If you’ve ever felt like you don’t quite fit in, you’re not alone. Many great books explore the theme of being an outsider, delving into the experiences of characters who feel like they’re on the fringes of society. Whether you’re looking for empathy, understanding, or just a captivating story, these 20 best books about being an outsider offer a diverse range of perspectives and genres. From classic literature to contemporary fiction, there’s a book on being an outsider for every reader to explore and enjoy.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful and timely book about being an outsider in two worlds. The story follows Starr Carter, a 16-year-old girl who is caught between her predominantly black neighborhood and the elite prep school she attends. When Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer, her world is turned upside down. As she grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, Starr finds herself torn between speaking out for justice and protecting her own safety. The Hate U Give tackles important issues of race, identity, and inequality, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of marginalized communities. Through Starr’s journey, readers will gain insight into the complexities of being an outsider in a society that often fails to recognize and value the voices of those on the fringes.
Educated by Tara Westover is a compelling memoir that chronicles the author’s journey from being an outsider in her own family to finding her place in the world through education. The book explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of learning. Westover’s gripping account of growing up in a strict and isolated household, without formal education, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. As she breaks free from the confines of her upbringing and pursues knowledge, she grapples with the complexities of family loyalty and the dissonance between her old and new identities. This book about being an outsider is a testament to the human spirit and the pursuit of self-empowerment. Westover’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of education in overcoming adversity and forging one’s own path.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a compelling and heartwarming tale about the life of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward and isolated woman who struggles to fit in with the world around her. The book delves into themes of loneliness, trauma, and the power of human connection, making it a poignant and insightful read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider in society. Through Eleanor’s journey of self-discovery and healing, readers are taken on a powerful exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of the human spirit. With its endearing protagonist and thought-provoking narrative, this book about being an outsider is sure to resonate with readers from all walks of life.
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a gripping and powerful novel that takes readers on a harrowing journey through the experiences of being an outsider in America. The story follows Cora, a young slave on a cotton plantation in Georgia, as she embarks on a perilous journey to escape the horrors of slavery. Whitehead’s masterful storytelling weaves together elements of historical realism and imaginative fiction, creating a thought-provoking exploration of the brutality of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. The novel offers a poignant and unflinching portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of being an outsider in a society that seeks to oppress and marginalize. With its richly drawn characters and evocative prose, The Underground Railroad is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of being an outsider in American history.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a gripping novel that delves into the life of Theo Decker, a young boy who becomes an orphan after a tragic accident. The story follows Theo as he navigates through life, grappling with feelings of loss, guilt, and longing for love and acceptance. The novel is a compelling exploration of the human condition, and the universal desire to find a sense of belonging. Set against the backdrop of the art world, The Goldfinch is a poignant and powerful tale of survival, resilience, and the search for identity. It is a captivating book about being an outsider, and the deep emotional complexities that come with feeling like an outcast in the world.
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman is a heartwarming and humorous book about a curmudgeonly old man who has been labeled as a misfit by society. Ove, the protagonist, is portrayed as a loner and a recluse, making him a quintessential “being an outsider” character. As the story unfolds, readers are taken on a journey through Ove’s life, witnessing his struggles, triumphs, and the unexpected friendships that he forms along the way. Backman’s masterful storytelling and endearing characters make this “being an outsider book” a captivating and emotional read. The novel beautifully captures the universal themes of loneliness, community, and the transformative power of human connection. A Man Called Ove is a poignant and uplifting tale that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of empathy and understanding.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a compelling story about betrayal, redemption, and the search for identity. Set in Afghanistan, the novel follows the life of Amir, a young boy from a privileged background, and his relationship with his servant’s son, Hassan. As they grow up, their friendship is tested by jealousy, cowardice, and the societal divide between them. The novel explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the longing for atonement. It’s a poignant and powerful book about the struggles of being an outsider, the pain of regret, and the enduring bonds of friendship. The vivid portrayal of Afghanistan’s history and culture adds depth to the story, making it a captivating read that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a captivating and poignant story about a young girl named Liesel, who discovers the power of words and books in the midst of Nazi Germany. Set during World War II, the novel follows Liesel as she navigates the challenges of being an outsider in her own country, finding solace and strength in stolen books and the friendship of her foster father. Through Liesel’s eyes, readers experience the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit, making this book about being an outsider a powerful and emotional journey. With beautifully crafted prose and memorable characters, The Book Thief is a testament to the enduring power of literature and the indomitable nature of the human heart.
The Catcher in the Rye, written by J.D. Salinger, is a classic novel that delves into the experience of being an outsider. The story follows Holden Caulfield, a disenchanted teenager who struggles to fit in with the ‘phoniness’ of the adult world. After being expelled from yet another school, Holden embarks on a journey through New York City, grappling with loneliness, alienation, and the loss of innocence. Through Holden’s introspective and rebellious narration, the novel explores themes of alienation, rebellion, and the search for authenticity. The Catcher in the Rye has resonated with readers for generations, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of adolescence and the universal feeling of being an outsider.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a compelling novel that delves into the lives of African American maids in 1960s Mississippi. The story is a poignant exploration of the struggles and discrimination faced by these women as they work for white families. Stockett’s narrative weaves together the perspectives of three women, including two maids and a young white woman, as they navigate the complexities of race, injustice, and friendship. The book offers a powerful portrayal of the challenges of being an outsider in a society that is deeply divided by racial prejudice. With its rich character development and evocative storytelling, The Help is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant book about being an outsider that will leave a lasting impression on readers.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon is a captivating novel that offers a unique perspective on the world. The story is told from the viewpoint of a 15-year-old boy named Christopher who has Asperger’s syndrome. Christopher is exceptionally intelligent but struggles with social interactions, making him an outsider in his own world. When he discovers the dead body of a neighbor’s dog, Christopher sets out to solve the mystery, defying the limitations others have placed on him. As he unravels the truth, Christopher’s journey of self-discovery and overcoming obstacles is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. This book about being an outsider offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of human nature and the challenges of navigating a world that doesn’t always understand us.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a timeless classic that delves into the world of teenage gangs and the struggles of fitting in. The novel follows the story of Ponyboy Curtis, a young boy who is part of a group of ‘Greasers’, a lower-class gang, and their rivalry with the ‘Socs’, a wealthier group. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the hardships of being an outsider. It sheds light on the challenges of adolescence, the desire for acceptance, and the harsh realities of social class division. The Outsiders is a compelling coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and poignant book about being an outsider.
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a classic novel that delves into the mind of its protagonist, Esther Greenwood, as she grapples with mental illness and societal pressures in the 1950s. This captivating book explores the theme of feeling like an outsider in a world that expects conformity. As Esther navigates her way through a glamorous but stifling internship in New York City, she struggles with her own identity and the expectations placed upon her as a young woman. Plath’s raw and introspective writing style gives readers a poignant glimpse into the inner turmoil of a character who is battling feelings of alienation and disconnection from the world around her. The Bell Jar is a powerful and thought-provoking book about the challenges of being an outsider in a world that demands conformity.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and moving novel that explores the experiences of being an outsider in society. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the life of Celie, a young African American woman who faces oppression and abuse. Through a series of letters, Celie shares her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment as she navigates through the challenges of being marginalized and oppressed. The novel delves into themes of racism, sexism, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its raw and emotive storytelling, The Color Purple is a profound and thought-provoking book about being an outsider, and it continues to resonate with readers today.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that delves into the experiences of a socially awkward teenager named Charlie. The book follows Charlie as he navigates high school, friendships, and the complexities of adolescence. Through a series of letters, the reader gets an intimate look into Charlie’s thoughts and emotions as he grapples with feeling like an ‘outsider’ in his own life. The novel is a poignant exploration of the challenges of adolescence, mental health, and the search for acceptance. It is a compelling ‘book on being an outsider’ that resonates with readers of all ages, reminding us of the universal struggles of finding one’s place in the world.
The Secret Life of Bees, a captivating novel by Sue Monk Kidd, is a poignant coming-of-age story about a young girl named Lily Owens who seeks solace and belonging after escaping her troubled home life. Set in the 1960s American South, the book explores themes of resilience, empowerment, and the search for identity. As a book about being an outsider, it delves into the experiences of individuals who feel marginalized and alienated, and the profound impact of finding community and acceptance. Through heartfelt storytelling and rich character development, Kidd’s narrative captures the essence of the human spirit and the universal longing for connection and understanding. The Secret Life of Bees is a compelling and emotionally resonant tale that will leave readers reflecting on the power of love, forgiveness, and the bonds that unite us all.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating and enchanting tale about a young shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a journey to fulfill his personal legend. As he travels through the vast and mysterious desert, he encounters various characters and experiences that shape his understanding of the world and himself. This universal story of self-discovery and following one’s dreams resonates with readers around the world. The book delves into the theme of being an outsider, exploring the protagonist’s sense of being different and his quest to find his place in the world. Through Santiago’s adventures, readers are inspired to reflect on their own aspirations and the obstacles they must overcome to achieve them. The Alchemist is a timeless and thought-provoking novel that encourages readers to embrace their individuality and pursue their own personal legends.
The Giver is a captivating book about being an outsider that follows the story of Jonas, a young boy living in a seemingly perfect society. However, as Jonas discovers the dark truth behind his community’s facade of perfection, he realizes that he is an outsider in his own world. Through his unconventional friendship with the Giver, Jonas learns about the pain and beauty of emotions that have been suppressed in his society. As he grapples with the weight of this knowledge, Jonas must make a decision that will change his life and the community forever. Lois Lowry’s thought-provoking narrative delves into themes of individuality, freedom, and the complexity of human emotion, making it a compelling book on being an outsider that challenges readers to question the status quo.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, written by Stieg Larsson, is a gripping novel about a journalist and a brilliant but troubled hacker teaming up to solve a decades-old disappearance case. Set in Sweden, this book delves into the dark and complex world of corruption, family secrets, and violence. The protagonist, Lisbeth Salander, is a fiercely independent and enigmatic character who embodies the theme of being an outsider. Her unconventional appearance and outsider status make her a compelling and relatable character for many readers. The novel is filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists, making it a compelling read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery.
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold is a poignant and haunting novel about a young girl named Susie Salmon who is brutally murdered. From her personal heaven, Susie watches over her family and friends as they struggle to cope with her death and the aftermath of the tragedy. The novel explores themes of grief, loss, and the devastating impact of violence on a family. It also delves into the experience of being an outsider, as Susie exists in a liminal space between life and death, unable to fully move on. Through her unique perspective, the reader gains insight into the complexities of the human experience and the resilience of the human spirit. The Lovely Bones is a gripping and emotional read that offers a powerful exploration of what it means to be an outsider.
Conclusion
Exploring the theme of Being An Outsider, these 20 books offer powerful and thought-provoking narratives that delve into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the human experience. From classic literature to contemporary works, these stories authentically capture the struggles and triumphs of individuals navigating the challenges of feeling like an outsider. Whether you’re seeking a poignant memoir, a gripping novel, or a captivating coming-of-age tale, these books about being an outsider are sure to resonate with readers who have ever felt like they don’t quite fit in.
Which Being An Outsider book is best?
The best book on Being An Outsider can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Being An Outsider?
For those looking to learn about Being An Outsider, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Being An Outsider are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Being An Outsider books of all time?
Choosing the best Being An Outsider books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
