There are countless books that have fallen into obscurity over the years, deemed forgotten despite once being popular or critically acclaimed. These books may have been overshadowed by newer releases, lost among the vast sea of literature, or simply faded into the background as time passed. Here are ten forgotten backlist titles that deserve a second look:

1. “Stoner” by John Williams – This quiet, contemplative novel about a college professor’s life may have been overlooked when it was initially published in the 1960s, but it has since gained a cult following for its poignant exploration of solitude and self-discovery.

2. “The Gate to Women’s Country” by Sheri S. Tepper – A feminist science fiction novel that tackles topics such as gender equality and societal norms, this book was ahead of its time when it was first released in 1988.

3. “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt – Despite being a bestseller when it was published in 1992, this dark and atmospheric novel about a group of college students and a murder mystery has somewhat slipped from the public’s consciousness in recent years.

4. “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver – This epic family saga set in the Congo was a critical and commercial success when it was released in 1998, but has since faded from the spotlight.

5. “The Golem and the Jinni” by Helene Wecker – A unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy, this novel about a golem and a jinni in turn-of-the-century New York City was highly praised upon its release in 2013, but is often forgotten today.

6. “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer” by Patrick Süskind – This dark and bizarre novel about a perfume maker with a twisted obsession was a sensation when it was first published in 1985, but is seldom discussed now.

7. “The Sparrow” by Mary Doria Russell – A thought-provoking science fiction novel about a Jesuit mission to an alien planet, this book garnered critical acclaim in the 1990s but has since fallen out of the public eye.

8. “The Secret History of the Pink Carnation” by Lauren Willig – This historical romance novel with a dash of mystery and espionage was a hit when it was first published in 2005, but has since faded into obscurity.

9. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern – This enchanting novel about a magical competition between two illusionists was a bestseller in 2011, but has since been overshadowed by newer releases.

10. “Geek Love” by Katherine Dunn – This bizarre and unsettling novel about a family of circus performers with unusual abilities received critical acclaim when it was published in 1989, but is now largely forgotten.

These forgotten backlist titles may have slipped from our collective memory, but they still hold the power to captivate and enthrall readers. If you’re in search of a hidden gem to add to your reading list, consider giving one of these books a second chance. Who knows, you may just discover a new favorite among these forgotten classics.