Ain’t we so indulged in this worldly life that we are not looking at the other dimension of life? If you are a person who loves asking questions and looking at life from a fresh philosophical perspective, high five to you! We are on the same page. There are umpteen books where philosophy is blended inside the fiction and non-fiction. And here, we bring you some best fictional books touching the philosophical side of life. So, to think, rethink and introspect, here are some best philosophy books!
P.s: All are arranged in alphabetical order. From a philosophical outlook, I know there is a possibility of looking at the worlds of words upside down!
#1 A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki
About The Book
![A Tale for the Time Being (Canons Book 102) by [Ruth Ozeki]; best philosophy books](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41c0uX9gocL._SY346_.jpg)
Title: A Tale for the Time Being
Author: Ruth Ozeki
Publisher: Viki
Genre: Fiction/Philosophy/Cultural-Japan
Type: Standalone
Pages: 432
Goodreads rating: 4.0/5
There is a parallel storyline between Ruth, a novelist living on a remote island, and Nao, a 16-year-old girl living in Tokyo. It starts with Ruth finding Nao’s diary on the seashore, carried by the ocean due to a possible Tsunami. You see Ruth’s life and Nao’s life through her diary. This deals with the feelings of Nao, a bully in her school, her socio-economical situation, her family background, and her bond with great grandmother, a Buddhist nun Jiko and we see the Jiko in Nao’s eyes. Nao’s words yet times break the heart. Here is one glimpse for you.
It made me sad when I caught myself pretending that everybody out there in cyberspace cared about what I thought when really nobody gives a shit. And when I multiplied that sad feeling by all the millions of people in their lonely little rooms, furiously writing and posting to their lonely little pages that nobody has time to read because they’re all so busy writing and posting, it kind of broke my heart.
Nao from A Tale of Time Being
Why do we recommend this book?
This is one of the best philosophy books that I’ve read. Connecting dots and investigating to know one’s life through bits of information fascinated me. And more than that, the philosophical coverages and the wisdom-filled lady Jiko had an enchanting impact on me. There are moments of goosebumps, the thought never thought of before. I lived with this book for more than two weeks. Throughout the novel, this was like therapy, a feeling, a philosophical outlook toward life. Some lines made me think, rethink and revisit the pages repeatedly—a well-packed book filled with the wisdom of life. In the end, you will feel so alive! Here is one thought-provoking quote from Jiko.
When up looks up, up is down. When down looks down, down is up. Not one, not two. Not same, Not different, Now do you see?
Jiko from A Tale of Time Being
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
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#2 Brida by Paulo Coehlo
About The Book
![Brida by [Paulo Coelho]; best philosophy books](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/519p8bUTJcL.jpg)
Title: Brida
Author: Paulo Coelho
Publisher: Harper One
Genre: Fiction/Fantasy/Philosophy
Type: Standalone
Pages: 224
Goodreads rating: 3.4/5
Another story from Master storyteller is Brida. It is about an Irish girl named Brida. She discovers she is a witch from a lady named Wicca. She is a follower of Moon Tradition. This is a story of Brida exploring her gift as a witch, relationships, and spirituality. A journey is like a quest to discover oneself. On this path, she meets Magus, Master of Sun Tradition, Wicca, Teacher of Moon tradition. There is love, heartbreak, and a voyage of self-exploration, and that’s Paulo Coelho, who always comes up with introspective work.
Why do we recommend this Book?
I read this ten years back! Mystical and philosophy lovers will love this. The concept of a soul mate was thought-provoking and heartbreaking. The darker elements of witchcraft were shown in the shade of light. This was the thing I liked most, who grew up with the mindset all witches are evil with pointed hats and crooked noses; this perspective was fresh for me. On the other light, it was hard to follow Coelho. I needed many sittings and breaks to complete his books. Sometimes it feels heavy, and I pause. Other times it’s like re-reading again and again to comprehend. Still, it’s a worthful try for all curious seekers of mysticism, witchcraft, and soulmates.
