Chilean-American actor Pedro Pascal has become one of the most recognizable actors in the world. From stealing scenes as Oberyn Martell in Game of Thrones to leading The Mandalorian and delivering one of television’s most emotional performances in The Last of Us, Pascal has built a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most charismatic and talented stars.
While many fans know him for his acting roles, fewer know that Pascal is also a passionate reader. Looking at his favorite books reveals an interesting side of his personality. His choices are not random bestsellers or trendy novels. Instead, they include literary classics, emotionally challenging stories, philosophical works, and books that explore the complexity of human nature.
His reading list also gives readers insight into the kinds of themes that resonate with him. Many of the books deal with loneliness, morality, addiction, love, personal struggle, and human connection. It is a list filled with stories that stay with readers long after they finish the final page.
If you are a fan of Pedro Pascal or simply looking for incredible books to add to your reading list, here are some of Pedro Pascal’s favorite books and why they are worth reading.
Pedro Pascal on Reading
Pedro Pascal once shared his thoughts about some of his favorite books and gave readers a glimpse into his literary tastes:
“I think one of the greatest reads I’ve ever experienced was Crime & Punishment by Dostoyevsky. I know that sounds highbrow, but to be completely honest it was a page turner for me. When I was a kid, I remember reading this book called Watership Down. That was one of the most grueling, it’s by Richard Adams, and I also love One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. And I love Jane Eyre, I love anything by J.D. Salinger, I love reading.”
Even though he jokingly calls Crime and Punishment a “highbrow” choice, his excitement about books feels genuine. Rather than sounding like someone listing classics simply because they are famous, Pascal talks about them with the enthusiasm of someone who truly connected with the stories.
Pedro Pascal’s Favorite Books
- Crime & Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
- Watership Down by Richard Adams
- One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
- Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
- The Master and Margarita by Franny and Zooey by JD Salinger
- Don’t Look Now by Daphne du Maurier
- Carl Erik Fisher, The Urge: Our History of Addiction
- James Baldwin Books
- Sebastino Mauri, Disfruta del problema and La Nuova Terra
- Toni Morrison Books
Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Perhaps the most famous title on Pascal’s reading list is Crime and Punishment. Published in 1866, Dostoevsky’s masterpiece follows Rodion Raskolnikov, a young man who commits murder and then struggles with guilt, morality, and psychological torment.
Many readers expect this novel to be difficult or slow because of its reputation as a literary classic. However, Pascal described it as a “page turner,” which many fans of the novel would agree with.
The novel combines deep philosophical ideas with the tension of a psychological thriller. Readers constantly wonder whether Raskolnikov will escape punishment and how his own conscience will affect him.
It makes sense why an actor like Pascal would appreciate a novel centered around complex emotions and deeply layered characters.
Watership Down by Richard Adams
At first glance, Watership Down appears to be a simple story about rabbits searching for a new home. However, anyone who has read it knows it is much more than that.
Richard Adams created a rich world filled with mythology, danger, survival, friendship, and leadership. The journey the rabbits experience can be surprisingly emotional and intense.
Pascal described the book as “grueling,” and many readers understand exactly what he means. The novel places its characters through difficult situations and emotional challenges.
Despite originally being marketed toward younger readers, Watership Down has become a beloved classic among adults because of its themes and depth.
It is one of those books that often surprises readers who underestimate it.
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude is considered one of the greatest novels ever written and one of the defining works of magical realism.
The novel follows the Buendía family across multiple generations in the fictional town of Macondo. Reality and fantasy blend together seamlessly throughout the story.
Readers encounter impossible events that are treated as ordinary parts of life, creating a dreamlike reading experience.
The novel explores themes such as loneliness, destiny, memory, and the repeating patterns of history.
This choice also reflects Pascal’s Chilean and Latin American roots. García Márquez remains one of Latin America’s most celebrated literary voices, and his work has influenced readers across the world.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre remains one of literature’s most beloved novels.
The story follows Jane as she grows from an orphaned child into an independent woman searching for love, purpose, and belonging.
While many readers remember the romance between Jane and Mr. Rochester, the novel contains much more than a love story. It explores identity, resilience, social class, and personal independence.
Jane is one of literature’s strongest protagonists because of her determination and intelligence.
The fact that Pascal included Jane Eyre among his favorites shows his appreciation for emotionally driven stories and memorable characters.
Franny and Zooey and Other J.D. Salinger Works
Pedro Pascal specifically mentioned loving anything written by J.D. Salinger.
Salinger became famous for The Catcher in the Rye, but Franny and Zooey is often considered one of his most personal and thoughtful works.
The novel explores identity, spirituality, family relationships, and feelings of alienation.
Salinger’s writing style is intimate and character-focused, making readers feel deeply connected to the people on the page.
Many readers discover Salinger during their teenage years and continue returning to his work later in life.
The Master and Margarita
Another fascinating inclusion is The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov. This novel is strange, satirical, funny, and surprisingly philosophical.
The story follows the Devil visiting Soviet Moscow, bringing chaos and supernatural events with him. The novel blends politics, fantasy, romance, and social commentary into a completely unique reading experience.
It is the type of book that many readers finish and immediately want to discuss with someone else.
Don’t Look Now by Daphne du Maurier
Daphne du Maurier became famous for writing suspenseful and atmospheric stories. Don’t Look Now combines psychological tension with supernatural elements and emotional depth.
Du Maurier had a remarkable ability to create feelings of unease and mystery, and her stories continue influencing modern horror and suspense writers.
Readers who enjoy eerie and unsettling stories may want to start here.
The Urge: Our History of Addiction by Carl Erik Fisher
Unlike many books on this list, The Urge is nonfiction. Written by Carl Erik Fisher, the book explores addiction through history, science, and personal experience.
The book examines how addiction has been understood throughout different periods and challenges many common assumptions.
Its inclusion suggests Pascal also enjoys books that tackle real-world issues and complex human experiences.
Toni Morrison and James Baldwin
Pedro Pascal also mentioned books by Toni Morrison and James Baldwin.
Both authors are considered literary giants.
Toni Morrison wrote unforgettable novels including Beloved, Song of Solomon, and The Bluest Eye. Her work often examines race, identity, memory, and family.
James Baldwin wrote powerful works such as Go Tell It on the Mountain and The Fire Next Time. His writing explores social issues, race, love, and humanity with incredible honesty.
Reading either author can be a deeply moving experience.
What Pedro Pascal’s Favorite Books Reveal About Him
One thing immediately stands out about Pedro Pascal’s reading list: he values emotionally rich storytelling.
His favorite books are filled with complicated characters and difficult questions. They often explore loneliness, morality, love, suffering, and personal identity.
There are very few easy or light choices here.
Instead, Pascal seems drawn toward books that challenge readers and stay in their minds long after they finish reading.
This may also explain why audiences connect so strongly with his performances. Great actors often seek to understand people deeply, and reading literary fiction can offer exactly that experience.
Final Thoughts
Pedro Pascal’s favorite books create a reading list filled with classics, literary masterpieces, and emotionally powerful stories. Whether it is the psychological tension of Crime and Punishment, the emotional journey of Watership Down, or the magical beauty of One Hundred Years of Solitude, these books represent some of literature’s most memorable works.
For readers searching for their next great novel, Pedro Pascal’s recommendations provide an excellent place to begin.
His list reminds us that books can entertain us, challenge us, and help us understand both ourselves and the people around us a little better.
Which Pedro Pascal favorite book have you read, and which one are you adding to your reading list next? Until next time, happy reading!
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I read Watership Down 50 years ago and just finished Crime and Punishment. Great reads! Mr. Pascal might like The Count of Monte Cristo, David Copperfield, The Moonstone, Tale of Two Cities.