There’s nothing quite like reading a good book; curling up on the sofa and getting lost in the words. Similarly, that wave of satisfaction you get when you finish the last words of a novel are partly what make reading such a joyous hobby.
In our ongoing list celebrating the best books out on the market, our attention turns to epic tomes; stories that have over 1000 pages and make the absolute most of every page.
From literary classics to hidden gems, we’ve gathered all our favourites into one list. Do you agree with our picks? Or feel like we’ve missed a classic? Do feel free to drop us a comment below!
The Stand by Stephen King
Number of Pages: 1152
The Stand is a post-apocalyptic horror novel that takes place in a world ravaged by a deadly pandemic known as the superflu or “Captain Trips.” The story follows a diverse group of survivors on both sides of the US, as they navigate a desolate, ravaged world. The eventually split into two factions: one led by the saintly Mother Abagail, and the other by the malevolent Randall Flagg.
The story explores themes of good versus evil, community, and human nature as the two groups face off in a final stand.
The Stand is well-known for its rich characterization, deep exploration of themes, and immersive world-building.
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
Number of Pages: 1007
The Way of Kings is the first book in the epic fantasy series, The Stormlight Archive. Set in the world of Roshar, the story follows several characters, including Kaladin, a slave-turned-warrior; Shallan, a scholar trying to save her family; and Dalinar, a high prince plagued by visions of ancient wars.
The characters’ paths intersect as they confront political intrigue, personal challenges, and the mysterious, powerful forces that shape their world.
Brandon Sanderson’s excellent world-building, unique magic system, and well-developed characters are on full display here and make for an incredibly compelling read.
War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
Number of Pages: 1225
Plot Summary: War and Peace is a historical novel set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars in early 19th-century Russia. The story revolves around the lives and experiences of five aristocratic families: the Bezukhovs, the Bolkonskys, the Rostovs, the Kuragins, and the Drubetskoys. The novel explores themes of love, family, social class, and the human experience during times of war and peace.
This book is considered one of the greatest works of world literature due to its ambitious scope, rich character development, and deep exploration of themes.
Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Number of Pages: 1037
Gone with the Wind is a historical romance set in the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction Era. The novel follows the life of Scarlett O’Hara, a strong-willed Southern belle, as she navigates the challenges of love, loss, and survival. The story primarily focuses on her turbulent relationship with the dashing and mysterious Rhett Butler.
This is another classic work of American literature, beloved for its sweeping narrative, vivid portrayal of the American South during a tumultuous time, and unforgettable characters. Mitchell’s writing captures the complexities of love, societal expectations, and personal growth, making the novel an engaging and emotionally resonant read.
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
Number of Pages: 1462
Les Misérables is a historical novel set in 19th-century France, centered around the life of Jean Valjean, a former convict seeking redemption. The novel follows Valjean as he navigates the social injustices and political turmoil of the time, while also trying to evade the relentless pursuit of Inspector Javert.
The story intersects the lives of several characters although it is very long-winded compared to the musical, which shortens down a lot of this into a more concise and manageable version. The less said about the feature film the better!
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
Number of Pages: 1312
The Count of Monte Cristo is an adventure book that tells the story of Edmond Dantès, a young sailor who is falsely accused of treason. As a result, he’s wrongly imprisoned in the notorious Château d’If. After years of imprisonment, Dantès escapes, discovers a vast hidden treasure, and reinvents himself as the mysterious Count of Monte Cristo.
The novel charts his rise and journey into self-discovery while simultaneously focusing on Dantès’ quest for revenge against those who wronged him.
This book is well known for its thrilling plot, richly developed characters, and themes of justice, vengeance, and redemption.
Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
Number of Pages: 1079
Infinite Jest is a complex, postmodern novel set in a near-future North America. The story revolves around several interconnected narratives, including the lives of the Incandenza family, who run a tennis academy; the residents of a nearby drug rehabilitation center; and a geopolitical crisis involving a mysterious film called “Infinite Jest.”
This is an infamously expansive book, boasting a darkly satirical take on modern society. This ambitious narrative and unique exploration of themes like entertainment and the human condition make it a very rewarding read.
IT by Stephen King
Number of Pages: 1138
Another mammoth King novel, IT is a horror set in the fictional town of Derry, Maine. The story follows a group of childhood friends known as The Losers Club who discover that a shape-shifting entity called Pennywise is responsible for the unsolved murders and child disappearances in their town.
Often taking the form of a terrifying clown, this creature preys on the fears of its victims. The novel alternates between the characters’ childhood experiences and their adult lives when they return to Derry to confront the evil entity once more.
IT is considered a classic horror because of its intricate narrative structure, compelling characters, and the chilling portrayal of fears that haunt both children and adults.
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Number of Pages: 1168
Atlas Shrugged is a dystopian novel set in a future America, where the government has seized control of the economy and individual freedoms are severely restricted.
The story centers on Dagny Taggart, a railroad executive, and Hank Rearden, a steel magnate, as they struggle against the oppressive system. Throughout the novel, the country’s most productive and creative minds go missing, joining a secret society led by the mysterious John Galt. The novel explores themes of individualism, capitalism, and the role of the human spirit in society.
Ayn Rand’s unique blend of storytelling and philosophy makes this a really well written read and certainly inspires both debate and discussion.
Shogun by James Clavell
Number of Pages: 1152
Shogun is a historical novel set in 16th-century Japan, during a period of political upheaval and war. Our story charts the journey of English navigator John Blackthorne as he becomes shipwrecked in Japan and becomes entangled in the power struggles between rival warlords and the Jesuit missionaries.
Shogun is praised for its rich historical detail, immersive world-building, and well-developed characters. Clavell’s storytelling skillfully transports you right into the heart of feudal Japan, providing an engrossing and educational experience.
The Lord of the Rings (complete set) by J.R.R. Tolkien
Number of Pages: 1184
The Lord of the Rings is an epic high fantasy series consisting of three novels: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Okay so maybe this one is cheating a bit but how could we not include this epic, defining book on the list?
The story is set in the fictional world of Middle-earth and follows the quest of little hobbit Frodo Baggins and his companions to destroy the One Ring, a powerful artifact that could bring about the end of the world at the hands of the evil Sauron.
The Lord of the Rings is undoubtedly regarded as a cornerstone of modern fantasy literature, and its stunning world-building, complex mythology, and unforgettable characters, make it an absolute must-read.
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Number of Pages: 1105
The Pillars of the Earth is a historical novel set in 12th-century England during a period of civil war known as The Anarchy. The story ultimately centers around the construction of a cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. The focus is predominantly on the lives of various characters, including a master builder, a resourceful monk, and a noblewoman.
The novel explores the human struggle to create something enduring amidst the chaos and turmoil of the time. Follett’s skillful storytelling weaves together multiple storylines, creating a vivid and immersive portrait of life in medieval England.
Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
Number of Pages: 1056
Don Quixote is a classic Spanish novel that tells the story of a middle-aged man named Alonso Quixano, who becomes so enamored with chivalric romances that he loses his sanity and decides to become a knight-errant.
Assuming the name Don Quixote, he sets out on a series of misadventures with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, in a quest to revive chivalry and protect the helpless. Not only is this book a satire of chivalric literature, it’s also a profound exploration of reality, illusion, and the human experience.
Don Quixote is considered one of the greatest literary works ever written, and is praised for its innovative narrative structure, unforgettable characters, and deep exploration of themes.
Stalingrad by Vasily Grossman
Number of Pages: 1088
Stalingrad is another historical novel on this list, unsurprisingly set during World War II, focusing on the Battle of Stalingrad between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany.
The story follows the lives of various characters, including soldiers, civilians, and political figures, as they grapple with the horrors of war, the constraints of totalitarianism, and the capacity for love and compassion amidst chaos.
Stalingrad boasts an epic scope, rich character development, and an unflinching portrayal of the realities of war. Grossman’s writing captures the emotional depth and historical significance of the Battle of Stalingrad, offering a powerful and thought-provoking examination of the human experience during one of history’s most brutal conflicts.
So there we are, our list of the best books that have over 1000 pages. Do you agree with our picks? Or do you think we’ve missed a few classics that deserve a spot? Do let us know in the comments below!