14 Best American Writers Reviewed in 2024
Picking the best books by the best American writers is like choosing which of my grandma’s cookies is best. Each one offers something special, whether it’s rich plot, memorable characters, or thought-provoking themes. We’ve included a mix of classics and modern favorites to ensure there’s something for everyone. So grab your reading glasses, a comfy chair, and dive into these literary gems!
On this list:
14 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
A classic that’s got all the glamour and regret you could ever ask for. I found myself wishing my life had more jazz – quite literally.
13 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Harper Lee nails the small town vibes and big issues. A book that doesn’t shy away from what needs to be said.
12 Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
Melville’s tale about the big fish and the bigger obsession. I often dream of being on a boat, avoiding whales.
11 Beloved by Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison moves mountains with her words. A book too powerful to put down. Just don’t read it late at night if you scare easily.
10 The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Steinbeck teaches about survival and the human spirit. Felt like I was right there in the Dust Bowl, eating virtual dust.
9 The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Holden Caulfield’s adventures remind us of angst and the quest for meaning. A read that feels like you’re talking to an old friend.
8 Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Vonnegut’s blend of sci-fi and war story is a delight. I kept time-traveling back to the start; it’s that good.
7 In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
Capote shows us a true crime saga that grips and surprises. Just make sure to lock your doors at night.
6 Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Bradbury’s warnings about censorship ring true. Had me considering my own fireplace book collection for a good minute.
5 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
A raft, a river, and Twain’s humor lead to an unforgettable adventure. Makes me wish we had more rivers around.
4 The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner
Faulkner introduces us to a family falling apart but written in such a way that’s oddly poetic. Dive into the chaos with a sense of wonder.
3 Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Ellison spins identity and race issues with brilliance. A novel that makes us all feel seen even when we feel invisible.
2 East of Eden by John Steinbeck
A multigenerational tale with themes of good and evil. Could not help but spend sleepless nights overthinking my own life choices.
1 The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
Steinbeck’s masterpiece, balancing human struggle with hope. It’s a book that lingers with you long after the last page. The best american writers can’t go amiss without this gem.
