Explore 20 Best America Books with Our 2024 Update

See Best Deals

The Great Gatsby

by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby is a classic book on America by F. Scott Fitzgerald that delves into the glamorous and decadent world of the 1920s. The story is set in the Jazz Age, a time of excess and opulence, and follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby as he seeks to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, readers are taken on a journey of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American Dream. With its vivid descriptions and complex characters, this book about America captures the allure and disillusionment of the Roaring Twenties, as well as the darker side of wealth and privilege. Fitzgerald’s masterful prose and poignant social commentary make The Great Gatsby a quintessential America book that continues to resonate with readers today.

See Best Deals

To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird, a classic book about America, is a powerful and thought-provoking story set in the 1930s deep south. Through the innocent eyes of Scout Finch, the novel explores themes of racism, prejudice, and morality. When Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, defends a black man accused of raping a white woman, the town’s deep-seated bigotry is exposed. The novel delves into the complexities of human nature and the harsh realities of society, as seen through the lens of a young girl coming of age. With its timeless message of empathy and understanding, To Kill a Mockingbird remains a poignant and relevant exploration of the human condition, making it an enduring and important book on America.

See Best Deals

Beloved

by Toni Morrison

Beloved by Toni Morrison is a haunting and powerful book about America that delves into the painful legacy of slavery. Set in post-Civil War Ohio, the novel follows Sethe, a former slave who is haunted by the memory of her dead daughter, Beloved. As Sethe and her community grapple with the trauma of their past, the novel explores the themes of family, memory, and the enduring impact of slavery on the African American experience. Morrison’s lyrical prose and richly drawn characters make Beloved a profound and deeply affecting exploration of the dark history of America. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and deeply rooted legacy of slavery in America.

See Best Deals

The Catcher in the Rye

by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye is a classic coming-of-age novel by J.D. Salinger. Set in the 1950s, it follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who has been expelled from prep school and is wandering around New York City. Throughout the novel, Holden grapples with feelings of alienation and a deep sense of disillusionment with the adult world. The novel has been celebrated for its candid portrayal of teenage angst and rebellion, making it a timeless and relatable read for young adults. The Catcher in the Rye has been a staple in American literature and is often considered a quintessential book about America, capturing the essence of teenage rebellion and the search for meaning in a post-war society.

See Best Deals

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, written by Mark Twain, is a classic book about America that follows the escapades of a young boy named Huck Finn as he navigates the Mississippi River with a runaway slave named Jim. Set in the antebellum South, this iconic novel offers a vivid portrayal of the American frontier and the social issues of the time. Twain’s masterful storytelling and use of vernacular language bring the characters and settings to life, offering readers a compelling glimpse into the diverse landscapes and people of the United States. The book about America tackles themes of race, freedom, and friendship, making it a timeless and thought-provoking read for audiences of all ages.

See Best Deals

The Grapes of Wrath

by John Steinbeck

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck is a powerful and gripping book about America during the Great Depression. This iconic novel follows the Joad family as they are forced to leave their Oklahoma farm and travel to California in search of a better life. Steinbeck’s vivid and evocative prose transports the reader to a time of widespread poverty, struggle, and injustice. The book shines a light on the hardships faced by migrant workers and the exploitation they endured. The Grapes of Wrath is a timeless and poignant portrayal of the resilience and determination of the American people during one of the country’s most challenging periods. This classic novel is a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of the American experience.

See Best Deals

Moby-Dick

by Herman Melville

Moby-Dick by Herman Melville is a classic ‘book about America’ that delves into the adventure of whaling and the obsession of Captain Ahab with the great white whale, Moby Dick. The story is a compelling exploration of the human spirit, obsession, and the power of nature. Set against the backdrop of the whaling industry in the 19th century, the novel captures the essence of ‘America’ with its themes of exploration, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through vivid descriptions and captivating storytelling, Melville paints a vivid picture of the sea, the whales, and the men who hunt them, creating a timeless tale that continues to resonate with readers today.

See Best Deals

The Color Purple

by Alice Walker

The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and poignant novel that delves into the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. Set in the deep South, this book on America follows the journey of Celie, a young girl who faces unimaginable hardships and abuse. Through her letters to God and her sister, Nettie, Celie finds solace and strength as she navigates through a life filled with oppression and discrimination. The novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and the resilience of the human spirit. As a book about America, The Color Purple sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of African American women in a society that is often unforgiving and unjust. It is a moving and unforgettable story that captures the essence of the human experience.

See Best Deals

The Old Man and the Sea

by Ernest Hemingway

The Old Man and the Sea, a classic by Ernest Hemingway, is a timeless tale of resilience and determination. Set in the backdrop of the ocean, this novella tells the story of an aging Cuban fisherman named Santiago who embarks on a journey to catch a giant marlin. As he battles the elements and his own physical limitations, Santiago’s struggle becomes a metaphor for the human spirit’s relentless pursuit of greatness. The novella is a powerful meditation on the human condition, portraying the indomitable will to persevere against all odds. Hemingway’s vivid prose and profound insights make this book about America a poignant and moving read that transcends time and place, resonating with readers around the world.

See Best Deals

The Scarlet Letter

by Nathaniel Hawthorne

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a classic book about America that delves into the complexities of human nature, sin, and redemption. Set in the Puritanical society of 17th century New England, the novel follows Hester Prynne, a woman who is shunned and condemned for having a child out of wedlock. As she grapples with the consequences of her actions, the story explores themes of guilt, shame, and the struggle for personal identity. The novel also provides a vivid portrayal of the early America, depicting the strict religious and social norms of the time. Through its rich symbolism and intricate character development, The Scarlet Letter offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and the societal constructs of America.

