Creating a definitive list of the 25 best-selling books of all time is a challenging task. The complexities arise from varying editions, translations, and the historical context of publication. Some books were initially serialized or distributed in bulk, while others saw their sales figures exaggerated by publishers. These factors, coupled with inconsistent record-keeping, make it difficult to compile an indisputable list. However, we've crafted a list focused on literary fiction, excluding religious texts, self-help books, and other non-fiction works. Notably, we've also omitted certain influential works like The Lord of the Rings and The Count of Monte Cristo due to their serialization and age-related data challenges.
Did your favorite book make the cut? How well do you think the quality of these books matches their sales figures? Share your thoughts in the comments. And don't forget to explore the best-selling books of 2024 below for recent recommendations to enjoy on your reading tablet.
25. Anne of Green Gables
### Anne of Green Gables
20See it at AmazonAuthor: L.M. Montgomery
Country: Canada
Publication Date: 1908
Estimated Sales: 50 million copies
The enchanting story of Anne Shirley, a spirited orphan who arrives in Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, Canada, captures hearts with her charm and imagination. Initially expecting a boy, her foster parents grow to adore her, sparking a series of seven sequels and a posthumous novel in 2009. Buy here.
24. Heidi
### Heidi
6See it at AmazonAuthor: Johanna Spyri
Country: Switzerland
Publication Date: 1880-1881
Estimated Sales: 50 million copies
Heidi, a beloved children's novel, follows the journey of a young girl raised by her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. Her friendship with Klara, a wealthy girl from Frankfurt who has lost the ability to walk, showcases themes of companionship and growth.
23. Lolita
### Lolita
9See it at AmazonAuthor: Vladimir Nabokov
Country: United States
Publication Date: 1955
Estimated Sales: 50 million copies
Initially controversial, Nabokov's Lolita delves into the disturbing obsession of an English professor with a 12-year-old girl. The novel has been adapted into a play, an opera, and two films, including one directed by Stanley Kubrick.
22. One Hundred Years of Solitude (Cien años de soledad)
### One Hundred Years of Solitude (Cien años de soledad)
6See it at AmazonAuthor: Gabriel García Márquez
Country: Colombia
Publication Date: 1967
Estimated Sales: 50 million copies
Marquez's masterpiece weaves a tale of the Buendía family over seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. Filled with magical realism, it explores themes of cyclical fate and karmic retribution.
21. Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ
### Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ
6See it at AmazonAuthor: Lew Wallace
Country: United States
Publication Date: 1880
Estimated Sales: 50 million copies
Set during the time of Jesus, Ben-Hur follows Judah Ben-Hur's life and his encounter with Christ. The novel is best remembered through its iconic film adaptation featuring an unforgettable chariot race.
20. The Bridges of Madison County
### The Bridges of Madison County
13See it at AmazonAuthor: Robert James Waller
Country: United States
Publication Date: 1992
Estimated Sales: 60 million copies
This poignant romance novel tells of an Italian American war bride's brief, passionate affair with a traveling photographer. Adapted into a film starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep, it also inspired a Tony-winning Broadway musical.
19. The Catcher in the Rye
### The Catcher in the Rye
7See it at AmazonAuthor: J.D. Salinger
Country: United States
Publication Date: 1951
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
Salinger's iconic novel follows Holden Caulfield, an expelled prep student grappling with the complexities of adolescence. Though Salinger's only full-length novel, it remains a seminal coming-of-age story.
18. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
### Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
16See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 2007
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
The final installment in the Harry Potter series sees Harry, Hermione, and Ron on a mission to defeat Voldemort. Accompanied by a massive anti-spoiler campaign, it was adapted into two films.
17. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
### Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
9See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 2005
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
In this pivotal book, Harry learns about Voldemort's past, setting the stage for the final confrontation. The narrative builds tension and deepens the lore of the wizarding world.
16. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
### Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
10See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 2003
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
The longest book in the series, Order of the Phoenix delves into Harry's anger and the broader world of magic. It expands the story's universe and introduces new allies.
15. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
### Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
12See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 2000
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
This novel introduces the Triwizard Tournament, marking a darker turn in the series. It's celebrated for its twists and the expansion of the Wizarding World's mythology.
14. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
### Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
10See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1999
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
This book marks a significant shift in tone and complexity, captivating readers with its mature storytelling and the introduction of Sirius Black.
13. The Alchemist (O Alquimista)
### The Alchemist
13See it at AmazonAuthor: Paulo Coelho
Country: Brazil
Publication Date: 1988
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
Coelho's tale of a Spanish shepherd seeking treasure in Egypt resonates with themes of fate and personal destiny. Originally a flop, it became a global success through Coelho's perseverance.
12. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
### Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
10See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1998
Estimated Sales: 77 million copies
Though often considered the weakest in the series, it expands the wizarding world and sets up crucial plot points for future books.
11. The Da Vinci Code
### The Da Vinci Code
9See it at AmazonAuthor: Dan Brown
Country: United States
Publication Date: 2003
Estimated Sales: 80 million
This thriller explores church conspiracies and the controversial claim of Jesus's descendants, becoming a pop culture phenomenon despite mixed critical reception.
10. Vardi Wala Gunda
### Vardi Wala Gunda
5See it at AmazonAuthor: Ved Prakash Sharma
Country: India
Publication Date: 1992
Estimated Sales: 80 million copies
This Hindi mystery thriller tackles corruption and assassination conspiracies, showcasing Sharma's prolific career with over 170 novels.
9. She: A History of Adventure
### She: A History of Adventure
8See it at AmazonAuthor: H. Rider Haggard
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1886
Estimated Sales: 83 million copies
A cornerstone of fantasy literature, She follows explorers discovering a lost kingdom, influencing countless works in the genre, including Indiana Jones and Tarzan.
8. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
### The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
14See it at AmazonAuthor: C.S. Lewis
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1950
Estimated Sales: 85 million copies
The first in The Chronicles of Narnia, this beloved tale transports four children to a magical world, blending fantasy with allegory.
7. The Hobbit
### The Hobbit
13See it at AmazonAuthor: J.R.R. Tolkien
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1937
Estimated Sales: 100 million copies
Tolkien's precursor to The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit follows Bilbo Baggins on an adventure with dwarves and a wizard, captivating readers with its rich world-building.
6. Dream of the Red Chamber
### Dream of the Red Chamber
4See it at AmazonAuthor: Cao Xueqin
Country: China
Publication Date: 1791
Estimated Sales: 100 million copies
One of China's greatest novels, it chronicles the rise and fall of a noble family during the Qing Dynasty, notable for its detailed portrayal of female characters.
5. And Then There Were None
### And Then There Were None
8See it at AmazonAuthor: Agatha Christie
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1939
Estimated Sales: 100 million copies
Christie's gripping murder mystery traps ten people on an island, leading to a tense and thrilling investigation as they try to survive.
4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
### Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
18See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1997
Estimated Sales: 120 million copies
The enchanting introduction to Harry Potter's world captures the magic of childhood wonder, setting the stage for a beloved series.
3. The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince)
### The Little Prince
10See it at AmazonAuthor: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Country: France
Publication Date: 1943
Estimated Sales: 140 million copies
This timeless tale explores themes of childhood, love, and the human condition, resonating with readers of all ages.
2. A Tale of Two Cities
### A Tale of Two Cities
12See it at AmazonAuthor: Charles Dickens
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1859
Estimated Sales: 200 million copies
Dickens's epic tale set during the French Revolution examines themes of class and societal upheaval, opening with one of the most famous lines in literature.
1. Don Quixote
### Don Quixote
24See it at AmazonAuthor: Miguel de Cervantes
Country: Spain
Publication Date: 1605 (Part One), 1615 (Part Two)
Estimated Sales: 500 million copies
Cervantes's masterpiece follows the misadventures of Don Quixote, a man deluded by chivalric ideals. Its iconic scenes, like the battle with windmills, have become cultural touchstones.
Best Selling Books in 2024
Identifying the best-selling books of 2024 is simpler, thanks to platforms like Amazon. Their list includes a mix of New York Times bestsellers and new releases, reflecting a significant portion of online book sales. Here are the top 10 books of 2024, according to Amazon's rankings:
- The Women - Kristin Hannah
- Onyx Storm - Rebecca Yarros
- Atomic Habits - James Clear
- Hillbilly Elegy - J.D. Vance
- The Housemaid - Freida McFadden
- Mom, I want to Hear Your Story - Jeffrey Mason
- Dad, I want to Hear Your Story - Jeffrey Mason
- The Anxious Generation - Jonathan Haidt
- It Ends With Us - Colleen Hoover
- Good Energy - Casey Means M.D
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