1960 Books
From bestselling novels to critically acclaimed works, 1960 was filled with captivating stories that have stood the test of time. In this list, we highlight the most popular books of 1960, celebrating the titles that topped the charts and won the hearts of book lovers everywhere.
To Kill A Mockingbird
Written by: Harper Lee
Outline: Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece of injustice and honor in the deep south, and the heroism and courage of one man in the face blinding and violent hatred. To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the most beloved stories ever …
Green Eggs and Ham
Written by: Dr. Seuss
Outline: In the classic children's book by Dr. Seuss, Sam-I-am persistently asks the reader if they like green eggs and ham, suggesting various settings and companions to enjoy this unusual treat. With its iconic characters and rhymes, this cumulative tale has …
The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany
Written by: William L. Shirer
Outline: The Third Reich, which Hitler claimed would endure for a millennium, lasted a mere 12 years, yet during that brief period, it witnessed some of the most devastating events in the history of Western civilization.
Are You My Mother?
Written by: P.D. Eastman
Outline: ARE YOU MY MOTHER? is a simple story for young readers, with the baby bird's quest to find its mother resonating with children. Theodor Geisel, writing under the pseudonym "Dr. Seuss," created the popular Beginner Books series, which includes other …
Island of the Blue Dolphins
Written by: Scott O'Dell
Outline: Karana, a young Indian girl, was left behind on the Island of the Blue Dolphins, where she lived alone for years, surviving by building shelter, making weapons, finding food, and fighting wild dogs. Despite the challenges, she witnessed the island's …
The Fall of the House of Usher and Other Tales
Written by: Edgar Allan Poe
Outline: Edgar Allan Poe's eerie tales from the 1830s and 40s, including his pioneering detective stories and chilling horror tales, remain among the most influential works in American literature. This unique volume, with a new introduction by Stephen Marlowe, features a …
The Four Loves
Written by: C.S. Lewis
Outline: C.S. Lewis' classic work examines the four types of human love: affection, friendship, erotic love, and the love of God. This compassionate and reasoned study encourages readers to open themselves to all forms of love, which is the key to …
The Incredible Journey
Written by: Sheila Burnford
Outline: The three house pets, a Labrador retriever, a bull terrier, and a Siamese cat, bravely ventured through the Canadian wilderness, facing various challenges, to find their way back home to their beloved family. Despite their differences, they worked together and …
The Moviegoer
Written by: Walker Percy
Outline: "The Moviegoer," Walker Percy's acclaimed debut novel, won the National Book Award in 1961, establishing him as a prominent voice in Southern literature. The story follows a New Orleans stockbroker, Binx Bolling, who grapples with ennui and the search for …
Dawn
Written by: Elie Wiesel
Outline: Elisha, a young Jewish Holocaust survivor and Israeli freedom fighter, is set to execute a captured English officer, John Dawson, in retaliation for the British execution of a fellow fighter. The novel's taut, hour-by-hour narrative explores Elisha's inner turmoil as …
Put Me in the Zoo
Written by: Robert Lopshire
Outline: Spot, a unique leopard with the ability to alter his appearance and perform tricks, attempts to persuade two children that he deserves to be showcased in a zoo due to his exceptional qualities.
What happened in 1960?
Discover what the world looked like in 1960: