There is no companion like a particularly brilliant book.
Some books have the power to transport you to another world entirely, and once they spit you back out, you find yourself completely changed.
We spoke to dozens of women to compile the ultimate list of books you must read before you die. There are a few classics, but we decided to leave out any of those books people a little bit pretend to have read because they make you sound smart and sophisticated.
Without even necessarily intending to, the list includes an incredibly diverse range of authors and characters – representing a spectrum of human experience.
These books explore themes of sexuality, race, mental illness, disability, the meaning of life, motherhood, love, heartbreak, grief and fear.
Consider this your ultimate checklist.
Just a note: With small businesses doing it especially tough at the moment, consider buying from your local bookshop. To find out more, check out loveyourbookshop.com.au.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
BONUS: Out Loud's Best Books To Read This Summer
Mamamia Book Club
Top Comments
The bronze horseman is very problematic- particularly the other books int he series- it really romanticises domestic violence. I don't think teenagers should be allowed to read it without also understanding about the risks of DV!
I’ve only read about half, thanks for the suggestions.
I couldn’t even finish ‘All the light you cannot see’ - did not see the appeal.
Found the kite runner so, so stifling and depressing - made me grateful to be living in Australia!
And when will we see the movie version of the bronzed horseman??