From scientific discovery to morality without gods, humanist ideas have inspired some of the greatest books ever written.
During our Humanist Bookshelf campaign, we’ll be sharing books that explore humanist ideas in our emails and on social media. But most importantly, we want to hear your recommendations.
Which books have meant something to you, or changed the way you see the world? Email us now, and make sure you join the conversation on Bluesky too.
Find your new favourite humanist book
Explore the books and authors that have helped shape humanist thought. These articles take a closer look at their ideas and why they matter, offering fresh perspectives on familiar works and introducing books you may not yet have discovered.
‘The books that change my life’, with Professor Alice Roberts
Evolutionary biologists and broadcaster Alice Roberts speaks to the Guardian about who inspired her, the genius of George Eliot – and fun with Frog and Toad.
‘My top three books for your bookshelf’, Dr Adam Rutherford
Geneticist and author Adam Rutherford shares three of his favourite humanist books, exploring bisexuality, faith and friendship – and finding humanity among the stars.
‘Three humanist books I always recommend’, Andrew Copson
Andrew shares three of his favourite humanist books, exploring George Eliot’s gift for empathy, E M Forster’s call to connect – and the Trojan War through women’s eyes.
12 highly recommended humanist fiction classics
From George Eliot to Salman Rushdie, here are twelve humanist novels and plays that put human nature at the centre of the story, and made the case for empathy, reason, and compassion too.
15 humanist non-fiction books that changed the world
From Darwin to Dawkins, here’s fifteen humanist books that challenged dogma with reason and evidence – and helped change the world with revolutionary ideas.
75 humanist books for children and young adults
Big questions start with curious minds. These 75 book recommendations introduce children and young people to humanism, kindness, science, and the world around them.
Explore the history of science fiction and humanism
Journey from ancient Moon voyages to Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, through H.G. Wells, George Orwell, and Douglas Adams, all the way to Star Trek, Doctor Who, Futurama, Godzilla, and Rick and Morty.
Seven more essentials for your humanist bookshelf
These books explore everything from astronomical discoveries and ancient political rivalries, to one former child refugee’s lifelong campaign for human rights and the ways we remember those we’ve lost.
Over 870 book reviews by New Humanist magazine
New Humanist magazine has been reviewing literature for over 140 years. If you’re looking for your next thought-provoking read, explore its website for book reviews to help you choose what to pick up next.
Humanist UK’s Little Book Series and What I Believe
The Little Book series, from Humanists UK’s Andrew Copson and Alice Roberts, is a collection of pocket-sized anthologies offering uplifting quotes, stories, and meditations drawn from humanist thought and the collective wisdom of Humanists UK’s celebrants. Beginning with the Sunday Times bestseller The Little Book of Humanism in 2020, the series has grown to cover life’s major milestones and questions, including weddings and funerals, each one a beautifully illustrated, accessible companion for anyone seeking guidance, comfort, or inspiration without turning to religion.
What I Believe, edited by Andrew Copson, is a collection of interview essays with high-profile non-religious figures – including Stephen Fry, Sandi Toksvig, Tim Minchin, and Alice Roberts – reflecting on the guiding values, convictions, and beliefs they live by. Inspired by Bertrand Russell and E M Forster, the book spans art, politics, activism, and human nature to showcase the rich diversity and disagreement within humanist thought, inviting readers to shape their own worldview.
Humanist events and lectures
Our lectures and events have welcomed phenomenal authors to explore humanism, history, philosophy, science, and more. We’ve curated a Humanist Bookshelf YouTube playlist for you to start watching today.
Below, is just a select few from the full playlist to get you started.
