10 Best American Writers Books Reviewed in 2025

Explore the best American writers through classics like 'The Great Gatsby' and 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. Unmissable reads!
The Great Gatsby coverTo Kill a Mockingbird coverMoby-Dick cover

Exploring the realm of the best American writers, we bring you a carefully selected list that celebrates storytelling, creativity, and cultural impact. When choosing these books, we focus on timeless narratives that offer profound insights into the human experience, showcase exceptional writing, and stand the test of time. So, grab a cup of coffee and join us on this literary journey through the American classics that have shaped literature and continue to inspire generations.

On this list:

10 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby cover

  • Genre: Classic Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1925
  • Pages: 180

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Ahh, the roaring twenties! We remember reading this one in high school and thinking, ‘man, these characters got problems!’ Fitzgerald captures the American dream like nobody else.

9 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird cover

  • Genre: Southern Gothic, Coming-of-Age
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1960
  • Pages: 281

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This book explores serious issues with humor and warmth. Scout Finch taught us all about empathy and the importance of standing up for what’s right.

8 Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

Moby-Dick cover

  • Genre: Adventure Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1851
  • Pages: 635

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Whales, boats, and a lot of obsession. It’s a long read but Captain Ahab’s quest makes it worth it. Plus, there are lessons in resilience.

7 The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1951
  • Pages: 277

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Who can forget Holden Caulfield? He made skipping school and questioning life sound so appealing. A cornerstone of teen angst literature, this one’s a must-read.

6 Beloved by Toni Morrison

Beloved cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1987
  • Pages: 324

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Deep, profound, and haunting, Morrison’s work takes us through the horrors of slavery and its impact on generations. Not a light read but very rewarding.

5 1984 by George Orwell

1984 cover

  • Genre: Dystopian Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1949
  • Pages: 328

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Okay, Orwell was British, but his portrayal of totalitarianism had a huge impact in America. Big Brother is always watching, and so should you!

4 The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

The Grapes of Wrath cover

  • Genre: Realist Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1939
  • Pages: 464

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Steinbeck’s masterpiece on the Great Depression resonates with anyone facing adversity. It’s hopeful yet heartbreaking and truly a great American novel.

3 Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison

Invisible Man cover

  • Genre: Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1952
  • Pages: 581

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A journey through identity and societal invisibility. Ellison’s novel is both powerful and thought-provoking, touching on race and individuality in America.

2 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn cover

  • Genre: Adventure Fiction, Satirical
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1884
  • Pages: 366

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Twain’s classic is a witty take on race and identity through the Mississippi River. Huck Finn’s adventures made us laugh and think, all at once.

1 The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn cover

  • Genre: Adventure Fiction, Satirical
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1884
  • Pages: 366

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

Often considered one of the greatest American novels, Twain’s work is a social commentary wrapped in wit. Its discussions on freedom and race make it timeless and the best of the best.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!