Top 25 Best-Selling Books Ever

Creating a comprehensive list of the top 25 best-selling books of all time is a challenging task, given the complexities involved with different editions, translations, and sales tracking. Books published centuries ago often lack precise sales data, and some were distributed in ways that defy traditional sales metrics, such as bulk purchases and free distributions. Moreover, publishers may inflate sales figures for promotional purposes, which further complicates the accuracy of any such list. Despite these challenges, we've compiled a list of the top 25 best-selling literary fiction books, adhering to specific criteria to ensure focus and clarity.

We've excluded religious texts, self-help books, political works, and other non-fiction reference materials, such as the Bible and Mao Tse Tung's Little Red Book, which would otherwise dominate the list. Additionally, we've omitted certain key books like The Lord of the Rings and The Count of Monte Cristo due to their serialization and age-related data issues, respectively.

Did your favorite book make our list? How do you think the quality of these books aligns with their sales figures? Share your thoughts in the comments section. Don't forget to check out the best-selling books of 2024 below for the latest must-reads on your reading tablet.

25. Anne of Green Gables

### Anne of Green Gables

Author: L.M. Montgomery

Country: Canada

Publication Date: 1908

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

The heartwarming story of a spirited orphan girl, Anne Shirley, who finds a home with her foster parents in Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, Canada, became an instant classic. The bond between Anne and her initially reluctant guardians captivated readers, leading to seven sequels, with an eighth released posthumously in 2009. Buy here.

24. Heidi

### Heidi

Author: Johanna Spyri

Country: Switzerland

Publication Date: 1880-1881

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

This beloved children's novel follows Heidi, an orphan who lives with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps. Her friendship with Klara, a wealthy girl from Frankfurt who is unable to walk, highlights themes of growth and resilience, making it a timeless tale of friendship and perseverance.

23. Lolita

### Lolita

Author: Vladimir Nabokov

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1955

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

Initially controversial, Nabokov's Lolita is a powerful exploration of an English professor's obsessive infatuation with a young girl. The novel's impact is evident in its adaptations into plays, operas, and 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)

Author: Gabriel García Márquez

Country: Colombia

Publication Date: 1967

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

Marquez's masterpiece weaves a tale of the Buendía family across seven generations in the mythical town of Macondo. Filled with magical realism, this novel explores cyclical patterns of prosperity and suffering, making it a profound reflection on family and fate.

21. Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ

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

Author: Lew Wallace

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1880

Estimated Sales: 50 million copies

Set during the time of Jesus, Ben-Hur follows the life of Judah Ben-Hur, who witnesses the Crucifixion. The novel's most famous adaptation is the epic film featuring a thrilling chariot race, which remains iconic in popular culture.

20. The Bridges of Madison County

### The Bridges of Madison County

Author: Robert James Waller

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1992

Estimated Sales: 60 million copies

This romantic tale of an Italian American war bride's passionate affair with a traveling photographer during her family's absence at the State Fair captivated readers. It was later adapted into a film starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep, and a successful Broadway musical.

19. The Catcher in the Rye

### The Catcher in the Rye

Author: J.D. Salinger

Country: United States

Publication Date: 1951

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

Salinger's only full-length novel, The Catcher in the Rye, is a seminal coming-of-age story. The protagonist, Holden Caulfield, has become a cultural icon for his disdain for phoniness and his struggle with adolescence. Salinger's reclusive nature adds to the mystique of this enduring work.

18. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

### Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Author: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2007

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

The final book in the Harry Potter series, Deathly Hallows, sees Harry, Hermione, and Ron on a perilous mission to defeat Lord Voldemort. The book's release was a global event, complete with anti-spoiler campaigns and intense debates about character loyalties. It was adapted into two films, marking the end of the beloved series.

17. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

### Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Author: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2005

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

In this pivotal book, Harry learns crucial information about Voldemort, setting the stage for the series' climax. Half-Blood Prince is essential for understanding the final battle and the characters' motivations, making it a critical part of the saga.

16. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

### Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Author: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2003

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

The longest book in the series, Order of the Phoenix, initially received mixed reviews for its slow start and Harry's persistent anger. However, it has since been recognized for its significant world-building and character development, particularly in expanding the trio's circle of friends.

15. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

### Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Author: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 2000

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

Goblet of Fire is often considered one of the strongest entries in the series, introducing the Triwizard Tournament and escalating the stakes with a shocking twist. It marks a shift toward darker themes, setting the tone for the rest of the series.

14. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

### Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Author: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1999

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

A leap forward in prose and maturity, Prisoner of Azkaban solidified many readers as dedicated Potter fans. The introduction of Sirius Black and the Time-Turner adds depth and intrigue, making it a fan favorite.

13. The Alchemist (O Alquimista)

### The Alchemist (O Alquimista)

Author: Paulo Coelho

Country: Brazil

Publication Date: 1988

Estimated Sales: 65 million copies

Coelho's tale of a Spanish shepherd's journey to Egypt in pursuit of treasure initially struggled to find an audience. However, Coelho's persistence paid off, and the novel's message of following one's dreams has resonated with millions worldwide.

12. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

### Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Author: J.K. Rowling

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1998

Estimated Sales: 77 million copies

While often considered the weakest in the series, Chamber of Secrets expands the wizarding world beyond Hogwarts and introduces key elements of the larger narrative. It sets the stage for the more intense adventures that follow.

11. The Da Vinci Code

### The Da Vinci Code

Author: Dan Brown

Country: United States

Publication Date: 2003

Estimated Sales: 80 million copies

A pop culture phenomenon, The Da Vinci Code captivated readers with its fast-paced narrative and controversial claims about Christianity. Despite mixed critical reviews, its commercial success is undeniable, sparking interest in its themes and historical theories.

10. Vardi Wala Gunda

### Vardi Wala Gunda

Author: Ved Prakash Sharma

Country: India

Publication Date: 1992

Estimated Sales: 80 million copies

Written in Hindi, this mystery thriller about corrupt cops and assassination conspiracies showcases Sharma's talent. As one of his most famous works, it has garnered a significant readership in India and beyond.

9. She: A History of Adventure

### She: A History of Adventure

Author: H. Rider Haggard

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1886

Estimated Sales: 83 million copies

A seminal work in the fantasy genre, She follows explorers discovering a lost kingdom in Africa. Its influence is seen in subsequent works like Indiana Jones and Tarzan, making it a foundational text in adventure literature.

8. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

### The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Author: 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 follows four children as they enter the magical world of Narnia through a wardrobe. Their battle against the White Witch and their alliance with Aslan has enchanted readers for generations.

7. The Hobbit

### The Hobbit

Author: J.R.R. Tolkien

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1937

Estimated Sales: 100 million copies

Before The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit introduced readers to Bilbo Baggins and his quest with dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a dragon. Its integration into Tolkien's larger Middle-earth saga has cemented its place in literary history.

6. Dream of the Red Chamber

### Dream of the Red Chamber

Author: Cao Xueqin

Country: China

Publication Date: 1791

Estimated Sales: 100 million copies

Considered one of China's greatest novels, Dream of the Red Chamber offers a nuanced portrayal of a noble family's rise and fall during the Qing Dynasty. Its rich depiction of female characters adds depth and complexity to the narrative.

5. And Then There Were None

### And Then There Were None

Author: Agatha Christie

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1939

Estimated Sales: 100 million copies

Christie's masterpiece of suspense, And Then There Were None, traps ten people on an island where they are killed off one by one. The survivors must solve the mystery to survive, making it a gripping and iconic whodunit.

4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

### Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Author: 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 and magic of Harry's introduction to the wizarding world. Its enduring appeal has made it one of the best-selling books of all time, sparking a global phenomenon.

3. The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince)

### The Little Prince

Author: Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Country: France

Publication Date: 1943

Estimated Sales: 140 million copies

A timeless tale about a young prince's journey across planets, The Little Prince explores themes of love, loss, and the innocence of childhood. Its universal message and poetic prose have touched countless readers.

2. A Tale of Two Cities

### A Tale of Two Cities

Author: Charles Dickens

Country: United Kingdom

Publication Date: 1859

Estimated Sales: 200 million copies

Set during the French Revolution, A Tale of Two Cities opens with one of literature's most famous lines. Dickens' exploration of class struggle and human resilience has made it a perennial favorite and a staple of historical fiction.

1. Don Quixote

### Don Quixote

Author: Miguel de Cervantes

Country: Spain

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

Estimated Sales: 500 million copies

Cervantes' epic tale of a deluded knight and his loyal squire remains one of the most influential works in literature. The iconic scene of Don Quixote battling windmills he believes to be giants has become a symbol of idealism and folly.

Best Selling Books in 2024

Identifying the best-selling books of 2024 is more straightforward, thanks to real-time sales data from platforms like Amazon. Here are the top 10 books according to Amazon's best-sellers list for the year: