The New York Public Library's Books of the Century

This is one of the 300 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.

  • Woman Suffrage and Politics: The Inner Story of the Suffrage Movement by Carrie Chapman Catt

    This book provides an in-depth look at the women's suffrage movement, detailing the political strategies, key players, and significant events that led to women gaining the right to vote in the United States. It offers a comprehensive history of the movement from its early beginnings to its ultimate victory, highlighting the tireless efforts of the women who fought for equality. The book also examines the political landscape of the time, revealing the challenges and opposition the suffragettes faced.

  • My Fight for Birth Control by Margaret Sanger

    This book is a passionate account of a nurse's tireless advocacy for women's reproductive rights in the early 20th century. The author recounts her journey from being a nurse witnessing the devastating effects of unwanted pregnancies and illegal abortions on women, to becoming a leading figure in the fight for birth control. The book details her struggles with the legal and religious establishments of the time, her establishment of the first birth control clinic in the United States, and her efforts to educate women about their reproductive rights and health.

  • Dust Tracks on a Road: An Autobiography by Zora Neale Hurston

    "Dust Tracks on a Road" is an autobiography that delves into the life of a prominent African American woman who grew up in the rural South during the early 20th century. She discusses her struggles and triumphs as she navigates through racial discrimination, gender bias, and her rise to fame as a renowned writer and anthropologist. The book provides an insightful look into the author's perspective on race, gender, and identity, offering a unique and personal view of the African American experience during a time of significant social and cultural change.

  • The Feminine Mystique by Betty Friedan

    This groundbreaking book is a sociological examination of the dissatisfaction felt by American housewives in the mid-20th century. The author argues that women are not naturally fulfilled by devoting their lives to homemaking and child-rearing, challenging the widely accepted belief of the era. It explores the idea of the "problem that has no name" - the widespread unhappiness of women in the 1950s and early 1960s. The book is considered one of the catalysts of the second-wave feminist movement.

  • I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

    This memoir recounts the early years of an African-American girl's life, focusing on her experiences with racism and trauma in the South during the 1930s. Despite the hardships she faces, including sexual abuse, she learns to rise above her circumstances through strength of character and a love of literature. Her journey from victim to survivor and her transformation into a young woman who respects herself is a testament to the human capacity to overcome adversity.

  • Sisterhood Is Powerful by Robin Morgan

    "Sisterhood Is Powerful" is a collection of essays that provide an in-depth exploration of the women's liberation movement in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. The book features writings from various feminists, addressing a wide range of topics such as women's rights, sexism, racism, and reproductive rights. It examines the intersectionality of gender, race, and class, and calls for unity and collective action among women to challenge and dismantle patriarchal systems.

  • Against Our Will by Susan Brownmiller

    This book is a comprehensive study of rape throughout history, examining its use as a tool of domination and control, and its societal implications. The author argues that rape is not about sex but about power, and that it is a pervasive issue deeply ingrained in society's patriarchal structures. The book also explores the legal and cultural attitudes towards rape, highlighting the need for change in societal perception and response to this crime.

  • The Color Purple by Alice Walker

    Set in the early 20th century, the novel is an epistolary tale of a young African-American woman named Celie, living in the South. She faces constant abuse and hardship, first from her father and then from her husband. The story unfolds through her letters written to God and her sister Nettie, revealing her emotional journey from oppression to self-discovery and independence, aided by her relationships with strong women around her. The narrative explores themes of racism, sexism, domestic violence, and the power of sisterhood and love.

  • The Theory of the Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen

    This book is a socio-economic critique of American consumerism and the upper class, written in the late 19th century. The author argues that the wealthy engage in conspicuous consumption and leisure to display their wealth and maintain their social status. He introduces the concept of "pecuniary emulation," suggesting that the lower classes imitate the consumption patterns of those above them, leading to a wasteful and inefficient economy. The book is a seminal work in the field of economics, providing a satirical yet insightful look into the behavior of the affluent.

  • The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism by Max Weber

    This book is a sociological study that explores the relationship between the ethics of ascetic Protestantism and the emergence of the spirit of modern capitalism. The author argues that the religious ideas of groups such as the Calvinists played a role in creating the capitalistic spirit. The work is noted for its rigorous methodology and its contribution to the broader understanding of the origins and development of capitalism. It has been widely influential across social sciences, especially in sociology and economics.

  • The Education of Henry Adams by Henry Adams

    "The Education of Henry Adams" is an autobiographical account that explores the changes in society and politics during the 19th and 20th century from the perspective of an individual who is both a product and critic of that era. The narrative is structured around the author's self-perceived failure to understand or adapt to these changes, despite his privileged education and social status. The book is a reflection on the author's life, his attempts to make sense of the world around him, and his struggle to reconcile his traditional upbringing with the rapid advancements of the modern world.

  • The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money by John Maynard Keynes

    This influential economic treatise presents a groundbreaking theory that challenges classical economics, asserting that aggregate demand, driven by public and private sector spending, is the primary factor influencing economic activity and employment levels. The book also introduces the concept of fiscal and monetary policies as tools to manage economic downturns, thus shaping the foundation of modern macroeconomics. It further critiques the idea that market economies would automatically provide full employment and argues for active government intervention to prevent economic recessions and depressions.

  • The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich von Hayek

    "The Road to Serfdom" is a classic work of political philosophy and economics that argues against the concept of socialism and centralized economic planning. The author asserts that such systems inevitably lead to totalitarianism, infringing upon individual liberties and stifling innovation. The book further posits that only through free-market capitalism can societies maintain political and economic freedom. The author also explores the dangers of government control over means of production, illustrating that it leads to a loss of personal freedoms and the rise of dictatorial regimes.

  • A Theory Of The Consumption Function by Milton Friedman

    This book presents a groundbreaking study of the consumption patterns of individuals and households. The author challenges the traditional Keynesian consumption function which posits that individuals and households adjust their consumption spending in response to changes in income. Instead, the author proposes the "Permanent Income Hypothesis," asserting that consumers' spending habits are determined not by current income but by their longer-term income expectations. This influential theory has had a significant impact on economic policy and remains a cornerstone of macroeconomic theory.

  • The Affluent Society by John Kenneth Galbraith

    "The Affluent Society" is a socio-economic critique that challenges the conventional wisdom of the time that economic growth leads to public wealth. The author argues that in reality, the increasing wealth of the United States has led to greater private affluence but public squalor due to inadequate investment in public goods and services. He proposes that society should strive for sustainable development rather than unlimited material advancement. The book has been influential in economic thought, particularly in the areas of public policy and consumer behavior.

  • The Death and Life of Great American Cities by Jane Jacobs

    This book is a critique of 1950s urban planning policy, which it holds responsible for the decline of many city neighborhoods in the United States. The author argues that modernist urban planning rejects the city, because it rejects human beings living in a community characterized by layered complexity and seeming chaos. The book introduces groundbreaking ideas about how cities function, evolve and fail, providing a new perspective on the essentials of vibrant city life. The author also provides concrete examples of the unexpected consequences of urban renewal.

  • Superhighway--superhoax by Helen Leavitt

    "Superhighway--superhoax" is a critical examination of the American highway system. The author argues that the system, which was designed for efficiency and convenience, has instead led to numerous negative consequences such as urban decay, environmental damage, and social inequality. The book calls for a reevaluation of transportation policy, advocating for more sustainable and equitable alternatives like public transit and pedestrian-friendly urban design.

  • Small Is Beautiful: Economics as if People Mattered by E. F. Schumacher

    This book is a collection of essays that challenge the established economic paradigm, arguing for a shift towards smaller, more sustainable systems. The author criticizes conventional capitalism for its focus on profit and growth, suggesting instead that economies should prioritize human well-being and environmental health. He presents a vision of "Buddhist economics," where work is viewed as a means to personal development and fulfillment, not just income generation. The book also offers practical solutions for implementing this new economic model, such as decentralization, appropriate technologies, and renewable energy.

  • The Whole Internet: User's Guide & Catalog by Ed Krol

    This book is a comprehensive guide to using the internet, aimed at both beginners and experienced users. It covers a wide range of topics, including how to connect to the internet, how to use email and newsgroups, and how to find and use resources on the World Wide Web. The book also includes a catalog of internet resources, with descriptions and reviews of hundreds of internet sites.

  • The Time Machine by H. G. Wells

    A Victorian-era scientist invents a machine that allows him to travel through time. He first journeys to the year 802,701 A.D., where he encounters the Eloi, a society of small, elegant, childlike adults who live in harmony but lack curiosity and drive. He later discovers the Morlocks, a nocturnal, subterranean species who prey on the Eloi. After rescuing an Eloi named Weena, the protagonist loses his time machine and must devise a plan to recover it and return to his own time, all while exploring the social and evolutionary implications of the two distinct societies.

