For many, reading is a cherished pastime, but not everyone finds themselves drawn to books. Whether due to a busy lifestyle, a short attention span, or simply a lack of interest, some people struggle to immerse themselves in lengthy texts. However, finding a book that captivates even the most reluctant reader is entirely possible. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 20 books for people who don’t like to read, featuring engaging stories, quick reads, and compelling narratives designed to ignite a love for books.
1. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
Genre: Adventure / Philosophy
Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist” is a modern classic that combines adventure with philosophical insights. The story follows Santiago, a shepherd boy on a quest to find treasure. It is one of the simple books for people who don’t like to read as their profound narrative makes it a captivating read for those who typically shy away from books.
Why It’s Great:
- Short and easy to read.
- Inspirational themes of following dreams and self-discovery.
Buy Here: The Alchemist
2. “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway
Genre: Fiction
Hemingway’s novella, “The Old Man and the Sea,” tells the tale of an aging fisherman’s struggle with a giant marlin. It comes among the best books for people who don’t like to read.The straightforward prose and compelling narrative make it accessible even for readers with limited patience.
Why It’s Great:
- Concise and powerful storytelling.
- Themes of perseverance and struggle resonate universally.
Buy Here: The Old Man and the Sea
3. “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins
Genre: Dystopian / Science Fiction
Suzanne Collins’ “The Hunger Games” is one of the few books for people who don’t like to read as it is a gripping dystopian novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Its fast-paced plot and engaging characters make it an excellent choice for those who don’t typically enjoy reading.
Why It’s Great:
- Exciting and action-packed storyline.
- Short chapters and cliffhangers encourage continued reading.
Buy Here: The Hunger Games
4. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon
Genre: Mystery / Fiction
Mark Haddon’s is one of the best books for people who don’t like to read as it offers a unique perspective through the eyes of a young protagonist with autism. The intriguing mystery and distinctive narrative style make it an engaging read for reluctant readers.
Why It’s Great:
- Original narrative style and perspective.
- Short, digestible chapters.
Buy Here: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
5. “Animal Farm” by George Orwell
Genre: Satire / Political Fiction
George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” is an allegorical novella that explores the rise and fall of a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer. Its brevity and sharp satire make it accessible and thought-provoking. In our list of books for people who don’t like to read, George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” is best recommended.
Why It’s Great:
- Concise and impactful storytelling.
- Satirical take on politics and power.
Buy Here: Animal Farm
6. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
Genre: Young Adult / Dystopian
Lois Lowry’s “The Giver” a young adult classic that delves into a dystopian society where emotions and choices are controlled. The novel’s engaging plot and accessible language make it a compelling choice for reluctant readers. This novel is one of the engaging books for people who don’t like to read.
Why It’s Great:
- Thought-provoking themes with a straightforward narrative.
- Suitable for both young and adult readers.
Buy Here: The Giver
7. “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
Genre: Mystery / Drama
Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” is a page-turner filled with drama, mystery, and wit. The novel’s intriguing plot and well-developed characters make it a captivating read for those who don’t usually enjoy books.
Why It’s Great:
- Engaging narrative with a mix of drama and suspense.
- Easy-to-read style and relatable characters.
Buy Here: Big Little Lies
8. “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams
Genre: Science Fiction / Humor
Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is a humorous science fiction adventure that takes readers on a whimsical journey through space. Its quirky style and witty humor make it a fun and accessible read.
Why It’s Great:
- Hilarious and imaginative storytelling.
- Short chapters and episodic structure.
Buy Here: The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
9. “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom
Genre: Non-Fiction / Memoir
Mitch Albom’s “Tuesdays with Morrie” is a touching memoir about the author’s time spent with his former professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is dying from ALS. The book’s emotional depth and brevity make it a poignant read for those not inclined towards lengthy books.
Why It’s Great:
- Emotional and inspiring narrative.
- Short and impactful.
Buy Here: Tuesdays with Morrie
10. “The Martian” by Andy Weir
Genre: Science Fiction / Thriller
Andy Weir’s “The Martian” is a gripping tale of an astronaut stranded on Mars, combining humor with survival science. Its fast-paced plot and engaging writing style make it an excellent choice for reluctant readers.
Why It’s Great:
- Suspenseful and scientifically fascinating.
- Engaging and accessible narrative.
