7 Books for People Who Want to Read More but Don't Know Where to Start

So, you want to read more but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. Many people feel overwhelmed by the ocean of book options out there. Should you dive into the classics? Try self-help? What if it’s boring? Totally fair questions.

Here’s the good news: the trick is just picking the right first book. One that grabs you, makes you forget time, and gently holds your hand into the world of reading. This article is your curated starter list of 7 books that are easy to get into, wildly engaging, and varied enough for every taste.

1. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist is a magical story about Santiago, a young shepherd who dreams of discovering treasure buried near the Egyptian pyramids. Along his journey, he meets mystics, kings, and alchemists who teach him lessons about listening to his heart, following his dreams, and understanding the signs life gives us. This book matters because it awakens something spiritual in readers, encouraging them to trust their path and search for their personal legend. A perfect first step into meaningful fiction.

2. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, The Four Agreements offers a practical code for living with more freedom, peace, and authenticity. Ruiz lays out four simple yet powerful principles: Be impeccable with your word, don’t take things personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. Each chapter breaks down one agreement, making the book easy to follow and deeply reflective. It’s a quick read, but the ideas stick with you. This book is perfect for those on a journey of self-growth who want spiritual insight without heavy doctrine. It’s uplifting, grounding, and accessible for beginners of personal development.

3. Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

In Blink, Malcolm Gladwell explores how we make snap judgments and decisions in the blink of an eye—and how they can be both brilliant and flawed. The writing is light, the pace is fast, and the insights are endlessly intriguing. This is one of those books that makes you see the world differently. It’s perfect for readers who love psychology, business, or just learning how people think. You’ll come away smarter and more self-aware after every chapter.

4. Educated by Tara Westover

Educated is a gripping memoir that tells the story of Tara Westover, who was raised in a strict, survivalist Mormon family in rural Idaho. Denied formal education and medical care, she self-educated her way into college and eventually earned a PhD from Cambridge. Tara’s journey is inspiring and thought-provoking, offering readers a real-life example of breaking free from limiting environments. The writing is raw, vivid, and completely absorbing. For those new to nonfiction, Educated reads like a novel—fast-paced, emotional, and deeply personal. It’s impossible to put down.

5. Atomic Habits by James Clear

James Clear breaks down the science of habits into bite-sized, practical advice anyone can follow. Instead of preaching motivation, he emphasizes small, consistent actions that lead to big change. What makes Atomic Habits stand out is how easy it is to apply to daily life—whether you want to read more, get healthier, or improve productivity. Clear uses stories and research to explain the habit loop, identity shifts, and environmental design. It’s not just informative—it’s motivational without being overwhelming.

6. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

Steinbeck’s prose is clean and powerful, painting deep emotions with just a few words. Though under 120 pages, the novel tackles heavy themes like friendship, loneliness, disability, and broken dreams. It's a heartbreaking, beautifully written story that stays with you. Ideal for beginners due to its length and direct language, this book proves that great literature doesn’t have to be long or complicated.

7. Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari

Sapiens explores the evolution of humans—from early hunter-gatherers to the modern world. He dives into the development of societies, economies, religions, and technologies in a way that feels like storytelling rather than history class. It’s a mind-expanding read that encourages readers to question everything they thought they knew about humanity. While the topics are vast, the language is accessible, making it a perfect gateway into nonfiction.

Why These Books Matter

Each of the books listed above isn’t just a good read—they’re gateway books. They matter because they serve a purpose beyond entertainment. They gently nudge hesitant readers into a world where words have power, stories can heal, and ideas can spark transformation.

These books matter because they speak to you, not at you. They’re accessible, thoughtful, and emotionally resonant. They don’t demand academic analysis or decades of literary knowledge. They simply ask you to begin—to turn the first page.

In a world full of distractions, reading is one of the few activities that gives back more than it takes. It feeds your imagination, boosts empathy, sharpens thinking, and gives you a break from the chaos.

So whether you're picking up a book for the first time in years or starting a new chapter in your personal growth, these books are your invitation.

Final Thoughts

Reading isn’t a race or a contest. You don’t need to finish 50 books a year. You just need that one book that makes you say, “Whoa, I want more of this.” Hopefully, something from this list does exactly that for you.

Whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, memoir, or even something quirky and poetic, the key is to start. You’ve got this.