Every reader has done it—we pick up a book, read a few chapters, and decide it’s just not for us. Sometimes that’s absolutely the right call. Life is too short to force yourself through a book you’re not enjoying, and I’m a firm believer that it’s okay to DNF (Did Not Finish) a book that isn’t working for you.
But every once in a while, a story asks for a little more patience. Maybe it’s the writing style, the pacing, or the way the plot slowly unfolds. Then, almost without realizing it, something clicks. The characters come alive, the story finds its rhythm, and you’re suddenly glad you didn’t set it aside. Here are six books that, for me, proved to be worth the wait.
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
Stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash, a group of schoolboys attempt to govern themselves while waiting to be rescued. As civilization slowly gives way to fear and chaos, the novel explores power, survival, and the darker side of human nature.
I remember wondering why this book had become such a classic while I was reading the first few chapters. The pacing is deliberate, and the symbolism isn’t immediately obvious. But as the story unfolded, I found myself thinking less about the boys on the island and more about what Golding was trying to say about humanity. It’s one of those books that becomes even more powerful after you’ve finished it.
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
After fourteen-year-old Susie Salmon is murdered, she watches from heaven as her family struggles to cope with her loss while her killer continues living among them. Through Susie’s unique perspective, the novel explores grief, healing, hope, and the enduring bonds of love.
The premise alone made me hesitate because I expected it to be unbearably sad. While it certainly is emotional, I was surprised by how much heart and hope the story also carries. It’s less about the crime itself and more about the people left behind, making it a deeply moving read that stayed with me long after I turned the final page.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
Spanning decades, this novel follows four college friends as they build careers, relationships, and lives in New York City. At its center is Jude, whose traumatic past slowly comes to light, revealing a story of extraordinary friendship, love, pain, and resilience.
This is probably the most emotionally demanding book I’ve ever read. It’s long, heartbreaking, and not one I’d recommend without encouraging readers to check the content warnings first. But if you decide to take the journey, you’ll find an unforgettable exploration of friendship and the lasting impact of love and trauma. It’s not an easy read, but it’s certainly a memorable one.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Ryland Grace wakes up alone aboard a spacecraft with no memory of who he is or why he’s there. As his memories gradually return, he realizes he’s humanity’s last hope to save Earth from an extinction-level threat.
At first, all the science felt a little intimidating, and I wasn’t sure if this book was for me. But once the story found its footing—and especially after a certain unforgettable character was introduced—I couldn’t put it down. Even if science fiction isn’t your usual genre, I’d encourage you to give this one a chance.
Circe by Madeline Miller
Born to the sun god Helios but lacking the power expected of a goddess, Circe is banished to a remote island, where she discovers her own strength through magic, love, and solitude. Along the way, she crosses paths with many familiar figures from Greek mythology.
Madeline Miller’s writing is beautiful, but it’s also slower and more lyrical than many readers might expect. I needed a little time to settle into her storytelling style, but once I did, I was completely immersed. Circe’s journey from overlooked daughter to powerful woman is one I still think about today.
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley
In a near-future Britain, a government experiment brings historical figures into the present day. A civil servant is assigned to help one of them adjust to modern life, but what begins as an unusual assignment soon develops into a story about love, belonging, and the consequences of trying to change history.
This isn’t the fast-paced time-travel adventure I expected, and I think that’s exactly why it worked so well. It blends science fiction, romance, historical fiction, and literary fiction in a way that feels completely original. If you’re willing to embrace its slower, character-driven approach, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most unique books I’ve read in recent years.
Not every book deserves a second chance, and there’s nothing wrong with setting one aside if it simply isn’t for you. Reading should be enjoyable, not an obligation. But every so often, a book surprises us by revealing its brilliance only after we’ve given it a little more time. Those are often the stories that stay with us the longest.
Have you ever almost given up on a book, only for it to become one of your favorites? I’d love to hear about it. Send your recommendations to ihorton@whatsupmag.com—I’m always looking for books that are worth the extra patience.
