The best 32 1920s books

Ulysses (1922) is a modernist novel that unfolds over the course of a single day in Dublin on June 16, 1904. The narrative follows two young men as they navigate the city and encounter a diverse array of characters and situations. Through its intricate narrative structures and literary styles, the novel explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the complexities of the human experience.

Berlin Alexanderplatz is a groundbreaking novel by Alfred Döblin that takes place in 1920s Berlin. It follows the story of Franz Biberkopf, a former convict who is determined to live an honest life after his release from prison. The book delves into themes of crime, poverty, and the struggle for redemption, offering a unique portrayal of urban life in a rapidly changing society.

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather is a historical novel that follows the life and work of a French missionary in the American Southwest. Set in the mid-19th century, the book explores themes of faith, friendship, and the clash of cultures as the protagonist navigates the challenges of establishing a Catholic diocese in a remote and rugged land.

Decline and Fall is a satirical novel by Evelyn Waugh that delves into the absurdities of British society in the 1920s. Through the misadventures of its protagonist, Paul Pennyfeather, the book explores themes of class, education, and morality, while providing a sharp critique of the institutions and values of the time.

Flappers and Philosophers is a collection of short stories by F. Scott Fitzgerald that explores the lives and experiences of young women in the 1920s. Through tales of love, independence, and societal expectations, Fitzgerald delves into the complexities of the era and the changing roles of women. The book offers a glimpse into the Jazz Age and the challenges faced by its female protagonists.

Flapper by Joshua Zeitz is a captivating exploration of the rebellious and independent “New Woman” of the 1920s. Through a combination of social history and personal anecdotes, Zeitz delves into the cultural shifts and political changes that allowed women to redefine their roles in society. From the fashion and music to the rise of the feminist movement, this book offers a fresh perspective on a transformative era.

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is a comedic novel that follows the glamorous and witty Lorelei Lee as she navigates the world of high society and romance. Filled with sharp observations and hilarious escapades, the book offers a satirical take on gender roles and the pursuit of wealth and status in 1920s America.

Only Yesterday by Frederick Lewis Allen is a captivating account of life in America during the 1920s. Through a combination of historical analysis and personal anecdotes, the book delves into the social, political, and economic changes that shaped the decade. From the rise of consumer culture to the effects of Prohibition, Allen offers a thought-provoking exploration of a pivotal period in American history.

Red Harvest is a hard-boiled detective novel by Dashiell Hammett. Set in the fictional town of Personville, it follows the story of an unnamed detective (referred to as the Continental Op) who is hired to clean up the town. As he delves into the corrupt underworld, he uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and violence. The book is known for its gritty portrayal of crime and its influence on the noir genre.

The Age of Innocence is a novel by Edith Wharton that delves into the complexities of love, societal expectations, and the struggle between individual desires and social norms. Set in 1870s New York, it tells the story of Newland Archer, a man torn between his love for the unconventional Ellen Olenska and his duty to marry the respectable May Welland. With exquisite prose, Wharton paints a vivid picture of a society bound by its own rules and the tragic consequences of defying them.

The Beautiful and Damned is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that delves into the lives of Anthony Patch and his wife Gloria as they navigate the glittering, yet ultimately destructive, world of high society in 1920s New York. Through beautiful prose and poignant storytelling, Fitzgerald explores themes of love, ambition, and the corrupting influence of wealth.

The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of female friendship and self-discovery. Set in the 1920s, it follows the journey of a chaperone, Cora, and a young aspiring actress, Louise Brooks, as they travel from Kansas to New York City. As they navigate the challenges and excitement of the Roaring Twenties, secrets from Cora's past begin to unravel, ultimately changing both women's lives forever.

The Girls at the Kingfisher Club by Genevieve Valentine is a captivating reimagining of the classic fairytale 'The Twelve Dancing Princesses.' Set in 1920s New York City, it follows the lives of twelve sisters who are forbidden to leave their home by their controlling father. However, they defy his rules by secretly escaping to dance the nights away in speakeasies. As they navigate love, freedom, and the changing world around them, the bond between the sisters is tested in this beautifully written tale.

The House at Riverton by Kate Morton is a captivating and atmospheric novel that takes you back to the grandeur and secrets of an English country estate in the early 20th century. Through the eyes of a former housemaid, the story unravels a tragic event and its lasting repercussions on the Hartford family. With beautifully drawn characters and a richly detailed setting, this book will keep you engrossed until the very end.

The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman is a captivating tale of love, loss, and moral dilemmas. Set on a remote island off the coast of Australia, the story follows a lighthouse keeper and his wife who make a decision that will have far-reaching consequences. As they struggle with the consequences of their choice, the novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the search for redemption.

The Other Typist by Suzanne Rindell is a gripping psychological thriller set in 1920s New York City. The story follows Rose Baker, a quiet and meticulous typist working in a police precinct, who becomes infatuated with the glamorous and enigmatic new typist, Odalie. As their friendship deepens, Rose is drawn into a world of deception, betrayal, and dark secrets that will change her life forever.

