Best Books to Start Reading Habit (Beginner-Friendly Picks)
Building a reading habit can feel overwhelming at first, especially if books haven’t been a regular part of your routine. The key is to start small and choose titles that are engaging, easy to follow, and genuinely enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for stories that captivate, ideas that inspire, or simple guides to spark curiosity, the right books can turn reading from a chore into a rewarding daily habit. Here are 10 books to start with.
The Little Prince – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
This classic novella is deceptively simple but packed with meaningful life lessons. It tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting strange and interesting characters along the way. The writing is short and poetic, with chapters that can be read in minutes. Its universal themes of friendship, love, and curiosity make it an ideal starting point for anyone new to reading.
Charlotte’s Web – E.B. White
A touching story about the friendship between Wilbur, a pig, and Charlotte, a wise spider. The novel explores themes of life, death, and the power of kindness, all told in clear, simple language. Its gentle pacing, vivid animal characters, and emotional depth make it engaging for readers of all ages, while the short chapters prevent it from feeling overwhelming.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Jeff Kinney
This illustrated series is perfect for readers who want humor and visual storytelling. Written in a diary format, it follows middle-schooler Greg Heffley through awkward, hilarious adventures at school and home. The combination of short text, funny cartoons, and relatable situations makes it easy to read, and it’s a great way to get into the habit of daily reading without pressure.
The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho
A global favorite, The Alchemist tells the story of Santiago, a young shepherd on a journey to find his personal legend. The language is simple and flowing, with each chapter offering a philosophical insight or motivational lesson. This book encourages self-reflection while keeping the story light and inspiring, making it perfect for new readers looking for meaning in their reading.
Wonder – R.J. Palacio
A story that centers around Auggie Pullman, a boy born with facial differences who attends school for the first time. Told from multiple perspectives, the narrative is accessible, heartwarming, and full of emotional depth. Readers easily connect with the characters, and the simple writing style makes it a smooth, engaging read that teaches empathy and kindness.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief – Rick Riordan
This book introduces Percy Jackson, a modern teen who discovers he is the son of Poseidon. The story combines Greek mythology with contemporary settings, humor, and fast-paced adventures. Its straightforward language, short chapters, and exciting plot twists make it a page-turner, perfect for beginners who want a mix of action and imagination.
Matilda – Roald Dahl
A whimsical tale about Matilda, a brilliant girl with a love for reading and a flair for mischief. She faces neglectful parents and a tyrannical headmistress but discovers her own extraordinary powers. The playful language, clever humor, and heartwarming storylines make it very readable and inspiring, encouraging new readers to enjoy literature without feeling intimidated.
The Fault in Our Stars – John Green
This contemporary novel follows Hazel and Augustus, two teens who meet at a cancer support group. The book blends romance, humor, and deep emotional moments with an accessible, conversational writing style. Its relatable dialogue and compelling story make it very engaging, showing beginners that reading can be both entertaining and moving.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time – Mark Haddon
A unique mystery narrated by Christopher, a 15-year-old boy with autism. The story begins with the investigation of a neighbor’s dog’s death but quickly delves into Christopher’s world, thoughts, and family life. The simple, logical language and short chapters make it approachable, while the unusual perspective keeps readers intrigued and invested in the story.
The Hobbit – J.R.R. Tolkien
The adventure of Bilbo Baggins, a quiet hobbit who gets swept into a dangerous quest with dwarves and magical creatures. While Tolkien is known for epic fantasies, The Hobbit is written in an accessible, conversational style, with vivid descriptions and a clear narrative. The mix of adventure, humor, and memorable characters makes it an excellent first fantasy read for beginners.