Embarking on a journey through literature as an adult offers a unique and enriching experience, particularly when selecting books that foster character development. Unlike the compulsory reading of our school days, choosing to read for personal growth in adulthood is a conscious decision to explore, understand, and possibly transform our perspectives and values.
50 Books To Read That Build Character As An Adult
So, let’s walk through 50 great books you should put on reserve at your local library. This book list has a little bit of everything. The main character in each novel typically goes through a life-altering situation that tends to make the reader self-evaluate their own personal paths. Courageous struggles often produce stronger individuals. These are the character traits that are most common in a good read.
These books, often brimming with complex themes, moral dilemmas, and profound insights into the human condition, do more than just tell a story; they challenge us to reflect on our beliefs, actions, and aspirations. Whether it’s through the struggles and triumphs of memorable characters, the exploration of ethical quandaries, or the quiet revelation of life’s subtleties, books that build character invite us not only to engage with the text but also to engage deeply with ourselves, fostering a sense of empathy, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the world and our place in it. For the adult reader, these books are not just a source of entertainment but a tool for lifelong learning and personal enrichment.
As a note, young readers and older children will also benefit from navigating this list of book titles. There is literary value for everyone.
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30 General Book Recommendations To Read That Build Character
Here is a list of 30 books that are known for their ability to build character, along with their authors and a brief description of their subjects:
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
- This classic novel explores themes of racial injustice and moral growth in the American South. Through the eyes of the young protagonist, Scout Finch, readers learn about empathy, courage, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
- “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
- Anne Frank’s diary offers a poignant and insightful look into life during the Holocaust. It’s a powerful lesson in resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of a young girl in the face of unimaginable adversity.
- “1984″ by George Orwell
- A dystopian novel that delves into themes of freedom, truth, and the dangers of totalitarianism. It encourages readers to value truth and individual thought in the face of oppression.
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
- This classic novel examines themes of love, reputation, and class. It teaches the importance of overcoming personal biases and the value of understanding and empathy.
- “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
- A philosophical book that explores the journey of self-discovery and pursuing one’s dreams. It encourages readers to listen to their hearts and follow their destinies.
- “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo
- A historical novel that addresses issues of justice, morality, and redemption in 19th-century France. It’s a tale that inspires compassion and understanding for the struggles of others.
- “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- This novel explores themes of idealism, resistance to change, social upheaval, and excess. It teaches about the dangers of obsessing over the past and the shallow nature of materialism.
- “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl
- A memoir and psychological exploration of finding meaning in suffering. It’s a profound lesson in finding purpose even in the darkest of times.
- “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
- A coming-of-age novel that portrays the lives and struggles of four sisters growing up during the American Civil War. It’s a story about the importance of family, resilience, and personal growth.
- “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
- This novel explores themes of alienation, loss of innocence, and the struggles of adolescence. It encourages readers to stay true to themselves and be wary of the phoniness of the adult world.
- “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
- A dystopian novel that examines a futuristic society where happiness is artificially generated. It raises questions about freedom, happiness, and the cost of sacrificing individuality for societal stability.
- “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
- A psychological novel that delves into the mind of a murderer, exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the morality of actions. It’s a profound exploration of the human psyche and ethics.
- “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien
- A fantasy epic that explores themes of good vs. evil, friendship, and bravery. It’s a tale that emphasizes the power of perseverance and the importance of fighting for what is right.
- “Animal Farm” by George Orwell
- A satirical novel that uses a farm of animals to critique totalitarian regimes. It teaches about the dangers of power and the importance of questioning authority.
- “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens
- A historical novel set in the backdrop of the French Revolution, exploring themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the fight against oppression. It’s a story about the power of transformation and the human capacity for change.
- “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë
- A novel that addresses themes of morality, religion, and feminism. It’s a story of a strong, independent woman who faces life’s challenges with resilience and integrity.
- “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
- A dystopian novel about a society that has eliminated pain and strife by converting to “Sameness”. It highlights the importance of human emotions and the beauty in the world’s complexity.
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville
- An adventurous tale about obsession, revenge, and the human struggle against the natural world. It’s a profound exploration of ambition and the destructive nature of obsession.
