Best Books About California

This iconic nonfiction work by a renowned prose stylist captures the essence of 1960s America, with a focus on California. The author explores topics such as John Wayne, Howard Hughes, growing up in California and the nature of good and evil. However, the heart of the book lies in its vivid portrayal of San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury district, which was the epicenter of the counterculture movement.

A group of four Chinese immigrant women in 1940s San Francisco play mahjong and share stories of their pasts in "The Joy Luck Club." Their daughters, who lead modern American lives, initially dismiss their mothers' advice until they face their own inner crises and discover how much they've inherited from their mothers' pasts. Amy Tan's insightful and poignant examination of the complex relationship between mothers and daughters reveals secrets and intertwining ties that will keep readers engaged in this tale of intrigue and mystery.

A master of the 'hard-boiled' detective novel, Raymond Chandler introduced readers to Philip Marlowe, a streetwise and heroic private eye, in his first novel, The Big Sleep. With his articulate and literary writing style, Chandler won over a wide audience, from the everyday person to the intellectual elite. Selected as one of Time Magazine's All-Time 100 Novels, this book will keep you on your toes from the very first sentence.

Explore the intricate lives of two families in California during the early 1900s. Follow the story of a warmhearted Irish immigrant and his family living on rough land and how their lives intertwine with wealthy newcomer, Adam Trask. A modern classic that sweeps across generations, East of Eden captures the complexities of family, love, and morality in a rapidly changing world.

Discover the hidden truths of Los Angeles with this captivating read. Delve into the city's power struggles, exploring who controls the money and the ongoing battle between the privileged and the underprivileged.

A collision course between two couples in Topanga Canyon: Los Angeles liberals leading an ordered existence in a hilltop community, and Mexican illegals clinging to their American Dream while fighting starvation in a deep ravine. Their worlds intersect in a tragicomedy of error and misunderstanding after a freak accident brings them into intimate contact.

Embark on an exciting adventure to California during the Gold Rush with a determined twelve-year-old and his trusty butler in search of gold. This classic rollicking tale has sold nearly a million copies and promises adventure and trouble at every turn. Will they strike gold in San Francisco or come home empty-handed? Don't miss the new edition with illustrations by Brett Helquist.

A fascinating exploration of California's history and culture, Where I Was From delves deep into the state's relationships with self-sufficiency, land, water, and more. Joan Didion's unique blend of history, memoir, and literary criticism creates an intellectually stimulating and deeply personal read. With her sharp, observant writing, Didion reassesses her own life and work while exploring the complex intersections of California's past and present.

A mysterious 24-hour bookstore in San Francisco catches the eye of Clay Jannon, a former web-designer. But the absence of customers buying books is just the beginning of strange occurrences. Digging deeper with the help of his friends, Clay unravels the secrets hidden inside, leading to a thrilling adventure beyond the bookstore's walls.

Private investigator Sam Spade takes on a case to find a missing woman, but soon discovers that his client is not who she seems. When Spade's partner is murdered, he becomes both the hunter and the hunted in the search for a valuable and deadly treasure. Will he be able to outsmart those who want him dead?