Let us have a look at the compilation of the top 10 bestselling books of all time based on the combined sales of all the editions of the books covered in the list.
1. The Bible
Author- many contributed; 2.5-6 billion copies sold (inconclusive
Although we may not be able to get material evidence to ascertain the exact number of copies sold, The Bible is easily the most widely read Book of the human race. When the Printing Press was first invented during the Renaissance, the Bible was the first to be printed.
2. Quotations from the Works of Mao Tse-Tung
Author- Mao Tse-tung; 800 million copies sold
It is also known as The Red Book. Its claim to second spot in the circle of 10 most popular books is mainly due to the large population of its captive readership.
3. A Tale of Two Cities
Author-Charles Dickens-200 million copies sold
The book is set in Paris and London before and during the French Revolution. It also examines the strife of Third Estate against the aristocracy.
4. Lord of the Rings
Author: J.R.R. Tolken-150 million copies sold
The books are high fantasy epics that are beloved 50 years later by fans all around the world. It is a continuation of the Hobbit which was another fantasy novel written by the same author.
5. The Guinness Book of Records
Author- unknown; 115 million copies sold
This bestseller made it to the top because of our penchant for the outrageous and even the bizarre extremes. If you care to learn about the largest ball of ear wax then this book should be on your bookshelf.
6. American Spelling Book
Author- Noah Webster; 100 million copies sold
This bestseller is an American classic and is the most popular tool of many Americans in honing up their spelling skills. Most Americans give their two thumbs up to this classic bestseller.
7. The Hobbit
Author-J.R.R. Tolken; 100 million copies sold
This work of fantasy fiction was a predecessor to the Lord of the Rings written by the same author. It was nominated for the Carnegie Medal and won the award from the New York Times Tribune.
8. The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
Author-C.S. Lewis-85 million copies sold
It was ranked by Times as one of 100 Best English Language Novels from 1923 to 2005. The book was published in 47 languages and surrounds the story of a family torn by war in London (WWII).
9. World Almanac
Author- unknown; 80 million copies sold
This book has become one of regular fixture of book collection of the typical American family and is a ready reference for a quick look at important facts and figures of countries around the globe.
10. The Davinci Code
Author: Dan Brown; 80 million (2009)
This book was eventually adapted into a movie starring Tom Hanks. It really put conspiracy theories to the test on Davinci and the meaning of his paintings. You’ll never look at each painting with the same eye and the same look after reading this book. It has been translated into 44 languages.
The Harry Potter series sold 450 million copies; it should be like #3 on the list. Update the list…