Having read countless books over the years, I have come across many that stood out for their unique and unconventional storytelling. From experimental formats to bizarre plotlines, here are the top ten most unique books I’ve read in English:

1. “House of Leaves” by Mark Z. Danielewski – This novel is known for its unconventional format, with multiple narratives, footnotes, and appendices that create a maze-like reading experience.

2. “Invisible Cities” by Italo Calvino – In this novel, Calvino imagines a series of fantastical cities, each with its own unique characteristics and quirks.

3. “Cloud Atlas” by David Mitchell – This novel features six interconnected stories spanning centuries and genres, creating a complex and innovative narrative structure.

4. “S.” by J.J. Abrams and Doug Dorst – This book is a metafictional work that includes handwritten notes and ephemera between the two characters who are reading the fictional novel within the novel.

5. “The Raw Shark Texts” by Steven Hall – This novel follows a man who is haunted by a mysterious shark that eats memories, leading to a mind-bending and surreal narrative.

6. “If on a winter’s night a traveler” by Italo Calvino – This novel is a metafictional work that follows the reader’s journey through multiple incomplete narratives, creating a playful and interactive reading experience.

7. “The Illuminatus! Trilogy” by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson – This trilogy is a sprawling, psychedelic epic that combines conspiracy theory, science fiction, and satire in a mind-bending narrative.

8. “The Book of Barely Imagined Beings” by Caspar Henderson – This non-fiction book explores the natural world through a series of vignettes and illustrations, blending science, philosophy, and art in a unique and engaging way.

9. “Hopscotch” by Julio Cortazar – This novel can be read in multiple ways, with the author providing a non-linear narrative structure that allows readers to choose their own path through the story.

10. “The Dictionary of the Khazars” by Milorad Pavić – This novel is structured like a dictionary, with entries exploring the history and mythology of the Khazar people in a unique and inventive way.

These books are just a few examples of the diverse and creative ways that authors can push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Each one offers a unique and unforgettable reading experience that challenges readers to think outside the box and explore new ways of engaging with literature. If you’re looking for something different and original, I highly recommend checking out these ten unique books.