top 10 underrated novels that deserve your attention today
In a world where bestsellers dominate the literary landscape, countless gems remain hidden in the shadows, yearning for recognition. As we embrace 2026, it is high time to shine a light on these underrated novels. Whether you're an avid reader or merely seeking your next literary adventure, here are ten novels that deserve your attention.
1. The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
This Russian classic intertwines a visit from the Devil to Soviet Moscow with a retelling of the trial of Jesus in Jerusalem. Bulgakov’s masterful blend of satire and fantasy probes deep into themes of good and evil, making it a profound yet entertaining read.
2. The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, this novel follows two Jewish cousins before, during, and after World War II as they create a comic book superhero. Chabon's exploration of friendship, art, and the immigrant experience is vibrant and highly relatable.
3. The Book of Disquiet by Fernando Pessoa
A philosophical work that functions as a collection of thoughts and reflections, Pessoa's fragmented narrative provides a deep dive into existential questions. It challenges readers to reflect on their own experiences in a beautifully poetic manner.
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4. We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
This gripping psychological thriller takes the form of letters from a mother to her estranged husband, exploring the complexities of motherhood and the nature of evil. Shriver's work is both unsettling and thought-provoking, making it a must-read.
5. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Tartt’s debut novel delves into a group of classics students at a small college who become entangled in a murder. The narrative combines elements of suspense and philosophical musings, offering an intricate look into morality and the human condition.
6. The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin
A thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores anarchism and capitalism through the eyes of a physicist from a moon called Anarres. Le Guin’s ability to juxtapose different societal structures makes this book relevant and deeply insightful.
7. The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
This enchanting mystery set in post-war Barcelona revolves around a boy discovering a forgotten book. Zafón crafts a captivating narrative filled with intrigue, romance, and the love of literature, making it a beautiful homage to storytelling itself.
8. The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami
This surreal narrative follows Toru Okada as he searches for his missing wife. Murakami weaves elements of magic realism with existential pondering, creating a dreamlike journey that invites readers to explore the depths of their own minds.
9. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
A semi-autobiographical novel that explores the struggles of mental illness through the eyes of Esther Greenwood. Plath's raw and poignant writing sheds light on the societal pressures faced by women, making it a timeless and necessary read.
10. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
This enchanting fantasy novel tells the story of a magical competition between two young illusionists set against the backdrop of a mysterious circus that only opens at night. Morgenstern's lush prose and imaginative world-building create an unforgettable reading experience.
