Books That Will Make You Cry: A Rollercoaster of Emotions
Disclaimer: When you buy from links on our site, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more
Books have a unique power to touch our hearts and move us to tears. Whether it’s through heart-wrenching stories or beautifully written prose, these books have a way of evoking powerful emotions. Here are 15 titles, classics, and contemporary gems known to tug at heartstrings and leave readers reaching for the tissues.
“The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
Khaled Hosseini’s “The Kite Runner” weaves a poignant tale of friendship, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan. Through its powerful storytelling, readers are confronted with its characters’ raw and complex emotions, making it a deeply moving experience.
“A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara
Hanya Yanagihara’s “A Little Life” explores friendship and trauma emotionally intensely. This novel delves into the lives of four friends, focusing on Jude, a man haunted by a painful past. The emotional depth and realism of the characters’ struggles are bound to leave readers teary-eyed.
“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green
John Green’s “The Fault in Our Stars” is a modern classic that tackles love, loss, and the human condition in the face of terminal illness. The heartrending journey of Hazel and Gus as they navigate the complexities of young love while battling cancer has resonated deeply with readers worldwide.
“A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman
Fredrik Backman’s “A Man Called Ove” introduces readers to a grumpy yet endearing character who discovers unexpected connections and purpose in the most unlikely places. This touching tale of love, loss, and the human capacity for change is guaranteed to elicit both tears and laughter.
“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
Markus Zusak’s “The Book Thief” is narrated by Death and follows the life of Liesel Meminger in Nazi Germany. Through Death’s perspective, readers witness the profound impact of Liesel’s story and her enduring love for books. The novel’s beautifully crafted prose and heartrending moments make it a true tearjerker.
“Never Let Me Go” by Kazuo Ishiguro
Kazuo Ishiguro’s “Never Let Me Go” is a poignant dystopian novel exploring love, mortality, and the human soul. Set in a world where human clones exist solely for organ donation, juxtaposed with its devastating premise, the novel’s gentle prose creates a deeply emotional reading experience.
“The Light Between Oceans” by M.L. Stedman
M.L. Stedman’s “The Light Between Oceans” is a tale of moral dilemmas, heartbreak, and the enduring power of love. Set against a remote Australian lighthouse backdrop, the novel explores the consequences of one couple’s fateful decision. Its exploration of grief and redemption is sure to leave readers moved.
“All the Bright Places” by Jennifer Niven
Jennifer Niven’s “All the Bright Places” follows the unlikely bond between Violet and Finch, two teenagers struggling with their own inner demons. Through their poignant journey, the novel addresses mental health issues with sensitivity and authenticity, making it a powerful and emotionally resonant read.
“The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah’s “The Nightingale” is a sweeping historical novel that follows the lives of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France. As they navigate love, sacrifice, and resistance, the novel highlights the extraordinary strength of women during wartime. The heartrending sacrifices the characters make will surely leave readers in tears.
“Me Before You” by Jojo Moyes
Jojo Moyes’ “Me Before You” explores the transformative power of love through the complex relationship between Louisa Clark and Will Traynor. The novel delves into themes of life, choice, and acceptance, ultimately leading to a deeply emotional and thought-provoking conclusion that resonates long after the final page.
“Before We Were Strangers” by Renée Carlino
Renée Carlino’s “Before We Were Strangers” takes readers on a nostalgic journey of lost love and second chances. The novel explores the enduring connection between Grace and Matt through the lens of fate and missed opportunities. The emotional intensity of their reconnection is bound to tug at readers’ heartstrings.
“The Road” by Cormac McCarthy
Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road” is a post-apocalyptic masterpiece that follows a father and son’s harrowing journey through a desolate landscape. The novel’s stark prose and unflinching portrayal of survival in a brutal world evoke profound emotions, leaving readers both heartbroken and inspired by the enduring bond between parent and child.
“Brooklyn” by Colm Tóibín
Colm Tóibín’s “Brooklyn” is a beautifully crafted novel that explores the immigrant experience through the eyes of Eilis Lacey. Readers are drawn into a tender and emotionally resonant narrative as she navigates love, homesickness, and the complexities of belonging.
“When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi
Paul Kalanithi’s poignant memoir, “When Breath Becomes Air,” chronicles his journey from neurosurgeon to terminal cancer patient. Through eloquent reflections on life, death, and the pursuit of meaning, Kalanithi invites readers to contemplate their own mortality with grace and wisdom.
“The Lovely Bones” by Alice Sebold
Alice Sebold’s “The Lovely Bones” offers a unique perspective on life after death through the voice of a murdered teenage girl, Susie Salmon. As Susie watches over her family from her personal heaven, the novel explores themes of grief, healing, and the enduring power of love, making it a profoundly moving and unforgettable read.
15 Modern Children And Young Adult Books That Are Banned…But Should They Be?
15 Modern Children And Young Adult Books That Are Banned…But Should They Be? Where literature acts as a gateway to empathy, understanding, and personal growth, it’s surprising that some books continue to…
Books That Should Be Banned! 15 Of The Most Controversial Books Of All Time
Books That Should Be Banned! 15 Of The Most Controversial Books Of All Time – Books can ignite discussions, challenge beliefs, and stir up controversy. From themes of religion to politics, these titles have…
Pick Up A Book, Would You?! 15 Surprising Benefits Of Reading Every Day You Probably Don’t Know About
Pick Up A Book, Would You?! 15 Surprising Benefits Of Reading Every Day You Probably Don’t Know About – Reading is not just a hobby; it’s a superpower that brings many unexpected benefits. Whether diving into a gripping novel or exploring non-fiction, here are 15 surprising advantages of making reading a daily habit. From boosting mental health to expanding horizons, the rewards of a good book are boundless.
The Most Popular Book Genres: Is Your Favorite At The Top Of This List?
The Most Popular Book Genres: Is Your Favorite At The Top Of This List? – Books come in all shapes and sizes, but they also come in various genres, each with its own unique…
Your Favorite Reads: 15 Of The Most Iconic Book Characters Of All Time
Your Favorite Reads: 15 Of The Most Iconic Book Characters Of All Time – From the pages of beloved novels, certain characters have become ingrained in our hearts and minds, transcending the bounds…
Enough Already: These Top 10 Books Will Change Your Life
Enough Already: These Top 10 Books Will Change Your Life – Books have a unique power to shape our perspectives, offer profound insights, and inspire personal growth. Here’s a carefully…
Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. On her sites, Motherhood Life Balance, Neon Moon and Bookworm Era she writes about ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.