Best books for beginners who want to start reading, those who want to get back into the habit, or for those looking for the perfect gift.
BREATHE: A LIFE IN FLOW
This book is for those who practice the martial art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In Breathe: A Life in Flow, we follow the life of Rickson Gracie and his family. We learn the history of BJJ—how it began and evolved into the sport it is today—and the highs and lows of the life of Rickson Gracie, arguably the greatest Jiu-Jitsu athlete of all time. Overall, it is a very pleasant read with a fascinating story.
THE BIG BOOK OF EGYPTIAN MYTHOLOGY
This is an excellent book for beginners because, despite the name, it is quite short and can be read in a single sitting. The author, Claudio Blanc, has a writing style that prevents the reading from becoming tiring. Additionally, the book is filled with illustrations, which is important since it deals with the history of one of the greatest civilizations in history, rich in unique imagery, statues, and culture. It’s ideal for those who love Ancient Egypt and dream of visiting the famous pyramids.
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE {The Philosopher’s Stone}
Despite the controversies J.K. Rowling has been involved in lately, her work remains impeccable. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the gateway to the Wizarding World and Hogwarts, and it’s one of the books I recommend for anyone starting their reading journey. The first book is also the easiest of the series; if you don’t like this one, there’s no chance you’ll like the others. While it introduces many new terms used throughout the series, the language is relatively accessible. As for the story, it’s world-famous, but if you want a proper summary, check out my article “READING HARRY POTTER.”
THE LITTLE PRINCE
Time to cry like a baby. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry was originally released in 1943 and is an absolute classic of world literature. Don’t be fooled by the “children’s book” vibe—The Little Prince will break you in two. Few books in the world are as deep and multilayered as this literary gem. It is obviously one of the best books for beginners on this list, if not the best. There are thousands of versions available; I recommend getting the best one you can find, as it will become a relic on your shelf. One last tip: read it away from people so they don’t see you sobbing.
THE NUMBER DEVIL: A MATHEMATICAL ADVENTURA
One of the most fun and educational books I’ve ever read. The Number Devil by German author and poet Hans Magnus Enzensberger demystifies the “devil” of mathematics into something easy to understand and even enjoyable. Again, don’t let the “kids’ book” cover fool you; while they are the target audience, this is a powerful book that can change how any adult views this feared and hated subject. Easy reading, large font, full of colorful illustrations, and a fast pace. It’s excellent for any beginner.
THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES
This is a very curious book and one of the best books for beginners that I could recommend. The books in The Spiderwick Chronicles series, by author Holly Black with illustrations by Tony DiTerlizzi, tell a “true” story.
According to the authors, one day they received a letter from some children who claimed to have had a fantastic experience with goblins, ogres, fairies, and various other creatures from European folklore.
The story takes place in the state of Maine, United States, and narrates the adventures of three children after their family inherits a mansion full of secret passages from their great-great-uncle, Arthur Spiderwick.
It is in the attic of this old house that they find the field guide describing the magical creatures living nearby, their habits, and their weaknesses. This is precisely what catches the attention of an ogre who will do everything in his power to take possession of the guide.
The Spiderwick Chronicles had a self-titled film adaptation in 2008, which combines the five books of the series into a single story. In my opinion, it is a very good movie that represents the essence of the book well, despite some differences in the story.
LICAN: THE BELOVED
The funeral for John of God, a young man of just twenty-seven, begins like any other solemn occasion. The pastor is prepared to deliver a eulogy about a good, faithful man. But a mysterious onlooker, Lican, senses a lie, and the ceremony quickly unravels into something shocking.
Consumed by years of fear and guilt, the pastor sheds all pretense. He launches into a visceral, unfiltered sermon, exposing the deceased as a truly monstrous figure: a brutal criminal involved in everything from animal cruelty and domestic violence to money laundering and political ambition. The crowd isn’t there to mourn; they’ve gathered for a collective release.
The true twist comes with the revelation of John of God’s final moments—a chilling account of a community that simply watched him die. As the coffin slides into the furnace, the enigmatic Lican completes his own strange, quiet mission, confirming that this deeply wicked man is truly gone.
“The Beloved” is a dark, gripping tale of collective silence, the high cost of fear, and the bizarre, final justice meted out to a monster who bore a saint’s name. And is one of best books for beginners.
Lican: the beloved is the first short story by Naijar Tahan.
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