Top 25 Best-Selling Books Ever

Creating a definitive list of the 25 best-selling books of all time is no easy task. The challenges are numerous: books published centuries ago often exist in various editions, have been translated into multiple languages, and may have been abridged or expanded. Some were initially released as serials before being compiled into complete volumes, while others were purchased in bulk for distribution at no cost. Furthermore, historical record-keeping can be inconsistent, and publishers may inflate sales figures for promotional purposes, making it difficult to pinpoint exact sales numbers accurately.

With these challenges in mind, we've crafted a list focused solely on literary fiction, excluding religious texts, self-help guides, political tools, and other reference works. This means that classics like the Bible and Mao Tse Tung's Little Red Book, which would typically rank high, are not included. Additionally, we've omitted key titles like The Lord of the Rings and The Count of Monte Cristo due to complexities around their serialization and age-related data issues.

Curious if your favorite bedtime read made the cut? And what do you think about the correlation between a book's quality and its sales figures? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Also, don't forget to explore our picks for the best-selling books of 2024 for some fresh reading options on your tablet.

25. Anne of Green Gables

### Anne of Green Gables

20See it at AmazonAuthor: L.M. Montgomery

Country: Canada

Publication Date: 1908

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

This classic children's story follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, a spirited orphan who arrives at Green Gables in Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, Canada. Initially expecting a boy, her foster parents grow to cherish Anne, whose charm and imagination captivate readers. The novel's success led to seven sequels, with an eighth released posthumously in 2009. Buy here.

24. Heidi

### Heidi

6See it at AmazonAuthor: Johanna Spyri

Country: Switzerland

Publication Date: 1880-1881

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

Set in the Swiss Alps, Heidi tells the heartwarming story of a young orphan who lives with her grandfather. Her friendship with Klara, a wealthy girl from Frankfurt who is unable to walk, enriches both their lives, showcasing themes of growth and support.

23. Lolita

### Lolita

9See it at AmazonAuthor: Vladimir Nabokov

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1955

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

Initially controversial, Lolita follows the disturbing obsession of an English professor with a 12-year-old girl. Its impact is undeniable, having inspired adaptations into a play, an opera, and two films, including one directed by Stanley Kubrick.

22. One Hundred Years of Solitude (Cien años de soledad)

### One Hundred Years of Solitude (Cien años de soledad)

6See it at AmazonAuthor: Gabriel García Márquez

Country: Colombia

Publication Date: 1967

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

A masterpiece of magical realism, this novel chronicles the multi-generational saga of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo. It captures the cyclical nature of life and the impact of history on personal destinies.

21. Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ

### Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ

6See it at AmazonAuthor: Lew Wallace

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1880

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

Ben-Hur follows Judah Ben-Hur, a contemporary of Jesus, who witnesses his life and crucifixion. While the novel itself is lesser-known today, its epic film adaptation featuring Charlton Heston and the iconic chariot race remains a cultural touchstone.

20. The Bridges of Madison County

### The Bridges of Madison County

13See it at AmazonAuthor: Robert James Waller

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1992

Estimated Sales: 60 million copies

This romantic tale of an Italian American woman's affair with a traveling photographer was adapted into a film starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. It also inspired a successful Broadway musical, celebrated for its original score and orchestrations.

19. The Catcher in the Rye

### The Catcher in the Rye

7See it at AmazonAuthor: J.D. Salinger

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1951

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

This iconic coming-of-age novel introduces us to Holden Caulfield, whose disdain for the "phony" world around him has resonated with generations of readers. Salinger's only full-length novel, it remains a staple in literature courses and has influenced countless other works.

18. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

### Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

16See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2007

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

The final chapter in the Harry Potter saga, Deathly Hallows follows Harry, Hermione, and Ron as they hunt for Horcruxes to defeat Voldemort. Its release sparked a global frenzy, with debates over character loyalties and a massive campaign to prevent spoilers.

17. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

### Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

9See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2005

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

In this pivotal installment, Harry learns about Voldemort's past and prepares for the final battle. The book sets the stage for the series' conclusion, blending exposition with high stakes to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

16. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

### Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

10See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2003

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

The longest book in the series, Order of the Phoenix expands the wizarding world and introduces new characters like Luna Lovegood. While initially criticized for its slow pace, it has since been appreciated for its rich world-building and character development.

15. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

### Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

12See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2000

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

Marking a shift towards darker themes, Goblet of Fire introduces the Triwizard Tournament and one of the series' most shocking twists. It's often considered one of the strongest entries in the series for its narrative depth and emotional intensity.

14. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

### Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

10See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1999

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

This book marks a significant leap in narrative sophistication and emotional depth. Harry's third year at Hogwarts is marked by the arrival of Sirius Black and the introduction of time travel, captivating readers and solidifying their fandom.