- “Don Quixote” by Miguel de Cervantes
- A novel that satirizes the traditional chivalric romances. It’s a story about the triumph of individual imagination over societal expectations.
- “The Brothers Karamazov” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
- A philosophical novel that explores deep ethical debates about God, free will, and morality. It’s a profound examination of faith, doubt, and the nature of justice.
- “Beloved” by Toni Morrison
- A novel that addresses the haunting legacy of slavery in America. It’s a powerful exploration of the complexities of freedom, memory, and the human spirit.
- “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas
- A story of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. It teaches about the dangers of vengeance and the transformative power of forgiveness.
- “Siddhartha” by Hermann Hesse
- A novel that explores the spiritual journey of self-discovery. It’s a story about finding inner peace and understanding the essence of life.
- “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” by Harriet Beecher Stowe
- A novel that helped lay the groundwork for the Civil War by depicting the harsh realities of slavery. It’s a powerful testament to the human capacity for empathy and justice.
- “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
- Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of a young girl’s relationship with her foster parents, the other residents of their neighborhood, and a Jewish fist-fighter. It’s a story about the power of words and resistance.
- “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens
- A novella that tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miser who is visited by ghosts and learns the true meaning of Christmas. It’s a timeless tale about redemption and the spirit of giving.
- “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
- A novel that explores themes of ambition, the quest for knowledge, and the moral limitations of science. It’s a profound commentary on the dangers of unchecked scientific exploration.
- “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain
- A novel that addresses issues of race and identity in pre-Civil War America. It’s a powerful exploration of freedom, friendship, and the moral dilemmas facing a young boy.
- “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë
- A gothic novel that delves into themes of love, revenge, and the destructive power of obsession. It’s a haunting exploration of passion and the depths of the human psyche.
- “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker
- A novel that addresses the issues of racism, sexism, and poverty in early 20th-century America. It’s a powerful story of resilience, empowerment, and the search for love and self-discovery.
Each book offers unique insights into human nature and moral dilemmas, making them valuable reads for character-building. Odds are you will fall in love with a fictional character or two. The best books often are hard to forget. Some believe that after reading these wonderful books, you become a better person. Good books can do that – they are the golden key!
10 contemporary fiction books that build character
If you are someone who enjoys contemporary fiction, here are 10 contemporary fiction books that are known for their character-building themes.
- “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
- This novel tells a powerful story of friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s turbulent history. It follows the journey of Amir, who confronts his past and seeks redemption for his childhood actions. Themes include the complexities of father-son relationships, guilt, and the quest for atonement.
- “Life of Pi” by Yann Martel
- A philosophical adventure story about a young boy, Pi Patel, who survives a shipwreck and is stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with a Bengal tiger. The novel explores themes of faith, survival, and the nature of reality, challenging readers to consider the role of belief and storytelling in their lives.
- “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
- Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel, a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others. Amidst the horrors of World War II, the book explores themes of love, literacy, and the power of words to provide comfort and resistance against tyranny.
- “Never Let Me Go” by Kazuo Ishiguro
- This dystopian novel presents an alternate history where human clones are raised to be organ donors. Through the eyes of its protagonist, Kathy, the story delves into themes of love, loss, and the ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement, while exploring the essence of what it means to be human.
- “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett
- Set in the early 1960s in Mississippi, this novel follows the lives of African American maids working in white households. It’s a poignant exploration of racism, inequality, and the power of unity in the face of adversity, as the characters strive to overcome societal boundaries and tell their truths.
- “A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini
- Another powerful novel by Hosseini, this story spans several decades and tells the tale of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives become intertwined under the oppression of their society and an abusive marriage. It’s a heart-wrenching story of love, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of extreme adversity.
- “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green
- This young adult novel tells the story of Hazel and Augustus, two teenagers who meet and fall in love at a cancer support group. It’s a touching exploration of love, mortality, and the meaning of life, marked by poignant insights and humor despite the serious subject matter.
- “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy
- A post-apocalyptic novel that follows a father and son as they journey through a desolate America. The book is a stark meditation on survival, the bond between parent and child, and the moral choices one must make in a world stripped of order and humanity.