To buy/gift Brida, click on the below link :
#3 Like the radiant Sun by Anu kay
About The Book
![Like the Radiant Sun: A Novel by [Anu Kay]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41ok5T4QhqL._SY346_.jpg)
Title: Like the radiant Sun
Author: Anu kay
Publisher: The Write Place
Genre: Fiction/Philosophy/Spiritual/Thriller
Type: Standalone
Pages: 222
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
During his visit to the Varanashi temple project, Rohan, an archaeologist, gets trapped in a particular situation, witnesses the murder, and meets the mystery woman. The main plot is all about a secret coded book, Marma Kala, which ends up in the hand of Rohan, followed by murderers who want that book at any cost. What is Marma Kala? Why are some people behind it? What ancient secrets are hidden? Who is that mystery woman stumbling upon Rohan? Is she a friend or foe? All answers lie in this tale. A blend of mythology and action thrillers keeps the reader entertained and spiritually delighted.
Why do we recommend this Book?
This was an entirely different experience from reading a spiritual thriller embedded with a glimpse of Mahadev, a fierce, fearless warrior beautifully woven with mysticism. I started reading this directly after Iearned that this book revolves around Shiva and virtually gives a picture of Manasa Sarovar through the author’s words. The concept of a Spiritual thriller is exclusively interesting. Though in the middle, I felt like some situations are cinematic but engaging till the end, and this is the best shot for all book readers.
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
To buy/gift Like the radiant Sun, click on the below link :
#4 Readings in the shed by Nikhil Katara and Himali Kothari
About the Book
![Readings in the Shed by [Nikhil Katara, Himali Kothari]; best philosophy books](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/4178bI-sIfS._SY346_.jpg)
Title: Readings in the shed
Author : Nikhil Katara and Himali Kothari
Publisher: Partridge
Genre: Fiction/short stories
Type: Standalone
Pages: 109
Goodreads rating: 4.0/5
Reading in a shed is a heavy read with philosophical bites by different authors. The stories of Shaka or in O2 will make you think deeply about the things which you never thought of. For example, while reading story O2, which is a monologue where the protagonist asks the audience what they would do if they were in his position in that particular situation in pandemic time, I felt that deciding while wearing a selfish lens is much easier than without it. Otherwise, we will be in a whirlpool of thoughts, finding it challenging to choose the best option. So, if I were in his position, I would have been selfish, to be honest.
Why do we recommend this book?
Reading experience was something different for me when I started to read “Readings in the shed” after reading “Sophies World,” I was in the mood for philosophy books, and this book was like having bites of deep philosophical thoughts, especially in the story of Shaka and the monologue in O2. I want to mention some of the ideas that stirred inside me while reading the story of Shaka; I concluded that the revenge-filled eyes always refuse to see the warmth and love. Why do we hate each other and end up in pure hatred, aren’t we all connected somehow? Hatred is spreading like a plague, in its hidden cloak creeping in the hearts smudging to see the pure belongingness towards each other.
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#5 Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder
About The Book
Title: Sophie’s World
Author: Jostein Gaarder
Publisher: Phoenix
Genre: Fiction/Philosophy
Type: Standalone
Pages: 403
Goodreads rating: 3.9/5
A philosophical history of the other side of the globe is written briefly in an unusual setup through the book ‘Sophie’s world.’ Sophie starts her philosophy lessons through anonymous letters and strange happenings around her. This is a thought-provoking book. However, it covers many Western philosophical ideas and some glimpses of eastern philosophical ideas. My interpretation of the author’s storyline is that he chose this unusual technique to say that we all exist inside the higher consciousness of the mind, which was once compressed into one but exploded into a force (maybe like the big bang theory). It is still expanding as it continues to grow, a mystery that our programmed brain still cannot perceive.
Why do we recommend this Book?
As I started reading, I went into a different set of realities and untouched territories of consciousness, reaching the entrance of science and remembering my school textbooks about Darwin’s theory of evolution to expanding universe. For nearly three to four days I spent time with this book stopping in a few pages to think. Several statements posed exciting questions in my mind, some pages were complex, and some seemed dull. This book ignited a food for thought sure to set one’s self-inquiry quest. Among philosophy books, this book is best if you want to begin your journey of philosophical aspects.
