Discover the best books to read online for free. Read and listen to literary gems with these epic tales available on the web — without spending a cent!
We have curated a list of the best books to read online for free that span across genres and cater to all age groups. They are available as free eBooks and, in some instances, audiobooks.
Did you know that an estimated 130 million books have been published in the history of humanity? A vast number of these are now available in the public domain! Copyright laws no longer restrict many classic books. Therefore, they are free for every book lover.
If you’re looking for more modern works, don’t worry. There are also contemporary novels with unexpired copyrights available at no cost — all you need is a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a reliable internet connection. It’s no good being interrupted by buffering just as the plot is revealed!
You can access free books online through open sources like Project Gutenberg, ManyBooks, Google Books, Open Library, and Internet Archive.
Other free books can be accessed via applications like OverDrive’s Libby App and cloudLibrary that do not request subscription fees or in-app purchases. However, they will require a library card from your local library.
What a wonderful age we’re in now, with everything available at our fingertips. As Stephen King once said, “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” In this article, we bring this magic to you. Happy reading!
Feeling a bit lackluster? Check out our roundup of the best inspirational books!
Contents
Free Online Romance Books
1. The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery
The Blue Castle is truly a book worth losing yourself in. It captivates readers with its unique blend of romance, humor, and inspiring self-discovery. Valancy Stirling, an old maid by societal standards, finds herself breaking free from her stifling routine and judgemental family after receiving some life-altering news. This leads her to the “Blue Castle,” both a physical place and a symbol of her newfound freedom.
L.M. Montgomery, first known for her 1908 book Anne of Green Gables, showcases here her unparalleled ability to create vivid, breathtaking scenery and emotionally complex (but very relatable) characters.
“If you can sit in silence with a person for half an hour and yet be entirely comfortable, you and that person can be friends.”
Lucy Maud Montgomery, The Blue Castle
2. Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
Is there one person alive now who hasn’t heard of Romeo and Juliet? Authored by the legendary Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare, the tale is about two young lovers — Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. Their affection for each other is tragically caught in the crossfire of their clashing families.
The book has gathered numerous accolades over the centuries and remains a staple in English literature curriculums worldwide. One of the most famous adaptations of this tale is its 1986 movie adaptation by Franco Zeffirelli. It was considered slightly controversial due to a scene of partial nudity.
Romeo and Juliet is worth reading for its poetic language, dramatic plot, and the timeless themes it explores. This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions — all within its compact five acts.
“My bounty is as boundless as the sea, My love as deep; the more I give to thee, The more I have, for both are infinite.”
William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet
3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Dive into the world of early 19th-century England with Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. This classic romance set the tone for many latter-day love stories, all trying to emulate the ungovernable and arrogant main characters that have charmed readers for centuries.
From its first publication in 1813, the novel has enjoyed immense popularity, inspiring numerous adaptations. This includes the iconic 2005 film starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen.
Aside from narrating a renowned romance, the book also offers a fascinating lens into the societal norms of the Regency era.
“A lady’s imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony in a moment.”
Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice
4. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
John Green is an award-winning author hailed as one of the most famed young adult novelists of the 21st century. He has a strong social media following as he actively engages with his readers.
His talents shine through his clear writing and heartrending plots, such as in his 2012 book, The Fault in Our Stars. This tale of young love and heartbreak sold over 23 million copies and was adapted into a 2014 film.
It follows two youths who, despite being both sick, found friendship and love. Apart from being a romance book, The Fault in Our Stars also offers lessons on identity and morality.
“You don’t get to choose if you get hurt in this world…but you do have some say in who hurts you. I like my choices.”
John Green, The Fault in Our Stars
Discover the best young adult books to add to your bookshelf!
5. Nora Roberts Land by Ava Miles
With just the title alone, readers can surmise that Nora Roberts is one of Ava Miles’ favorite authors. Roberts is a prolific author of over 200 books and has been a constant name in the romance genre since 1981.
Nora Roberts Land is Miles’s debut book. This 2013 novel also kickstarted Miles’ Dare Valley series. The story follows Meredith Hale after her breakup. Instead of moping around, she sets out on a mission to reach her happily ever after (which she lovingly dubs her “Nora Roberts Land”).
This USA Today Best Book of the Year is available on Open Library in a virtual book viewer or free audiobook.
“In the grand scheme of things, the world doesn’t end when our faults clash because it’s cushioned by love and commitment. ”
Ava Miles, Nora Roberts Land
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6. Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
An extraordinary tale of obsession, Moby-Dick is about Captain Ahab and his pursuit of the enormous white whale, Moby Dick. Through the eyes of the ship’s newcomer, Ishmael, Herman Melville takes the readers in a deep dive not only of the ocean but also of character and human nature.
A word of caution: Some may find it a hard read for its subject matter as well as its whaling jargon. To help you in reading, try a Moby-Dick version with annotations.
“I know not all that may be coming, but be it what it will, I’ll go to it laughing.”
Herman Melville, Moby-Dick
7. A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle
The 1886 tale A Study in Scarlet sparks the beginning of the legendary detective series featuring Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. This is where the dynamic duo take on their first case together — a grisly murder in London that leaves the city in fearful anticipation. It’s no wonder that this story sprouted an entire Holmes franchise, including TV adaptations and films. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle continues to be one of the top favorite authors of mystery and thriller readers.
“What you do in this world is a matter of no consequence. The question is what can you make people believe you have done.”
Arthur Conan Doyle, A Study in Scarlet
8. The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Oscar Wilde’s only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, was published in 1890. This classic tells the riveting tale of a handsome young man in London, seemingly blessed with eternal youth. However, there is a price.
Gray maintains a self-portrait locked away in his home that bears the brunt of his selfish and excessive lifestyle as while he remains untouched by time and action, his portrait ages, reflecting his soul’s degradation.
The novel’s beautifully written narrative, laced with the Irish playwright’s distinctive wit and astute observations on art, beauty, and morality, makes it a favorite among book lovers. Despite the initial outrage it sparked as it was deemed “scandalous” during its time, the novel now has many literary and cinematic adaptations.
“The books that the world calls immoral are books that show the world its own shame.”
Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
9. Forget Me Not by Kristen Middleton
Forget Me Not is the first installment of USA Today and New York Times bestseller Kristen Middleton’s Summit Lake series. In this 2018 psychological thriller, single mom Amanda Schutz is singled out by a lunatic. Despite the troubling “gifts,” she receives from her stalker, the police can’t help, leaving Amanda vulnerable.
Follow Amanda as she tries to unravel who the bad guy is, all while trying to keep herself alive. Forget Me Not is also available on Kindle for free.
“I’ve asked my wife why bad things happen to good people and she thinks it’s to wake us up. She says that we have the ability to change the world and find happiness. We just have to work and clean up the negative areas in our lives. Once you find inner peace, you can project an outer peace.”
Kristen Middleton, Forget Me Not
10. The Bachman Books by Stephen King
The Bachman Books is a collection of four early Stephen King novels. This 1985 quartet includes Rage, The Long Walk, Roadwork, and The Running Man.
Each showcases King’s writing prowess as he spins captivating stories. It garnered him an additional layer of fame and respect among readers and critics alike. Notably, The Running Man was turned into a hit movie in 1987 starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.
“You can’t stop your mind; the damn thing just keeps right on going.”
Stephen King, The Bachman Books
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11. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
If you want to read about the darker recesses of the human psyche, Fyodor Dostoevsky’s 1866 novel Crime and Punishment is a must. It follows the tormented journey of Rodion Raskolnikov, who formulates a plan to kill a dishonest pawnbroker.
Dostoyevsky’s book eventually tackles the moral dilemmas of guilt, redemption, and the struggle for salvation. It has been adapted multiple times for screen and stage, including a 2002 TV mini-series that brings the haunting tale to life.
“Pain and suffering are always inevitable for a large intelligence and a deep heart. The really great men must, I think, have great sadness on earth.”
Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment
12. The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie
The Secret Adversary whisks readers away into the dangerous, intriguing tale of Tommy and Tuppence as they are plunged into a world of secret agents, cryptic clues, and sinister adversaries.
The novel remains one of Christie’s bestsellers and most celebrated works. It’s beloved for its fast-paced plot, witty dialogue, and colorful characters. It now has many adaptations, including the 1929 film Adventures Inc., the 1983 episode The Secret Adversary, and the 2015 mini-series Partners in Crime.
“Never tell all you know — not even to the person you know best.”
Agatha Christie, The Secret Adversary
13. The Silver Needle Murder by Laura Childs
New York Times bestseller Laura Childs is best known for her “cozy” mystery series. Though part of a sequence, The Silver Needle Murder can be read as a standalone book.
There are two things The Silver Needle Murder serves its readers: a compelling murder mystery and teas, lots of them! Set in the charming city of Charleston, it revolves around Theodosia Browning, a tea shop owner turned amateur detective.
The story unfolds as Theodosia stumbles upon a perplexing murder during a film festival. The book delivers a brisk-paced narration with delightful dialogues, immersing the reader in a world of intrigue, suspense, and, of course, tea.
“Now Tea’s a tricky, skilled affair, Demanding discipline and care.”
Laura Childs, The Silver Needle Murder
14. Murder in the Gunroom by H. Beam Piper
As Murder in the Gunroom by H. Beam Piper was originally published in 1953, many consider it a period piece. It’s a riveting whodunit, with Piper presenting suspects with multiple motives, making the case more puzzling.
Since Piper was an avid gun collector, it’s unsurprising that he demonstrates his knowledge of firearms in the novel.
The story unveils the death of a gun collector, whose demise is hastily ruled as an accident. Enter protagonist Jeff Rand, a veteran and gun aficionado who suspects foul play and dives headfirst into the case.
Piper’s writing shines for its engrossing dialogues and expertly detailed technical descriptions of antique guns.
“It was hard to judge Jeff Rand’s age from his appearance […] Most of all, he looked like King Charles II of England anachronistically clad in a Brooks Brothers suit. At the moment, he was looking rather like King Charles II being bothered by one of his mistresses who wanted a peerage for her husband.”
H. Beam Piper, Murder in the Gunroom
15. Whose Body? by Dorothy L. Sayers
First published in 1923, Whose Body? is an introduction to Dorothy L. Sayers’ acclaimed 15-book Lord Peter Wimsey series.
Be prepared to be captivated by a perplexing mystery: a naked body is unexpectedly found in a bathtub with nothing but a pair of pince-nez glasses. Witty, intelligent, and debonair, Wimsey, an amateur sleuth, takes on the perplexing case.
Sayers is known for her intricate plots, careful satire, and well-drawn characters, making her works a delight to read.
“Even idiots occasionally speak the truth accidentally.”
Dorothy L. Sayers, Whose Body?
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16. The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
First published in 1915 in the German journal Die weißen Blätter, The Metamorphosis is an intriguing concoction of fantasy and sci-fi. It continues to spark debate among literary critics regarding the message Kafka was trying to convey.
The story centers around Gregor Samsa, who awakens one morning to find himself inexplicably transformed into a gigantic insect. In pop culture, the insect is often depicted as a giant cockroach, such as in its 2012 film adaptation, Metamorphosis. Kafka’s direct and factual storytelling is a great contrast to the absurdity of the tale.
The Guardian referred to it as “the greatest short story in all literary fiction.“
“I cannot make you understand. I cannot make anyone understand what is happening inside me. I cannot even explain it to myself.”
Franz Kafka, The Metamorphosis
17. Armageddon — 2419 AD by Philip Francis Nowlan
Armageddon — 2419 AD by Philip Francis Nowlan is a hoard for science fiction fans, marking the genesis of the iconic character Buck Rogers, who many will know from the 1970s TV series. Now you know where they got the idea from!
This tale catapults readers into a dystopian future where America is overrun by Mongol invaders. The protagonist, Anthony Rogers, was accidentally frozen in 1927 by radioactive gasses. He wakes up in 2419 AD, finding himself amid a rebellion.
