7 Long Books You Must Read In 2026

In a world of bite-sized content and endless scrolling, reading a long book can feel like a bold commitment. Yet, immersing ourselves in expansive narratives offers unparalleled rewards: deeper understanding, emotional growth, and intellectual stimulation. Long books challenge us to slow down, think critically, and explore complex themes—experiences short-form content can rarely provide. Whether you crave historical insight, philosophical depth, or literary brilliance, there are monumental works that are not only worth your time but can reshape the way you see the world.

Below is a list of 7 long books you must read in 2026.

1. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

Tolstoy’s War and Peace is a monumental exploration of humanity, blending intimate character study with sweeping historical narrative. Set during Napoleon’s invasion of Russia, it follows Pierre Bezukhov, Natasha Rostov, and Prince Andrei as they navigate love, ambition, and mortality. Tolstoy’s brilliance lies in his ability to explore both the personal and historical dimensions of life, creating characters who feel vividly real. The novel also examines philosophical questions about fate, free will, and the nature of history. Reading it challenges patience and perspective, rewarding readers with profound insights into human resilience, morality, and the interconnectedness of society and individual destiny.

2. Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

Infinite Jest is a sprawling, intricate exploration of addiction, entertainment, and modern society. Wallace crafts a multi-layered narrative, shifting between a tennis academy, a drug rehabilitation center, and dystopian cultural landscapes. His footnotes are famously extensive, adding depth and complexity while reflecting the fragmented nature of contemporary life. Characters grapple with desire, identity, and isolation, creating a compelling psychological portrait of late-20th-century America. Wallace’s blend of dark humor, philosophical inquiry, and cultural critique makes the novel intellectually stimulating. Though challenging, Infinite Jest rewards readers who embrace its density, offering a profound examination of human compulsion, societal pressures, and the search for meaning in chaos.

3. Middlemarch by George Eliot

George Eliot’s Middlemarch is a sweeping study of provincial life, morality, and social ambition in 19th-century England. Through interconnected narratives, it explores marriage, reform, and personal growth, with characters like Dorothea Brooke and Tertius Lydgate embodying idealism and struggle. Eliot’s mastery lies in her psychological insight, moral nuance, and keen social observation. The novel examines the consequences of choices, societal constraints, and human aspirations, offering readers both realistic portrayals of life and profound philosophical reflections. Middlemarch is celebrated for its narrative depth, ethical complexity, and enduring relevance, making it a must-read for anyone seeking intellectual and emotional enrichment through literature.

4. Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables is an epic examination of social justice, love, and redemption. Jean Valjean’s transformation from a hardened ex-convict to a compassionate benefactor illustrates the power of moral courage. Hugo intertwines Valjean’s story with social upheaval, political struggle, and the lives of characters like Fantine, Cosette, and Marius, offering a panoramic view of 19th-century France. The novel also deeply critiques poverty, injustice, and institutional failure, making it socially and politically significant. Hugo’s detailed prose emphasizes human suffering and moral responsibility. Les Misérables remains a timeless work that challenges readers to reflect on empathy, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of justice and humanity.

5. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

The tragic story of Anna, who defies convention for forbidden love, is paralleled by Konstantin Levin’s philosophical journey toward personal fulfillment and moral clarity. Tolstoy’s narrative examines the tension between desire and duty, exploring themes of fidelity, happiness, and the consequences of social expectations. Through vivid characterization and psychological insight, the novel portrays human complexity with extraordinary depth. Its portrayal of Russian aristocracy provides historical context while universal themes of morality and emotion resonate across cultures. Anna Karenina is both a tragic love story and a compelling study of the human condition.

6. Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged is a philosophical and literary titan exploring individualism, capitalism, and morality. The story follows Dagny Taggart and other innovators confronting a society that punishes achievement and rewards mediocrity. Through dystopian narrative, Rand examines the consequences of stifled creativity, ethical compromises, and societal decay. The novel combines detailed world-building, character development, and philosophical discourse to engage readers in debates about productivity, morality, and purpose. While polarizing, Atlas Shrugged inspires reflection on human potential, personal responsibility, and the balance between self-interest and social obligation. It challenges readers to consider the moral foundations of society and the value of human innovation.

7. Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes

Cervantes’ Don Quixote is a brilliant satire and one of the first modern novels. The story of a deluded knight and his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, humorously critiques chivalric ideals while exploring timeless human themes. Through Quixote’s quests and battles with imagined foes, the novel questions reality, ambition, and personal integrity. Cervantes blends humor with philosophy, examining the tension between dreams and pragmatism. Characters are multidimensional, embodying both folly and virtue, and their interactions reveal profound truths about society and human nature. Don Quixote remains influential, inspiring centuries of literature, theater, and art, while demonstrating the enduring power of imagination, idealism, and self-reflection.

Conclusion

Reading long books is more than an intellectual exercise—it is a transformative experience. These seven books offer profound insights into humanity, morality, and society, rewarding readers with knowledge, empathy, and inspiration.

We encourage you to pick up one of these monumental books, commit to the journey, and discover how a truly long story can change the way you see the world.