10+ Best Books for 60-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read as you embrace the vibrant age of 60? Discovering books tailored to your life stage can transform your reading experience. Our curated list of books for 60-year-olds offers a variety of captivating reads that resonate with your unique journey. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, adventure, or a touch of nostalgia, we’ve got something special for you. Keep reading to explore our diverse selection of books for 60-year-olds, perfectly picked to match your interests and lifestyle!

Fun Books for 60-Year-Olds

• A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Ove, a curmudgeonly old man whose life changes when a new family moves in next door and inadvertently challenges his solitary, regimented world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching narrative that blends humor with heartfelt moments, ideal for those who appreciate stories of unexpected friendships and second chances.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy character-driven novels and stories about personal transformation.

• The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: On his 100th birthday, Allan Karlsson escapes from his nursing home and embarks on an unexpected journey involving, among other surprises, a suitcase full of cash and an elephant.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with a series of escapades that provide a light-hearted, entertaining read, perfect for those looking to escape into a whimsical adventure.
  • Perfect for: Individuals who love quirky stories and have a taste for adventure in their reading material.

• The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Epistolary
  • Synopsis: Through a series of letters, this novel explores the experiences of Juliet Ashton and her correspondence with the residents of Guernsey Island, who lived under German occupation during WWII.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a charming and enriching exploration of resilience and the power of books to unite people, making it a fulfilling read for those who value historical insights and literary culture.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and lovers of novels that focus on community and the human spirit.

• Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson
  • Genre(s): Romance, Cultural
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around Major Ernest Pettigrew, a retired British army officer, who leads a quiet life in a small village until his friendship with Mrs. Jasmina Ali takes a surprising turn towards something deeper.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and thoughtful look at love in later life, cultural differences, and small-town dynamics, providing both humor and poignancy.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a slow-building romance and a look at cross-cultural relationships.

• The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Retired salesman Harold Fry embarks on an impromptu walk across England to deliver a letter to an old friend who is dying, meeting various characters along the way that help him understand his past.
  • Why we recommend this book: This novel beautifully captures the themes of redemption and self-discovery, making it a compelling read for those in their golden years looking to reflect on life's journey.
  • Perfect for: Individuals who enjoy tales of self-discovery and those who believe it's never too late for a new adventure.

Educational Books for 60-Year-Olds

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book provides a compelling overview of the history of our species, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age up to the twenty-first century, focusing on why humans have dominated the planet.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, understanding of human evolution
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fascinating insight into the complexities of human history and our impact on the world, encouraging readers to think about the future of humanity.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and anyone interested in the science of human evolution and society.

• Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Health, Medicine
  • Synopsis: This book explores the challenges of aging and dying, and how the medical profession handles the end-of-life stage. It argues for a shift in focus towards ensuring quality of life, rather than merely prolonging it.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of medical ethics, awareness of end-of-life care, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an important and thoughtful examination of how our society deals with aging and death, providing valuable insights into making the later years meaningful.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in medical ethics or anyone facing the realities of aging and mortality.

• The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Technology
  • Synopsis: This biography details the lives of the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, from their early interest in flying to their historic flight at Kitty Hawk, emphasizing their perseverance and ingenuity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, technological understanding, inspirational stories of perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a meticulously researched and engagingly written account of two of America's greatest inventors and their quest to achieve human flight.
  • Perfect for: Fans of American history, aviation enthusiasts, and readers who appreciate stories of innovation and determination.

• The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo
  • Genre(s): Self-Help, Lifestyle
  • Synopsis: Marie Kondo introduces her KonMari Method of decluttering and organizing, focusing on keeping only those items that "spark joy" and discarding the rest to create a tidier and more serene environment.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Organizational skills, decision-making, mindfulness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a simple, effective approach to decluttering that can lead to a more organized and peaceful living space and mindset.
  • Perfect for: Anyone looking to declutter their home and simplify their life, particularly those in a transitional phase or downsizing in retirement.

• Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Genre(s): Science, Astrophysics
  • Synopsis: This book offers a quick and accessible introduction to the fundamental principles of astrophysics, addressing key questions about the universe in Tyson's characteristically engaging style.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific literacy, understanding of the universe, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills complex concepts into understandable explanations, making the vast universe more accessible to everyone, regardless of their scientific background.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who want to understand more about the cosmos but don’t have the time to delve into more complex texts.

