Chapter 1: The Allure of Book Lists

There's something inherently motivating about bucket lists and 'to-do' lists; they provide a palpable sense of progress and control. The simple act of checking off items can be incredibly satisfying. This is likely why I'm often captivated by those lists proclaiming the 'best books of all time' or, more dramatically, 'Books You Must Read Before You Die.'

However, beyond the enjoyment they bring, do these lists genuinely serve a purpose? Do they encourage us to dive deeper into our reading? I find myself pondering a few critical questions: Are these lists truly objective?

It's difficult to comprehend how any compilation of 'best books' could claim objectivity, regardless of its criteria. Many lists tend to focus solely on novels for adults, often overlooking a broader spectrum of literature. Additionally, I've observed that translated works from certain languages or regions are disproportionately represented on these lists.

A potential remedy is to take a more personalized approach by selecting from a variety of lists and incorporating those that resonate most with you. After all, any book that makes it onto such a list likely possesses some merit.

To kick off your exploration, consider these two recommendations:

• The Guardian's "100 Books of All Time" was curated some time ago but stands out for its linguistic diversity, being compiled in Norway with input from 100 authors across 54 countries. It offers a rich array of titles spanning different time periods.
• On the other hand, Reader’s Digest's "Best Books of All Time" was refreshed in April 2024, showcasing a more contemporary selection of authors. This list is particularly appealing as it encompasses both non-fiction and poetry alongside novels.

Do these lists genuinely inspire us to read more?

Another question arises: Are these lists merely a means for the well-read to feel superior about their literary accomplishments? Does anyone genuinely attempt to read through these lists, checking off titles as they go? Is it feasible to read all one hundred novels on any given list?

Often, the structure of such lists makes them cumbersome as guides. A more effective strategy could be to create your own checklist using your selected picks, as previously suggested. This can be easily accomplished with any checklist application. Here's a visual representation of what this might look like using an iPhone's notes app:

By merging these concepts, you can craft your own personalized list of 100 must-read books, drawing inspiration from existing compilations, and enjoy the thrill of checking them off as you complete each one.

I’d love to hear about your experiences if you decide to embark on this journey! If you have any compelling lists of 'best books' to share, please leave a comment below.

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Chapter 2: Insights from the Experts

In this insightful video titled "The Problem with the '100 Best Books of the Century' List," the creator discusses their involvement in the list and the challenges that arise in determining what constitutes a 'best' book.

In another fascinating exploration, "The NY Times 100 Best Books of the 21st Century," the video delves into the evolving nature of literary evaluation and the criteria that shape these renowned lists.