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#6 The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
About The Book
Title: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse
Author: Charlie Mackesy
Publisher: Viking
Genre: Fiction/Philosophy/Inspirational
Type: Standalone
Pages: 128
Goodreads rating: 4.5/5
This is a conversational book, somewhat like inspirational quotes embedded between Charlie’s friends Mole, Fox, and Horse. The language is simple, and the pictures are elegant. The font is attractive and bold. Insightful thoughts are enveloped in this book. This is less of a story, and there is no particular storyline or plot. Instead, more short conversations between the boy and his friends are found. A good book on a shelf to revisit whenever one needs some inspiration.
Why do we recommend this Book?
At first, with an expectation that this was a story, I picked up this book. There was a slight disappointment initially because this seemed like a collection of inspirational quotes with beautiful drawings and fonts. So before going for this book, I would recommend you to clarify your expectations about what the book is about. Apart from that, the whole book was cute and reminded me of The Little Prince.
To buy/gift The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse, click on the below link:
#7 The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
About The Book
![The Five People You Meet In Heaven by [Mitch Albom]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41EAVgSng2L._SY346_.jpg)
Title: The Five People You Meet in Heaven
Author: Mitch Albom
Publisher: Hyperion
Genre: Fantasy/Philosophy/Fiction
Type: series
Books in it :
Pages: 196
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
Eddie, an older man working in an amusement park and an ex-military person, lives with regrets and unhappiness. The tale starts with the death to save a little girl in the amusement park. After death, he meets five people, some known, some unknown, but essential in his life. The real meaning of his life is revealed one by one. The purpose and mysteries come up and leave surprise and self-realization to Eddie.
Why do we recommend this Book?
The story narrative is fantastic, a blissful read during the time’s emotional downfalls. I went through those little moments that I never noticed as a reader with Eddie. This book is well written and leaves you surprised at the end. In my experience, I had goosebumps and tears at the end. If you are a person who wants to read extraordinary everyday tales, this book is the perfect start. Philosophy books that let you be emotionally connected, what more can one ask for?
To buy/gift The Five People You Meet in Heaven, click on the below link :
#8 The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak
About The Book
![The Forty Rules of Love by [Elif Shafak]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51S9hxaZfdL._SY346_.jpg)
Title: Forty Rules of Love
Author: Elif Shafak
Publisher: Viking
Genre: Historical Fiction/Philosophy
Type: Standalone
Pages: 224
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
A story within the story, Forty rules of love, starts with Ella, an unhappy, 45 years old housewife juggling to keep her family happy and keep herself muted despite knowing her husband’s affair. The story starts when Ella takes up the literary agent job, and her first assignment to read ” Sweet Blasphemy” changes her entire life and perspectives dramatically. Ella is enchanted by the ideologies of Rumi, a mystic poet, and the relationship between Shams and Rumi. This takes us to ancient philosophies in the voice of Rumi, Shams, Leper bigger, etc. Each chapter has a voice and is described from one particular person’s point of view.
Why do we recommend this Book?
The narratives are parallel; one chapter deals with present happenings in Ella’s life, her thoughts, her struggles, and her life around her family members. In another chapter, the author takes us inside the assignment “Sweet Blasphemy,” set up in the ancient history of Rumi and Shams, the world around them, the barriers, and of course, the forty rules of love. One gets feel like hopping from past to present. What I loved the most was bringing up women’s feelings like Rumi’s wife, a prostitute, or Ella herself. What I found unique is how the author reflected upon the suppression of women. The end seemed bold, unacceptable for many. Maybe that’s the subtle message author is trying to say, which is missed.
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#9 The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
About The Book
Title: The Little Prince
Author: by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Fiction
Publisher: Harcourt, Inc
Pages: 96
Type: Standalone
Reading age: 6+ years
Goodreads rating: 4.3/5
The story is simple. A pilot stuck in the middle of the desert meets a tiny person as a “little prince” who came from an asteroid and demands to draw the sheep for him. He refuses to answer questions while asking umpteen questions, and the bond develops between them. As the story develops, readers get to know this prince’s adventure of leaving his tiny planet, a flower, three volcanoes, and his visit to several planets finally coming to earth. He also meets many people like the fox, who teaches him the word “building connection” and then, at last, allows the snake to bite him, which claims that it can send him back to his home. It’s up to the reader to decide whether the boy has died or went back to his house. I felt the death of the little prince represents the death of innocence.