Challenging Books for 60-Year-Olds

• Middlemarch by George Eliot
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in a fictitious English town in the early 19th century, this novel explores the lives of several inhabitants, focusing on their complex relationships, social expectations, and personal quests for happiness.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative's depth, with its multiple characters and interlinked stories, requires careful attention and reflection to fully appreciate its themes and literary complexities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound exploration of human nature, morality, and the societal web that shapes our actions, making it a rewarding read for those who enjoy intellectual stimulation and detailed character development.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate nuanced storytelling and are interested in the social and political landscapes of Victorian England.

• In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust
  • Genre(s): Modernist, Literary Fiction
  • Synopsis: This monumental work delves into the memories of its narrator, exploring the themes of time, memory, and desire across different periods of his life and the changing social fabric of France.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its length, intricate sentence structures, and deep philosophical reflections make it a demanding read that requires patience and commitment.
  • Why we recommend this book: The novel's rich, lyrical prose and deep exploration of personal and collective memory offer a profound insight into how our past experiences shape our present and future.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy literary challenges and are fascinated by the intricacies of memory and time.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Postmodern
  • Synopsis: Set during the final months of World War II in Europe, this complex novel explores the impact of technology and paranoia on society through a multitude of characters and intersecting plots.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its dense and complex narrative structure, obscure references, and deep thematic content, it demands significant intellectual engagement.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful blend of historical detail, scientific research, and cultural analysis, making it an enriching read for those who appreciate multifaceted narratives and deep intellectual challenges.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a challenging read that combines history, science, and literature.

• The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Satire, Romance
  • Synopsis: In Soviet Moscow, the devil arrives with his retinue to wreak havoc in the literary community, paralleled by the story of Pontius Pilate in ancient Jerusalem, interwoven with love and betrayal.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its blend of fantasy, romance, and political satire layered with allegorical and philosophical depth provides a challenging yet rewarding experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: This novel offers a unique blend of humor, history, and philosophy, all while critiquing Soviet society, making it a timeless read that resonates with various reader interests.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in Russian literature and readers who enjoy novels that combine the surreal with the deeply philosophical.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist, Literary Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel chronicles the peripatetic appointments and encounters of Leopold Bloom in Dublin in the course of an ordinary day, 16 June 1904.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its stream of consciousness writing style and deep literary allusions, the book is considered one of the most challenging to read and interpret.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an unparalleled literary experience, offering rich insights into each character's thoughts and feelings while exploring profound themes such as identity, belonging, and the human condition.
  • Perfect for: Avid readers who appreciate literary innovation and are looking for a deep dive into one of the landmarks of modernist literature.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're in your 60s and looking to build or maintain your reading habits, you've come to the right place. As we age, keeping our minds engaged through reading can not only be a joy but also incredibly beneficial. Here are some simple exercises tailored just for you to help cultivate a rich reading routine:

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a specific number of pages or a set amount of time to read each day.
  • How it helps: This creates a consistent habit and ensures regular reading.
  • Tips: Start small, perhaps with 15 minutes or 10 pages, and gradually increase.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books on a regular basis.
  • How it helps: Stimulates deeper engagement with the text and provides social interaction.
  • Tips: Look for local libraries or online platforms that host book clubs.

• Explore Different Genres
  • What it is: Make an effort to read books from a variety of genres.
  • How it helps: Expands your perspective and prevents reading from becoming monotonous.
  • Tips: Rotate your selection to include a mix of fiction, non-fiction, biography, poetry, etc.

• Use Technology to Your Advantage
  • What it is: Utilize e-readers, audiobooks, and reading apps.
  • How it helps: Offers convenience, adjustable text sizes, and portability.
  • Tips: Many libraries provide free access to digital books and audiobooks.

• Create a Comfortable Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special spot in your home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances your reading experience by making it comfortable and inviting.
  • Tips: Ensure good lighting, a comfy chair, and minimal distractions.

• Reflect on Your Reading
  • What it is: Take time to think about what you've read after finishing a book or a chapter.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Consider discussing the book with a friend or writing a brief summary.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

Implementing these exercises can not only enhance your reading experience but also keep your cognitive wheels turning. Whether you're revisiting old favorites or exploring new authors and genres, the key is to enjoy the journey of reading. Happy reading!