Some books are flashes in the pan, read for entertainment and then left on a bus seat for the next lucky person to pick up and enjoy, while others have the power to endure for generations, captivating readers with their timeless themes and thought-provoking narratives. The 1960s was a decade of immense social and political change, and the literature of this era reflects the tumultuous times in which they were written. From groundbreaking works of fiction to influential non-fiction texts, the books of the 1960s continue to resonate with readers today.
Whether because of sex, drugs, or talking pigs, great literature has often been banned across the world. Discover the stories behind the best and most controversial books of the 1960s and the impact they had on society at the time.
This may well be the peak year of historians' fascination with the '60s—and particularly political and civil rights history. The decade saw the rise of the counterculture movement, the Vietnam War, and the Civil Rights Movement, all of which shaped the literary landscape of the time.
If you remember the 60s, the saying goes, you weren't there. And for many of us who lived through those turbulent, exciting, and wildly different times, the books of the 1960s hold a special place in our hearts. The literature of this era captures the spirit of rebellion, experimentation, and social change that defined the decade.
BY TERRI THAL | I did it. I wrote a book. It focuses mostly on my life in the Village in the '60s, managing folk singers such as Dave Van Ronk and Fred Neil, and the publication of their songbooks.
This is the first installment of a multi-part series designed to introduce readers (or remind those already familiar) with the essential books of the 1960s. These works are not only literary masterpieces but also cultural touchstones that continue to shape our understanding of the world around us.
The public will vote on America's Best-Loved Novel as part of The Great American Read series beginning Tuesday, May 22 at 8 p.m. See and read about the top contenders from the 1960s and why they have stood the test of time.
This month, dive into a troubling account of life in a 1960s boarding school, devour a culinary adventure around the globe, and explore the complex history of race and identity in America through the lens of literature from the 1960s.
From the magic realism of the tropics to the 'gritty city', Latin American literature is as rich and beguiling as the region itself. Explore the works of iconic authors from the 1960s and discover the vibrant literary traditions that continue to captivate readers around the world.
