Let's get one thing straight: this isn't a reference book. John Cowper Powys's One Hundred Best Books is a manifesto disguised as a list. Published in 1916, it's exactly what the title says—a personal selection of what Powys considered the essential works of Western literature. He starts with ancient classics like the Iliad and the Bible, moves through Shakespeare and Dante, and lands on then-modern writers like Thomas Hardy and Joseph Conrad.

The Story

There's no plot in the traditional sense. The 'story' is the journey of Powys's own mind as he wrestles with the whole of literature. Each entry is a short, intense essay. He doesn't just summarize Moby-Dick; he channels its chaotic energy. He doesn't analyze Dostoevsky; he feels his characters' spiritual torment. The book is structured as a list, but it reads like a series of feverish, brilliant conversations. Powys is your guide, and he's not interested in being balanced or academic. He's here to tell you what stirred his soul, what expanded his consciousness, and what books he thinks can do the same for you.

Why You Should Read It

You read this for the voice. Powys is opinionated, dramatic, and utterly captivating. He makes literary criticism feel urgent and alive. His reasons for loving a book are never dry; they're about passion, philosophy, and raw human experience. Reading his take on an author you know is like seeing them in a strange new light. Reading his take on an author you don't know makes you immediately want to find their work. This book is a masterclass in having a strong, unique point of view. It reminds you that reading is a personal adventure, not a homework assignment.

Final Verdict

Perfect for the curious reader who's tired of algorithm-generated lists and wants a human, flawed, and fiercely intelligent companion for their reading life. It's for anyone who loves talking about books as much as reading them. Don't treat it as gospel; treat it as a spark. You'll probably disagree with half his choices, and that's the point. This book isn't about giving you answers—it's about reigniting your own questions about what makes a story great. Keep it on your shelf, dip into it now and then, and let Powys's wild enthusiasm remind you why you fell in love with reading in the first place.