The novel inspired a comic strip, and a radio serial, as well as the TV series, embedding Buck Rogers firmly into popular culture.
“My first glimpse of a human being of the 25th Century was obtained through a portion of woodland where the trees were thinly scattered, with a dense forest beyond.”
Philip Francis Nowlan, Armageddon — 2419 AD.
18. Grimm’s Fairy Tales by Jacob Grimm and Wilhelm Grimm
Grimms’ Fairy Tales, collated (yes, not penned) by the legendary brothers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, is a timeless compilation of 200 tales that have shaped the contours of the fantasy genre.
This collection is a rich tapestry of narratives, ensnaring readers with magic, witches, and royals adopted from oral literature. From Cinderella to Rapunzel, many of these stories have been immortalized in film, TV, opera, comics, and more.
Many still speculate that Grimm’s Fairy Tales are based on real characters and events, possibly elaborated upon, possibly not!
“Only preserve the love of God in thy heart, and all will go well with thee.”
Grimm Brothers, Grimm’s Fairy Tales
19. Auraria by Tim Westover
Tim Westover’s 2012 novel Auraria is a mesmerizing blend of Southern Appalachian folktales and enchanting magical imagery. The narrative is driven by ambitious protagonists who were tasked to transform the eerie town of Auraria, Georgia, into a plush, high-end tourist resort.
Westover creates an immersive reading experience, meticulously detailing the town’s mystical aura. His rich, atmospheric prose will make you feel as if you’re wandering through Auraria’s foggy streets along with the characters.
“Money’s a bad guest… It doesn’t stay long enough, and it makes an awful mess as it leaves.”
Tim Westover, Auraria
20. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams is a mix of fantasy, science fiction, and dystopia. Though the premise is terrifying, with protagonist Arthur Dent being the last surviving Earthman, the book spins an outlandishly hilarious tale of an unforgettable cosmic journey.
This 1979 masterpiece, brimming with quirky humor and intriguing philosophical musings, has not only won a spot on the New York Times bestseller list but also inspired adaptations in almost all forms of media, including a 1981 TV series and a 2005 movie.
“Space is big. You just won’t believe how vastly, hugely, mind-bogglingly big it is. I mean, you may think it’s a long way down the road to the chemist’s, but that’s just peanuts to space.”
Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
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21. The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan
Rick Riordan’s first installment to his The Heroes of Olympus series is the 2010 book The Lost Hero. It marks the beginning of another collection that will again demonstrate Riordan’s ability to marry educational content with action-packed storytelling.
Here, he introduces readers to a new trio of demigods — Jason, Piper, and Leo. If you’re a fan of the previous series, Percy is still a supporting character in this one.
Like his previous tales, Riordan sends his characters on a thrilling quest filled with ancient myths and formidable foes. It’s an enchanting universe where Greek and Roman mythologies coexist in the modern world, offering readers an exciting introduction to these classical tales.
Riordan’s vibrant storytelling earned him many accolades, such as the 2012 Best Fiction for Young Adults.
“You must forge your own path for it to mean anything.”
Rick Riordan, The Lost Hero
22. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
In 1865, Lewis Carroll bewitched the world with his book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The tale immerses readers in seven-year-old Alice’s whimsical journey into a fantasy land.
The novel’s unique blend of make-believe and absurdity makes it a treasure trove of entertainment and intellectual stimulation. Its impact is monumental, earning it a place in the Public Domain Books of All Time list.
It spawned countless adaptations in film, TV, and theater, including the celebrated 1951 Disney animated film.
“It’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then.”
Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland
23. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Journey back to Victorian England with one of the most iconic holiday tales of all time, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. This novella tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old miser, who learns the true meaning of Christmas through the visitations of four ghosts.
The 1843 book is an essential read for its timeless message of redemption, compassion, and holiday cheer. Adapted countless times into movies, TV series, and even comics, it’s a story that continues to resonate with audiences, young and old.
“There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.”
Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol
24. Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
In Mark Twain’s 1884 novel Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, readers follow the exploits of young Huckleberry Finn and his friend Jim, a runaway slave. This pre-Civil War epic is not just a fun tale of escapades. It’s also a profound exploration of morality, friendship, and the harsh realities of a racially divided society.
The book’s approach to these themes, along with its vivid depiction of American life in the 19th century, makes it a must-read for young adults.
“If you tell the truth you do not need a good memory!”
Mark Twain, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
25. Matilda by Roald Dahl
Matilda‘s magical narrative makes it a classic children’s book. Today, it’s kept alive through various adaptations, with the most recent being the 2022 Matilda the Musical. At its core, Roald Dahl’s novel teaches children the power of imagination and the joy of reading.
It’s the tale of young Matilda Wormwood, who uses her extraordinary intellect and telekinetic abilities to overcome challenges posed by her discourteous parents and the menacing school headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.
It received many honors, including the Children’s Book Award shortly after its publication in 1988.
“Never do anything by halves if you want to get away with it. Be outrageous. Go the whole hog. Make sure everything you do is so completely crazy it’s unbelievable…”
Roald Dahl, Matilda
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26. Out of the Black Land by Kerry Greenwood
Egypt has always been an alluring land of rich culture and captivating history. With Kerry Greenwood’s Out of the Black Land, you’ll be immersed in Egypt during its peak.
It’s 1335 BCE, and there’s a new pharaoh in charge, Akhenaten. Much like how Bloody Mary banned the Protestants from keeping to their faith, Akhnaten banned the Egyptians from worshipping the deities they’d believed in for years.
Greenwood’s extensive research on the era makes Out of the Black Land a great historical fiction read. It intricately weaves a tale of love, power, and betrayal set amidst the grandeur of the court of Pharaoh Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti.
“Truth came home one day, naked and wounded, having been beaten and cursed by the people who did not wish to hear, while his brother Falsehood went dressed in the brightest garments and feasted with every household.”
Kerry Greenwood, Out of the Black Land
27. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens’ 1989 novel, A Tale of Two Cities, is set in the vicious times of the French Revolution. It has been described as “a masterpiece of drama, adventure, courage, and romance.” The historical backdrop adds an enriching layer to Dickens’s exploration of human nature, affirming its status as one of the most important works in the Western literary canon.
The book has been adapted into numerous films and series, most notably the 1935 and 1958 movie versions.
“…every human creature is constituted to be that profound secret and mystery to every other.”
Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
28. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy’s 1865 historical fiction novel, War and Peace, offers a view of chaos’ influence on everything. It is a widely recognized literary masterpiece.
Tolstoy emphasizes that what’s considered “War” and “Peace” can only be decided by the people affected by it. In this novel, it’s the people of Russia who must decide how war will impact them. Will they let the war destroy them and their society? Or will war bind them in unity?
The story follows the lives of multiple characters from all walks of life, from the nobility to soldiers and peasants, as they struggle with the challenges of the time. Witness the best and worst of humanity in a war-torn 1812 Russia.
Winner of numerous accolades, this classic has been adapted into movies and television series, including Bondarchuk’s 1965 War and Peace.
“We can know only that we know nothing. And that is the highest degree of human wisdom.”
Leo Tolstoy, War and Peace
29. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief is an ensnaring tale that unearths the power of words in a time of chaos. What sets the 2006 novel apart is its unique narration — mainly using “Death” as a character who comments on the human race during World War II.
It revolves around Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany who finds solace in books stolen from various places. It is a beautiful and tragic tale from the perspective of a German family ruled by a regime they do not support but cannot openly challenge.
This captivating read, commended for its creative narration and profound themes, received numerous accolades, including the 2006 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best Book. The success of the book even led to a film adaptation in 2013.
“A small but noteworthy note. I’ve seen so many young men over the years who think they’re running at other young men. They are not. They are running at me.”