  • Der Judenstaat by Theodor Herzl

    This book is a seminal work proposing the establishment of a Jewish state as a solution to the long-standing persecution of Jews in Europe. The author argues that the best way to avoid anti-Semitism is to create a state where Jews can govern themselves. He discusses potential locations for this state, including Palestine and Argentina, and outlines a detailed plan for its economic, political, and social structure. The book is considered a foundational text for the Zionist movement.

  • The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

    A young girl from Kansas is swept away by a tornado to a fantastical land called Oz. To return home, she must find the mysterious Wizard in the Emerald City, and on her journey, she befriends a Scarecrow in need of a brain, a Tin Woodman longing for a heart, and a Cowardly Lion seeking courage. They all hope the Wizard can grant their wishes, but they must first overcome the Wicked Witch of the West who poses a great danger to them.

  • Peter Pan by J. M. Barrie

    This classic children's novel is about a boy named Peter Pan who never grows up and lives in a magical place called Neverland. Peter Pan, along with his fairy sidekick Tinker Bell, invites the Darling children - Wendy, John, and Michael - to Neverland where they encounter pirates, mermaids, and other fantastic adventures. The story explores themes of innocence, friendship, bravery, and the bittersweet nature of growing up.

  • Herland by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

    "Herland" is a utopian novel that depicts an isolated society composed entirely of women who reproduce via parthenogenesis. The result is an ideal social order, free of war, conflict, and domination. The story is told from the perspective of a male sociologist who, along with two other men, stumbles upon the society. They are initially imprisoned, but as they learn about the society, they are gradually integrated. The novel explores themes of gender, motherhood, and how environment influences behavior and societal structure.

  • Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

    Set in a dystopian future, the novel explores a society where human beings are genetically bred and pharmaceutically conditioned to serve in a ruling order. The society is divided into five castes, each with its specific roles. The narrative follows a savage who rejects the norms of this new world order and struggles to navigate the clash between the values of his upbringing and the reality of this technologically advanced, emotionless society. His resistance prompts a deep examination of the nature of freedom, individuality, and happiness.

  • Lost Horizon by James Hilton

    This novel tells the story of four Westerners who are kidnapped and taken to the mysterious Shangri-La, a utopian lamasery high in the mountains of Tibet. As they get to know their captors and the peaceful way of life in the lamasery, they must each decide whether or not they want to stay in this idyllic paradise that seemingly offers immortality, or try to escape back to their former lives. The story explores themes of time, happiness, and the often complex choice between the familiar and the unknown.

  • Walden Two by B. F. Skinner

    "Walden Two" is a utopian novel that presents an experimental community where happiness, productivity, and quality of life are the main goals. The community is guided by the principles of behavioral science, and it emphasizes the importance of cultural and environmental conditioning in shaping human behavior. The book explores the idea of an ideal society, free from the problems of modern civilization, through the eyes of a professor and his two ex-students who visit the community.

  • Nineteen Eighty Four by George Orwell

    Set in a dystopian future, the novel presents a society under the total control of a totalitarian regime, led by the omnipresent Big Brother. The protagonist, a low-ranking member of 'the Party', begins to question the regime and falls in love with a woman, an act of rebellion in a world where independent thought, dissent, and love are prohibited. The novel explores themes of surveillance, censorship, and the manipulation of truth.

  • Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

    In a dystopian future where books are banned and burned by the government to prevent dissenting ideas, a fireman named Guy Montag, whose job is to burn books, begins to question the society he serves. After a series of events, including meeting a free-thinking teenager and witnessing a woman choosing to die with her books, Montag begins to secretly collect and read books, leading to his eventual rebellion against the oppressive regime. The narrative serves as a critique of censorship, conformity, and the dangers of an illiterate society.

  • Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

    This novel unfolds in a dystopian United States where society's most productive citizens, including inventors, scientists and industrialists, refuse to be exploited by increasing social and economic demands. As a response, they withdraw their talents, leading to the collapse of the economy. The story presents the author's philosophy of objectivism, which values reason, individualism, and capitalism, and rejects collectivism and altruism. The narrative primarily follows Dagny Taggart, a railroad executive, and John Galt, a philosophical leader and inventor, as they navigate this societal breakdown.

  • A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess

    This novel follows the life of a violent young man named Alex, who is part of a youth subculture in a dystopian future England. Alex and his gang engage in a nightmarish spree of rape, assault, and robbery, until he is arrested and subjected to a psychological experiment by the government to "cure" him of his violent tendencies. The novel explores themes of free will, morality, and the nature of evil, while using a unique slang language invented by the author.

  • The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

    Set in a dystopian future, this novel presents a society where women are stripped of their rights and are classified into various roles based on their fertility and societal status. The protagonist is a handmaid, a class of women used solely for their reproductive capabilities by the ruling class. The story is a chilling exploration of the extreme end of misogyny, where women are reduced to their biological functions, and a critique of religious fundamentalism.

  • Armenian Atrocities: The Murder of a Nation by Arnold J. Toynbee

    This book provides a comprehensive historical account of the Armenian genocide that took place during World War I. The author meticulously documents the systematic extermination of the Armenian people by the Ottoman Empire, using a variety of sources including eyewitness accounts, diplomatic reports, and official documents. The book also explores the international response to the genocide and the subsequent denial and cover-up by the Turkish government.

  • Ten Days That Shook the World by John Reed

    This book provides a firsthand account of the Russian Revolution in 1917, specifically focusing on the ten days during which the Bolsheviks seized power. The author, an American journalist, presents a detailed chronicle of the events, people, and emotions during this tumultuous period. His narrative is filled with vivid descriptions and passionate portrayals of the revolutionaries, offering an intimate look into this significant historical event.

  • War Poems of Siegfried Sassoon by Siegfried Sassoon

    The book is a collection of poetry that vividly depicts the harsh realities of war. Written by a soldier who served during World War I, the poems capture the grim and brutal experiences of combat, providing a stark contrast to the romanticized notions of warfare. The author's vivid imagery and emotive language provide a powerful commentary on the futility and horror of war, making it a significant contribution to war literature.

  • The Good Soldier Svejk by Jaroslav Hašek

    "The Good Soldier Svejk" is a satirical novel set during World War I, following the story of a Czech soldier in the Austro-Hungarian army. Svejk, the protagonist, is a simple-minded, good-natured man who is frequently arrested for bungling jobs due to his apparent idiocy. Despite his constant run-ins with authority, Svejk manages to maintain his cheerful disposition and even takes advantage of his perceived stupidity to manipulate the system. The book offers a humorous and critical perspective on the absurdity of war and the incompetence of military bureaucracy.

  • Mein Kampf by Adolf Hitler

    This book is a two-volume work written by a prominent dictator during his imprisonment in 1924. It outlines his political ideology and future plans for Germany, combining elements of autobiography with an exposition of his views on race, nationality, and governance. The author's main thesis is that the German-speaking 'Aryan' race is superior to all others, and that it is the duty of the state to preserve the purity of this race through policies of racial segregation, expansionism, and extermination. The book also contains detailed discussions on the author's hatred towards Jews, Marxism, and the parliamentary system.

  • All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque

    The novel tells the story of a young German soldier, Paul Bäumer, and his experiences during World War I. The narrative explores the physical and emotional toll of war, the camaraderie between soldiers, and the disillusionment of a generation thrown into a brutal conflict. The protagonist and his friends grapple with survival, fear, and the loss of innocence, providing a stark and poignant critique of the futility and destructiveness of war.

  • Requiem by Anna Akhmatova

    "Requiem" is a powerful collection of poems that serve as a memorial to the hardships endured by the Russian people under Stalin's rule, particularly focusing on the Great Purge and the Siege of Leningrad. The author, through her deeply personal and emotive verses, gives voice to the suffering and despair of mothers, wives, and daughters who had their loved ones taken away by the regime. The poems are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity, and a poignant tribute to the countless lives lost during this dark chapter in history.

  • For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway

    Set in the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, the novel follows the story of an American dynamiter, who is assigned the task of blowing up a bridge during a crucial attack on the city of Segovia. Alongside the war narrative, the story also explores his relationships with various characters, including his love affair with a young Spanish woman. The narrative beautifully encapsulates themes of love, war, death, and the transient nature of life.