- “Room” by Emma Donoghue
- Told from the perspective of a five-year-old boy, Jack, who has been held captive in a single room with his mother for his entire life, this novel explores themes of love, resilience, and the power of imagination. It’s a profound examination of the bond between mother and child under extraordinary circumstances.
- “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah
- Set in France during World War II, this novel tells the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who resist the Nazi occupation in their own ways. It’s a gripping tale of the women’s war, exploring themes of survival, resistance, and the strength of women during times of war.
These contemporary novels offer rich narratives that deal with complex emotional, ethical, and social issues, making them excellent for character development and insight into the human condition.
10 classic novels that build character
Everyone loves a classic. Most enjoy one of the below titles as their first novel read. Here are 10 classic novels that are well-regarded for their ability to build character through their stories and themes:
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
- This timeless novel explores themes of love, reputation, and class in 19th-century England. Centering on the spirited Elizabeth Bennet and her evolving relationship with the proud Mr. Darcy, the novel addresses the importance of marrying for love rather than money or social prestige, and it highlights the dangers of making hasty judgments.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
- Set in the racially charged atmosphere of the American South in the 1930s, this novel tackles themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and compassion. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, readers witness her father, Atticus Finch, as he defends a black man unjustly accused of a crime, teaching invaluable lessons about empathy and integrity.
- “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- This classic American novel, set in the Roaring Twenties, explores themes of decadence, idealism, resistance to change, and excess. The story of Jay Gatsby’s desperate quest to win back his first love underscores the idea that the American Dream is not always attainable and that past cannot always be recaptured.
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville
- An epic tale of Captain Ahab’s obsessive quest for revenge on the white whale that maimed him, this novel delves into themes of obsession, the limits of knowledge, and the duality of man. It stands as a profound exploration of humanity’s struggle against the overpowering forces of nature.
- “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
- Set in St. Petersburg, Russia, this psychological novel explores the moral dilemmas of Raskolnikov, a desperate young man who convinces himself of his right to murder for a greater good. The book delves deeply into the psychology of crime and punishment and the agonies of a guilty conscience.
- “Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo
- An expansive tale set against the backdrop of post-revolutionary France, this novel explores the themes of law and grace, justice, and the nature of redemption. Following the lives of several characters, particularly the ex-convict Jean Valjean, the story is a testament to the struggles of France’s lower class and the power of love and compassion.
- “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë
- This gothic novel tells the passionate and tragic story of Catherine and Heathcliff. Set on the Yorkshire moors, it explores themes of love, revenge, and the destructive power of obsession, showcasing the wild beauty of the landscape and the equally turbulent emotions of the characters.
- “Jane Eyre” by Charlotte Brontë
- This novel combines elements of romance, mystery, and Gothic horror to tell the story of Jane Eyre, an orphan who becomes a governess and falls in love with her employer, Mr. Rochester. It’s a powerful examination of the themes of independence, morality, and the need for love and acceptance.
- “The Brothers Karamazov” by Fyodor Dostoevsky
- This last novel by Dostoevsky explores deep philosophical themes including faith, doubt, free will, and morality. Centered around the patricidal and spiritual crises of the Karamazov brothers, the novel delves into the most profound existential questions of human life.
- “Anna Karenina” by Leo Tolstoy
- Set in 19th-century Russia, this novel tells the tragic story of a married aristocrat and her affair with the affluent Count Vronsky. The narrative explores a diverse range of topics throughout its pages, including love, family, politics, and religion.
Each of these classic novels provides profound insights into human nature, morality, society, and personal growth, making them ideal for character-building and reflection.
10 Fantasy Themed Books That Build Character
Exploring the realm of fantasy offers a unique opportunity to encounter character-building narratives in extraordinary settings. Here are 10 fantasy-themed books, distinct from the ones previously mentioned, that are renowned for their ability to foster character growth:
- “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
- This precursor to “The Lord of the Rings” tells the tale of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who embarks on an unexpected adventure. It’s a story about courage, growth, and discovering hidden strengths, set in a richly imagined world.
- “Harry Potter series” by J.K. Rowling
- Following the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, this series is not just about magic and adventure but also about the importance of friendship, bravery, and the choices that define us.
