Meghan Markle’s 10 Favorite Books: The Reading List Every Book Lover Should Explore

Before she became the Duchess of Sussex and one of the most recognizable women in the world, Meghan Markle was an actress, lifestyle writer, and self-described lover of books. While much of the media attention surrounding Markle focuses on her role within the British royal family, her charitable work, or her public appearances, one of her lifelong passions often receives far less attention, reading.

Throughout interviews over the years, Meghan Markle has shared books that have inspired, entertained, and shaped her outlook on life. Her reading list reflects a wide range of interests, from motivational nonfiction and memoirs to literary fiction, thrillers, and timeless classics. Rather than sticking to a single genre, Markle embraces stories that educate, challenge perspectives, and provide meaningful entertainment.

Whether you’re looking for personal development books, award-winning novels, or simply searching for your next great read, Meghan Markle’s favorite books offer something for every type of reader.

Here are ten books Meghan Markle has recommended and why they deserve a place on your bookshelf.

Meghan Markle’s 10 Book Recommendations 

• The Motivation Manifesto by Brendon Burchard
• The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
• Rita Moreno: A Memoir 
• Doctor Sleep by Stephen King 
• Bittersweet by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore
• Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee 
• Why not Me? by Mindy Kaling 
• The Gap of Time by Jeanette Winterson
• All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doer
• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

1. The Motivation Manifesto by Brendon Burchard

Brendon Burchard’s The Motivation Manifesto has become one of the most popular personal development books of the past decade. Written as a call to action, it encourages readers to reclaim their freedom, overcome fear, and live intentionally.

The book blends motivational advice with philosophical reflections on ambition, purpose, and personal responsibility. It’s easy to see why someone like Meghan Markle, who has consistently advocated for empowerment and self-confidence, would appreciate its message.

If you’re interested in books that encourage growth and inspire positive change, this is an excellent place to start.

2. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Few self-help books have had the lasting cultural impact of The Four Agreements. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, Don Miguel Ruiz presents four simple principles designed to transform the way readers approach life:

• Be impeccable with your word.
• Don’t take anything personally.
• Don’t make assumptions.
• Always do your best.

Its straightforward philosophy has made it a favorite among entrepreneurs, celebrities, athletes, and readers seeking mindfulness and inner peace. The book’s timeless advice makes it one of the most accessible introductions to personal growth literature.

3. Rita Moreno: A Memoir by Rita Moreno

Academy Award-winning actress Rita Moreno chronicles her remarkable life in this candid memoir.

She discusses overcoming discrimination, building one of Hollywood’s most celebrated careers, and the personal struggles she faced behind the scenes. The memoir is both inspiring and deeply honest, offering readers a fascinating look at resilience, ambition, and perseverance.

For readers who enjoy autobiographies filled with unforgettable stories and valuable life lessons, Moreno’s memoir is an excellent choice.

4. Doctor Sleep by Stephen King

Stephen King’s Doctor Sleep serves as the long-awaited sequel to The Shining.

Years after the horrifying events at the Overlook Hotel, Danny Torrance is now an adult struggling with addiction while attempting to use his supernatural abilities for good. His life changes when he meets a young girl whose extraordinary powers attract a dangerous group known as the True Knot.

Unlike many celebrity reading lists that avoid horror altogether, Markle’s recommendation demonstrates an appreciation for compelling storytelling regardless of genre. Doctor Sleep blends suspense, emotional depth, and supernatural horror into one unforgettable novel.

5. Bittersweet by Miranda Beverly-Whittemore

For readers who enjoy psychological suspense, Bittersweet delivers plenty of twists.

The novel follows Mabel Dagmar, a scholarship student invited to spend the summer at her wealthy roommate’s sprawling Vermont estate. What begins as a glamorous escape slowly transforms into a mystery filled with family secrets, hidden motives, and shocking revelations.

Its combination of literary fiction and psychological thriller makes it difficult to put down.

6. Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee

Published decades after To Kill a Mockingbird, Go Set a Watchman became one of the most talked-about literary releases in recent history.

