5 Books That Will Crush Your Soul but Keep You Hooked
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- January 20, 2025
- 3:32 pm
- 33
- Food & Lifestyle
Soul-crushing books have a special place in every reader’s heart. These stories are emotionally intense, and they leave you questioning everything. Some novels challenge your perceptions, while others push you to your emotional limits. If you’re ready for books that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you in tears, here are five must-read books you need to pick up this year.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
A Little Life is the first book you should dive into. This 600+ page novel will take you on an emotional roller coaster. The story follows four friends—JB, Malcolm, Williem, and Jude—through their personal struggles. Prepare for an emotional journey full of laughter, tears, and moments of despair. The book’s raw portrayal of trauma and love is both difficult to read and impossible to put down. It’s intense, heartbreaking, and unforgettable. If you’re ready for an emotional challenge, this is a soul-crushing book that deserves your attention.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Normal People is another powerful, soul-crushing book that stays with you long after you finish reading. It tells the story of Connell and Marianne, two young people navigating love, friendship, and personal turmoil. The novel explores deep issues like male fragility and emotional abuse, making it a profoundly impactful read. Rooney’s writing is contemporary and familiar, but it’s filled with raw emotion and stunning complexity. The connection between the characters feels genuine, making their struggles even harder to ignore. Get ready for a heart-wrenching ride that will leave you reflecting on your own relationships.
Cracking India by Bapsi Sidhwa
Cracking India takes readers into a historical and emotional journey during the partition of India in 1947. The book follows Lenny, a young girl who experiences the brutal events of the division, witnessing the chaos and violence that shaped the region. The story is told through Lenny’s eyes, offering a unique perspective on the hardships faced during this time. As Lenny’s innocence fades, you’ll feel the pain and loss she experiences. This soul-crushing book will leave you emotionally drained but deeply moved by its powerful message.
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is a short, yet powerful tale that will crush your soul. Set during the Holocaust, the story follows Bruno, a young boy who befriends another boy named Shmuel. What Bruno doesn’t know is that Shmuel lives in a concentration camp. This tragic story about innocence and friendship amidst a brutal historical event will stay with you long after you turn the last page. The unexpected ending will leave you speechless, making this book one of the most emotionally impactful reads on this list.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner is a classic soul-crushing book that you must read. Set in war-torn Afghanistan, the story revolves around Amir and Hassan, two childhood friends who are torn apart by betrayal. The book dives deep into themes of guilt, redemption, and love, making it both heart-wrenching and powerful. Hosseini’s storytelling will captivate you from the first page, taking you through a journey of sorrow and hope. The emotional depth of this novel will leave you a changed person by the end, as it highlights the importance of friendship and forgiveness.
Conclusion
Soul-crushing books are not easy to read, but they offer an emotional experience that is deeply rewarding. From A Little Life’s heartbreaking portrayal of trauma to The Kite Runner’s journey of redemption, these books will keep you hooked while breaking your heart. Be prepared to shed tears, question your beliefs, and reflect on life’s complexities. These novels are not just stories—they are powerful reminders of the human condition and our emotional resilience.