Buy Here: The Martian
11. “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss
Genre: Children’s Literature
Dr. Seuss’ “The Cat in the Hat” is a classic children’s book that uses rhyme and imaginative illustrations to tell a fun story. Its simple language and playful tone make it a delightful read for anyone, regardless of age.
Why It’s Great:
- Rhythmic and entertaining prose.
- Engaging illustrations and imaginative story.
Buy Here: The Cat in the Hat
12. “Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes
Genre: Romance / Drama
Jojo Moyes’ “Me Before You” is a romantic drama about an unlikely relationship between a caregiver and a man with a disability. The novel’s heartfelt narrative and relatable characters make it a compelling read.
Why It’s Great:
- Emotional and engaging story.
- Easy-to-read style with relatable themes.
Buy Here: Me Before You
13. “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury
Genre: Dystopian / Science Fiction
Ray Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451” is a dystopian novel about a future where books are banned and burned. Its thought-provoking themes and engaging plot make it an excellent choice for readers who typically avoid books.
Why It’s Great:
- Provocative and relevant themes.
- Short and impactful narrative.
Buy Here: Fahrenheit 451
14. “The Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway”
Genre: Fiction / Short Stories
Ernest Hemingway’s collection of short stories offers a glimpse into his mastery of the written word. The brevity and variety of the stories make it a great option for those who prefer shorter reads.
Why It’s Great:
- Concise and powerful storytelling.
- Diverse themes and settings.
Buy Here: The Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway
15. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
Genre: Thriller / Mystery
Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code” is a fast-paced thriller that combines mystery, history, and conspiracy. Its gripping plot and short chapters make it an excellent choice for reluctant readers.
Why It’s Great:
- Fast-paced and suspenseful.
- Engaging and accessible writing style.
Buy Here: The Da Vinci Code
16. “Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls
Genre: Children’s Literature / Adventure
Wilson Rawls’ “Where the Red Fern Grows” tells the story of a young boy and his two hunting dogs. The emotional and adventurous narrative makes it a captivating read for both children and adults.
Why It’s Great:
- Heartwarming and adventurous story.
- Simple yet powerful prose.
Buy Here: Where the Red Fern Grows
17. “The Princess Bride” by William Goldman
Genre: Fantasy / Adventure
William Goldman’s “The Princess Bride” is a whimsical and entertaining tale of adventure, romance, and humor. Its engaging narrative and playful writing style make it a delightful choice for those who don’t typically enjoy reading.
Why It’s Great:
- Fun and imaginative storytelling.
- A mix of adventure, romance, and humor.
Buy Here: The Princess Bride
18. “The Light We Lost” by Jill Santopolo
Genre: Romance / Contemporary Fiction
Jill Santopolo’s “The Light We Lost” explores a love story spanning several years and continents. Its emotional depth and engaging characters make it a captivating read for those who are not avid readers.
Why It’s Great:
- Emotional and gripping narrative.
- Relatable themes of love and loss.
Buy Here: The Light We Lost
19. “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” by Mitch Albom
Genre: Fiction / Fantasy
Mitch Albom’s “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” is a thought-provoking novel about the afterlife and the connections we make during our lives. Its accessible writing and intriguing concept make it a great choice for reluctant readers.
Why It’s Great:
- Thought-provoking and emotional.
- Easy-to-read style and meaningful message.
Buy Here: The Five People You Meet in Heaven
20. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” by Truman Capote
Genre: Fiction
Truman Capote’s “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is a novella that introduces readers to the charming and enigmatic Holly Golightly. The engaging narrative and memorable characters make it an enjoyable read for those who are typically reluctant to pick up a book.
Why It’s Great:
- Stylish and engaging prose.
- Memorable characters and narrative.
Buy Here: Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Conclusion
Finding books that cater to those who don’t typically enjoy reading involves looking for engaging, accessible, and compelling narratives. These are some of the listed top 20 books for people who don’t like to read. These books offer a range of genres, styles, and lengths to suit various preferences and reading habits. Whether you’re seeking a quick read, an emotional journey, or an exciting adventure, these books provide a gateway to the world of literature.
If you’re hesitant to dive into a book, start with one of these recommendations and see how it captures your interest. Reading doesn’t have to be a chore
Also Read: Best-Selling Books: Insights into Literary Success
