12 Heartfelt Books That Will Make You Cry Your Eyes Out

Reading a good book can evoke a wide range of emotions, but some books have a unique ability to move us to tears. If you’re looking for a cathartic read, here are 12 books that will make you cry. The sad books are beautifully written, make you feel things, and give you deep insights into what it means to be human.

1. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

This book for young adults tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teens with cancer who fall in love. Their journey together is filled with joy and sorrow, making “The Fault in Our Stars” one of the saddest books ever. John Green’s writing captures the fragility of life and the beauty of love in the face of tragedy.

2. A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Following the lives of four friends over many years, “A Little Life” is an emotional roller ride. Trauma, trust, and making it through hard times are all explored in the book. Jude, one of the central characters, has a slowly revealed past, and his story is heart-wrenching. This is one of those emotional books that makes you feel things and stays with you.

3. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

“The Kite Runner” is set in an Afghanistan that is changing. It’s the story of Amir and Hassan, two boys from different social groups who become close. The book is about betrayal, healing, and forgiving others. Khaled Hosseini’s storytelling is powerful and evocative, making this one of the most heartbreaking books ever read.

4. Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

“Me Before You” follows the story of Louisa Clark, a quirky young woman who becomes a caregiver for Will Traynor, a wealthy and successful man paralyzed after an accident. Their relationship transforms both lives, but the ending is profoundly sad. This book is a must-read for those looking for sad books to read that also offer moments of humor and hope.

5. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

In “The Book Thief,” Death is the narrator and describes Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds comfort in stealing books and lending them to others. The novel is filled with moments of beauty and tragedy, and the fate of the characters is deeply moving. You’ll cry while reading it, and the seriousness of the feelings it stirs up will stay with you long after you finish it.

6. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson

This classic children’s novel tells the story of Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke, two friends who create a magical kingdom in the woods. Their friendship is heartwarming, but the story turns tragic, leaving readers in tears. “Bridge to Terabithia” is one of those sad books that beautifully captures childhood innocence and the pain of loss.

7. A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

Another masterpiece by Khaled Hosseini, “A Thousand Splendid Suns,” focuses on the lives of two Afghan women, Mariam and Laila, whose lives become intertwined through shared hardships. The book is about love, suffering, and being strong. The characters’ struggles and triumphs are deeply emotional, making this one of the saddest books you’ll ever read.

8. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

A famous story, “Where the Red Fern Grows,” is about Billy Colman and his two hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann. Their adventures and their bond are heartwarming, but the story’s conclusion is incredibly sad. This book is perfect for those seeking sad books to read that also celebrate the loyalty and love of pets.

9. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

The sad and haunting book “The Lovely Bones” is about a girl named Susie Salmon who is killed and then goes to heaven to watch her family fight to deal with her death. The book is both sad and hopeful, and it’s about loss, sadness, and getting better. It’s one of the saddest books of all time, and its emotional depth is profound.

10. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

The famous short story “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck is about George and Lennie, two ranch workers who have to leave their jobs because of the Great Depression. Tragic events shatter their dream of owning a piece of land, and the conclusion is particularly heartbreaking. This is one of those sad books that offers a powerful commentary on friendship and the human condition.

11. The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

“The Time Traveler’s Wife” is a unique love story about Henry, a man whose genetic problem makes him travel through time without warning, and Clare, his wife, who loves him no matter what. Their relationship is filled with joy and sorrow, and the novel’s ending is incredibly moving. This is one of the most emotional books you’ll read, blending science fiction with deep emotional resonance.

12. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Through the eyes of Scout Finch, “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a timeless classic that talks about racism and moral growth. The novel’s portrayal of prejudice and hatred-shattering innocence is extraordinarily moving. This is one of those sad books that will make you cry while inspiring you to think deeply about justice and empathy.

Grab a tissue and start reading some books that will make you cry!

These 12 books that will make you cry are perfect for readers looking for a powerful emotional experience. Each of these sad books tells a unique story that will tug at your heartstrings and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re in the mood for historical fiction, young adult novels, or classic literature, there’s something on this list for everyone who enjoys reading heartbreaking books. So, grab a box of tissues and dive into these emotional books that will make you shed a tear or two.