Are you a history buff or simply fascinated by the cultural and political revolutions of the 60s and 70s? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about the 60s and 70s that will transport you back in time to experience the era firsthand. From iconic memoirs to gripping historical accounts, these books offer a window into the tumultuous and transformative decades. So, grab a cup of coffee and settle in for some captivating reading as we explore the top books on the 60s and 70s.
Contents
- 1 The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test
- 2 Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
- 3 The Feminine Mystique
- 4 The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- 5 The Catcher in the Rye
- 6 One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
- 7 The Bell Jar
- 8 Slaughterhouse-Five
- 9 The Godfather
- 10 The Joy of Sex
- 11 The Female Eunuch
- 12 The Andromeda Strain
- 13 The Exorcist
- 14 The God of Small Things
- 15 The Color Purple
- 16 The Shining
- 17 The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
- 18 The Bluest Eye
- 19 The Dispossessed
- 20 The Stand
- 21 Conclusion
The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test
by Tom Wolfe
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the wild and vibrant counterculture of the psychedelic era with Tom Wolfe’s mind-bending masterpiece, The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test. This electrifying book on the 60s and 70s takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the acid-laced adventures of Ken Kesey and his Merry Pranksters.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
by Hunter S. Thompson
Welcome to the wild and mind-bending world of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, a book that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the drug-fueled chaos of the 60s and 70s. Strap yourself in for a mind-bending ride as you join the eccentric journalist Raoul Duke and his attorney, Dr. Gonzo, on a drug-fueled road trip to Las Vegas.
The Feminine Mystique
by Betty Friedan
The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan is a groundbreaking book on the 60s and 70s that challenged the status quo and ignited the second wave of feminism. This captivating book about the 60s and 70s explores the hidden dissatisfaction and frustrations experienced by countless women during that era. Friedan’s powerful words shed light on the socially constructed ideals of femininity and the stifling expectations imposed on women. She delves deep into the lives of housewives, who were told that their ultimate fulfillment would come from being wives and mothers. Through meticulous research and personal anecdotes, Friedan unravels the myth of the perfect 60s and 70s housewife, exposing the emptiness and lack of fulfillment that many women experienced. The Feminine Mystique is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today, reminding us of the importance of equality and the ongoing fight for women’s rights.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
The Autobiography of Malcolm X is a captivating book that offers a unique perspective on the turbulent era of the 1960s and 1970s. Co-written by Malcolm X and Alex Haley, this powerful memoir takes readers on a journey through the life of one of the most influential civil rights leaders in American history.
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a timeless coming-of-age novel that takes readers on a nostalgic journey through the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s. This iconic book immerses you in the rebellious spirit of the era, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on teenage angst and societal disillusionment.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
by Ken Kesey
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey is a mind-bending journey into the heart of the 60s and 70s counterculture. This electrifying novel takes readers on a wild ride through the walls of a mental institution, exposing the power dynamics, societal norms, and individual freedom that defined an era.
The Bell Jar
by Sylvia Plath
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a captivating book that takes you on a journey through the tumultuous era of the 1960s and 1970s. Plath’s masterful storytelling immerses you in the world of Esther Greenwood, a young woman navigating the pressures and expectations of society during this transformative time. As you delve into the pages of this remarkable novel, you’ll witness Esther’s journey of self-discovery, her battle with mental illness, and her exploration of identity in a world that often feels suffocating. Plath’s vivid prose and poignant descriptions will transport you back to the 60s and 70s, allowing you to experience firsthand the social and cultural landscape of the era. Prepare to be swept away by this mesmerizing book about the 60s and 70s, filled with raw emotion, compelling characters, and a glimpse into a time that continues to shape our world today.
Slaughterhouse-Five
by Kurt Vonnegut
Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut is an unforgettable journey through time and space, wrapped in a thought-provoking narrative that captures the essence of the tumultuous era of the 60s and 70s. This iconic book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the mind of its protagonist, Billy Pilgrim, as he weaves through the horrors of war, the absurdity of human existence, and the indomitable spirit of resilience.
The Godfather
by Mario Puzo
The Godfather by Mario Puzo is a timeless masterpiece that takes readers on an unforgettable journey into the shadowy world of the Italian-American mafia during the tumultuous era of the 1960s and 1970s. This gripping novel delves into the dark underbelly of organized crime, power struggles, and family loyalty.