The novel follows an adult Jean Louise Finch as she returns home to Alabama and confronts difficult truths about family, race, and social change.

Although the book sparked significant debate among readers and critics, it remains an important companion to Harper Lee’s classic novel and offers thought-provoking discussions about identity and morality.

7. Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling’s second essay collection combines humor, honesty, and heartfelt reflections on career, relationships, confidence, and success.

Kaling writes with her trademark wit while exploring what it’s like navigating Hollywood, embracing individuality, and pursuing ambitious goals.

The book feels like a conversation with a funny friend, making it an enjoyable read for anyone looking for humor mixed with genuine life advice.

8. The Gap of Time by Jeanette Winterson

Part of the Hogarth Shakespeare Project, The Gap of Time reimagines William Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale for modern readers.

Jeanette Winterson preserves the emotional core of Shakespeare’s original while updating the setting and characters for a contemporary audience.

The novel demonstrates how timeless stories can continue to resonate across generations, introducing Shakespeare’s themes of forgiveness, family, and redemption to new audiences.

9. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, All the Light We Cannot See is widely regarded as one of the finest historical novels of the 21st century.

Set during World War II, the novel follows Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, a gifted German boy whose lives gradually become intertwined during the conflict.

Anthony Doerr’s lyrical prose, unforgettable characters, and emotionally powerful storytelling have made this novel a modern classic. It is no surprise that it appears on Meghan Markle’s reading list, as it beautifully explores compassion, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.

10. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Few books have achieved the universal appeal of The Little Prince.

Originally published in 1943, this beloved novella tells the story of a young prince who travels between planets, meeting adults whose behavior offers insightful commentary on human nature.

Although often marketed as a children’s book, its philosophical themes resonate deeply with adult readers. Questions about friendship, love, imagination, and what truly matters in life have helped make The Little Prince one of the bestselling books ever written.

Its timeless wisdom explains why it continues to inspire readers around the world, including Meghan Markle.

A Reading List That Balances Inspiration and Entertainment

One of the most interesting aspects of Meghan Markle’s reading recommendations is their diversity.

Rather than focusing exclusively on literary fiction or self-improvement, her selections span numerous genres, allowing readers to discover books that match their own interests.

Her list includes:

• Inspirational self-help books
• Celebrity memoirs
• Historical fiction
• Horror
• Literary fiction
• Psychological suspense
• Humor
• Modern Shakespeare retellings
• Classic literature

This variety makes her recommendations especially accessible. Whether you’re hoping to become more motivated, enjoy an emotional novel, or simply escape into an entertaining story, there’s likely a book on this list that fits your mood.

Why Celebrity Reading Lists Continue to Be Popular

Celebrity book recommendations have become increasingly influential over the past decade. While book clubs like Oprah’s Book Club and Reese’s Book Club have helped launch bestselling novels, readers are also interested in discovering what public figures enjoy reading in their personal lives.

A reading list often provides insight into someone’s personality, values, and interests in a way that interviews or social media posts cannot.

Meghan Markle’s recommendations reflect curiosity, empathy, personal growth, and an appreciation for stories that inspire meaningful conversations. It’s a thoughtfully curated collection rather than a list focused solely on recent bestsellers.

Final Thoughts

Meghan Markle’s favorite books showcase a reader with wide-ranging tastes. From the motivational lessons of The Four Agreements and The Motivation Manifesto to the unforgettable storytelling found in All the Light We Cannot See and Doctor Sleep, her recommendations offer something for nearly every reader.

Whether you’re interested in discovering an inspiring memoir, revisiting a literary classic, or exploring an award-winning novel, this list serves as an excellent starting point.

The best reading lists introduce us to books we may never have discovered on our own, and Meghan Markle’s recommendations certainly accomplish that. If you’re searching for your next great read, one of these ten books may become your newest favorite.

Have you read any of Meghan Markle’s favorite books? Which recommendation interests you the most? Let us know in the comments below, and as always, happy reading!

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