Top 25 Best-Selling Books of All Time

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Top 25 Best-Selling Books of All Time in 2025

1. Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes
   With over 500 million copies sold, this Spanish classic remains the most popular book in history. First published in 1605, it’s celebrated for its humorous critique of chivalry and its enduring influence on world literature.

2. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
   This gripping novel set during the French Revolution has sold approximately 200 million copies. Its famous opening line, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,” continues to resonate with readers.

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3. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
   A cornerstone in fantasy literature, Tolkien’s epic trilogy has sold roughly 150 million copies worldwide. Its richly developed universe has captivated readers for decades.

4. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
   The enchanting tale of a young prince traveling from planet to planet has sold about 142 million copies. Its poetic messages about love and friendship make it a timeless favorite.

5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
   The start of the worldwide phenomenon has sold over 107 million copies. Rowling’s magical world continues to inspire new generations of readers.

6. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
   This mystery masterpiece has sold around 100 million copies. Its clever plot and suspense keep readers guessing until the very end.

7. Dream of the Red Chamber by Cao Xueqin
   A foundational Chinese novel, it has sold approximately 100 million copies. Its intricate narrative explores Chinese family life and societal changes.

8. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
   Prequel to The Lord of the Rings, this adventurous tale has sold 100 million copies worldwide, inspiring countless adaptations and fandoms.

9. She: A History of Adventure by H. Rider Haggard
   An early adventure novel, it has sold about 100 million copies, influencing exploration stories and speculative fiction.

10. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
    The beloved first book of The Chronicles of Narnia series, with roughly 85 million copies sold, continues to enchant readers with its magical world.

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11. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
    This modern thriller has sold approximately 80 million copies, combining art history with conspiracy theories, captivating a global audience.

12. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
    First published in 1937, this motivational classic has sold around 70 million copies, inspiring countless entrepreneurs and self-help enthusiasts.

13. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
    With 65 million copies sold, this sixth installment deepens the magical saga with darker themes.

14. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
    The quintessential coming-of-age story has sold an estimated 65 million copies, influencing generations of readers and writers.

15. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
    The inspirational tale of following one’s dreams has sold about 65 million copies worldwide.

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16. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling
    With 60 million copies sold, the second Harry Potter novel continues to hold a special place in readers’ hearts.

17. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
    This third book has sold roughly 55 million copies, introducing deeper mysteries and character development.

18. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling
    At 55 million copies sold, this installment features pivotal turning points in the series.

19. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling
    Also with approximately 55 million copies sold, it delves into themes of rebellion and loss.

20. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
    The conclusion to the series, with over 50 million copies sold, brought closure and excitement to millions.

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21. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
    The landmark in magical realism has sold around 50 million copies, narrating the multi-generational story of the Buendía family.

22. Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
    Known for its controversial themes, this novel has sold approximately 50 million copies, stirring debate and admiration alike.

23. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
    An enduring children’s classic, it has sold 50 million copies, capturing the innocence and adventures of Anne Shirley.

24. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
    This beloved children’s book about friendship and sacrifice has sold 50 million copies.

25. Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
    The touching story told from a horse’s perspective has sold around 50 million copies, emphasizing kindness and empathy towards animals.

Final thoughts:
The books listed above reflect a blend of timeless classics and modern bestsellers that have shaped and inspired readers across the globe. Their widespread popularity underscores the universal appeal of compelling stories and influential themes. As literature continues to evolve, these titles remain cornerstones of cultural and literary history in 2025.

Sources: James Clear

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