Top 10 Underrated Books You Probably Haven’t Read (But Should)

Every reader loves finding that hidden gem, the book that didn’t get enough buzz but deserves a place on everyone’s shelf. Here are ten underrated books we think you’ll love:

1. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

• Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction
• Why It’s a Gem: Set in post-war Barcelona, this novel is a literary puzzle about a young boy’s obsession with a mysterious book. It’s beautifully written and utterly immersive.

2. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

• Genre: Historical Fiction, Mythology
• Why It’s a Gem: This retelling of the Achilles legend focuses on his relationship with Patroclus. It’s powerful, lyrical, and unforgettable.

3. Stoner by John Williams

• Genre: Literary Fiction
• Why It’s a Gem: This quiet, introspective novel about a university professor’s life was largely overlooked upon publication. Now, it’s celebrated as a masterpiece of 20th-century literature.

4. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

• Genre: Contemporary Fiction
• Why It’s a Gem: A haunting and intricate story about art, loss, and survival. Despite winning a Pulitzer, it didn’t receive as much recognition as it deserves.

5. Circe by Madeline Miller

• Genre: Mythology, Fantasy
• Why It’s a Gem: This feminist retelling of The Odyssey is enchanting, and it gives depth to Circe, the famed sorceress. It’s both empowering and beautifully told.

6. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

• Genre: Memoir
• Why It’s a Gem: This memoir of Walls’ unconventional and difficult upbringing is heartfelt and deeply moving. It’s a story of resilience and family love.

7. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

• Genre: Historical Fiction
• Why It’s a Gem: This multi-generational epic traces the lives of two half-sisters in 18th-century Ghana. Gyasi’s storytelling is both powerful and poignant.

8. Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh

• Genre: Psychological Thriller
• Why It’s a Gem: This dark, twisted story follows an antisocial young woman. Moshfegh’s unique style is gripping and unconventional.

9. Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

• Genre: Contemporary Fiction
• Why It’s a Gem: A nuanced exploration of race, identity, and love through the story of a Nigerian woman who moves to America. It’s insightful and beautifully written.

10. Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

• Genre: Dystopian Fiction
• Why It’s a Gem: This haunting novel explores themes of love and mortality in a chillingly beautiful way. Ishiguro’s style is delicate yet profoundly impactful.

Discover Hidden Gems: Visit Another Story to explore these and other underrated books. You might just find your next favorite story!