The Best Books from each decade

Some books truly have left a lasting mark on our bookshelves and society. There’s a wide selection of books that have become iconic cultural staples, you know, those ones that remain absolute classics that are known and appreciated by all. Looking back at the creation of these books is fascinating; recognizing the context in which it was created and seeing their popularity rise over time is so cool. This is why I’ve collected a list of books from each decade since the '70s that I personally believe are some of the most incredibly prominent and influential. 

1) 1970s: Jaws by Peter Benchley 

I mean, this should come as no surprise; this iconic thriller released in 1974 has had an undeniable influence on pop culture. The story follows a small Long Island town subject to terrorization and attacks by a great white shark. The true suspense comes from the three men who try to kill the formidable animal to save the town from commercial and financial ruin. I mean it was adapted into a film in 1975 and became the highest-grossing movie of that time. That sort of impact is incredible. It’s filled to the brim with suspense and the riveting, classic face-off of man vs nature. It explores the unknown and the uncontrollable. Jaws is forever a compelling classic. 

2) 1980s: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood 

It’s a harrowing futuristic and dystopian novel that explores much deeper social and political themes in the context of a totalitarian theocracy. Written in the wake of the feminist movement in the West, which was facing backlash against the progress made for women and minority groups, these ideas about identity and politics are all the more meaningful. The Handmaid's Tale won the 1985 Governor General's Literary Award for English-language fiction, and it was shortlisted for the 1986 Booker Prize. The incorporation of the novel in literature classes is also notable, it’s a powerful yet very controversial novel that still remains ingrained in many people’s minds. 

3) 1990s: Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton 

Speaking of cultural phenomena that hold undeniable weight and influence in our world today, Jurassic Park was created as a science fiction horror novel. Showcasing the implications and various consequences of genetic engineering and bringing to life some of Earth’s most prehistoric and dangerous creatures, we’ve all seen references, merchandise, and theme parks brought to life from the creation of the book. Though much of this success is tied to the revolutionary movie created by Spielberg that changed the standards for film, it was inspired by this original novel's thrilling themes and plot. 

4) 2000s: The Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling 

If we’re talking about decade-defining books that forever changed the genre of fantasy and just literature in general, Harry Potter might as well be on the very top of that list. Truly a rite of passage that you experience in your formative years, Harry Potter has transformed the social and cultural scene of the world. I mean, the films only furthered the impact. Rowling’s incredibly unique world that encompassed complex themes and commentary was bound to be memorable. The entire idea of reading comprehension literary development for children faced the “Harry Potter Effect,” which speaks volumes.

5) 2010’s: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins 

This decade has so many iconic pieces of work that deserve so much appreciation, but I think The Hunger Games is a solid choice. It became a global phenomenon, transcending its origins as a YA dystopian trilogy to become a significant part of popular culture. Katniss Everdeen’s rebellion against her oppressive and unjust government ignited a wave of interest in dystopian literature and films, which in turn influenced an entire generation. Its themes resonated widely, particularly with the 2010s’ rise of youth activism and increased political awareness. It profoundly shaped film, literature, and larger social concepts.