Are you fascinated by the lives and intrigues of the upper class? Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of fiction, or simply intrigued by the lifestyles of the wealthy and privileged, there’s a book on upper class society that’s sure to captivate you. From classic novels to modern tales of opulence and privilege, these upper class books offer a glimpse into the world of the elite and the challenges they face. Here are the 20 best books about upper class that will transport you to a world of luxury, privilege, and power.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan is a tantalizing glimpse into the opulent world of the super wealthy elite. This captivating novel takes readers on a whirlwind tour of the ‘book on upper class’ families of Singapore, where old money meets new fortunes and where the social stakes are higher than ever. The story follows the romantic escapades of Rachel Chu, who finds herself thrust into the midst of the ‘upper class’ society when she accompanies her boyfriend, Nick Young, to his hometown for a wedding. As Rachel navigates the glitz and glamour of the ‘book about upper class’ world, she must also contend with the disapproval of Nick’s formidable family. With its lavish settings, juicy scandals, and irresistible drama, Crazy Rich Asians is a deliciously decadent ‘upper class book’ that is sure to captivate readers from start to finish.
The Great Gatsby, a classic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a compelling book about the upper class in 1920s America. Set in the lavish world of Long Island, the story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and his obsession with the beautiful Daisy Buchanan. Through the eyes of the narrator, Nick Carraway, readers are drawn into a world of extravagant parties, forbidden love, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Fitzgerald’s vivid prose and intricate character development bring to life the decadence and disillusionment of the upper class during the Jazz Age. The novel explores themes of wealth, power, and the emptiness that can lurk beneath the glamorous facade of the book on upper class. With its timeless portrayal of human desires and the complexities of social status, The Great Gatsby continues to captivate readers today.
The Age of Innocence, written by Edith Wharton, is a captivating book about upper class society in 1870s New York. The novel follows the story of Newland Archer, a young lawyer who becomes engaged to the beautiful and traditional May Welland. However, his world is turned upside down when he meets May’s unconventional cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska. As Newland becomes increasingly infatuated with Ellen, he must navigate the strict social codes and expectations of the upper class while grappling with his own desires and sense of duty. Wharton’s novel provides a captivating and insightful portrayal of the complexities and hypocrisies of upper class society, as well as the sacrifices and compromises individuals make to conform to its standards.
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles is a captivating book about upper class society in Russia. The novel follows the life of Count Alexander Rostov, an aristocrat who is placed under house arrest in a luxurious hotel in Moscow in the early 1920s. Despite his confined circumstances, the Count maintains his dignity and charm as he navigates the changing political landscape of his country. Through his interactions with hotel staff, guests, and unexpected visitors, the Count’s story unfolds with wit, humor, and a touch of nostalgia. A book on upper class life that is both poignant and heartwarming, A Gentleman in Moscow is a delightful exploration of resilience, friendship, and the enduring spirit of the human heart.
The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton is a captivating book about the upper class. Set in New York City during the Gilded Age, it follows the story of Lily Bart, a beautiful and charming socialite who is determined to climb the social ladder and secure her place in high society. However, as she navigates the intricacies of wealthy society, she becomes entangled in a web of gossip, scandal, and betrayal. This upper class book provides a fascinating look into the opulent and often cutthroat world of the elite, where appearances are everything and social standing is fiercely coveted. With its richly detailed portrayal of the lavish lifestyles and societal pressures of the time, The House of Mirth is a timeless exploration of the complexities and consequences of striving for status and acceptance in a world of privilege.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt is a captivating book about the upper class that delves into the lives of a group of privileged students at an elite New England college. The story follows the protagonist, Richard Papen, as he becomes entangled in a world of intellectualism, dark secrets, and moral ambiguity. As he becomes increasingly involved with his enigmatic and elitist classmates, he is drawn into a web of deceit and ultimately, murder. Tartt’s richly detailed prose and intricate character development bring the upper class setting to life, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into the complexities and dark underbelly of a privileged world. The Secret History is a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of power, privilege, and the consequences of indulging in a life of excess.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating novel that delves into the world of the elite. It follows the life of Theo Decker, a young boy who survives a tragic accident that changes the course of his life. The novel vividly portrays the intricacies of the upper crust society, with its opulent art galleries, lavish parties, and complex relationships. As Theo navigates through loss, love, and betrayal, the reader is drawn into a world of privilege and excess. Tartt’s rich prose and intricate storytelling bring to life the upper class world in a way that is both immersive and thought-provoking. The Goldfinch is a compelling and masterfully crafted upper class book that will leave readers enthralled until the very last page.
The Bonfire of the Vanities is a scathing and satirical novel that takes a sharp look at the excesses and moral decay of the wealthy elite in 1980s New York City. Tom Wolfe’s iconic work is a gripping exploration of the lives of the super-rich and powerful, delving into their greed, ambition, and self-indulgence. The story follows the downfall of Sherman McCoy, a Wall Street bond trader, after a hit-and-run accident in the Bronx ignites a media frenzy and exposes the corruption and hypocrisy of the upper echelons of society. With sharp wit and keen insight, Wolfe paints a vivid and unflinching portrait of the high-flying lifestyles and moral bankruptcy of the city’s elite. A compelling and unapologetic critique of the book about upper class, The Bonfire of the Vanities is a must-read for anyone interested in the darker side of wealth and privilege.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a captivating book about the ‘upper class’ society in Victorian England. It tells the story of Dorian Gray, a young and handsome man who becomes the subject of a portrait by the talented artist Basil Hallward. As Dorian’s life takes a dark turn, his portrait mysteriously ages and shows the effects of his debauchery and moral corruption, while he remains youthful and untouched by time. The novel delves into themes of vanity, hedonism, and the destructive nature of pursuing pleasure without consequence. With its rich prose and thought-provoking exploration of the ‘upper class’ society, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a classic ‘book about upper class’ that continues to captivate readers with its timeless allure.
The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton is a captivating book about the upper class. The story follows the ambitious and determined Undine Spragg as she navigates the complex world of New York high society. Undine is a compelling character whose relentless pursuit of wealth, status, and power drives the narrative and exposes the shallowness and moral bankruptcy of the upper class. Wharton’s keen insight into the inner workings of this privileged world is evident in her sharp social commentary and astute character portrayal. The novel is a scathing critique of the upper class and their values, making it a thought-provoking and engrossing read for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The Beautiful and Damned by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of the affluent and privileged. Set in the glamorous and decadent world of the 1920s, this upper class book follows the tumultuous relationship of Anthony Patch and his beautiful wife, Gloria. As they navigate the extravagance and excess of high society, they grapple with their own personal demons and the inevitable decline of their wealth and status. Fitzgerald’s vivid prose and keen insight into the complexities of human nature make this book about upper class society a compelling and thought-provoking read. The novel offers a poignant exploration of the pursuit of pleasure and the consequences of indulgence, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the rebellious and disillusioned teenager, Holden Caulfield, as he navigates the complexities of growing up in a society he feels disconnected from. The story is a poignant exploration of teenage angst, alienation, and the search for authenticity in a world filled with phoniness. Set against the backdrop of the 1950s, the novel provides a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the struggles of a young man from a privileged background, offering a candid portrayal of the challenges faced by those in the upper class. With its timeless themes and relatable protagonist, The Catcher in the Rye continues to resonate with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of adolescence and the pressures faced by those in the upper class.
The Nanny Diaries is a satirical novel that offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the affluent and privileged. This upper class book, written by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus, follows the story of a young nanny who works for a wealthy family on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The book provides a humorous and insightful commentary on the absurdities and contradictions of the upper class lifestyle, as seen through the eyes of the protagonist as she navigates the challenges of caring for a neglected child while dealing with the demands and idiosyncrasies of her employers. With its sharp wit and keen observations, The Nanny Diaries is a compelling and entertaining read that sheds light on the complexities of privilege and power.
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger is a captivating novel that provides a glimpse into the glamorous and cutthroat world of high society. It follows the story of Andy, a young woman who lands a job as an assistant to the powerful and demanding fashion magazine editor, Miranda Priestly. As Andy navigates the elite and sophisticated world of high fashion, she is quickly thrown into a whirlwind of designer labels, extravagant parties, and the ruthless demands of her boss. The novel offers a fascinating look at the inner workings of the fashion industry and the lifestyles of the affluent and influential. With its engaging plot and richly drawn characters, The Devil Wears Prada is a must-read for anyone interested in the dynamics of the upper class.
The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating novel set in 1960s Mississippi, which provides a powerful and poignant look into the lives of African American maids working for affluent white families. The story is told through the perspectives of three women: Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter, who challenge the societal norms of the upper class by sharing their experiences and struggles. As they work together on a risky project to write a book about their lives, they navigate the complexities of race, discrimination, and privilege in a deeply segregated society. Stockett’s vivid storytelling and compelling characters shed light on the injustices faced by the marginalized in a book about upper class, and the courage it takes to confront them. The Help is an eye-opening and thought-provoking upper class book that explores the power of empathy, friendship, and standing up for what is right.
The House of Gucci by Sara Gay Forden is a captivating book about the upper class that delves into the scandalous history of the renowned Gucci family. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Forden reveals the rise and fall of this iconic fashion dynasty, from its humble beginnings to its status as a symbol of luxury and opulence. The book uncovers the family dynamics, power struggles, and lavish lifestyles of the Guccis, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of the upper class. Through the lens of this influential family, readers are taken on a journey through the worlds of fashion, wealth, and privilege, while also exploring the darker side of greed, betrayal, and downfall. The House of Gucci is a must-read for anyone interested in the captivating and often tumultuous lives of the privileged elite.
The Paris Wife by Paula McLain is a captivating novel set in the 1920s. It follows the tumultuous relationship between Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson, providing a glimpse into the glamorous and opulent world of the expatriate community in Paris. This book about the upper class takes readers on a journey through the lavish parties, artistic salons, and literary circles of the era, while also delving into the complexities of love, loyalty, and ambition. McLain skillfully weaves together historical facts and fictional elements, bringing the characters and their vibrant lifestyle to life. The Paris Wife offers a compelling and intimate look at the lives of the upper class in the Jazz Age, making it a must-read for anyone interested in this fascinating period of history.
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin is a captivating book about the upper class society in 1950s New York. It delves into the lives of prominent socialites and their scandalous relationships, particularly focusing on the friendship between Truman Capote and his high-society “swans.” The novel offers a fascinating glimpse into the glamorous and opulent world of the elite, as well as the darker, more complex aspects of their lives. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, Benjamin skillfully portrays the extravagance and allure of the upper class, while also shedding light on the emotional and psychological intricacies that lie beneath the surface. The Swans of Fifth Avenue is a must-read for those intrigued by the intricacies of upper class society and the complexities of human relationships.
The Heiresses by Sara Shepard is a captivating book about the lives of the wealthy and privileged. Set in the glamorous world of the upper class, this novel follows the story of the Saybrooke family, who are known for their wealth and power. The Saybrooke sisters are caught up in a web of secrets, lies, and scandals as they navigate their lavish lifestyle. As they struggle to uncover the truth behind their family’s fortune, the sisters must confront their own ambitions and desires. The Heiresses is a thrilling and suspenseful book about the intricacies of the upper class, filled with betrayal, mystery, and drama. Sara Shepard’s expert storytelling will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they delve into the opulent world of the Saybrooke family.
The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is a captivating novel about the upper class. The story revolves around the dysfunctional Plumb family, whose inheritance, known as “the nest,” is set to be distributed amongst the four siblings. However, their plans are disrupted when the reckless behavior of the eldest brother threatens to deplete the family fund. As the siblings scramble to secure their share of the money, long-buried secrets and resentments come to the surface, exposing the complexities of family dynamics and the consequences of privilege. Sweeney skillfully delves into the intricacies of wealth, entitlement, and the pursuit of happiness, making this upper class book a thought-provoking and entertaining read.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 best books about Upper Class offer a fascinating exploration of the lives, struggles, and privileges of the elite. From classic literature to contemporary novels, these books provide a deep insight into the complexities of upper class society. Whether you are interested in historical fiction, social commentary, or gripping family dramas, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives on the upper class. Dive into these captivating stories and gain a deeper understanding of the world of wealth and privilege.
Which Upper Class book is best?
The best book on Upper Class 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 Upper Class?
For those looking to learn about Upper Class, 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 Upper Class 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 Upper Class books of all time?
Choosing the best Upper Class books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
