The 20 Most Underrated Books To Read Right Now

Ever feel like the books everyone’s buzzing about just don’t cut it for you? Maybe it’s time to dive into some hidden gems that don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. Let’s explore the 20 most underrated books you should read right now. Grab your favourite reading spot and let’s get into it!

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The literary world is always buzzing about the same handful of titles, while countless treasures go unnoticed… Enter the world of underrated books—those hidden gems that might not make the bestseller lists but offer incredible stories, profound insights, and unforgettable characters.

These are the books that fly under the radar, quietly waiting for discerning readers like you to uncover their brilliance. In a market often driven by trends and hype, diving into underrated literature is like discovering a secret garden full of unique and beautiful flowers. Let’s explore some of these lesser-known masterpieces that are just as deserving of your attention as any blockbuster novel.

20 Most Underrated Books To Read Right Now

1. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Set in post-World War II Barcelona, this novel is a story within a story. Following a young boy named Daniel, it explores the mysteries of a forgotten book and the secrets surrounding its author. It’s like stepping into a literary time machine with twists that keep you hooked.

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2. Stoner by John Williams

Not to be confused with what you might think, this novel tells the quiet, profound story of William Stoner, a university professor. It’s a beautifully written examination of an ordinary man’s life, capturing the essence of human experience with eloquence and grace.

3. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay by Michael Chabon

While it’s a Pulitzer Prize winner, it doesn’t always get the love it deserves. This epic tale of two Jewish cousins before, during, and after World War II dives into the golden age of comic books, combining history, magic, and creativity.

4. Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Step into the dark and fantastical world of London Below with this urban fantasy gem. It’s a thrilling journey with Richard Mayhew, an ordinary man who stumbles into a hidden city beneath London, brimming with danger and wonder.

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5. The Secret History by Donna Tartt

This novel plunges you into the elite world of a small liberal arts college and a group of eccentric students. It’s a gripping and dark tale of obsession, morality, and the consequences of living in an ivory tower.

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6. East of Eden by John Steinbeck

Sure, everyone talks about “The Grapes of Wrath,” but East of Eden is a multi-generational masterpiece. It explores themes of good and evil through the intertwined lives of two families in California’s Salinas Valley.

7. A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole

This one’s for those who appreciate a good laugh and a touch of absurdity. Ignatius J. Reilly’s misadventures in New Orleans make for a hilarious yet deeply insightful read about modern society’s quirks and contradictions.

8. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

Gothic and mysterious, this novel is a tribute to classic literature. It weaves together the lives of two women—one a famous but reclusive author, the other a young biographer—through a tale filled with secrets and haunting family history.

9. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

A graphic novel that’s as educational as it is engaging. Satrapi’s memoir of growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution is both poignant and humorous, providing a unique perspective on cultural and political upheaval.

10. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz

This novel is a raw, powerful narrative blending Dominican history with the life of an overweight, nerdy kid from New Jersey. It’s a poignant look at identity, diaspora, and the curse that haunts the de León family.

11. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Revisit the Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus, Achilles’ beloved companion. It’s a beautifully crafted retelling that adds depth and humanity to the mythic heroes of Homer’s “Iliad.”

12. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

A magical competition between two young illusionists unfolds within the confines of a mysterious, traveling circus. Morgenstern’s rich, atmospheric prose makes this a captivating read that’s hard to put down.

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13. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

Set in South Carolina in 1964, this novel follows a young girl named Lily and her journey toward self-discovery, guided by three beekeeping sisters. It’s a heartfelt story about love, loss, and the power of female community.

14. The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell

A sci-fi novel with a soul. This book tackles the profound questions of faith and humanity through the story of a Jesuit mission to make contact with an alien race on another planet. It’s both thought-provoking and deeply emotional.

15. Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel

A pandemic wipes out most of humanity, and a group of survivors strives to keep art and culture alive. This post-apocalyptic novel is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of art.

16. The City & The City by China Miéville

This novel is a mind-bending blend of crime thriller and speculative fiction. It’s set in two cities that coexist in the same physical space but are perceived as separate by their inhabitants. Detective Tyador Borlú investigates a murder that defies the boundaries of these cities, making for a riveting and unique read.

17. The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

Set in South Africa during World War II, this coming-of-age story follows Peekay, a young boy who dreams of becoming a boxing champion. It’s an inspiring tale of resilience, hope, and the fight against racial injustice.

18. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

This classic science fiction novel explores themes of gender and society through the story of Genly Ai, an envoy to the planet Gethen, where inhabitants can change gender. Le Guin’s masterful storytelling and profound insights make this a must-read.

19. The Orphan Master’s Son by Adam Johnson

This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel delves into life in North Korea through the eyes of Jun Do, an orphan who rises through the ranks of the oppressive regime. It’s a gripping, harrowing, and eye-opening narrative that reveals the human side of a closed-off world.

20. Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides

A sprawling family saga that spans generations, Middlesex tells the story of Calliope Stephanides and her transformation into Cal, exploring themes of identity, gender, and heritage. Eugenides’ rich prose and compelling characters make this a profound and unforgettable read.

Conclusion

There you have it—a list of 20 most underrated books that deserve a spot on your reading list. Each one offers something unique, whether it’s a journey through history, a deep dive into human nature, or an exploration of fantastical worlds. So why not pick one up and discover a new favourite?

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