See Best Deals

The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a powerful and haunting book about America’s dark history of slavery. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the journey of Cora, a young slave who escapes from a Georgia plantation and travels through an actual underground network of train tracks and tunnels, seeking freedom. Whitehead’s vivid prose and gripping storytelling shed light on the brutal realities of slavery and the resilience of those who fought against it. The novel’s exploration of the horrors of slavery and the pursuit of freedom makes it a must-read for anyone interested in the complex and painful history of America. With its unflinching portrayal of the past, this book on America serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of slavery on the nation’s identity.

See Best Deals

The Joy Luck Club

by Amy Tan

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan is a captivating book about the experiences of Chinese American immigrants and their daughters. The novel weaves together the stories of four Chinese women and their American-born daughters, exploring themes of culture, identity, and the immigrant experience in America. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, the book delves into the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, the challenges of assimilation, and the enduring legacy of family and tradition. Set against the backdrop of America, the novel offers a poignant and insightful portrayal of the immigrant experience, making it a compelling book about America. Tan’s rich storytelling and vivid characters provide a powerful exploration of the immigrant journey and the intersection of cultures, making The Joy Luck Club a timeless and resonant portrayal of the american experience.

See Best Deals

The Glass Castle

by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a captivating memoir that offers a poignant and unflinchingly honest portrayal of a dysfunctional family’s struggle for survival. Set against the backdrop of post-war United States, this book about America follows Walls’ tumultuous upbringing, marked by poverty, neglect, and her parents’ unconventional lifestyle. As she recounts her experiences with striking clarity and emotional depth, readers are taken on a journey through the complexities of human resilience and the enduring power of hope. The Glass Castle is a compelling and thought-provoking America book that explores the darker corners of the American Dream and the resilience of the human spirit.

See Best Deals

The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating book on America that delves into the lives of African American maids working in white households in 1960s Mississippi. The story is told through the perspectives of three women who form an unlikely friendship, defying the social norms of the time. The novel explores the racial tensions and prejudices prevalent in America during the civil rights movement, shedding light on the struggles and injustices faced by the maids. Stockett’s powerful storytelling and vivid characters bring this book about America to life, immersing readers in a world of courage, resilience, and the fight for equality. The Help is a thought-provoking and poignant portrayal of a turbulent time in American history, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of race and society.

See Best Deals

The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

by Junot Díaz

The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao is a captivating novel by Junot Díaz that delves into the multi-generational story of a Dominican family living in the United States. This ‘america book’ follows the life of Oscar, a nerdy and overweight Dominican-American who dreams of finding love and becoming a famous writer. Set against the backdrop of the ‘book about america’ in the 20th century, the novel explores themes of identity, immigration, and the impact of the Trujillo dictatorship on the family. Díaz’s unique writing style, which seamlessly blends Spanish and English, adds depth and authenticity to the characters and their experiences. The book is a powerful exploration of the immigrant experience in the ‘book on america’ and the struggle to find belonging while navigating the complexities of cultural heritage.

See Best Deals

The Road

by Cormac McCarthy

The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a haunting and beautiful book about America’s post-apocalyptic landscape. The story follows a father and son as they journey through a desolate and dangerous world, struggling to survive and hold onto their humanity. McCarthy’s sparse and poetic prose paints a bleak yet moving picture of a world ravaged by an unnamed catastrophe. The novel explores themes of love, resilience, and the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their child. The Road is a powerful and unflinching exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking book about America’s survival and resilience.

See Best Deals

The Sun Also Rises

by Ernest Hemingway

The Sun Also Rises, penned by Ernest Hemingway, is a timeless classic that follows a group of expatriates living in Europe after World War I. The novel is a poignant exploration of the lost generation, a term coined by Hemingway himself, reflecting the disillusionment and aimlessness of the post-war era. Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1920s Europe, the story delves into the lives of the characters as they grapple with love, desire, and the search for meaning in a world marked by uncertainty and disarray. The novel captures the essence of a generation struggling to find its place in a rapidly changing world, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in a book about America and its impact on those who experienced the aftermath of war.

See Best Deals

The Poisonwood Bible

by Barbara Kingsolver

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of American culture and history. Set in the Congo during the 1960s, the story follows the Price family as they navigate the challenges of living in a foreign land while grappling with their own internal struggles.

This powerful narrative provides a poignant commentary on the impact of American imperialism and the clash of cultures. Through the voices of the Price women, Kingsolver masterfully explores themes of religion, morality, and the consequences of colonialism.

With its richly developed characters and evocative storytelling, The Poisonwood Bible is a compelling ‘book about America’ that offers a unique perspective on the country’s influence beyond its borders.

See Best Deals

The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating tale of self-discovery and adventure. Set in the mystical land of the Americas, the story follows Santiago, a young shepherd who embarks on a journey in pursuit of his personal legend. Along the way, he encounters a series of characters who impart wisdom and guidance, leading him to uncover the secrets of the universe and the true desires of his heart. The novel is a profound exploration of destiny, courage, and the power of following one’s dreams. Coelho’s lyrical prose and enchanting storytelling make The Alchemist a timeless classic that resonates with readers around the world. This book about the Americas is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

See Best Deals

The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a classic book on America that delves into the lives of two rival teenage gangs in a small town. The story is narrated by Ponyboy Curtis, a member of the Greasers, who find themselves constantly clashing with the wealthy Socs. As the tension between the two groups escalates, Ponyboy and his friends navigate issues of identity, family, and class division. Hinton’s portrayal of the struggles and challenges faced by these young characters offers a poignant and insightful look into the complexities of adolescence in book about America. The novel explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the universal desire for acceptance, making it a timeless America book that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.