Jonathan Smith // Blog Writer
Amazon, one of the largest booksellers in the world, publishes a list of its top 100 bestsellers each year. Though there are still two months left in the year, it is presumed that the top 10 will remain in place. In a sense these books represent what the average consumer is seeking. An analysis of each helps determine what makes for a popular book in today’s ever-changing publishing world.
10. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
56 years after its original publication, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is as relevant as ever. The story follows young protagonist Scout Finch and her innocent view of Maycomb, Alabama, where her father works to defend an African American named Tom Robinson who has been accused of raping a white woman. This story is widely taught in schools today both for its racial implications and political background. Perhaps the recent release of its sequel, Go Set a Watchman, coupled with Harper Lee’s passing has spiked sales of this particular book. Regardless, To Kill a Mockingbird is a pure classic.
9. How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie
How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie was originally published in 1937. It still remains popular today because of its tips for getting the best out of relationships, both professional and personal. Self-help books are available in all kinds of subjects, and most focus on what nearly everyone wants: social acceptance. This book is particularly beneficial for those seeking leadership positions or success in networking.
8. The Whole30: The 30-Day Guide to Total Health and Food Freedom by Melissa Hartwig and Dallas Hartwig
The Whole30 by Melissa and Dallas Hartwig acts dually as a recipe book and an easy-to-read nutrition guide. This is the sequel to It Starts With Food, and has useful advice for fighting cravings and improving metabolism. Science in general has progressed to the point where nutrition is on everyone’s mind. This type of book gives the ins and outs of what it takes to be as healthy as possible without the jargon.
7. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
In When Breath Becomes Air, Paul Kalanithi is forced to examine what makes life worthwhile when he discovers that he has lung cancer. This autobiography is especially noteworthy as it offers a perspective from a neurosurgeon. Kalanithi died while writing the book, yet his words still remain an inspiration. This book’s popularity is due to a blend of Kalanithi’s ability to relate to his audience and the fact that his message is universal.
6. The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman
The 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman is a self-help book that focuses on romantic relationships. Chapman uses his experience from his time as a marriage counselor to assist his reader. Humor is mixed with advice in a way that isn’t always found in books of this category.
5. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo is a step-by-step guide on how to reorganize one’s house. Kondo uses a Japanese method that has pervaded throughout all of Japan in recent years. Most people have empty boxes, gadgets, and other obsolete objects taking up space in their houses, so it is easy to see why this book is of use.
4. Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss
Who doesn’t love Dr. Seuss? He’s the best, and Oh, the Places You’ll Go is much the same. This particular blend of humor and rhymes has Dr. Seuss foretelling of his audience’s future. Many receive this book as a gift when they are about to undergo dramatic life changes.
3. First 100 Words by Roger Priddy
Roger Priddy’s First 100 Words is exactly what the title suggests: 100 words that children should learn. Why this book in particular is the most popular out of all in its category isn’t exactly clear.
2. StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath
StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath is another self-help book seeking to help its audience find his or her strengths. Through apprehension exams and advice for developing personal skills, this book has everything people need to succeed in everyday life.
1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Parts 1 & 2 by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, & Jack Thorne
It comes as no surprise that Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is this year’s bestselling literature. This script is the eighth story in the Harry Potter franchise. Given the world Rowling has created and the vast amount of equally impressive characters, this piece is destined to remain relevant for the foreseeable future. The newly released ‘Harry Potter’ spin-off film, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, is also likely to rake in the big bucks.
So, what do these books say about the modern world of publishing? Self-help is all the rage. Books of all genres and topics still reach large audiences. With such a wide range—everything from vocabulary for children all the way to the search for the meaning of life—it’s clear that anything goes in today’s market. Find something that interests you, get it on the page, and you might just find yourself on one of Amazon’s future bestseller lists.