It might be difficult for some people to believe that fifty years ago it was 1974. The critics can check our math, but it remains a fact. So, to celebrate, here is a list of some of the most notable books that have entertained, and maybe even changed, the world in the last five decades.
1. The Dispossessed: An Ambiguous Utopia by Ursula K. Le Guin
Written by the Queen of Sci-fi, “The Dispossessed” is an anarchist science fiction novel that features an unusual exploration of themes such as capitalism, anarchism, and revolutionary societies. It is also one of a few small number of books to win all three Hugo, Locus, and Nebula Awards for Best Novel. With mathematical theory underlying one of the pivotal devices, “The Dispossessed” is the first in the internal chronology of “The Hainish Cycle” series.
2. If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin
This story follows two Black lovers, deeply in love and planning on getting married. However, their plans are disrupted when one of them is falsely accused of a crime he didn’t commit and is imprisoned. Heartbreaking and poignant, “If Beale Street Could Talk,” features the resilience and hope that can be found in even the darkest of times. An adaptation of the book made its way to the silver screen in 2018.
3. Carrie by Stephen King
The first horror book to bring the now well-renowned author to fame, Carrie has become a cult favorite with a movie adaptation and thousands of fans around the world. The story features a young girl with supernatural powers, bullies, an extremely rough home life, and ultimately an unforgettable prom. Written by one of the best writers of our time, Stephen King’s “Carrie” has continued to entertain the world in the last five decades.
There you have it! With just a few notable examples, readers can anticipate the future works that will also be heralded as some of the greatest works of our time.