Why do we recommend this book?
I was impressed after reading “Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery set in 1943, a book which can be finished within a couple of hours, well packed with those hidden meanings that grown-ups who are busy summing up figures must understand. I’m still in the process of deciphering. Especially the watercolor illustration was exciting, and I have kept this book for revisiting to dwell deep on the story. This is an abstract story. I understood that this sheds light on the grown-up’s illogical life wearing “reasonableness,” fighting, sulking over the things, almost killing the curious child within them growing up.
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#10 The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
About The Book
![The Midnight Library: The No.1 Sunday Times bestseller and worldwide phenomenon by [Matt Haig]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41RVW4vaHdL._SY346_.jpg)
Title: The Midnight Library
Author: Matt Haig
Publisher: Viking
Genre: Historical Fiction/Philosophy
Type: Standalone
Pages: 304
Goodreads rating: 4.0/5
Between Life and Death, there is a Midnight Library. Each book gives a chance to live other lives. Nora Seed, unhappy, depressed, and on the extreme edge of life, certain situations lead her to Midnight Library. She meets a librarian and the shelf of unlimited books. Here she gets a chance to undo her regrets and to live the lives of those unchosen choices. Along with her, the reader lives in those moments of self-exploration and questions whether that version was better? And Nora’s realizations and epiphanies at the end.
Why do we recommend this Book?
What if you get a chance to live the outcome of your abandoned choices? In every step of life, we make the minute to big decisions. But in this process, we leave many other options. This leads to missing the chance to live those infinite variations of ourselves living life in different possibilities. Matt Haig, in this book, makes you introspect your regrets and choices through the character Nora Seed who gets a chance to live her life with different possibilities. Along with Nora, I traveled along looking at a pile of my regrets and infinite possibilities of the version of me living in infinite universes in different possible ways, finally watching all regrets evaporating one by one, concluding the actual performance of the life.
To buy/gift The Midnight Library, click on the below link :
#11 Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah
About The Book
![Where the Forest Meets the Stars by [Glendy Vanderah]; best philosophy books](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51sZRlFOe6L._SY346_.jpg)
Title: Where the Forest Meets the Stars
Author: Glendy Vanderah
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Genre: Fiction/Mystery
Type: Standalone
Pages: 322
Goodreads rating: 4.1/5
The story revolves around Ursa, Joanna, and a neighbor Gabriel. The story starts with Ursa at the doorstep of Joanna, and she claims she is from the stars and sent on a purpose to do five miracles. Joanna and Gabriel join together to discover the whereabouts of the mysterious girl, Ursa. Each one of them has their own stories and struggles. As a story, everything unravels one by one. Nearing the fifth miracle, what happens next leaves them baffled. This is a story of trust, bond, and love, and the pain too,
Why do we recommend this Book?
I am in love with the character Ursa and the story’s uniqueness. Without revealing the spoiler, I would like to say the author has knitted the central concept to convey it to the readers beautifully. Therefore, I can say that this book takes us back to the ground, lives with nature, and provides courage to look at. This read was like a process of healing, and the way of storytelling is compelling and overwhelming.
P.S.: This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, then you can read this book for free.
To buy/gift Where the Forest Meets the Stars, click on the below link :
P.S: Some books recommended here are available on Kindle Unlimited. If you have subscribed to it, you can read these books for free. Check out this article: Is Kindle Unlimited Worth It?
SO, to conclude, here is the list of the Best Philosophy Books:
| 1 | A Tale for the Time Being by Ruth Ozeki | Buy Now |
| 2 | Brida by Paulo Coehlo | Buy Now |
| 3 | Like the radiant Sun by Anu kay | Buy Now |
| 4 | Readings in the shed by Nikhil Katara and Himali Kothari | Buy Now |
| 5 | Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder | Buy Now |
| 6 | The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy | Buy Now |
| 7 | The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom | Buy Now |
| 8 | The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak | Buy Now |
| 9 | The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry | Buy Now |
| 10 | The Midnight Library by Matt Haig | Buy Now |
| 11 | Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah | Buy Now |
We hope that this list of Best Books touches the Philosophical side of life and helps you pick your next book.
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