1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 198719881989

1988 Books

From bestselling novels to critically acclaimed works, 1988 was filled with captivating stories that have stood the test of time. In this list, we highlight the most popular books of 1988, celebrating the titles that topped the charts and won the hearts of book lovers everywhere.

The Polar Express
Written by: Chris Van Allsburg
Outline: Remember that there is so much wonder in the world. This holiday season, remind yourself to look for it and listen to what it has to say. This limited edition, lavish box set will bring magic to your home and …
Misery
Written by: Stephen King
Outline: This is the #1 national bestseller about a famous author held captive by his "number 1 fan" and suffering from a terrifying case of writer's blocks--which could prove fatal.
A Light In The Attic
Written by: Shel Silverstein
Outline: While I was thinking here last night, Some Whatifs crawled into my ear. They danced and partied all night. And sang the same old Whatif song: What if I fail that test?
Beloved
Written by: Toni Morrison
Outline: This spellbinding novel, which stares unflinchingly into slavery's abyss, transforms history into a powerful story like Exodus and intimate as a lullaby.
The Tommyknockers
Written by: Stephen King
Outline: Stephen King, master storyteller, presents the terrifying #1 New York Times Bestseller about a frightening otherworldly discovery that has devastating effects on a small-town.
A Brief History Of Time
Written by: Stephen W. Hawking
Outline: Stephen Hawking is known as one of the greatest theoretical physicists since Einstein. This landmark book shares Hawking's brilliant intellect with all nonscientists, and guides us expertly.
The Alchemist
Written by: Paulo Coelho
Outline: Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist" is a modern classic that blends magic, mysticism, and wisdom, inspiring self-discovery and transforming the lives of countless readers worldwide. The mystical story follows the journey of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy, as he seeks a …
Matilda
Written by: Roald Dahl
Outline: Matilda, a highly intelligent and precocious young girl, faces challenges from her self-centered parents and the tyrannical school principal, Miss Trunchbull, but she possesses the remarkable abilities and determination to overcome these obstacles. Roald Dahl, the renowned author of Matilda …
Batman: Year One
Written by: Frank Miller
Outline: Frank Miller's critically acclaimed Batman origin story, "Batman: Year One," has been reissued, featuring the complete graphic novel, a new introduction by Miller, and a new illustrated afterword by artist David Mazzucchelli. The collection also includes over 40 pages of …
Dead Poets Society
Written by: N.H. Kleinbaum
Outline: The arrival of the unconventional English professor, John Keating, at Welton Academy inspires a group of students to form the secret Dead Poets Society, where they explore the power of language and the importance of living life to the fullest, …
Batman: The Killing Joke
Written by: Alan Moore
Outline: This story delves into the Joker's origins, showcasing his twisted attempts to drive Commissioner Gordon insane by shooting and paralyzing his daughter Barbara, and kidnapping him in a bid to break his mind. However, Gordon, with Batman's assistance, resolutely maintains …
Kitchen
Written by: Banana Yoshimoto
Outline: Banana Yoshimoto's acclaimed novel, "Kitchen," is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and the power of family, both biological and chosen, in the lives of two young women in contemporary Japan. The story follows Mikage, an orphan taken in by …
Guess How Much I Love You
Written by: Sam McBratney
Outline: Little Nutbrown Hare expresses his love for his father, Big Nutbrown Hare, in various ways, but Big Nutbrown Hare's love for him is even greater, extending all the way to the moon and beyond.
The Satanic Verses
Written by: Salman Rushdie
Outline: Gibreel Farishta, a renowned Indian actor, and Saladin Chamcha, an expatriate, survive a plane explosion over the English Channel and undergo a series of transformations, dreams, and revelations as they wash up on an English beach.
The Essential Calvin and Hobbes: A Calvin and Hobbes Treasury
Written by: Bill Watterson
Outline: Calvin and Hobbes, the iconic comic strip created by Bill Watterson, has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in 1985, offering a delightful blend of imaginative adventures, poignant family dynamics, and time-traveling exploits. This treasury compiles the first two collections, …