Markus Zusak, The Book Thief
30. Wideacre by Philippa Gregory
Philippa Gregory is a prolific historical fiction author who focuses on women of various periods. Her settings span many centuries, from 1066 to 2000. Her novels offer a frontrow seat to the customs and issues of those eras.
Wideacre, set in the 18th century, follows the entrancing Beatrice Lacey, who, consumed by a ferocious love for her family’s estate, defies societal norms and unleashes a chain of events that will echo for generations.
“I developed a style of writing: first person, so that you are in someone’s shoes, facing their dilemmas, and present tense, so that you have no historians’ hindsight, you are in the then and there, not looking back.”
Philippa Gregory, Wideacre
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31. Personal Memoirs of U.S. Grant, Complete by Ulysses S. Grant
Authored by the 18th US President himself, Personal Memoirs of U.S. Grant is a book that offers a firsthand account of Ulysses S. Grant’s experiences in the American Civil War. The memoirs are an exceptional artifact, esteemed for their undeniable honesty and incisive style.
It’s not merely a chronicle of war, either. Grant’s memoirs immortalize the man behind the military genius. Despite battling cancer while writing his memoirs, Grant did not let his work suffer. Even Mark Twain, a literary giant of the era, hailed it as an extraordinary work.
“But my later experience has taught me two lessons: first, that things are seen plainer after the events have occurred; second, that the most confident critics are generally those who know the least about the matter criticised.”
Ulysses S. Grant, Personal Memoirs of U.S. Grant
If you want to discover more biographies, check out our list of famous memoirs that every writer should read!
32. The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
Venture into the unforgiving realm of political power games with the 1513 novel slash-guide, The Prince.
Crafted by the Italian diplomat Niccolò Machiavelli, this book is renowned for its brutally realistic take on political leadership. It’s a pivotal work in political theory, exploring the raw essence of power and the tactics required to maintain it.
Recognized as a landmark in modern political philosophy, it remains a must-read for politics and history students.
“The lion cannot protect himself from traps, and the fox cannot defend himself from wolves. One must therefore be a fox to recognize traps, and a lion to frighten wolves.”
Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince
33. The Red Record by Ida B. Wells-Barnett
The Red Record explores the harsh realities of post-emancipation America. This 1895 investigative work by Ida B. Wells-Barnett explores the horrifying era of lynching in the United States.
Wells-Barnett’s brave analysis of racially motivated violence is as compelling as it is distressing. Her work, though challenging to consume, lends crucial insight into racial injustices that affected the African American population.
While not for the faint of heart, The Red Record is an essential read for anyone seeking a well-rounded understanding of American history.
“Burning and torture here lasts but a little while, but if I die with a lie on my soul, I shall be tortured forever. I am innocent.”
Ida B. Wells-Barnett, The Red Record
34. The BBC and the Second World War by Richard Havers
The BBC and the Second World War chronicles the journey of the British Broadcasting Corporation from a public service broadcaster to a crucial link between the government and the public. It offers a unique insight into how media can contribute to and shape historical events.
The author, Richard Havers, weaves a compelling narrative that makes this more than just a regular history book. It’s an experience — one that teleports you back into the world of the 1940s, complete with the feel of the airwaves and the tension of the times.
“The BBC’s employees did so with great skill, flair, imagination, dedication and tremendous tenacity, and they did it while never losing sight of their own imperative: ‘To tell the truth — in war as in peace.'”
Richard Havers, The BBC and the Second World War
35. Forbidden Knowledge: From Prometheus to Pornography by Roger Shattuck
In Forbidden Knowledge, Roger Shattuck weighs the pros and cons of intellectual stimulation, discovery, and moral responsibilities via historical and literary instances of “forbidden knowledge.” Shattuck also questions the very nature of curiosity and its consequences.
A blend of artistry and astute intellectual analysis, Forbidden Knowledge will challenge your mind and invite you to pick apart the ethics of discovery and understanding.
“Are there things we should not know? Can anyone or any institution in this culture of unfettered enterprise and growth, seriously propose limits on knowledge?”
Roger Shattuck, Forbidden Knowledge: From Prometheus to Pornography