- “His Dark Materials” series by Philip Pullman
- This trilogy, starting with “The Golden Compass,” is a profound exploration of themes like personal growth, the questioning of authority, and the search for truth in a world filled with magic and mystery.
- “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis
- A classic series that combines fantasy with elements of Christian allegory, it explores themes of redemption, courage, and the battle between good and evil through the adventures of children who discover a magical land.
- “Mistborn” series by Brandon Sanderson
- Set in a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night, this series is a tale of resilience, revolution, and the struggle to overthrow a tyrannical regime, with a unique system of magic.
- “The Earthsea Cycle” by Ursula K. Le Guin
- A pioneering series in the fantasy genre, these books explore themes of balance, wisdom, and coming to terms with oneself, set in a vast archipelago filled with magic and dragons.
- “The Kingkiller Chronicle” by Patrick Rothfuss
- Starting with “The Name of the Wind,” this series is known for its lyrical prose and rich storytelling. It’s a deeply personal narrative about the pursuit of knowledge and the cost of ambition.
- “The Inheritance Cycle” by Christopher Paolini
- Beginning with “Eragon,” this series follows a young farm boy who discovers he is the last of the Dragon Riders, tasked with saving his world from an evil king, blending traditional fantasy elements with a journey of growth and responsibility.
- “The Stormlight Archive” by Brandon Sanderson
- This epic series is set in a world of storm-swept landscapes and ancient mysteries. It delves into themes of leadership, honor, and the struggles of individuals wielding great power and facing moral dilemmas.
- “The Wheel of Time” series by Robert Jordan
- An expansive series that weaves a rich tapestry of characters and cultures in a struggle against the Dark One. It’s a story about destiny, the cyclical nature of time, and the growth of characters from ordinary beginnings to extraordinary destinies.
Each of these fantasy books or series offers more than just an escape into imaginative realms; they provide profound lessons in character, resilience, and the human spirit, making them a valuable addition to any reader seeking both adventure and personal growth.
Why should someone read books that build character?
Reading books that build character is a deeply enriching experience with several key benefits:
- Empathy and Understanding: Character-building books often plunge readers into the lives and struggles of others, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and experiences. This can lead to greater compassion and tolerance in real-life interactions.
- Moral and Ethical Insight: These books frequently explore complex ethical dilemmas, encouraging readers to contemplate and question their own values and beliefs. This introspection can lead to a more refined personal moral compass.
- Resilience and Inspiration: By following characters through their trials and triumphs, readers can find inspiration in their resilience. This can be particularly empowering in facing one’s own challenges.
- Self-Reflection and Personal Growth: Character-building stories often prompt self-reflection. Readers may see aspects of themselves in characters or situations, leading to a deeper understanding of their own behaviors, motivations, and choices.
- Broadened Horizons: Such books expose readers to different cultures, histories, and lifestyles, broadening their horizons and deepening their understanding of the world.
- Improved Communication Skills: Engaging with complex characters and narratives can enhance one’s ability to articulate thoughts and feelings more clearly, improving overall communication skills.
- Stress Reduction and Mental Stimulation: Reading is known for its ability to reduce stress. Additionally, engaging with challenging texts keeps the mind active and can improve cognitive functions over time.
- Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Analyzing characters’ decisions and the consequences of those decisions can sharpen one’s problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Sense of Connection: Reading about others’ experiences, especially in a deeply narrative form, can create a sense of connection and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Entertainment and Joy: Lastly, while character-building books can be thought-provoking and challenging, they are also a source of immense joy and entertainment, offering an escape into different worlds and experiences.
Books that build character are more than just stories; they are tools for personal development, offering many benefits that extend far beyond the pages.
Diving into books that build character isn’t just good for your brain; it’s like a workout for your soul. These aren’t your average reads – they’re packed with life lessons, tough choices, and a real emotional kick. They’re about stepping into someone else’s shoes, facing their struggles, and becoming wiser on the other side.
So, if you’re looking to shake things up, learn something about life, or just want stories that stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page, these are your go-to books. You’ll not only end up with many great stories to chat about, but you’ll also give your character a bit of a polish. We could all use a little more of that in today’s age.