I think 'The Martian' is extremely thrilling. The constant struggle of the astronaut against the unforgiving Martian environment keeps you on the edge of your seat. Every new problem he faces and his attempts to solve it are nail - biting. Another thrilling one is 'I Am Legend'. The idea of being alone in a world full of vampires and having to fight for survival is terrifying.
Definitely 'Alive'. The real - life horror of being stranded in the Andes after a plane crash and having to do things like eat the dead to survive is both shocking and thrilling. Also, 'The Road' has a lot of heart - stopping moments as the father and son face various threats in the desolate post - apocalyptic world. The fear of the unknown and the ever - present danger make it a very thrilling read.
Among the popular ones was 'Transcendent Kingdom' by Yaa Gyasi. It's a story that explores family, grief, and science. Gyasi's writing is both poignant and intelligent, which attracted a lot of readers.
I think 'All Quiet on the Western Front' is really popular. It's been widely read and studied for its portrayal of the futility of war. 'Catch - 22' is also very popular due to its unique and humorous take on military life and bureaucracy. Another popular one is 'The Red Badge of Courage' as it was one of the first books to really explore the inner thoughts of a soldier in battle.
I think 'The Fault in Our Stars' by John Green is a must - mention. It's a heart - wrenching love story that really captured the hearts of many in the 2010s. The way it deals with themes of love, illness and mortality is very poignant. Also, 'Americanah' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is great. It offers a deep look into race, identity and love across different cultures.
Popular survival books include 'Swiss Family Robinson' by Johann David Wyss. The Robinson family is shipwrecked on an island and they use their skills and resources to create a home and survive. 'The Island of Dr. Moreau' by H. G. Wells also has survival aspects. Prendick is stranded on an island full of strange hybrid creatures and has to find a way to stay alive while dealing with the mad Dr. Moreau.
I think 'The Road' is one of the best. The relationship between the father and son as they face the harsh reality of a post - apocalyptic world is both heart - breaking and inspiring. Also, 'Hatchet' is really good. The boy in the story has to quickly learn how to find food, shelter and protect himself in the wild. It's a great adventure of survival.
One of the best - selling historical fiction books in 2018 was 'Circe' by Madeline Miller. It tells the story of the witch Circe from Greek mythology in a very engaging way. The characters are vivid and the writing is beautiful.
One of the best - selling historical fiction books in 2019 was 'The Giver of Stars' by Jojo Moyes. It tells a story about a group of women in the 1930s Kentucky who are part of a traveling library. The characters are vivid and the historical setting is well - portrayed, which made it very popular among readers.
One of the best fight stories is the Rumble in the Jungle. Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman. Ali used his 'rope - a - dope' strategy. He let Foreman tire himself out by leaning on the ropes and absorbing punches. Then Ali counter - attacked and won. It was a display of Ali's genius in the ring.
Some of the best - selling UK fiction books in 2015 included 'Go Set a Watchman' by Harper Lee. It was highly anticipated as a sequel of sorts to 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. Another popular one was 'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins. Its thriller - like plot kept readers hooked from start to finish.
'The Miniaturist' by Jessie Burton was also a best - selling historical fiction in 2014. It is set in 17th - century Amsterdam. The story focuses on a young bride who moves into her new husband's house and discovers a miniaturist whose creations seem to have an uncanny knowledge of the secrets within the household. The richly detailed setting of 17th - century Amsterdam and the mystery surrounding the miniaturist attracted many readers.