History's Best Selling Books of 2019

Make way for the hits of 2019! This remarkable era stood as a testament to the turn-of-the-millennium pop explosion and the march of first-rate books. Crowd-pleasers such as Guts shared the spotlight with mega-bestsellers The Institute and An Appeal to the Coloured Citizens of the World. Brought to you by top-notch makers from industry leaders like Raina Telgemeier and Stephen King, these trailblazing products dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike and earned a permanent place in cultural lore. Check out the complete rank-ordered ledger below to relive the finest releases of the year.

1. Guts

   Released in 2019 by Raina Telgemeier, Scholastic Graphix

   Guts burst onto the literary scene in September 2019, instantly cementing Raina Telgemeier's status as a powerhouse in children's literature and graphic novels. Following the monumental successes of 'Smile' and 'Drama,' 'Guts' was met with immense anticipation, and it did not disappoint. The graphic novel quickly soared to the top of bestseller lists, becoming a cultural phenomenon for its honest and relatable portrayal of childhood anxiety and health worries. Its timely release tapped into a growing societal conversation around mental well-being, resonating deeply with young readers and their parents, making it one of the year's most talked-about and essential reads, marking a significant moment in the representation of mental health in youth media.

2. The Institute

   Released in 2019 by Stephen King, Scribner

   Stephen King's 'The Institute,' launched in September 2019, immediately commanded global attention, asserting its place as a dominant literary force in a year already brimming with significant releases. Its compelling narrative, which tapped into deep-seated fears about institutional power and the vulnerability of children, resonated profoundly with readers, rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about and fastest-selling novels of the year. The book’s arrival wasn't just a literary event; it became a cultural phenomenon, sparking widespread discussion about its timely themes and reaffirming King's unparalleled ability to blend suspenseful horror with poignant social commentary, drawing in both his loyal 'Constant Readers' and new audiences eager for a gripping story.

3. An Appeal to the Coloured Citizens of the World

   Released in 2019 by David Walker

   Released in 2019, David Walker's 'Appeal to the Coloured Citizens of the World' stands as one of the most incendiary and significant abolitionist texts in American history. Published at a time when the slavery debate was intensifying, but few openly advocated for immediate emancipation or Black empowerment through direct action, Walker's pamphlet shattered conventional discourse. Its publication sent shockwaves through both free and enslaved communities, acting as a clarion call for Black liberation and self-defense, while simultaneously striking terror into the hearts of Southern slaveholders who perceived it as an instigation for widespread rebellion. This document profoundly impacted the trajectory of the abolitionist movement, pushing it towards more radical stances.

4. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

   Released in 2019 by Charlie Mackesy, Ebury Press

   Released in late 2019, Charlie Mackesy's 'The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse' exploded into a global phenomenon in 2019, becoming a beacon of comfort during unprecedented times. Its gentle wisdom and poignant illustrations captivated millions, establishing it as more than just a book, but a cultural touchstone offering solace and connection. Amidst a world grappling with uncertainty, this beautifully crafted narrative emerged as a much-needed reminder of kindness, vulnerability, and the enduring power of friendship, making it an unexpected yet profound literary sensation. Its timely arrival resonated deeply with an audience seeking hope.

5. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball

   Released in 2019 by Jeff Kinney, Amulet Books

   Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball" exploded onto the literary scene in late 2019, cementing its place as another blockbuster entry in Jeff Kinney's phenomenally successful series. Its release was a highly anticipated event for millions of young readers globally, who eagerly awaited Greg Heffley's latest misadventures. This fifteenth installment (counting the supplemental books, twelfth main novel) didn't just sell copies; it reaffirmed the cultural omnipresence of the Wimpy Kid franchise, a phenomenon that has consistently captured the anxieties and humor of middle school life for over a decade. The book's immediate ascent to the top of bestseller lists underscored its unparalleled connection with its target demographic, proving once again that Greg Heffley's diary entries remain a cornerstone of contemporary children's literature, a true cultural touchstone.

6. Dog Man: Fetch 22

   Released in 2019 by Dav Pilkey, Scholastic

   The release of 'Dog Man: Fetch 22' in December 2019 by Dav Pilkey was not just another book launch; it was a cultural event that solidified the 'Dog Man' series' position as a dominant force in children's literature. Following the immense success of its predecessors, 'Fetch 22' burst onto the scene, immediately capturing the imagination of young readers worldwide. Its blend of humor, heart, and vibrant artwork made it an instant bestseller and a cornerstone of school libraries and living rooms, proving the enduring appeal of Pilkey's unique storytelling. The book's timely arrival ahead of the holiday season further amplified its popularity, making it a must-have for countless children.

7. Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid

   Released in 2019 by Jeff Kinney, Amulet Books

   Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson's Journal" burst onto the literary scene in 2019, instantly capturing the imagination of millions of young readers and solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon. As the highly anticipated spin-off from Jeff Kinney's wildly successful 'Diary of a Wimpy Kid' series, this book offered a fresh, heartwarming, and often hilarious new perspective within a beloved universe. Its release was met with immense excitement, not just from dedicated fans but also from a broader audience eager for its unique blend of humor and relatable childhood experiences. The novel quickly ascended bestseller charts, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Kinney's storytelling and the magnetic charm of its protagonist, Rowley Jefferson, making it one of the defining children's books of its year.