Top 10 Best Writers of All Time in 2024

Looking for books by the best writers of all time? Check out these top picks to start your reading adventure.
To Kill a Mockingbird cover1984 coverThe Great Gatsby cover

Ever wondered what it feels like to read works by the best writers of all time? We’ve got you covered! We’ve curated a list of ten stellar books from the minds of literary legends. We focused on timeless stories with memorable characters and compelling plots. Each book on our list has earned its spot through its unique charm, thought-provoking themes, and the sheer brilliance of the writing. If you’re ready to journey through the pages of the best writers of all time, grab a comfy seat, and let’s get started!

On this list:

10 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird cover

  • Genre: Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1960
  • Pages: 281

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Harper Lee’s classic novel is often ranked among the best. It tackles tough themes with grace and empathy, making it a must-read.

9 1984 by George Orwell

1984 cover

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

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George Orwell’s dystopian novel is a staple in conversations about totalitarian regimes. Its chilling predictions and critical outlook on society still resonate.

8 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby cover

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

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This book is a vibrant story of the American Dream gone wrong. Fitzgerald’s sharp critique of society makes it a timeless read.

7 Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Crime and Punishment cover

  • Genre: Philosophical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1866
  • Pages: 671

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Dostoevsky’s work dives deep into the human psyche. Guilt, redemption, and moral dilemmas are tackled with the author’s unique philosophic touch.

6 Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice cover

  • Genre: Romance, Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1813
  • Pages: 279

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Austen’s romantic novel is adored for its wit and keen insight into relationships and society. It’s as delightful as it is perceptive.

5 Moby Dick by Herman Melville

Moby Dick cover

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

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Melville’s epic is a whale of a tale about obsession and revenge. Its narrative depth and symbolism make it a cornerstone of American literature.

4 War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

War and Peace cover

  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1869
  • Pages: 1225

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Tolstoy’s magnum opus covers the Napoleonic Wars and Russian society. It’s a hefty read, but its scope and complexity are unmatched.

3 Ulysses by James Joyce

Ulysses cover

  • Genre: Modernist
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1922
  • Pages: 730

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Joyce’s stream-of-consciousness masterpiece is both challenging and rewarding. It’s a day in the life of a man, filled with rich language and style.

2 Hamlet by William Shakespeare

Hamlet cover

  • Genre: Tragedy
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1603
  • Pages: 160

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Shakespeare’s tragedy is a timeless tale of revenge, madness, and moral corruption. It has influenced countless works and remains profoundly impactful.

1 Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes

Don Quixote cover

  • Genre: Adventure, Satire
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle
  • Year released: 1605
  • Pages: 863

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Why this tops the list? Cervantes’ masterpiece stands the test of time. It’s funny, satirical, and deeply human. Don Quixote’s misguided heroism and his relationship with Sancho Panza offer both humor and wisdom. It’s been cited as the first modern novel, and its impact on literature is immense. This makes it the best one in ‘the best writers of all time’ theme.

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!