Feel-Good Masterpieces: The Best Books of the 21st Century

In a world that feels chaotic, and in the face of a never-ending negative news Cycle, the sensation of finishing a great book and basking in its warmth is matchless. Regardless of whether it’s fiction or autobiography, narratives have the power not just to provide an escape during tough periods but also to reaffirm our belief in the existence of happiness and compassion out there—provided we choose to seek them.

Fortunately for us, over the past 25 years, an enormous quantity of uplifting literature has been released. These range from stories about grumpy elderly men rebuilding their connections within a neighborhood to tales of transformation. hilarious a captivating mystery along with a soothing memoir, here are our picks for the finest inspiring reads this millennium has provided...

You Are Here by David Nicholls

As Marnie and Michael journey along the coast-to-coast route across Yorkshire and Cumbria, they transform from mere acquaintances into close companions — discovering not only themselves but also falling for each other. Lighthearted yet heartfelt, this story captures their adventure beautifully. romantic comedy encased within a hiking tale, making you believe in new opportunities.

Sceptre, £20

We'll Recommend a Kitten for You by Syou Ishida

This gentle Japanese story about cats being prescribed to people in emotional pain is both quietly whimsical and deeply comforting, illustrating the power of companionship (feline or otherwise) to lift loneliness and spark hope.

Doubleday, £12.99

All the Lonely People by Mike Gayle

The narrative of Hubert Bird transitions from solitude to companionship in this emotionally resonant tale centered around themes of friendship, selected kinship, and the belief that it's always possible to welcome others into one’s life again. Brimming with humor and heartfelt moments, we challenge anyone not to find themselves smiling while reading it.

Hodder, £8.99

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Ove’s grumpy demeanor conceals a deep well of sorrow—and affection. With unforeseen camaraderie and unyielding empathy, he finds himself drawn back into the world. The story was adapted into a film featuring Tom Hanks This is a tale that makes you laugh even as it brings tears, focusing on bereavement and the power of community.

Sceptre, £9.99

The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman

Many murder mysteries would not suit a collection of uplifting stories, but then again, most aren't penned by Richard Osman Following a team of charmingly eccentric, former detectives who crack cases during their tea intervals, this book brims with wit, humor, and unexpectedly poignant insights into aging and camaraderie.

Penguin, £9.99

Eleanor Oliphant Is Totally Alright by Gail Honeyman

This highly successful novel became one of the top-selling books of 2017 due to its compelling narrative. The protagonist, Eleanor, who struggles with social interactions, experiences life-changing moments through simple gestures of goodwill. Despite being darkly humorous, her tale evolves into an inspiring journey marked by both sorrow and hope.

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HarperCollins, £9.99

The Tales of A.J. Fikry's Life by Gabrielle Zevin

A curmudgeonly book seller’s life is dramatically changed by a toddler Who has been abandoned alongside a message on his store’s ground level. With a generous spirit and an embracing nature, this work honors narratives – illustrating how they mold us, rescue us, and at times completely redraft our existence.

Abacus, £9.99

Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

If a wedding photographer inadvertently ends up killing her blind date, her interfering Chinese-Indonesian aunties jump right in. This wild comedy-mystery-romance tale is over-the-top, sincere, and unabashedly entertaining—a tribute to familial mayhem and ethnic heritage.

HQ, £8.99

The Guardian of Forgotten Items by Ruth Hogan

A fellow gathers misplaced items with the aim of returning them to their rightful owners. Following his passing, his aide Laura carries on both his mission and her personal recovery. This lighthearted, sweet novel is centered around mourning, forming new family bonds, and discovering enchantment in minor details.

Two Roads, £9.99

A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams

During the 1920s in Harlem, Ricki Wilde is an ambitious young artist who leaves her influential family behind to establish her own florist business—only for a enigmatic musician to cross paths with her and disrupt her plans completely. It’s both heartfelt and captivating.

Quercus, £9.99

Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed

Taking her former Dear Sugar agony aunt column and sewing her replies into this collection of candid, poignant, and unflinchingly truthful essays about life’s most challenging and gentlest experiences, Strayed serves as a reminder that we're always accompanied in our battles.

Atlantic Books, £9.99

Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig

An intimate, insightful examination of depression – and how to endure it – Haig’s Honesty and clarity provide reassurance without sugarcoating, and hope without clichés. It serves as a lifeline for those who have faced struggles, and stands as evidence of the elegance in perseverance.

Canongate, £10.99

I Am, I Am, I Am by Maggie O’Farrell

In telling the story of her 17 near-death experiences, O’Farrell offers a snapshot of life’s fragility and resilience. As ever, she writes with lyrical precision, crafting a memoir that’s both unputdownable and utterly life-affirming – urging its readers to cherish the miracle of being here.

Tinder, £9.99

Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes

She might be most renowned for being the originator of Gray’s Anatomy and Scandal , however, Rhimes is also the writer of this daring, humorous, uplifting memoir that documents her journey over a year where she says "yes" to all things that scare her. It serves as a wonderful tribute to embracing life completely.

Simon & Schuster, £9.99