14 Best American Novels to Read in 2025
Exploring the best American novels, we find stories that captivate, educate, and entertain, bringing diverse American experiences to life.
Choosing the best American novels is like trying to pick the finest apple from a bunch of juicy ones. Our list of 14 celebrates storytelling in its finest form. We consider not just the artistic brilliance of the author, but also the journey each tale takes us on. From enduring classics to modern masterpieces, these novels offer gripping narratives, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you want to explore deep human emotions, societal issues, or life’s grand adventures, our carefully curated selection of the best American novels promises a captivating read for everyone.
On this list:
14 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
We love Harper Lee’s tale of justice and moral growth in a small Alabama town. It’s a classic for families.
13 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
This book captures the roaring twenties, and we totally envy Gatsby’s wild parties. It’s a must-read for history buffs.
12 Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
A whaling adventure gone mad, we still talk about Captain Ahab’s obsession. This book is as deep as the ocean.
11 Beloved by Toni Morrison
Haunting and powerful, we still get chills thinking about Sethe’s story. This novel tackles heavy themes with grace.
10 The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Holden Caulfield’s teenage angst and rebellion make us nostalgic for our own high school days. It’s a coming of age staple.
9 The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Steinbeck’s journey with the Joad family during the Great Depression is a page-turner. It’s a novel full of heart and grit.
8 1984 by George Orwell
Orwell’s dystopian world is terrifyingly relevant today. We often find ourselves checking for Big Brother around the corner.
7 Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Ellison’s exploration of identity and society is thought-provoking. We found ourselves pondering the lines long after reading.
6 East of Eden by John Steinbeck
This multi-generational saga is filled with love, betrayal, and redemption. We couldn’t put it down.
5 Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Vonnegut mixes sci-fi with war stories and dark humor. We laughed, cried, and questioned reality all in one go.
4 As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner
Faulkner’s experimental style takes us on a wild ride we won’t forget. Each character’s perspective is unique and gripping.
3 The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Hawthorne’s classic tale of sin and redemption never goes out of style. We totally understand Hester’s struggles.
2 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Join Huck and Jim as they float down the Mississippi. We laughed and learned something new each time we read it.
1 The Road by Cormac McCarthy
In this bleak and haunting post-apocalyptic world, a father and son’s journey moves us deeply. It’s our top pick for best American novels. This book goes beyond the standard dystopian tale. It paints a vivid picture of raw human emotion and survival. The prose is stark yet beautiful. We found ourselves immersed in their silent struggle. The love between the father and son speaks louder than words. We imagine reading it by a flickering fireplace to capture the essence. It’s a masterclass in storytelling that you won’t forget anytime soon.
