7 Books for People Who Don't Normally Like Reading

Many people say they don’t like reading—not because they dislike stories or learning, but because they’ve never found the right book. Sometimes, reading feels like a chore. The pages drag. The plot doesn’t click. The characters feel distant.

But what if picking up a book could feel like turning on your favorite show—fast-paced, relatable, emotional, and impossible to put down?

Below is a list of 7 books for people who don't normally like reading. These are gripping, visually rich, funny, surprising, or deeply relatable—perfect for reigniting (or starting!) a love for reading. We’ll walk you through why each book works so well for reluctant readers and help you find the perfect match for your tastes.

1. The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist is a powerful story about chasing dreams and trusting the journey even when the destination feels uncertain. It follows Santiago, a young shepherd who travels from Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of treasure he believes will change his life. Along the way, he meets people who help him understand destiny, fear, and love. Coelho’s writing is simple, poetic, and deeply meaningful, making it ideal for readers who want a book that is easy to follow but full of wisdom. It encourages reflection about purpose and the courage needed to pursue what truly matters in life.

2. Bossypants – Tina Fey

Bossypants is a memoir by comedian Tina Fey that blends humor, personal anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories from her life in comedy. Fey’s voice is witty, approachable, and conversational, making even long passages feel like a fun chat. The book covers her upbringing, career struggles, and insights into work-life balance while providing laughter and inspiration. Its episodic structure and humor make it ideal for reluctant readers who may find dense narratives intimidating. Bossypants proves that nonfiction can be just as entertaining as fiction, offering lessons about ambition, creativity, and resilience while keeping readers thoroughly engaged.

3. The Giver – Lois Lowry

The Giver is a short but incredibly powerful novel set in a society that has removed pain, fear, and choice to maintain perfect order. Jonas, a young boy selected as the Receiver of Memory, discovers the truth about what has been sacrificed for this “peace.” Lowry’s writing is clear, relatable, and never overwhelming, making it excellent for readers who want depth without difficulty. The story raises meaningful questions about freedom, individuality, emotions, and what makes life worth living. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after reading—sparking conversation, curiosity, and often a new appreciation for storytelling.

4. The Martian – Andy Weir

The Martian is an exciting survival story about astronaut Mark Watney, who is stranded alone on Mars after a mission goes wrong. With limited supplies and no way to communicate with Earth at first, he must rely on creativity, scientific knowledge, and a sense of humor to stay alive. Andy Weir writes in a conversational style through Watney’s logs, making complicated science fun and easy to understand. The suspense builds constantly as every solution leads to new risks. Anyone who enjoys problem-solving, underdog stories, or fast-moving plots will find it almost impossible to put this book down.

5. Wonder – R. J. Palacio

Wonder tells the story of August Pullman, a boy born with a facial difference that makes attending school incredibly challenging. The book is told through multiple perspectives, allowing readers to understand not only Auggie’s experience but also how his family and classmates learn about kindness, acceptance, and empathy. Palacio writes clearly and engagingly, making this a perfect choice for readers who appreciate emotionally meaningful stories without heavy language. Wonder encourages compassion and celebrates the bravery it takes to show up in a world that can be unkind. It is uplifting, relatable, and resonates with both teens and adults.

6. Eleanor & Park – Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park tells a tender and realistic story of first love between two misfit teenagers in the 1980s. Eleanor is struggling with a difficult home life, while Park is navigating his own insecurities and cultural identity. Rowell’s writing is intimate and accessible, with dialogue and inner thoughts that feel authentic and immediate. The story moves quickly and balances humor, romance, and emotional depth, making it highly engaging. For reluctant readers, the characters are relatable, and the chapters are short, which makes it easy to stay connected. It’s a heartfelt exploration of love, acceptance, and courage.

7. Ready Player One – Ernest Cline

Ready Player One is a fast-paced adventure set in the OASIS, a virtual world where players escape a harsh reality by completing quests, solving puzzles, and chasing rewards. The story follows Wade Watts, a teenager racing against powerful enemies to uncover a hidden prize left by the game’s creator. The book is filled with pop culture references, suspense, and creative world-building that feels like playing a video game in your imagination. Cline’s straightforward writing and action-packed plot make this great for reluctant readers. It is a story about friendship, courage, and believing that a better future is possible.

Final Thoughts

Let’s be clear: you ARE a reader—you just needed the right book.

Books can transform the way we see ourselves, connect us with new ideas, and give us adventures our daily life can’t always provide. The titles above have helped millions fall in love with reading for the very first time.

So choose one. Read the first chapter. Let the story pull you in.

You might be surprised by how much you enjoy yourself.