11 of the Best Existential Books like The Stranger

Albert Camus’ The Stranger’s simple yet deep story prompts the quest for similar reads that captivate with their straightforward language and powerful ideas. This article delves into a selection of books like the Stranger, presenting uncomplicated narratives that stir contemplation on life’s meaning and human nature. If you enjoyed The Stranger’s clarity and philosophical themes, these recommended reads will surely engage your mind and imagination.

Books Like The Stranger

The Plague (1947)

by Albert Camus

The first book in the list is by the author of ‘The Stranger’ himself. If you liked ‘The Stranger’ for its gripping writing style, you’ll find the same in this book, too.

‘The Plague’ is a philosophical novel that portrays the outbreak of a deadly plague in the Algerian town of Oran. The story follows Dr. Bernard Rieux and a diverse cast of characters as they grapple with the sudden and inexplicable spread of the disease, which isolates the town from the outside world.

Rieux and his colleagues work tirelessly to combat the plague, reflecting themes of resilience and the struggle against inevitable death. The novel delves into the psychological and emotional responses of individuals confronted by the plague’s horrors. Camus explores existential questions, human solidarity, and the moral dilemmas that arise in times of crisis. The story also reflects the indifference of nature to human suffering, echoing Camus’s philosophy of the absurd.

Through its gripping narrative, “The Plague” provides a profound exploration of the human experience in the face of adversity and death, ultimately emphasizing the importance of compassion, camaraderie, and the search for meaning in a world marked by uncertainty, much like in ‘The Stranger.’

The Book of Disquiet (1982)

by Fernando Pessoa

A unique and introspective work by Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa, published posthumously in 1982, ‘The Book of Disquiet’ takes the form of a fragmentary and deeply personal diary or collection of thoughts and reflections.

The book is narrated by Bernardo Soares, an alter ego of Pessoa, who works as a clerk in Lisbon. Soares is an introspective and melancholic individual who contemplates the minutiae of daily life, the human condition, and the nature of existence. He often expresses a sense of alienation and detachment from the world around him.

Throughout the book, Pessoa explores themes of identity, creativity, and the fleeting nature of time. He muses on art, literature, and the act of writing itself, reflecting on the creative process and the role of the writer in shaping reality.

‘The Book of Disquiet,’ like ‘The Stranger’ is a deeply philosophical and existential work that invites readers to ponder the complexities of the human psyche and the search for meaning in an often mundane and chaotic world.

The Metamorphosis (1915)

by Franz Kafka

Written by Franz Kafka and published in 1915, ‘The Metamorphosis’ tells the bizarre and unsettling story of Gregor Samsa, a young man who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect-like creature. Struggling to come to terms with his new form, Gregor grapples with the physical challenges of his condition, while also dealing with the emotional distance that develops between him and his family.

As the story unfolds, Gregor’s family reacts with a mix of shock, fear, and disgust to his transformation. They confine him to a room and begin to treat him as a burden rather than a loved one. Despite his attempts to communicate and connect with his family, Gregor’s insect-like appearance creates an insurmountable barrier.

The novella delves into themes of alienation, isolation, and the absurdity of human existence. Kafka explores how societal norms and familial relationships can change drastically when confronted with the unfamiliar and uncomfortable. As the story progresses, Gregor’s isolation and his family’s reactions take a toll on his mental and emotional well-being.

Nausea (1938)

by Sartre

‘Nausea’ is a philosophical work that delves into the existential crisis of its protagonist, Antoine Roquentin. The story is presented as Roquentin’s diary, in which he documents his experiences and thoughts in the fictional town of Bouville.

Roquentin grapples with a profound sense of existential nausea and detachment from the world around him. He becomes acutely aware of the absurdity and emptiness of life, struggling to find meaning in his existence. As he observes everyday objects and interactions, he experiences a disconcerting sensation of alienation, as if reality itself is losing its coherence.

Through his encounters with people and his reflections on his own memories, Roquentin becomes consumed by the realization that life lacks inherent purpose or structure. He faces a crisis of identity and authenticity, questioning the nature of existence and the significance of human endeavors.