  • Darkness at Noon by Arthur Koestler

    "Darkness at Noon" is a novel set during the Stalinist purges in Russia in the 1930s. The story follows an old Bolshevik, who is imprisoned and psychologically tortured by the government he helped create. As he reflects on his life and the choices he made, he grapples with the betrayal of his revolutionary ideals and the corruption of the Soviet regime. The narrative provides a profound exploration of the moral danger inherent in a system that is willing to sacrifice the individual for the supposed collective good.

  • Hiroshima by John Hersey

    This book provides a detailed account of the aftermath of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima during World War II, as experienced by six survivors. The narrative follows the survivors from the moment of the explosion to their lives in the following years. It explores their struggles, their resilience, and the profound physical, emotional, and social impacts of the event, offering a poignant examination of the human capacity to endure and rebuild in the face of unimaginable devastation.

  • The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

    This book is a real-life account of a young Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II, written in diary format. The girl and her family are forced to live in a secret annex in Amsterdam for two years, during which she writes about her experiences, fears, dreams, and the onset of adolescence. The diary provides a poignant and deeply personal insight into the horrors of the Holocaust, making it a powerful testament to the human spirit.

  • The Second World War by Winston Churchill

    This book provides a comprehensive overview of the Second World War from the perspective of one of its most influential leaders. It covers the entire span of the war, from its origins in the political and economic turmoil of the 1930s, to the major battles and strategic decisions that shaped its course, to its aftermath and impact on the world. The author's unique perspective and firsthand experience, combined with his eloquent and insightful writing, make this a definitive account of one of the most important events in modern history.

  • Night by Elie Wiesel

    This book is a memoir of the author's experiences during the Holocaust, specifically in the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps. The narrative focuses on the relationship between a father and son under the most extreme circumstances, the loss of faith in God, humanity, and in each other, and the horrifying reality of the systematic genocide of six million Jews during World War II. The book is a poignant and stark examination of the depths of human evil and the enduring power of hope and survival.

  • Quotations from Chairman Mao by Mao

    This book is a collection of speeches and writings by the former leader of the People's Republic of China. It covers a wide range of topics including communism, revolution, class struggle, and the correct handling of contradictions among the people. The book was published with the intention of promoting the leader's ideology and was widely distributed during the Cultural Revolution. It was considered an essential guide to life and politics in China during this period.

  • Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Alexander Brown

    This book is a compelling historical narrative that chronicles the systematic decimation of Native American tribes in the United States during the late 19th century. The author uses council records, autobiographies, and firsthand descriptions to provide a detailed account of the battles, massacres, and broken treaties that led to the destruction of the Native American way of life. The book centers on significant events such as the Battle of Little Bighorn and the Wounded Knee Massacre, offering a voice to the often overlooked Native American perspective.

  • The Gulag Archipelago by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

    "The Gulag Archipelago" is a comprehensive and stark account of the Soviet Union's forced labor camp system. The narrative, based on the author's own experiences as a prisoner and on extensive research, documents the history, operation, and life inside the Gulag system. It also provides a critical examination of the regime's legal system, police operations, and political leadership. The book is an intense indictment of the Soviet Union's totalitarian regime, revealing its brutality, inhumanity, and vast scale of its prison camp network.

  • Dispatches by Michael Herr

    This book is a first-hand account of the Vietnam War from a war correspondent's perspective. The author vividly describes the chaos, violence, and absurdity of the war, providing a raw and unfiltered look at the experiences of soldiers on the ground. The narrative is filled with gritty details and intense imagery, capturing the fear, boredom, and disillusionment that characterized the war. The book is considered a classic of war reportage, lauded for its honest and brutal portrayal of the realities of combat.

  • Maus by Art Spiegelman

    This graphic novel tells the story of a Holocaust survivor, as narrated by his son. The unique use of animals to represent different nationalities and ethnic groups adds a distinctive layer to the narrative. The protagonist's father recounts his experiences as a Polish Jew during World War II, offering a poignant depiction of the horrors of the Holocaust. The narrative also explores the complex father-son relationship, revealing the impact of such traumatic historical events on subsequent generations.

  • The Country of the Pointed Firs by Sarah Orne Jewett

    "The Country of the Pointed Firs" is a series of sketches about life in a small coastal town in Maine. The narrator, a woman writer who is spending the summer in the town, introduces readers to the local characters and their stories. The book explores themes of community, solitude, time, and the natural world, painting a vivid picture of rural life at the turn of the 20th century.

