9 books to read if you, a fully grown adult

In September 2026, influencer Alix Earle revealed in an interview with Interview magazine that she has never read a book. Earle is known for her TikTok 'get ready with me' videos, which gained significant popularity, leading to a Netflix reality show, a podcast, and a following larger than New York City's population. The article highlights the rarity of someone reaching adulthood without reading a book, as even those who read minimally or only for school assignments are more common. The author speculates that if Earle were to read a book, receiving a blurb stating it was her first would be highly valuable for marketing purposes.

The article explores the challenge of recommending a first book to an adult who has never read one. The goal is not to choose the best or favorite book but to find a work that acts as a gateway to reading. The ideal first book should be engaging enough to encourage completion, spark interest in further reading, and demonstrate the unique capabilities of the novel as an art form. The author emphasizes that this is less about developing literary taste and more about breaking a habit of non-reading. The process is compared to going from zero to carrying a Didion tote (a reference to carrying a book bag inspired by writer Joan Didion).

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is recommended as a potential first book due to its accessibility and thematic resonance. Published in 1925, the novel is short and widely regarded as a classic, often assigned in high schools. Its themes—such as the dangers of wealth, the pursuit of love, and feelings of alienation at social events—remain relevant today. The author suggests that its brevity and engaging narrative make it a suitable starting point for someone unfamiliar with reading, as it can introduce the emotional and intellectual depth of novels without overwhelming the reader.

Beloved by Toni Morrison is another classic novel frequently assigned in high schools, known for its profound exploration of trauma, slavery, and identity in the United States. Published in 1987, the book won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and is considered one of the greatest American novels of the 20th century. The author considers it a bold choice for a first book, as it could either set an impossibly high standard or ignite a passion for reading Morrison's other works. The novel's emotional intensity and literary brilliance make it a transformative experience, though its heavy themes may not appeal to everyone.

We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson is a novel that blends psychological depth with a spooky, unconventional narrative. Published in 1962, the story follows two sisters living in isolation after a family tragedy, and it is narrated by the younger sister, Merricat, whose perspective is both eerie and compelling. The author highlights that Jackson's work demonstrates how novels can immerse readers in a character's mind, creating a uniquely intense experience. For someone hesitant about reading, Jackson's novel offers a gripping, almost cinematic story that may feel more familiar and entertaining than traditional literary fiction.

The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri, published in 2003, is a novel that explores themes of identity, family, and cultural displacement through the story of an Indian-American family. The author praises Lahiri's ability to compress the drama of generations into a concise narrative while expanding a single day into a rich, detailed experience. The novel is noted for its elegant prose and emotional depth, making it accessible to readers unfamiliar with literary fiction. It showcases the novel's capacity to convey complex ideas and emotions in a way that feels both intimate and expansive.

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi is a graphic novel published in 2003 that tells the story of Satrapi's childhood in Iran during the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. The novel is unique because it combines visual art with text, making it less intimidating for new readers due to its shorter word count and engaging illustrations. The author describes Persepolis as a coming-of-age story that is both funny and deeply moving, offering a fresh perspective on history and personal growth. Graphic novels like this can serve as an accessible entry point into the world of reading.

The article suggests two experimental novels as potential first reads: Pale Fire by Vladimir Nabokov (1962) and Your Name Here by Helen DeWitt and Ilya Gridneff (2023). These books are described as idiosyncratic and challenging, designed to surprise or even frustrate a new reader. The goal is to introduce the idea that novels can exist as complex, unconventional art forms that cannot be replicated in other media. While this approach carries the risk of alienating the reader, it may also spark curiosity about the boundaries of literary art. The author frames this as a 'shock therapy' method to awaken interest in reading.

The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, published in 2023, is a fantasy novel that has gained popularity for its blend of romance, adventure, and magical creatures. The author argues that this book can serve as an entry point to reading because it appeals to communal and social aspects of book culture. Millions of readers discuss the novel, making it a shared experience that can foster connections. For someone unfamiliar with reading, this book might feel less solitary and more engaging due to its widespread popularity and the social interactions it inspires. The novel demonstrates how books can be both a personal pleasure and a way to connect with others.