13. The Alchemist (O Alquimista)

### The Alchemist (O Alquimista)

13See it at AmazonAuthor: Paulo Coelho

Country: Brazil

Publication Date: 1988

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

Originally published in Portuguese, The Alchemist follows a shepherd on a quest for treasure in Egypt. Initially a flop, the book's eventual success is a testament to Coelho's perseverance and belief in his own "fate."

12. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

### Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

10See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1998

Estimated Sales: 77 million copies

Although often considered the weakest in the series, Chamber of Secrets expands the wizarding world beyond Hogwarts and sets the stage for the adventures to come. It keeps readers engaged enough to eagerly pick up the next book.

11. The Da Vinci Code

### The Da Vinci Code

9See it at AmazonAuthor: Dan Brown

Country: United States

Publication Date: 2003

Estimated Sales: 80 million

A global phenomenon, The Da Vinci Code blends short chapters, narrative twists, and controversial claims about Jesus and the Catholic Church. Despite mixed critical reception, its commercial success is undeniable.

10. Vardi Wala Gunda

### Vardi Wala Gunda

5See it at AmazonAuthor: Ved Prakash Sharma

Country: India

Publication Date: 1992

Estimated Sales: 80 million copies

Written in Hindi, this mystery thriller explores themes of police corruption and assassination conspiracies. It is the most famous work of prolific Indian author Ved Prakash Sharma, who has penned over 170 novels.

9. She: A History of Adventure

### She: A History of Adventure

8See it at AmazonAuthor: H. Rider Haggard

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1886

Estimated Sales: 83 million copies

A seminal work in the fantasy genre, She follows explorers who discover a lost kingdom in Africa. Its influence is evident in works like the Indiana Jones and Tarzan franchises, which owe much to its themes of adventure and mysticism.

8. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

### The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

14See it at AmazonAuthor: C.S. Lewis

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1950

Estimated Sales: 85 million copies

The first book in The Chronicles of Narnia, this classic tale transports four children to a magical world ruled by the White Witch. Its enduring appeal lies in its blend of adventure, morality, and enchanting storytelling.

7. The Hobbit

### The Hobbit

13See it at AmazonAuthor: J.R.R. Tolkien

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1937

Estimated Sales: 100 million copies

Originally a standalone children's book, The Hobbit introduces readers to Bilbo Baggins and his quest with a wizard and dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a dragon. Its integration into Tolkien's broader Middle-earth saga has made it a cornerstone of fantasy literature.

6. Dream of the Red Chamber

### Dream of the Red Chamber

4See it at AmazonAuthor: Cao Xueqin

Country: China

Publication Date: 1791

Estimated Sales: 100 million copies

A masterpiece of Chinese literature, Dream of the Red Chamber explores the rise and fall of a noble family during the Qing Dynasty. Its nuanced portrayal of female characters and rich historical detail have cemented its place in literary history.

5. And Then There Were None

### And Then There Were None

8See it at AmazonAuthor: Agatha Christie

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1939

Estimated Sales: 100 million copies

Often hailed as one of Agatha Christie's finest works, this gripping murder mystery follows ten strangers trapped on an island, where they are picked off one by one according to a chilling nursery rhyme. Its suspenseful plot keeps readers hooked until the very end.

4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

### Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

18See it at AmazonAuthor: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1997

Estimated Sales: 120 million copies

The first book in the Harry Potter series captures the wonder of Harry's initial foray into the magical world. Its blend of adventure, friendship, and magic has captivated readers of all ages, setting the stage for one of the most beloved series in literature.

3. The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince)

### The Little Prince

10See it at AmazonAuthor: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Country: France

Publication Date: 1943

Estimated Sales: 140 million copies

This timeless tale of a young prince traveling between planets is a profound exploration of childhood and the adult world. Its layers of meaning have inspired countless interpretations, making it a beloved classic worldwide.

2. A Tale of Two Cities

### A Tale of Two Cities

12See it at AmazonAuthor: Charles Dickens

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1859

Estimated Sales: 200 million copies

Set during the French Revolution, this novel opens with one of the most famous lines in literature. Dickens' exploration of class struggles and human resilience has made it a perennial favorite, resonating with readers across generations.

1. Don Quixote

### Don Quixote

24See it at AmazonAuthor: Miguel de Cervantes

Country: Spain

Publication Date: 1605 (Part One), 1615 (Part Two)

Estimated Sales: 500 million copies

A cornerstone of Western literature, Don Quixote follows the misadventures of a delusional knight and his loyal squire. Its blend of humor, pathos, and social commentary has made it a timeless classic, with iconic scenes like the battle with the windmills.

Best Selling Books in 2024

Identifying the best-selling books of 2024 is simpler, thanks to Amazon's comprehensive sales data. The following list showcases the top 10 books of the year, reflecting a mix of New York Times bestsellers and other notable new releases: