Dive into the literary world of Tom Hanks, Actor & Filmmaker.

Tom Hanks is one of Hollywood's most beloved and versatile actors, whose career spans decades with roles that have captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences worldwide. Born in 1956 in Concord, California, Hanks rose to fame in the 1980s with starring roles in films like "Big" and "Splash." Over the years, he has portrayed a wide array of characters, from the lovable Forrest Gump to the heroic Captain Miller in "Saving Private Ryan." His performances have earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor. Hanks is also known for his voice role as Woody in the "Toy Story" series, further cementing his place in cinematic history.

Reading non-fiction is the only way I can escape my brain.❞ — Tom Hanks

Aside from his acting career, Tom Hanks is an enthusiastic reader and has a particular fondness for historical non-fiction and narratives that delve deep into the American experience. His love for reading has also influenced his venture into writing; Hanks has published a collection of short stories, "Uncommon Type," where he explores various themes through the common thread of typewriters—another of his passions. His reading habits enrich his understanding of characters and settings, influencing his craft and storytelling abilities.

Tom Hanks' Favorite Books

Last Updated: May 2024

Hue 1968: A Turning Point of the American War in Vietnam

Mark Bowden delivers a gripping account of the Tet Offensive's pivotal Battle of Hue, where American forces faced a brutal and unexpected confrontation that marked a significant turning point in the Vietnam War.

The Catcher in the Rye

J.D. Salinger's classic novel depicts a few days in the life of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager navigating his way through the challenges of adulthood in New York City.
Also recommended by:
Tupac Shakur 

Spies of the Balkans

A thrilling historical novel by Alan Furst that follows a Greek police officer who becomes involved in a network of espionage during World War II as he tries to save lives from the encroaching Axis powers.

The Hobbit

J.R.R. Tolkien's prelude to "The Lord of the Rings," where the hobbit Bilbo Baggins embarks on an adventure to help a group of dwarves reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug.

Stasiland: Stories from Behind the Berlin Wall

Anna Funder explores the haunting legacy of the Stasi, the East German secret police, through interviews and personal stories of those who resisted, conformed to, or worked for the regime.

Stoner

John Williams' novel tells the life story of William Stoner, a university professor in Missouri, capturing his unremarkable career and personal disappointments, yet profound inner life, against the backdrop of the 20th century.

Redshirts

John Scalzi's science fiction novel humorously explores the lives of the low-ranking crew members aboard a starship who discover they are actually characters in a dangerously scripted television show.

The Glory and the Dream: A Narrative History of America 1932-72

William Manchester provides a detailed and engaging narrative of American history spanning forty years, covering the major social, political, and cultural events from the Great Depression through the Watergate scandal.

Midnight In Europe

In this historical spy novel by Alan Furst, a Spanish lawyer recruited by the anti-Fascist coalition embarks on a dangerous mission across Europe to secure arms for the Spanish Civil War as World War II looms on the horizon.

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

Yuval Noah Harari provides a compelling overview of the history of our species from the emergence of ancient human tribes to the present day, exploring how biology and history have defined us.
Also recommended by:
Bill Gates  Lex Fridman  Naval Ravikant 

What It Takes: The Way to the White House

Richard Ben Cramer provides a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at the personalities, campaigning, and drama of the 1988 U.S. presidential election, revealing what it really takes to become President.
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