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Top 10 Best-Selling Books in History (2025)
The Bible: The Most Transcendent Bestseller
With approximately 5 billion copies sold, the Bible remains the best-selling and most widely distributed book in history. Its influence transcends religious boundaries, impacting literature, art, culture, and history across millennia. Whether revered as sacred scripture or studied as a historical document, its profound narratives and teachings continue to shape societies worldwide, spanning centuries and continents.
The Little Red Book: A Political and Cultural Icon
Closely trailing the Bible is the Little Red Book, officially known as Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-tung. With over 1.1 billion copies sold, this book became a symbol of the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Published during the 1960s, it served as a tool for political education and propaganda, its widespread distribution reflected the immense influence of Mao Zedong’s ideology during that era.
The Quran: The Sacred Text of Over 800 Million
With approximately 800 million copies sold, the Quran is one of the most revered religious texts globally. As the holy book of Islam, it offers spiritual guidance, legal principles, and moral direction to over a billion Muslims worldwide. Its poetic verses and profound teachings continue to inspire faith, scholarly study, and cultural practices across diverse Muslim communities.
The Bhagavad Gita: The Philosophical Classic
Having sold around 503 million copies, the Bhagavad Gita is a cornerstone of Indian philosophy and spiritual literature. Part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, this dialogue between prince Arjuna and god Krishna addresses moral dilemmas, duty, and spirituality. Its universal themes have resonated with readers globally, influencing philosophical thought and personal reflection.
Don Quixote: The Literary Milestone
With approximately 500 million copies sold, Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes is considered one of the earliest modern novels. Often cited as the first Western novel, it explores themes of idealism, perception, and reality. Its enduring popularity underscores its significance in shaping Western literary tradition and inspiring countless writers.
A Tale of Two Cities: A Revolutionary Classic
Selling around 200 million copies, Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities remains a staple in English literature. Set during the French Revolution, the story’s themes of sacrifice, redemption, and resilience continue to resonate, making it a timeless classic in American and British literary canons.
The Little Prince: A Poetic Fairy Tale
With approximately 200 million copies sold, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince is one of the most translated and beloved books worldwide. Its poetic exploration of childhood innocence, friendship, and imagination appeals to both children and adults, fostering universal reflections on life and love.
The Book of Mormon: A Modern Religious Text
Having sold nearly 190 million copies, the Book of Mormon is a sacred scripture of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its teachings emphasize faith, family, and community, contributing significantly to religious literature and church identity across the globe.
The Lord of the Rings: An Epic Fantasy Saga
With approximately 155 million copies sold, J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy has become a cornerstone of fantasy literature. Its richly imagined universe, themes of heroism, and moral struggles have captivated generations, inspiring adaptations, films, and a dedicated fan community.
The Alchemist: A Contemporary Spiritual Journey
Reaching around 150 million copies sold, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a modern philosophical novel that explores the pursuit of dreams and personal destiny. Its inspirational message has made it a global bestseller and a favorite among readers seeking meaning and self-discovery.
Data sources: Wikipedia, Britannica, ISKCON News, Guinness World Records (2025)
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