Creating a comprehensive list of the 25 best-selling books of all time is a challenging task due to the complexities involved in tracking sales over centuries. Books from different eras have been published in various editions, translated into multiple languages, and sometimes serialized or abridged. Additionally, historical sales records are often inaccurate, and some publishers might inflate numbers for promotional purposes. This makes it difficult to compile an indisputable list. However, by applying specific criteria, we can create a meaningful roundup of literary fiction. Here’s our curated list, focusing solely on literary fiction and excluding religious texts, self-help guides, political works, and other reference materials. Notably, books like The Lord of the Rings and The Count of Monte Cristo are omitted due to serialization and age-related data challenges.
Did your favorite book make the cut? How do you think the quality of these works compares to their sales figures? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Don't forget to explore the best-selling books of 2024 at the end of this article for the latest must-reads 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 captures the hearts of her adoptive family in Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, has delighted readers for over a century. Her journey and the bond she forms with her foster parents, who initially expected a boy, led to the book's immense success and inspired seven sequels, plus 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, the beloved children's novel, follows the adventures 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, highlights themes of resilience and companionship, endearing the book to generations of readers.
23. Lolita
### Lolita
9See it at AmazonAuthor: Vladimir Nabokov
Country: United States
Publication Date: 1955
Estimated Sales: 50 million copies
Initially controversial and rejected by many publishers, Nabokov's Lolita explores the disturbing relationship between an English professor and a young girl. Its impact on literature is undeniable, having 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
Gabriel García Márquez's masterpiece is a sweeping tale of the Buendía family across seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. Infused with magical realism, the novel explores themes of time, fate, and cyclical history, earning it a revered place in world literature.
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
Ben-Hur tells the story of Judah Ben-Hur, a man living during the time of Jesus, who witnesses his crucifixion. The novel's epic scope and its famous chariot race scene, immortalized in the film starring Charlton Heston, have cemented its place in popular culture.
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 the story of an Italian American war bride and her passionate affair with a photographer. Its adaptation into a film starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep, along with a Tony-winning Broadway musical, has kept its legacy alive.
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
J.D. Salinger's only full-length novel, The Catcher in the Rye, is a seminal coming-of-age story. Through the eyes of Holden Caulfield, a disaffected prep school student, the novel captures the angst and alienation of youth, becoming a cultural touchstone.
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 epic conclusion to the Harry Potter series, Deathly Hallows, sees Harry, Hermione, and Ron on a quest to defeat Voldemort. The book's release was a global event, complete with an anti-spoiler campaign and fervent debates about character loyalties, leading to two blockbuster 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 Half-Blood Prince, Harry delves deep into Voldemort's past, preparing for the final battle. The novel sets the stage for the series' climax, weaving intricate plot threads that captivate readers and lead seamlessly into Deathly Hallows.
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 of the Harry Potter series, Order of the Phoenix, introduces new characters and expands the world of magic. Despite initial criticism for its slower pacing, the novel's rich world-building and character development have earned it a lasting place in the series.
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
Goblet of Fire marks a turning point in the series, introducing the Triwizard Tournament and a darker tone. Its gripping plot and unexpected twists have solidified its reputation as one of the strongest entries in the Harry Potter saga.
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
Prisoner of Azkaban showcases a more mature writing style and is often cited as the moment many readers became devoted fans. Harry faces new challenges, including the mysterious escaped wizard Sirius Black, who holds secrets about his parents.
13. The Alchemist (O Alquimista)
### The Alchemist (O Alquimista)
13See it at AmazonAuthor: Paulo Coelho
Country: Brazil
Publication Date: 1988
Estimated Sales: 65 million copies
Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist follows a Spanish shepherd on a quest for treasure in Egypt. Initially a flop, the novel's eventual success is a testament to Coelho's perseverance, and its themes of fate and personal destiny resonate with readers worldwide.
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
While often considered the weakest link in the series, Chamber of Secrets expands the magical world beyond Hogwarts and sets the stage for future adventures. Its exploration of the school's history and the introduction of new characters keep readers engaged.
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
The Da Vinci Code captivated readers with its fast-paced narrative and controversial claims about religious history. Despite mixed critical reception, its commercial success and cultural impact are undeniable, spawning a film and widespread discussion.
10. Vardi Wala Gunda
### Vardi Wala Gunda
5See it at AmazonAuthor: Ved Prakash Sharma
Country: India
Publication Date: 1992
Estimated Sales: 80 million copies
Written in Hindi, Vardi Wala Gunda is a gripping mystery thriller about corruption and conspiracy within the police force. Ved Prakash Sharma's most successful novel, it showcases his prolific talent, having authored over 170 works.
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
She: A History of Adventure is a foundational work in fantasy literature, influencing countless stories about lost civilizations and mystical adventures. Its impact can be seen in popular media, including the Indiana Jones and Tarzan franchises.
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
C.S. Lewis's classic introduces readers to Narnia, a magical world discovered through a wardrobe. The battle between good and evil, personified by Aslan and the White Witch, has captivated readers for generations and led to six sequels.
7. The Hobbit
### The Hobbit
13See it at AmazonAuthor: J.R.R. Tolkien
Country: United Kingdom
Publication Date: 1937
Estimated Sales: 100 million copies
The Hobbit introduces readers to Bilbo Baggins and his adventure with a wizard and dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a dragon. Initially a standalone children's book, it became integral to Tolkien's Middle-earth saga, influencing fantasy literature profoundly.
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
Dream of the Red Chamber is a cornerstone of Chinese literature, depicting the rise and fall of a noble family during the Qing Dynasty. Its nuanced portrayal of female characters and social dynamics has made it a timeless classic.
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
Agatha Christie's masterpiece, And Then There Were None, is a gripping murder mystery set on an isolated island. As guests are killed off one by one, the survivors must unravel the mystery to save themselves, showcasing Christie's unparalleled skill in suspense.
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 first book in the Harry Potter series captures the wonder of entering the wizarding world. Its blend of adventure, friendship, and magic has enchanted readers of all ages, setting a new standard for fantasy literature.
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
The Little Prince is a timeless fable about a young prince's journey across planets, exploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Its profound simplicity and poetic beauty have made it a beloved classic worldwide.
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
Set during the French Revolution, A Tale of Two Cities explores themes of sacrifice, love, and redemption. Dickens's iconic opening line and masterful storytelling have made this novel one of the most enduring works in English 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
Don Quixote is a groundbreaking work that satirizes the chivalric romances of its time. The adventures of the delusional knight and his loyal squire have inspired countless adaptations and remain a cornerstone of world literature.
Best Selling Books in 2024
Identifying the best-selling books of the current year is more straightforward, thanks to real-time data from online retailers like Amazon. Here are the top 10 books of 2024 according to Amazon's best-selling list:
- 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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