The Joy of Sex
by Alex Comfort
The Joy of Sex by Alex Comfort is a revolutionary book about the swinging 60s and 70s. This iconic guide explores the taboo topics of sexuality and relationships, providing a candid and liberating perspective on intimacy. Dubbed as the ultimate ‘book on the 60s and 70s’, it delves into the era’s cultural revolution, encouraging readers to embrace their desires and embrace their bodies.
The Female Eunuch
by Germaine Greer
The Female Eunuch by Germaine Greer is a groundbreaking book on the tumultuous era of the 60s and 70s. With its powerful and provocative voice, it delves deep into the cultural and social issues that defined this era of liberation and revolution. Greer’s book about the 60s and 70s challenges traditional notions of femininity and explores the ways in which women have been oppressed and silenced throughout history. This thought-provoking masterpiece is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of this transformative period in history. So, if you’re looking for a compelling exploration of the 60s and 70s, look no further than The Female Eunuch.
The Andromeda Strain
by Michael Crichton
The Andromeda Strain is a gripping and thrilling book that takes readers on a heart-pounding journey into the depths of the unknown. Set in the backdrop of the 60s and 70s, this novel by Michael Crichton explores the fascinating world of science and technology during that era.
The Exorcist
by William Peter Blatty
The Exorcist, written by William Peter Blatty, is a spine-chilling novel that takes readers on a terrifying journey into the supernatural. Set in the turbulent era of the 60s and 70s, this book captures the essence of an era defined by counterculture, rebellion, and the search for spiritual meaning.
The God of Small Things
by Arundhati Roy
The God of Small Things is a mesmerizing novel that takes readers on a journey through the tumultuous era of the 1960s and 1970s. Set in the lush backdrop of Kerala, India, this book immerses readers in a world of forbidden love, political upheaval, and societal transformation.
The Color Purple
by Alice Walker
The Color Purple is a spellbinding tale that transports readers to the vibrant and tumultuous era of the 60s and 70s. This groundbreaking novel by Alice Walker delves into the lives of African American women, exploring themes of racism, gender inequality, and resilience. Set in the deep American South, the story follows the journey of Celie, a young woman who endures unimaginable hardships but ultimately finds her voice and strength. Through Celie’s poignant letters, Walker paints a vivid picture of a time when social and political change was brewing, and individuals were fighting for their rights and freedom. The Color Purple is a powerful and captivating portrayal of life in the 60s and 70s, a must-read for those seeking to understand the complexities of that transformative era.
The Shining
by Stephen King
Are you ready to step into the chilling world of Stephen King’s iconic horror novel, The Shining? This spine-tingling masterpiece takes us back to the tumultuous era of the 60s and 70s, where supernatural horrors merge with the psychological terrors lurking within the human mind. Get ready to be transported to a grand and isolated hotel nestled amidst the snow-capped Rockies, where the past comes alive and malevolence has no boundaries.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
by Douglas Adams
Are you ready for an intergalactic adventure through time and space? Buckle up and grab your copy of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, the ultimate book on the cosmic craziness of the 60s and 70s!
The Bluest Eye
by Toni Morrison
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison is a mesmerizing book on the 60s and 70s that delves into the profound complexities of racism, identity, and beauty. Set in Ohio during the turbulent era of the 60s and 70s, this groundbreaking novel follows the story of young Pecola Breedlove, a Black girl who longs for blue eyes in a world that constantly tells her that she is unworthy.
The Dispossessed
by Ursula K. Le Guin
The Dispossessed is a revolutionary masterpiece by Ursula K. Le Guin, transporting readers to a world where the 60s and 70s ethos of counterculture and societal change is explored in the most thought-provoking way. This remarkable book delves deep into the intricacies of an anarchist society on the brink of a paradigm shift, challenging readers to question the very foundations of our own reality. With its dazzling prose and profound insights, The Dispossessed is an illuminating journey that transcends time and space, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the spirit of the 60s and 70s.
The Stand
by Stephen King
The Stand is a captivating novel by Stephen King that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through a post-apocalyptic world. Set in the 60s and 70s, this enthralling book paints a vivid picture of a society on the brink of collapse.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 20 best books about the 60s and 70s offer a fascinating glimpse into an era of social and cultural revolution. From iconic events like Woodstock to the rise of counterculture movements, these books capture the spirit of the time and its impact on society. Whether you’re interested in exploring the music, politics, or fashion of the era, these books provide a rich and immersive experience. So, grab a copy of these books and take a nostalgic journey back to the transformative decades of the 60s and 70s.