In a stunning turn of events, JRR Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings has been crowned the greatest novel in English by Guardian readers, pushing George Eliot's Middlemarch from the top spot. The readers' poll, which drew thousands of votes from around the globe, reveals a preference for works that blend fantasy, adventure, and profound themes.
The Rise of Tolkien
Tolkien's epic trilogy, first published in 1954 after a long and tumultuous journey, resonated with readers from Uruguay to Sydney. Andrea Clark from Alabama praised its deep meaning about life, sacrifice, and the natural world. Geri in Paris credited the book for helping her learn English, immersing herself in its words and world. The novel's appeal spans generations, from a retired primatologist in New Mexico to a farmer in Hawaii.
Why Tolkien?
The enduring popularity of The Lord of the Rings may stem from its roots in ancient myth, offering a primal recognition of the battle between good and evil. Many readers first encountered Middle-earth in their youth, forming a lasting bond. Michael, a doctor in London, expressed a desire to join the Fellowship even in adulthood.
Other Notable Entries
The list also features beloved classics like Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird, JD Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye, and Ernest Hemingway's works. Watership Down by Richard Adams is a standout, reflecting the pull of childhood reads. Jane Austen remains the most nominated author, though Emma slipped behind modern favorites like Donna Tartt's The Secret History and Ian McEwan's Atonement.
Adaptations and Humor
Film adaptations boosted the popularity of Austen and Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights. Humor found its place with Joseph Heller's Catch-22, which rose to joint eighth place alongside One Hundred Years of Solitude. David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest entered at 31st, sharing a spot with The Master and Margarita and The Poisonwood Bible. John Kennedy Toole's A Confederacy of Dunces also made the cut, a testament to its comic brilliance.
Omissions and Surprises
Notably absent are literary giants like Saul Bellow, Philip Roth, John Updike, and Don DeLillo, reflecting shifting reputations. Iris Murdoch and CP Snow were also overlooked. Victorian literature remains strong, with Middlemarch still beloved for its wit and depth. Readers lamented the lack of lighter works, such as Sue Townsend's The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole or PG Wodehouse.
The list underscores the power of readers to champion overlooked masterpieces and the joy of discovering endless literary treasures. As one reader noted, books offer a world of creativity that we can never fully exhaust.
