Best Books Ever Written
These are the best books ever written. In other words, this is the ultimate reading list.
Classics Books
The infallible word of God is obviously a must read. Even if you are not a believer, it’s hard to understand the world without the book upon which most of our institutions are predicated.
The Federalist Papers by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay
In their series of essays, these founders explain the Constitution and reason behind the decisions made at the constitutional convention. This is an essential guide to political thought and the theory of government, especially for citizens seeking to understand the United States Constitution.
Democracy in America by Alexis de Tocqueville
Tocqueville was a French politician who visited the United States in its early years. His aim was understanding what made it work. Within the pages of his book rests the many reasons the America Republic has been so valuable to political thought for the past 250 years.
The Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution
It is impossible to understand America if you have not read and studied our founding documents.
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Rand’s magnum opus tells the story of a collapsing nation, and the men and women who fight to save it. She employees a host of characters like Dagney and John Galt to extol the virtues of free market capitalism while shining light on the sinister heart of socialism.
Anthem and The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand
These are two of Rands other famous treaties on the function of government, economics, and liberty in a society. She is also known for her philosophy of “Objectivism” and her non-fiction books, but her genius truly shines in her fiction witting.
Capitalism and Freedom by Milton Friedman
Friedman is one of the more well-known economic thinkers of the 20th Century. His ideas are presented logically in this classic of economics.
The Quest for Cosmic Justice by Thomas Sowell
As a follow up to his many books celebrating the foundations of American Society, Dr. Sowell pulls back the veil on social justice.
The Road to Serfdom by F. A. Hayek
Hayek predicts the massive intrusion of government over people’s lives and the deterioration of liberty throughout Western Societies.
1984 by George Orwell
Orwell’s classic dystopian novel shows readers the bare truth behind governments by design and centralized governing structures. I would be hard to sympathize with socialism, fascism, communism or any other authoritarian design after reading 1984.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
As a leading apologist, Lewis shares his high minded intellect with audiences struggling to come to the Christian faith. No one makes the case for Christ more logically than he does.
The Reason for God by Tim Keller
As the subtitle says: “Belief in an Age of Skepticism.” This is an essential guide to understanding that God is real and we need him.
A Severe Mercy by Sheldon Vanauken
“The story of faith, tragedy, and triumph.”
Confronting Christianity by Rebecca McLaughlin
McLaughlin asks and answers 12 questions about the Christian faith.
For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway
In my opinion, this is Hemingway’s best book. Hemingway weaves together an astonishing understanding of human nature with his unparalleled story telling ability. There is more truth in this one work of fiction than all the non-fiction best sellers combined.
The Old Man and the Sea and all Hemingway’s short stories are excellent as well.
Best History Books
No list of great books is complete without a full selection of history books. These are the best history books written on the United States and beyond.
1776 by David McCullough
Like many of McCullough’s books, this one is a reminder of our nation’s origins and identity.
John Adams by David McCullough
Demonstrates Adams’ unparalleled impact on America.
Mornings on Horseback by David McCullough
Explores Theodore Roosevelt’s early life and its lasting impact.
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
A top-tier biography of Abraham Lincoln.
Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land by Mark David Hall
Argues that Christians have been the greatest champions of freedom and equality in America.
The Radicalism of the American Revolution by Gordon Wood
An excellent account of the American founding’s significance, both domestically and globally.
The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw
Celebrates the resilience and achievements of those who persevered through the Great Depression and World War II.
Founding Brothers by Joseph Ellis
A captivating look at the individuals who shaped America.
Killing the Rising Sun by Bill O’Reilly
Details the defeat of Japan during World War II.
Killing Lincoln by Bill O’Reilly
A gripping account of the events surrounding Lincoln’s assassination.
Killing Jesus by Bill O’Reilly
Explores the significance of Jesus’ crucifixion and its impact on history.
Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose
Recounts the journey of Lewis and Clark westward.
Band of Brothers by Stephen Ambrose
An amazing account of the European theater during WWII.
American Lion by Jon Meacham
Captures the life and times of Andrew Jackson.
Destiny and Power by Jon Meacham
Focuses on the life and presidency of George H.W. Bush.
Land of Hope by Wilfred McClay
Considered one of the best historical accounts of the United States.
When Character Was King by Peggy Noonan
In her book on President Reagan, Noonan reminds Americans of what character truly means.
What I Saw at the Revolution by Peggy Noonan
Noonan’s memoir, written while working as a White House speechwriter, brings Reagan’s presidency into full light.
Self-Improvement and Family Books
We all want to improve. Here are the best books written on improving yourself and your family.
The Meaning of Marriage by Tim Keller
Few people capture the complexities of marriage like Keller. Coupling truth and advice, this is an excellent guide for everyone from their teens to their golden years.
Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts by Drs. Les & Leslie Parrott
The Swiss-army knife of marriage books. This book shines when they are writing about fighting and conflict resolution.
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Few books are as reference as this one – and for good reason. It shows readers how to understand each other better and the various communication skills needed not only in marriage, but life.
Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters by Meg Meeker
Dr. Meeker is the Michael Jordan of parenting. No one compares. Her other books are equally important as this one – and parents who don’t read her books are wondering around blindfolded.
Boys Should Be Boys by Meg Meeker
The War Against Boys by Christina Hoff Sommers
Sommers drills down on boys and why our society needs to better embrace them. Writing over 25 years ago she foresaw our current boy crises and shows what we can do to re-invigorate young men.
Wild at Heart by John Eldredge
A wonderful read for men and woman seeking to understand the inner most desires of a man. It is also a good book for young men to read as they seek to understand themselves and their place in the world.
The Recovery of Family Life by Scott Yenor
This statistic filled books is more than a bunch of studies, but it’s also a full of logical conclusions on how we can embrace the American Family.
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
Carnegie remains a household name for his thoughtful approach to teaching how strive for success.
7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Another great book on learning efficiency and how to achieve daily success.
Beyond Order by Jordan Peterson
Peterson is a psychologist on top of his game and the most relevant thinker in modern psychology.
These books are amazing. For more in-depth book reviews, checkout the Bookshelf.