That might depend on your language level and interests. It's usually good to start with children's or juvenile books. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Book_Award_for_Young_People%27s_Literature http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newbery_Medal There are lots of recommendations for fiction, fantasy and sci-fi if you're ready. You should read some books from the NY Times Bestseller book list before reading the classics. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_The_New_York_Times_Fiction_Best_Sellers There's also a non-fiction list, too. Hope this helps!