The Scrapbook of Frankie Pratt by Caroline Preston is a unique novel that tells the story of a young woman named Frankie through a series of scrapbook-style entries. Set in the early 20th century, it offers a glimpse into Frankie's life, her dreams, and the challenges she faces as she navigates love, independence, and self-discovery. Filled with vintage photographs, postcards, and memorabilia, this book is a beautiful and nostalgic journey through time.

Brideshead Revisited is a captivating novel by Evelyn Waugh that delves into themes of love, faith, and the decline of the British aristocracy. Set in the interwar period, it follows the story of Charles Ryder and his complex relationships with the aristocratic Flyte family. Through rich prose and intricate character development, the book offers a poignant exploration of nostalgia and the passage of time.

Circling the Sun by Paula McLain is a captivating historical fiction novel that tells the remarkable story of Beryl Markham, a fearless and independent woman who defied societal expectations in 1920s colonial Kenya. McLain beautifully portrays Markham's love for adventure, her passion for flying, and her complicated relationships, making it a compelling read that will transport you to another time and place.

Good-Bye to All That is a memoir written by Robert Graves. It details his experiences during World War I and provides a critical account of the war and its aftermath. Graves candidly discusses the harsh realities of life in the trenches and the disillusionment that many soldiers felt. It offers a unique perspective on a significant period in history.

Letters to a Young Poet is a collection of ten letters written by renowned poet Rainer Maria Rilke to a young aspiring poet. Offering deep and insightful advice, Rilke delves into the nature of creativity, love, solitude, and the significance of embracing our own unique experiences. This book serves as a profound and inspiring guide for anyone on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression.

Mrs. Dalloway (1925) is a novel by Virginia Woolf that takes place over the course of a single day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a high-society woman in post-World War I England. Through a stream-of-consciousness narrative, the book delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of its characters, exploring themes of time, memory, and the complexities of human experience.

Rules of Civility by Amor Towles is a captivating novel set in New York City in the late 1930s. It follows the story of Katey Kontent, a young woman from a modest background, as she navigates the glamorous and cutthroat world of high society. Filled with wit, intrigue, and rich historical detail, the book explores themes of ambition, love, and the choices that shape our lives.

Tender Is the Night is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that delves into the complexities of love, marriage, and mental illness. Set in the 1920s on the French Riviera, it follows the lives of a wealthy American couple and the impact of their deteriorating relationship on those around them. Through beautiful prose and intricate storytelling, Fitzgerald explores the dark side of the American Dream.

The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery tells the story of Valancy Stirling, a timid woman who discovers she has a terminal illness. Feeling liberated by her impending death, she decides to break free from her oppressive family and live life on her own terms. Set in the early 20th century, the novel explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness.

The Lost City of Z by David Grann tells the fascinating true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett's quest to find a mythical ancient city in the Amazon rainforest. Fawcett and his team disappeared in 1925, sparking a century-long mystery. Grann retraces Fawcett's footsteps and delves into the dangerous and mesmerizing world of the Amazon, uncovering new clues about the lost city and the fate of its seekers.

The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett is a classic detective novel that follows private investigator Sam Spade as he becomes embroiled in a complex web of deceit and murder while searching for a valuable statuette. Filled with intriguing characters and unexpected twists, this gripping tale is a must-read for fans of mystery and noir fiction.

The Paying Guests is a gripping historical novel by Sarah Waters set in 1920s London. It follows the story of Frances, a young woman who lives with her mother in a large house that they can no longer afford. To make ends meet, they take in lodgers, a young married couple. As Frances becomes increasingly drawn to one of the guests, the novel delves into themes of desire, betrayal, and the consequences of societal expectations.

The Painted Veil is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham that delves into the complexities of love, marriage, and betrayal. Set in 1920s colonial Hong Kong, it follows the story of Kitty, a young woman who marries a bacteriologist out of convenience, only to find herself in a loveless and unfulfilling marriage. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, the novel explores themes of morality, forgiveness, and the consequences of our choices.

The Paris Wife by Paula McLain is a captivating novel that offers a glimpse into the life of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson. Set in 1920s Paris, the book delves into the complexities of their relationship, the challenges they faced, and the impact it had on their careers and personal lives. McLain's beautiful storytelling brings the era and the characters to life, making it a must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts.

The Perfume Collector by Kathleen Tessaro is a captivating tale that unravels the secrets of a mysterious woman named Eva d’Orsey. Set in the 1950s, it takes us on a journey through Paris and London as Grace Monroe, an unexpected heiress, delves into Eva’s past. Filled with intrigue, romance, and the world of perfumery, this novel explores the power of scent and the connections it can create.

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey is a captivating novel set in 1920s Alaska. Inspired by a Russian fairy tale, it tells the story of a childless couple who build a snow girl, only to have a real child appear in the wilderness. As they come to love the mysterious girl, they discover that she may be more connected to the harsh and enchanting land than they ever imagined.