat, craving for more.

Gone Girl is not just a typical book on stories – it is a rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns, deceit and manipulation. Flynn’s writing style is so gripping that you will find yourself unable to put the book down.

The story revolves around the disappearance of Amy Dunne on her fifth wedding anniversary, leaving her husband Nick as the prime suspect. As the search for Amy intensifies, the narrative takes unexpected detours, uncovering dark secrets and revealing the true nature of their marriage.

Flynn masterfully weaves a complex web of suspense and psychological intrigue, making Gone Girl a truly unforgettable stories book. Her characters are flawed, deeply human, and as the layers of their personalities are peeled back, you will find yourself questioning everything you thought you knew.

With its gripping plot, intricate character development, and unexpected twists, Gone Girl is a must-read for any lover of thrilling stories. Prepare to be enthralled by Flynn’s brilliant storytelling as she takes you on a journey you won’t soon forget.

The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating book on stories. Set in the 1960s in Jackson, Mississippi, this novel takes us on a journey into the lives of African-American maids working in white households. It is a book about stories, as the maids share their experiences, struggles, and triumphs in a society marked by racial inequality and prejudice.

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief is a mesmerizing book on stories that will transport you to Nazi Germany during World War II. This captivating novel written by Markus Zusak revolves around Liesel Meminger, a young girl who discovers the power and solace of words amidst the chaos and destruction of war.

Set in the small town of Molching, Liesel embarks on a remarkable journey through a book about stories. As she copes with the loss of her family and adjusts to her new life with foster parents, she finds solace in the world of books and words. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, Hans Hubermann, Liesel learns to read and slowly unravels the magic that lies within the pages of every book.

However, this stories book takes an unexpected turn when Liesel and her family decide to hide a Jewish man named Max Vandenburg in their basement. As they risk their lives to protect Max, Liesel’s bond with him grows stronger, and they find solace in sharing stories during the darkest of times. Through stolen books and secret reading sessions, Liesel discovers the power of words to both heal and unite people.

As you delve into the pages of The Book Thief, you will be captivated by Zusak’s poetic writing style and his ability to weave together a beautiful narrative amidst the backdrop of war. This tale of love, loss, and resilience will remind you of the extraordinary power that books on stories hold in shaping our lives and connecting us to one another.

The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is not just a book about stories. It is a captivating tale that weaves a tapestry of emotions, relationships, and unforgettable experiences. Set against the backdrop of Afghanistan, this stories book takes readers on a journey of redemption, love, and betrayal.

The Catcher in the Rye

by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a captivating book about tales. It follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a rebellious and disillusioned teenager who embarks on a journey filled with anecdotes, adventures, and experiences. As Holden navigates through the complexities of adulthood, he becomes a symbol for all those yearning for authenticity and searching for their place in a world full of narratives. This remarkable stories book explores themes of identity, alienation, and the longing for connection, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys diving into the depths of human stories.

To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a mesmerizing book about stories. Set in a small, sleepy town in Alabama during the 1930s, it delves into the complex world of racial prejudice and injustice. Through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young and curious girl, we are taken on a heartfelt journey that challenges societal norms and forces us to confront the power of empathy and compassion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the power of storytelling is undeniable, and these 20 best books about stories offer a wealth of inspiration and wisdom for both writers and readers alike. From the mastery of character development to the art of crafting captivating narratives, these books delve into the very essence of what makes a story truly unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking advice on plot structure, exploring the depths of the human psyche, or simply looking for a dose of literary magic, these books are sure to ignite your imagination and fuel your love for stories. So, grab a cozy blanket, a hot cup of tea, and dive into these pages that hold the keys to unlocking the secrets of storytelling.