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1. “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
Anne Frank’s diary is one of the most powerful firsthand accounts of life during the Holocaust, but she never saw its impact. Anne died in 1945 at Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, tragically unaware her words would one day move millions. Her father, Otto Frank, the only surviving family member, published her diary in 1947. At first, the book received modest attention, but by the 1950s, as the world began to reckon with the horrors of World War II, her story became a symbol of hope and loss. Today, the diary has sold over 30 million copies in more than 70 languages. It is regularly listed among the most influential books of the 20th century, and students across the globe read it in schools. Anne’s legacy lives on stronger than ever, with new adaptations and exhibitions still emerging in 2025.
2. “Emily Dickinson’s Poems” by Emily Dickinson
Emily Dickinson wrote nearly 1,800 poems, but only a handful were published during her lifetime—and those were heavily edited. Dickinson lived as a recluse and her genius was recognized only after her death in 1886. Her sister Lavinia discovered her vast collection of poems, which were published in multiple volumes from 1890 onwards. The world was stunned by Dickinson’s sharp wit, unique style, and emotional intensity. Her poems are now standard reading in American literature classes and have influenced countless writers. In recent years, new manuscripts and letters have been digitized, drawing fresh attention to her life and work. Interest in Dickinson remains strong, with her poetry still sparking debate and admiration.
3. “The Trial” by Franz Kafka
Franz Kafka died in 1924, believing that most of his manuscripts should be destroyed. Thankfully, his friend Max Brod ignored these wishes and published “The Trial” in 1925. The novel’s surreal, nightmarish depiction of bureaucracy and guilt struck a chord in a rapidly changing Europe. Although it wasn’t a bestseller at first, by the mid-20th century, Kafka’s work became a touchstone for existentialist and modernist thinkers. Today, “Kafkaesque” is a word in common usage, testifying to his lasting influence. In 2025, Kafka’s works are more discussed than ever in philosophy and literature courses, with new translations and critical editions appearing regularly.
4. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë
“Wuthering Heights” was published in 1847, just a year before Emily Brontë’s death. The novel initially received mixed and often harsh reviews, overshadowed by her sister Charlotte’s work. It wasn’t until decades later, as literary critics revisited Brontë’s singular vision and dark romanticism, that the novel gained recognition as a classic. Today, “Wuthering Heights” is widely considered one of the greatest novels in English literature. Its stormy love story and wild Yorkshire setting continue to inspire adaptations in film, music, and even fashion. Recent anniversaries have brought new scholarly attention and editions, proving the book’s enduring appeal.
5. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
Stieg Larsson passed away suddenly in 2004, before seeing his “Millennium” trilogy become a global sensation. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” was published in Sweden in 2005, and its English translation arrived in 2008. The novel’s blend of mystery, social criticism, and unforgettable characters struck a nerve worldwide. The series has sold over 100 million copies and inspired multiple film adaptations. Larsson’s sudden death led to legal battles over his estate, keeping his name in the news. Even in 2025, new spin-offs and adaptations are being produced, cementing Larsson’s legacy as one of the most successful posthumous authors.
6. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
Sylvia Plath’s only novel, “The Bell Jar,” was published under a pseudonym in 1963, just a month before her tragic suicide. The novel gained notoriety in the years after her death, as readers and critics recognized its raw depiction of mental illness and the female experience. “The Bell Jar” has since become a touchstone for generations of readers, especially young women. In the last decade, interest in Plath has only grown—her personal life, poetry, and struggles have inspired films, biographies, and academic studies. The novel’s relevance in discussions of mental health today makes it a perennial favorite.
7. “Go Set a Watchman” by Harper Lee
Harper Lee was already famous for “To Kill a Mockingbird,” but “Go Set a Watchman” was published in 2015, just months before her death. The manuscript, written before her classic, offers a controversial and complex view of the beloved characters. Its publication sparked debate about Lee’s wishes and the book’s literary merit, but it instantly became a bestseller. Over 1.1 million copies sold in just the first week in the U.S. alone. Even now, scholars and fans continue to debate the book’s place in Lee’s legacy, and it remains a hot topic in literary circles.
8. “A Confederacy of Dunces” by John Kennedy Toole
John Kennedy Toole’s comic masterpiece struggled to find a publisher during his lifetime. After his suicide in 1969, his mother Thelma fought tirelessly to get it published. It finally appeared in 1980 and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1981. The book’s eccentric protagonist, Ignatius J. Reilly, and its vivid depiction of New Orleans have made it a cult classic. New generations discover the book every year, and it’s regularly cited as one of the funniest American novels. Its story of posthumous success is almost as famous as the book itself, and the struggle behind its publication continues to inspire readers.
9. “Leaves of Grass” by Walt Whitman
Walt Whitman self-published “Leaves of Grass” in 1855, but it wasn’t until after his death in 1892 that the poetry collection was truly celebrated. Whitman revised and expanded the work throughout his life, but critics were harsh, calling it immoral and obscene. By the early 20th century, as America’s literary tastes changed, Whitman was hailed as the “father of free verse.” Today, “Leaves of Grass” is regarded as a foundation of American poetry, and Whitman’s influence can be seen in everything from pop culture to presidential speeches. The anniversary of his death is still marked by readings and tributes in 2025.
10. “The Tale of Genji” by Murasaki Shikibu
Written in 11th-century Japan, “The Tale of Genji” is considered by many to be the world’s first novel. Murasaki Shikibu, a lady-in-waiting at the imperial court, wrote her masterpiece in relative obscurity. It wasn’t until centuries after her death that “Genji” became a national treasure in Japan, studied and celebrated for its psychological depth and beautiful prose. Today, the novel is translated into dozens of languages and is the subject of academic conferences worldwide. In 2025, new manga adaptations and television dramas continue to bring Shikibu’s story to fresh audiences, proving her words are as alive as ever.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
