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influential novels of all time.

3) The Origin of Species, Charles Darwin
Charles Darwin neither proved evolution nor claimed that humans came from apes in his book, The Origin of Species. Instead, he simply publicized a theory that had crossed the minds of so many of Darwin's colleagues. Furthermore, he collected a large pool of supporting evidence regarding his theory on domestic animals and plants, on variability, on sexual selection, on dispersal and published them in a readable, intelligent manner.

Darwin confronted theories of the beginnings of man. Not only did he tackle this often touchy subject, he justified his theory and won over not only the scientific population, but the general population by taking a groundbreaking scientific theory and constructing one of the few works of science that is truly readable. By avoiding publishing something that only scientific gurus could take advantage of, Darwin mainstreamed his theory and made it a household discussion. Today the Theory of Evolution and its intricacies are widely acknowledged and understood. The scientific world was changed significantly after the publication of this book, as well as public opinion, making it one of the most influential books ever written.

4) Uncle Tom's Cabin, Harriet Beecher Stowe
If an author ever mastered the force of morality in words it was Harriet Beecher Stowe. Stowe grants each character with emotion and depth and even today reminds readers of the debate over race and human worth.
With this book Stowe put a face on a practice that, previously, many had not allowed themselves to put a face on. This book changed history not just in practice, but also in perception. Even United States president Abraham Lincoln recognized its valor by saying, upon meeting Harriett Beecher Stowe, "So you're the little lady who started this great big war." His comment was not an understatement. The book was unprecedented and achieved unexpected results, especially for a work of fiction.

5) The Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck
John Steinbeck's story is about destitute workers of the 1930's-some 300,000 strong-who had been driven from their farms and were pouring into California to face hunger, squalor and humiliation. This classic work of American literature is full of beautiful prose and important reminders of how things were not all that long ago, and how far we have come since.
The monumental work does not just recount the midwesteners' migration to California during the Dust Bowl but is also a commentary on the Great Depression. It survives in the annals of American classics as a historical account that captures humanity. The Grapes of Wrath joins the list of influential books that were at one time banned from publication.

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