‘Nausea’ is a cornerstone of existentialist literature, exploring themes of absurdity, freedom, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.

Hunger (1890)

by Knut Hamsun

Psychological novel that follows the struggles of an unnamed narrator, a struggling writer in late 19th-century Kristiania (now Oslo), Norway. The narrator battles extreme poverty and an erratic mind as he navigates the thin line between starvation and maintaining his dignity.

Haunted by hunger, the narrator’s erratic thoughts and actions oscillate between grandiosity and desperation. He endures a series of humiliating and bizarre experiences; his interactions with society range from the absurd to the poignant, exposing the dehumanizing effects of poverty on both himself and those around him.

The novel is an exploration of the human psyche, delving into the narrator’s inner thoughts and emotions. Hamsun’s stream-of-consciousness style vividly portrays the protagonist’s mental and emotional turmoil as he grapples with his hunger-induced delusions and the societal pressures he faces.

Throughout the narrative, like in ‘The Stranger,’ themes of isolation, alienation, and the fragility of the human mind are prevalent. The narrator’s suffering is both a physical and psychological ordeal, creating a compelling portrait of a man’s descent into mental and physical disintegration.

Crime and Punishment (1866)

by Fyodor Dostoevsky

‘Crime and Punishment’ by Fyodor Dostoevsky, published in 1866, follows the tormented journey of Rodion Raskolnikov, a poverty-stricken ex-student in St. Petersburg. Driven by his intellectual arrogance, he conceives a theory that some extraordinary individuals are above the law and can commit crimes for the greater good. He tests his theory, however, consumed by guilt, paranoia, and the psychological torment of his actions, he finds himself entangled in a web of moral conflict.

As the story unfolds, Raskolnikov’s inner turmoil intensifies, and he struggles to justify his crime to himself and those around him. He forms an unlikely bond with Sonia, a devout prostitute, whose unconditional love and Christian beliefs challenge his distorted worldview. Through their interactions and the pursuit of justice by the relentless investigator Porfiry Petrovich, Raskolnikov’s conscience is prodded, and he eventually confesses.

The novel delves deep into themes of morality, guilt, and redemption, reflecting the psychological and moral struggles of its characters.

The Bell Jar (1963)

by Sylvia Plath

Follows the life of Esther Greenwood, a talented young woman in the 1950s who wins a prestigious internship in New York City. Initially excited by the opportunities before her, Esther soon finds herself struggling with the pressures and expectations of society, as well as her own inner turmoil. As she faces the challenges of her internship and social events, she spirals into a state of deep depression.

The novel chronicles Esther’s descent into mental illness, depicting her struggles with identity, societal norms, and the stifling feeling of being trapped beneath an invisible “bell jar.” Plath artfully explores themes of mental health, gender roles, and the constraints of the patriarchal society.

Throughout the story, Plath provides a raw and honest portrayal of Esther’s emotions and experiences, capturing the complexities of her internal battles.

‘The Bell Jar’ is a semi-autobiographical novel that draws from Plath’s own struggles with mental health. It offers a poignant commentary on the challenges faced by women in a time when their aspirations were often limited by societal expectations.

Stoner (1965)

by John Edward Williams

‘Stoner’ is a poignant novel that follows the life of William Stoner, a quiet and unassuming man who becomes an English literature professor at the University of Missouri in the early 20th century. Stoner’s life is marked by its ordinary nature and a series of personal and professional struggles. As he navigates the challenges of academia, he finds solace and purpose in his love for literature.

The novel delves into Stoner’s complex relationships, including his marriage to Edith, an unhappy and manipulative woman, and his passionate affair with Katherine, a colleague. Throughout his life, Stoner is confronted with disappointments, misunderstandings, and the weight of societal expectations.

‘Stoner’ is a character-driven narrative that explores themes of love, passion, identity, and the quiet impact of a seemingly unremarkable life. The novel beautifully portrays the internal struggles and quiet triumphs of an individual who finds meaning and connection through literature and introspection.

The Trial (1925)

by Franz Kafka

‘The Trial’ is a surreal and haunting novel that follows the bewildering journey of Josef K., a young and seemingly ordinary man who is suddenly arrested and put on trial for an unspecified crime. Set in a nameless and absurdly bureaucratic city, the story delves into the disorienting and nightmarish experience of navigating an incomprehensible legal system.

As Josef K. struggles to make sense of his situation, he encounters a series of bizarre and enigmatic characters, each contributing to his sense of helplessness and paranoia. Despite his efforts to assert his innocence and understand the charges against him, the legal process remains elusive and arbitrary, reflecting themes of alienation, powerlessness, and the absurdity of modern society.

Throughout the narrative, Kafka explores the inherent injustice and dehumanization within institutions of authority. The novel’s atmosphere, like ‘The Stranger,’ is characterized by a sense of unease and surrealism, with the line between reality and delusion becoming increasingly blurred.

Notes from Underground (1864)

by Fyodor Dostoevsky

‘Notes from Underground’ is a novella that delves into the psyche of an unnamed narrator, commonly referred to as the Underground Man. This introspective work is divided into two parts: the Underground Man’s bitter philosophical monologue and a recounting of his interactions with others.

In the first part, the Underground Man expresses his contempt for rationality, insisting that human beings are often driven by irrational and self-destructive tendencies. He criticizes the emerging scientific and deterministic worldview of his time, highlighting the complexities of human behavior that defy logical explanations.

The second part offers glimpses into the Underground Man’s past experiences and interactions with society. He recounts his self-inflicted misery and his inability to form genuine connections due to his cynicism and pride.

Throughout the novella, the Underground Man grapples with his internal contradictions, alienation from society, and the paradoxical nature of his desires. The novel is a must-read for all those who liked reading ‘The Stranger.’

The Myth of Sisyphus (1942)

by Albert Camus

It is only fair to also end the list with Camus’s work.

‘The Myth of Sisyphus’ is a philosophical essay that delves into the concept of the absurd and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. The essay takes its title from the ancient Greek myth of Sisyphus, who was condemned to endlessly roll a boulder up a hill only to see it roll back down, symbolizing a repetitive and seemingly pointless task.

Camus argues that life’s inherent lack of objective meaning and the inevitability of death give rise to the absurd, a clash between our desire for meaning and the indifferent universe. He examines the tension between the human need for meaning and the world’s silence on the matter.

In the face of this absurdity, Camus suggests that individuals have three options: philosophical suicide (escaping the absurd by embracing religious or ideological certainties), physical suicide (ending one’s life), or revolt (embracing the absurdity of life and living authentically despite its lack of ultimate meaning). He ultimately proposes that embracing the absurd and choosing to live authentically, even in the face of a meaningless universe, is an act of defiance that leads to a form of freedom and liberation.

Conclusion to Books like The Stranger

And that concludes the list for books like Books like The Stranger!

If you enjoyed The Stranger, you might also like similar books that explore life’s mysteries and human feelings. These books like The Stranger, delve into characters facing the unknown and trying to make sense of their emotions. Authors like Albert Camus often prompt us to reflect on life’s meaning. So, if you’re curious about more tales of self-discovery and the complexities of existence, these recommended books will surely satisfy your literary appetite. Happy reading!

However, if you want more books like The Stranger beyond the list above, you should consider-

1. Post Office by Charles Bukowski
2. The World According to Garp by John Irving
3. The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy
4. Grendel by John Gardner
5. Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
6. Journey to the End of the Night by Louis-Ferdinand Celine
7. The Unnamable Trilogy by Samuel Beckett
8. The trail and death of Socrates by Plato
9. Herostratus and other stories by J. P. Sartre
10. Outsider by Corin Wilson
11. Conversations in Sicily by Elio Vittorin
12. The Tunnel by Sabato
13. Catch 22 by Joseph Heller
14. Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
15. The Fall by Albert Camus
16. The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger