Books have the power to inspire, entertain, and enlighten readers from all walks of life, including the world’s most recognizable celebrities. Many famous personalities have been candid about their love of reading and the books that have profoundly impacted their lives. Here, we explore some of the favorite books of actors, musicians, politicians, and other well-known figures, showcasing their literary tastes and the stories that resonate with them.
1. Barack Obama – “Song of Solomon” by Toni Morrison
Former U.S. President Barack Obama is an avid reader known for sharing his annual book recommendations. Among his kaitkrems favorites is Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison, a masterpiece of African-American literature. This novel explores themes of identity, heritage, and the quest for self-discovery, elements that align with Obama’s introspective nature and appreciation for nuanced storytelling.
2. Emma Watson – “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
Actress and activist Emma Watson is a self-proclaimed bookworm who founded the feminist book club “Our Shared Shelf.” One of her favorite books is Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar. This semi-autobiographical novel delves into mental health and societal expectations, topics Watson often discusses in her advocacy work.
3. Oprah Winfrey – “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker
Media mogul Oprah Winfrey’s love for literature is well-documented through her influential book club. One book that stands out for her is Alice Walker’s The Color Purple. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel addresses themes of resilience, sisterhood, and overcoming adversity, reflecting Oprah’s journey and values.
4. Bill Gates – “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari
Tech mogul and philanthropist Bill Gates frequently shares his reading list, often filled with thought-provoking nonfiction. Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari is one of his top picks. This book provides a sweeping history of humanity, examining how our species evolved and shaped the world—a topic that resonates with Gates’ intellectual curiosity and global outlook.
5. Reese Witherspoon – “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
Actress and producer Reese Witherspoon is a champion of women’s voices in literature through her book club. One of her standout recommendations is Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. This atmospheric mystery and coming-of-age story captures Witherspoon’s appreciation for strong, complex female protagonists.
6. Elon Musk – “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk credits The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams as a major influence in his life. This science fiction classic, known for its wit and philosophical musings, inspired Musk’s imaginative thinking and his drive to explore the cosmos.
7. Taylor Swift – “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier
Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift is known for her storytelling prowess, a skill she attributes partly to her love of literature. One of her favorite books is Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca, a gothic tale of love, jealousy, and mystery. Its atmospheric narrative aligns with Swift’s lyrical depth and penchant for drama.
8. Stephen King – “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding
Master of horror Stephen King has cited William Golding’s Lord of the Flies as a formative influence on his writing. This dark exploration of human nature and societal breakdown echoes themes found in King’s own works.
9. Natalie Portman – “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Academy Award-winning actress Natalie Portman is a fan of classic literature, particularly Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The novel’s wit, romance, and critique of societal norms resonate with Portman’s intellectual and artistic sensibilities.
10. Leonardo DiCaprio – “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Leonardo DiCaprio, who famously portrayed Jay Gatsby in the 2013 film adaptation, has expressed his admiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. The novel’s exploration of ambition, love, and the American Dream aligns with DiCaprio’s interest in complex, multifaceted characters.
11. J.K. Rowling – “Emma” by Jane Austen
Author J.K. Rowling has often praised Jane Austen, particularly Emma. Rowling admires Austen’s mastery of character development and social commentary, qualities that have influenced her own writing.
12. David Bowie – “1984” by George Orwell
The late David Bowie was an avid reader with eclectic tastes. One of his favorite books was George Orwell’s 1984, a dystopian novel that inspired Bowie’s album Diamond Dogs. Its themes of surveillance and authoritarianism struck a chord with the visionary artist.
13. Meghan Markle – “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle has spoken about her love for The Little Prince. This poetic tale about love, loss, and human connection mirrors Markle’s advocacy for compassion and understanding.
14. Chris Hemsworth – “The Art of Happiness” by the Dalai Lama
Actor Chris Hemsworth, known for his role as Thor, finds inspiration in The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama. This book’s exploration of mindfulness and inner peace aligns with Hemsworth’s focus on health and well-being.
15. Angelina Jolie – “The Book of Awakening” by Mark Nepo
Actress and humanitarian Angelina Jolie is drawn to books that inspire personal growth. The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo is one such favorite, offering daily meditations on mindfulness and living fully.
16. Johnny Depp – “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac
Actor Johnny Depp has a penchant for beat literature, particularly Jack Kerouac’s On the Road. This iconic novel of wanderlust and rebellion resonates with Depp’s free-spirited persona.
17. Michelle Obama – “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
While it might seem self-referential, Michelle Obama’s memoir Becoming is a reflection of her favorite genre: autobiographies that inspire. Her book captures her journey of self-discovery and empowerment, mirroring the themes she admires in other works.
18. Keanu Reeves – “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” by Friedrich Nietzsche
Actor Keanu Reeves is known for his philosophical nature, and one of his favorite books is Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra. This existential work explores themes of individualism and the pursuit of meaning, aligning with Reeves’ introspective demeanor.
19. Lady Gaga – “Letters to a Young Poet” by Rainer Maria Rilke
Pop icon Lady Gaga has often referenced Letters to a Young Poet as a source of inspiration. Rilke’s reflections on creativity and authenticity resonate deeply with her artistic ethos.
20. Tom Hanks – “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
Beloved actor Tom Hanks is a fan of Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood, a groundbreaking work of true crime. The book’s meticulous narrative style and exploration of human behavior appeal to Hanks’ storytelling sensibilities.
Conclusion
The literary preferences of celebrities provide a glimpse into their inner worlds, revealing the stories and ideas that have shaped their perspectives. Whether it’s a classic novel, a philosophical treatise, or an inspiring memoir, these books offer something for everyone. So why not pick up one of these celebrity-endorsed titles and see what resonates with you? You might just discover a new favorite—and gain insight into the minds of the famous along the way.
