Are you fascinated by the lives of the elite? Do you long to immerse yourself in the world of luxury, privilege, and opulence? Look no further! In this curated list, we have compiled the 20 best books about the upper class that will transport you to a realm of extravagance and glamour. From tales of aristocratic families to gripping narratives of high society, these upper class books will satiate your curiosity and provide a captivating glimpse into a world few get to experience firsthand. So grab a cozy seat and prepare to be enthralled by these captivating stories of the elite!
Contents
- 1 Crazy Rich Asians
- 2 The Great Gatsby
- 3 The Age of Innocence
- 4 A Gentleman in Moscow
- 5 The House of Mirth
- 6 The Secret History
- 7 The Goldfinch
- 8 The Bonfire of the Vanities
- 9 The Picture of Dorian Gray
- 10 The Custom of the Country
- 11 The Beautiful and Damned
- 12 The Catcher in the Rye
- 13 The Nanny Diaries
- 14 The Devil Wears Prada
- 15 The Help
- 16 The House of Gucci
- 17 The Paris Wife
- 18 The Swans of Fifth Avenue
- 19 The Heiresses
- 20 The Nest
- 21 Conclusion
Crazy Rich Asians
by Kevin Kwan
Crazy Rich Asians is a captivating and hilarious book on upper class society, written by Kevin Kwan. It takes readers on a whirlwind journey into the extravagant and glamorous world of the ultra-wealthy in Singapore. The story revolves around Rachel Chu, an ordinary girl who discovers that her boyfriend, Nick Young, belongs to one of the wealthiest families in Asia. As Rachel accompanies Nick to a grand wedding in his hometown, she navigates through jealous socialites, nosy relatives, and outrageous wealth. This book about the upper class is filled with jaw-dropping opulence, family drama, and a sprinkle of romance. With its witty writing and vivid descriptions, Crazy Rich Asians offers a peek into a world that most of us can only dream of.
The Great Gatsby
by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is an enchanting book about the glittering world of the wealthy elite in 1920s America. This captivating novel delves into the lives of the upper class, exposing the hollow pursuit of wealth, the emptiness of the American Dream, and the tragic consequences of unfulfilled desires. Through the eyes of the mysterious Jay Gatsby, readers are transported into a world of extravagant parties, luxurious mansions, and forbidden love. Fitzgerald’s vivid prose and masterful storytelling paint a vivid portrait of a society obsessed with materialism and social status. As the layers of glamour peel away, the real faces of the upper class are revealed, leaving readers questioning the true meaning of happiness and the price one is willing to pay for it.
The Age of Innocence
by Edith Wharton
The Age of Innocence is a captivating novel by Edith Wharton that delves into the intricate web of New York’s high society in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Gilded Age, the story revolves around Newland Archer, a young lawyer who finds himself torn between his duty to uphold societal conventions and his forbidden love for Countess Ellen Olenska.
This mesmerizing upper class book explores the complexities of love, marriage, and the rigid expectations of a privileged society. Wharton’s exquisite prose brings to life the opulent world of the elite, where appearances are everything and scandal lurks beneath the surface. As Archer navigates the intricacies of his social circle, readers are transported into a world of lavish balls, secret affairs, and moral dilemmas.
In this book about upper class, Wharton masterfully captures the tension between tradition and personal desires, and the sacrifices one must make to maintain the illusion of respectability. With its richly drawn characters and evocative setting, The Age of Innocence is a timeless tale of love and longing that continues to resonate with readers today.
A Gentleman in Moscow
by Amor Towles
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles is a captivating book about the elite society of post-revolutionary Russia. Set in the luxurious confines of the iconic Metropol Hotel, this upper class book follows the life of Count Alexander Rostov, who is sentenced to house arrest in the hotel’s attic. Despite his confinement, Rostov’s wit, charm, and resilience shine through as he navigates a new world within the hotel’s walls. From his encounters with eccentric guests to his unlikely friendships with hotel staff, the Count’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding joy in the little things. With elegant prose and a richly developed cast of characters, A Gentleman in Moscow is a must-read for those seeking a glimpse into the opulent world of the Russian upper class.
The House of Mirth
by Edith Wharton
The House of Mirth is a captivating book about the upper class society in New York City during the early 1900s. Edith Wharton weaves a tale of glamour, ambition, and the harsh realities faced by those trapped in the gilded cage of high society.
The Secret History
by Donna Tartt
The Secret History, written by Donna Tartt, is a captivating book about the privileged elite. Set in a small, exclusive college in New England, this novel delves into the dark secrets and twisted obsessions of a group of upper-class students. With its lush prose and compelling characters, Tartt’s masterpiece explores themes of power, morality, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. As the story unravels, readers are drawn into a world where intellectual brilliance and social status come at a high price. This upper-class book takes readers on a thrilling journey through the complexities of human nature, leaving them questioning the boundaries of loyalty and the lengths one will go to protect their secrets.
The Goldfinch
by Donna Tartt
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating novel that delves into the intricate world of the privileged elite. Set against the backdrop of the art world, this upper class book follows the life of Theodore Decker, a young boy who survives a tragic event that changes the course of his life forever. As Theodore navigates the complex maze of New York City’s upper crust, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, love, and deception. Tartt’s exquisite prose and deft storytelling transport readers into a world of opulence and extravagance, where appearances often deceive. With its richly drawn characters and intricate plot, The Goldfinch is a mesmerizing exploration of the human condition, painting a vivid portrait of the dark underbelly of the upper class.
The Bonfire of the Vanities
by Tom Wolfe
The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe is a scintillating book about the gilded world of New York’s elite. In this enthralling tale, Wolfe delves into the lives of the rich and powerful, exposing their greed, ambition, and moral bankruptcy. Set in the 1980s, the story revolves around Sherman McCoy, a successful Wall Street bond trader, who finds himself in a downward spiral after a fateful mistake. With its razor-sharp wit, vivid characters, and scathing social commentary, this upper class book offers a captivating exploration of wealth, privilege, and the dark underbelly of high society. Prepare to be enthralled by Wolfe’s masterful storytelling and his unflinching portrayal of the excesses and hypocrisies of the upper echelons of society.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
by Oscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray, penned by the witty and audacious Oscar Wilde, is a captivating book about the upper class. It delves into the intriguing and scandalous lives of London’s elite, revealing the hidden desires and corruptible nature of the upper class. The story centers around the young and handsome Dorian Gray, who remains eternally youthful while his portrait ages and shows the effects of his sinful indulgences. As the portrait becomes more grotesque, Dorian’s true nature unfolds, leading him down a path of debauchery and moral decay. This upper class book explores themes of vanity, beauty, and the consequences of unchecked desires, painting a vivid picture of a society obsessed with appearances and the destructive effects it can have on the soul.
The Custom of the Country
by Edith Wharton
The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton is a captivating book about the high society of early 20th century America. This enthralling novel follows the life of the ambitious and relentless Undine Spragg, a young woman from a small town who is determined to climb the social ladder in New York City. Undine is portrayed as a cunning and manipulative character, using her beauty and charm to navigate the upper echelons of society. Wharton’s exquisite prose and keen observations shed light on the intricacies of the upper class, exposing their shallow values and moral bankruptcy. With its scathing social commentary and compelling characters, The Custom of the Country is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the upper class.
The Beautiful and Damned
by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Beautiful and Damned is a captivating book on upper class society written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Set in New York City during the early 20th century, this novel delves into the lives of Anthony Patch and his beautiful wife, Gloria, as they navigate the indulgent and glamorous world of the upper class. Fitzgerald’s mesmerizing prose paints a vivid portrait of their opulent parties, extravagant lifestyles, and unfulfilled dreams. As the couple succumbs to the temptations of wealth and excess, they find themselves trapped in a cycle of self-destruction. With its stunning portrayal of a decadent era, The Beautiful and Damned is an enthralling book about upper class that explores the complexities of love, ambition, and the corrosive effects of privilege.
The Catcher in the Rye
by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is an iconic coming-of-age novel that delves into the alienation and disillusionment of a young man named Holden Caulfield. Set in the 1950s, this upper class book explores Holden’s struggle to find his place in a world filled with phoniness and hypocrisy.
The Nanny Diaries
by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus
The Nanny Diaries, a witty and eye-opening book about the upper class, takes readers on a captivating journey into the secret lives of Manhattan’s elite. Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus, former nannies themselves, provide an insider’s perspective on the glamorous yet often absurd world of the privileged. Through the eyes of the protagonist, a young nanny named Nan, we witness the outrageous demands, scandals, and eccentricities of the wealthy families she serves. This upper class book unravels the hidden truths behind closed doors, exposing the superficiality and loneliness that often accompany extreme wealth. With humor and keen observation, The Nanny Diaries offers a fascinating glimpse into a world that many only dream of, while also shedding light on the complexities and human emotions that lie beneath the surface.
The Devil Wears Prada
by Lauren Weisberger
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger is an enthralling book about the glamorous and cutthroat world of high society. This captivating novel takes readers on a rollercoaster journey through the upper echelons of the fashion industry, where power and success reign supreme.
Follow the story of Andrea Sachs, a young and ambitious journalist who lands a job as the assistant to Miranda Priestly, the formidable editor-in-chief of a prestigious fashion magazine. As Andrea navigates through the demanding and ruthless world of the fashion elite, she learns that behind the glitz and glamour lies a dark underbelly of secrets, manipulation, and sacrifices.
The Devil Wears Prada is a must-read for anyone seeking a glimpse into the captivating and sometimes treacherous world of the upper class. Get ready to be swept away by the allure and intrigue of this gripping tale.
The Help
by Kathryn Stockett
The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating book about society’s elite, a world steeped in privilege and power. Set in 1960s Jackson, Mississippi, the novel delves into the lives of the upper echelon, exploring their secrets, prejudices, and dark underbelly. Stockett’s powerful storytelling exposes the unseen lives of African-American maids who work tirelessly to serve these wealthy families.
This remarkable book on upper class society unveils a world of entitlement and discrimination, as well as the courage and resilience of those who dare to challenge the status quo. With vivid characters and a compelling narrative, Stockett creates a thought-provoking exploration of race, class, and friendship. The Help is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of an upper class society.
The House of Gucci
by Sara Gay Forden
The House of Gucci by Sara Gay Forden is a captivating book on the upper class that delves into the luxurious and scandalous world of one of fashion’s most iconic families. With meticulous research and an engaging narrative, Forden unravels the rise and fall of the Gucci dynasty, portraying the high-stakes power struggles, extravagant lifestyles, and intricate web of relationships that defined this book about upper class. From the glamorous jet-setters to the cutthroat fashion industry, the author offers readers an intimate glimpse into a world where wealth, ambition, and betrayal collide. Through her vibrant storytelling, Forden brings to life a captivating tale that will leave you mesmerized and yearning for more. Prepare to be enthralled by this upper class book that takes you on a thrilling journey through the opulence and drama of the Gucci empire.
The Paris Wife
by Paula McLain
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain is a captivating book about the glamorous and opulent world of the upper class in 1920s Paris. Set against the backdrop of the glittering Jazz Age, this novel delves into the tumultuous relationship between Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson. Through McLain’s vivid prose, readers are transported to a world of lavish parties, artistic creativity, and the bohemian lifestyle of the Parisian elite. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the upper crust, exploring the highs and lows of their relationships, ambitions, and the sacrifices they make for love and success. McLain’s storytelling prowess brings this era to life, making The Paris Wife a must-read for anyone intrigued by the allure of the upper class.
The Swans of Fifth Avenue
by Melanie Benjamin
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin is a captivating book about the glamorous lives of the elite in New York City during the 1950s. This mesmerizing novel delves into the captivating world of the upper class, where wealth, power, and scandal intertwine. Benjamin weaves a tale of friendship, betrayal, and ambition, as she explores the lives of the women in the high society circle known as the “swans.” These socialites, with their impeccable style and refined manners, captivate the attention of the city’s elite and become the talk of the town. The Swans of Fifth Avenue is a gripping and evocative story that offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the upper class during a time of immense change and cultural transformation.
The Heiresses
by Sara Shepard
The Heiresses is a captivating book about the glamorous and cutthroat world of the elite. Written by Sara Shepard, the mastermind behind Pretty Little Liars, this novel delves into the lives of the upper crust. The story follows the Saybrook family, a wealthy and influential dynasty, as they navigate their luxurious lives filled with scandal, secrets, and sibling rivalry. When tragedy strikes and one of the Saybrook heiresses dies under suspicious circumstances, the remaining sisters must unravel the truth behind the tragedy while protecting their own carefully crafted images. With its blend of mystery, intrigue, and a peek into the opulent lifestyles of the upper class, The Heiresses is a must-read for anyone craving a thrilling escape into a world of wealth and privilege.
The Nest
by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney
The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of a dysfunctional upper-class family in New York City. This compelling book about the affluent explores the intricacies and complexities of family dynamics, money, and the pursuit of happiness.
The story follows the Plumb siblings, who have eagerly awaited their inheritance, known as “the nest,” which was set up by their late father. However, when their reckless brother Leo gets involved in a scandal that jeopardizes their shared fortune, the siblings are forced to confront their own ambitions, secrets, and resentments.
With sharp wit, Sweeney masterfully unravels the lives of these characters, painting a vivid portrait of the privileged class and the lengths people will go to maintain their status. The Nest is an engaging upper-class book that explores the universal themes of family, love, and the pursuit of the American dream.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about the upper class provide a captivating glimpse into the lives of the privileged few. Whether exploring themes of wealth, power, love, or ambition, these stories offer a unique perspective on the world of the elite. From classic novels to contemporary works, there is something for everyone in this curated list. So grab a book, settle into a plush armchair, and immerse yourself in the opulent and fascinating world of the upper class.