  • The Story of My Life by Helen Keller

    This book is an autobiography of a woman who, despite being blind and deaf from a very young age, overcomes her physical limitations and achieves great success in her life. Guided by her teacher, she learns to communicate and read, eventually attending college. The book offers a powerful and inspiring account of her determination, resilience, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

  • The Innocence of Father Brown by G. K. Chesterton

    "The Innocence of Father Brown" is a collection of short stories featuring a Catholic priest who uses intuitive and psychological understanding of human nature to solve mysteries, often surprising those around him with his detective abilities. The priest's unassuming and humble exterior hides a sharp intellect and deep understanding of the human heart, making him an unlikely but effective sleuth. His adventures take him around the world, solving crimes that baffle the police and the public.

  • Platero by Juan Ramón Jiménez

    "Platero" is a beautifully written narrative that follows the relationship between a man and his donkey, Platero, in a small town in Andalusia, Spain. The book is filled with poetic and philosophical musings that reflect on the simple and profound aspects of everyday life. Through the interactions between the man and Platero, the author explores themes of friendship, nature, death, and the passing of time.

  • Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw

    "Pygmalion" is a play that explores the transformative power of education and the nature of language and communication. It follows the story of a cockney flower girl named Eliza Doolittle who is taught to speak and behave like a duchess by a pompous phonetics professor, Henry Higgins. Throughout the process, Eliza develops self-respect and personal dignity, challenging the Victorian society's rigid class system. The play also questions the idea of 'making' someone and the moral responsibility that comes with it.

  • Etiquette in Society, in Business, in Politics and at Home by Emily Post

    This comprehensive guide provides readers with advice and instructions on proper behavior in a variety of social situations. It covers everything from basic manners, such as table etiquette and polite conversation, to more complex issues like business interactions and political discourse. The book also delves into the nuances of etiquette at home, including hosting guests and maintaining a harmonious family environment. It serves as a timeless reference for anyone seeking to navigate social situations with grace, respect, and courtesy.

  • The Inimitable Jeeves by P. G. Wodehouse

    This book is a collection of humorous short stories set in 1920s London, featuring the iconic characters of a wealthy, hapless young man and his intelligent, resourceful butler. The narrative revolves around the young man's various misadventures, often involving his eccentric friends and relatives, and the butler's ingenious solutions to save the day. The stories are characterized by their witty dialogue, slapstick humor, and satirical commentary on the British upper class.

  • Winnie the Pooh by A. A Milne

    This classic children's tale follows the charming adventures of a lovable, honey-loving bear named Winnie the Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood. With his companions, including the timid Piglet, the gloomy Eeyore, the energetic Tigger, and the wise Owl, Pooh navigates through various situations and dilemmas, often with humorous and heartwarming results. The book is a celebration of friendship, imagination, and the simple joys of life.

  • Shadows on the Rock by Willa Cather

    Set in the late 17th century, the novel explores the lives of French colonists in Quebec City. It focuses on the daily experiences of a French apothecary and his young daughter, illuminating their struggles and joys as they navigate the harsh realities of frontier life. The narrative delves into themes of faith, identity, and the human spirit's resilience, offering an intimate portrait of early colonial life in North America.

  • The Joy of Cooking by Irma S. Rombauer, Marion Rombauer Becker, Ethan Becker

    This book is a comprehensive guide to home cooking, providing readers with a wide range of recipes, techniques, and advice for all kinds of dishes. It covers everything from appetizers to desserts, with clear instructions and illustrations to make the process easy and enjoyable. The book also includes helpful tips on meal planning, food safety, and nutrition, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced cooks.

  • The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien

    In this fantasy novel, a timid and unadventurous hobbit named Bilbo Baggins is whisked away on a grand adventure by a wizard and a group of dwarves. Their mission is to reclaim the dwarves' homeland and treasure from a fearsome dragon. Throughout the journey, Bilbo grows in courage and cunning, proving himself a true hero as he encounters trolls, goblins, giant spiders, and other perils. The novel culminates with a great battle involving various races of Middle Earth, after which Bilbo returns home, forever changed by his experiences.

  • Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown

    This classic children's book follows a young rabbit's bedtime routine, as it says goodnight to everything around: from the red balloon and a pair of mittens, to the kittens, the picture of the cow jumping over the moon, the old lady whispering "hush", and more. The soothing, repetitive text and warm, detailed illustrations create a peaceful, comforting atmosphere that eases children into sleep.

  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

    Set in the racially charged South during the Depression, the novel follows a young girl and her older brother as they navigate their small town's societal norms and prejudices. Their father, a lawyer, is appointed to defend a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, forcing the children to confront the harsh realities of racism and injustice. The story explores themes of morality, innocence, and the loss of innocence through the eyes of the young protagonists.

  • Best of Simple by Langston Hughes

    "Best of Simple" is a collection of tales featuring the character Jesse B. Semple, or "Simple", who shares humorous and insightful commentary on the African American experience in the United States. The stories, set in Harlem, explore themes of race, class, and identity through the lens of Simple's everyday life and interactions. The book is known for its witty dialogue, vivid characters, and its unflinching look at the realities of life for Black Americans in the mid-20th century.

  • Complete Poems by Elizabeth Bishop

    "Complete Poems" is a comprehensive collection of works by a renowned poet, showcasing her mastery of language and imagery. The book features a wide range of themes including travel, nature, loss, and human connection. The poet's keen eye for detail, unique perspectives, and her ability to infuse ordinary moments with profound insights, make this collection a compelling exploration of the human experience.

  • The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter

    This children's classic tells the story of a mischievous young rabbit who disobeys his mother's warning and ventures into Mr. McGregor's garden. After indulging in the garden's bountiful offerings, the young rabbit finds himself chased by Mr. McGregor, narrowly escaping capture. He eventually makes his way back home to his mother, who scolds him for his disobedience and sends him to bed without supper.

  • A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

    This classic novel follows the life of Francie Nolan, a young girl growing up in the slums of early 20th century Brooklyn. The narrative explores her experiences with poverty, her pursuit of education, and her dreams of a better life. The tree in the title serves as a symbol of her resilience and hope, growing and thriving despite the harsh conditions around it, much like Francie herself.

  • The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis

    Four siblings are evacuated from London during World War II and sent to live with an old professor in the countryside. In his house, they discover a magical wardrobe that serves as a portal to the land of Narnia, a world filled with mythical creatures and ruled by an evil White Witch. The children are soon caught up in a struggle to free Narnia from the witch's eternal winter, aided by the majestic lion Aslan. The story combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and Christian allegory.

  • The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

    The novel follows the story of a teenager named Holden Caulfield, who has just been expelled from his prep school. The narrative unfolds over the course of three days, during which Holden experiences various forms of alienation and his mental state continues to unravel. He criticizes the adult world as "phony" and struggles with his own transition into adulthood. The book is a profound exploration of teenage rebellion, alienation, and the loss of innocence.

  • Charlotte's Web by E. B. White

    A young girl named Fern saves a runt piglet from being slaughtered and names him Wilbur. When Wilbur grows too large, he is sent to live in her uncle's barn, where he befriends a clever spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur's life is in danger again, Charlotte weaves messages into her web to convince the farmer that Wilbur is too special to kill. The book explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the cycle of life.

  • The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

    The book tells the story of a young boy's adventures on a snowy day. He wakes up to find his city covered in snow and spends the day exploring, making tracks, building a snowman, and even trying to save a snowball for the next day. The story beautifully captures the wonder and joy that a child experiences during a snowfall, making it a timeless classic for children.

  • Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

    A young boy named Max, dressed in his wolf costume, wreaks such havoc through his household that he is sent to bed without his supper. In his room, a mysterious, wild forest and sea grows out of his imagination, and Max sails to the land of the Wild Things. The Wild Things are fearsome-looking monsters, but Max conquers them by “staring into their yellow eyes without blinking once”, and he is made the king of all wild things. However, he soon finds himself lonely and homesick and returns home to his bedroom where he finds his supper waiting for him, still hot.

  • Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan

    This is a heartwarming story set in the late 19th century about a widower and his two children living on the prairie who place an ad for a wife and mother. A woman named Sarah from Maine responds and comes to live with them for a trial period. Over time, Sarah, who is described as plain and tall, forms a bond with the children and the father, and despite her longing for the sea, she decides to stay and become a part of their family.

About this list

New York Public Library, 173 Books

The following is a complete list of the titles included in the exhibition Books of the Century at The New York Public Library's Center for the Humanities, May 20, 1995-July 13, 1996, and in The New York Public Library's Books of the Century, published by Oxford University Press.

A celebration of the NYPL's centenary. The books were selected by public service and research librarians

Added over 4 years ago.

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  • Voters: are mostly from a single country/location
  • List: only covers 100 years

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