9 Must-Read Books of 2026

The Hindustan Chronicles presents "Top 9 Must-Read Books of 2026", celebrating powerful stories and brilliant authors shaping today's literary landscape-books that inspire, engage, and leave a lasting impact.

Mysteries, Mountains, and Mythology

Mysteries, Mountains, and Mythology brings Uttarakhand's forests and villages to life through ten captivating tales for young readers. Rooted in the region's rich culture, the book reimagines traditional folktales, blending wisdom, magic, and mystery from ancient storytelling traditions. It offers an engaging glimpse into the heritage of the mountains while inspiring imagination. Authored by Supriya Bansal, a doctor and award-winning writer, the book reflects her creative spirit. With contributions to over 30 anthologies and multiple accolades, including the Orange Flower Award, she continues to enchant readers with her storytelling and passion for children's literature. Connect at @supriya_banter

The Wealth Wizard

The Wealth Wizard introduces children and parents to essential financial concepts through simple, engaging language. It explores the history of money, encourages smart saving habits, and highlights age-appropriate earning opportunities. The book also explains how wealth grows through investments while simplifying key ideas like income, expenses, and interest rates. Authored by Vaishali Varia, an entrepreneur and financial wellness advocate, the book reflects her belief in combining financial literacy with emotional intelligence. As founder of ThinkPeepal, she promotes early financial awareness through workshops and webinars, helping individuals and families build a strong, confident foundation for long-term financial well-being. Connect at @thinkpeepal_official

The Universe is Pranking

What if the universe isn't as predictable as we think? In The Universe is Pranking Us, Dr. Mrittunjoy Guha Majumdar delivers a gripping work of science non-fiction that dives into modern physics to explore uncertainty and the limits of absolute knowledge, challenging readers to rethink how reality truly works. With a foreword by Nobel laureate Prof. Brian Josephson and endorsements from the likes of Prof. Gregory Chaitin and Prof. Subhash Kak, the book comes with serious intellectual firepower. Following the success of his bestseller From Shiva to Schrödinger_, this new release is a sharp, intriguing pick for readers looking to question everything they thought they knew about the universe. Connect at @mrittunjoy.guhamajumdar

Kurukshetra Has Wi-Fi

Kurukshetra Has Wi-Fi is a contemporary reinterpretation of the Bhagavad Gita, set not on a battlefield but within the fast-paced corporate world. It follows Manjari, a capable leader navigating ethical dilemmas, inner conflict, and professional pressures. Through the guiding presence of Krishna-portrayed as a modern coach-the story explores self-awareness, decision-making, and emotional balance. Blending humour with sharp insights, the book raises timeless questions about leadership, guilt, and freedom. The author presents a thoughtful, relatable narrative that bridges ancient wisdom with modern life, offering readers a reflective and meaningful reading experience. Connect at @rajaniarvind

Why I'm Crazy About Japan

Why I'm Crazy About Japan by Ashutosh Rawal is a lively collection of real-life experiences reflecting his deep admiration for Japan's culture, discipline, and people. Through witty storytelling, he shares small yet impactful incidents that shaped his worldview, blending humor with subtle life lessons. Spanning over three decades, the book traces his journey from a curious student to a thoughtful observer, making it engaging for all readers.

Ashutosh Rawal is a traveler, photographer, and tourism professional promoting cultural exchange. He leads a travel company, teaches tourism studies, and actively contributes to Indo-Japan relations while pursuing adventure and social work. Connect at @ashutoshvrawal

Poetic Pearls

Poetic Pearls by Kirti V is a captivating collection of 75 poems exploring love, sorrow, inspiration, grief, and patriotism through diverse poetic styles. The verses reflect deep observation and emotion, echoing Edgar Allan Poe's belief that poetry is the rhythmic creation of beauty in words. Kirti V, an award-winning writer and former IT professional turned educator, is a multilingual bibliophile whose literary journey began during the pandemic and continues to gain recognition across literary platforms and accolades. Connect at @kirti_santosh

The United Nations Conspiracy

The United Nations Conspiracy is a gripping geopolitical thriller set in New York City, launching a 10-book series filled with high-stakes tension and global intrigue. It follows a young Indian Foreign Service officer entangled in secret networks, bio-threats, and shadow diplomacy linked to powerful international institutions. As truth blurs and loyalties shift, the story explores the cost of preserving global order with sharp realism and suspense. Authored by Sharath "Da Saint" Shivani, an emerging Indian writer, the series reflects his deep understanding of power systems and human conflict, shaped by his background in global program leadership and cinematic storytelling style. Connect at @sshivani_dasaint

Devil's Reality Show

Devil's Reality Show is a gripping psychological thriller that traps strangers in a deadly game where survival demands betrayal, manipulation, and even murder. Set in isolation under constant surveillance, the story unravels dark secrets and tests morality as alliances collapse and hidden pasts emerge. The novel explores how far people go when survival outweighs ethics. The book is authored by Arjun Shaji, a versatile writer known for blending emotion, mythology, and psychological depth, holding a PhD and degrees in Creative Writing and English, and crafting stories rich in insight and human complexity. Connect at @author_arjunshaji

The Glitch in Our Stars

The Glitch in Our Stars by Divya Iyer, published by Indie Press, is a poignant exploration of love, trust, and the complexities of modern connections. When Rusham and Dil meet online, their casual chats evolve into something profound yet fragile. The novel delves into the blurred lines between digital intimacy and real-life vulnerability, asking how deeply one can truly know another through a screen. As past secrets surface, their bond is tested by questions of fate, coincidence, and truth. With tenderness and depth, Iyer captures the beauty and fragility of love in an age of curated realities. Connect at @divi_n_dv