While there is no definitive answer to the “worst book ever written,” but some notoriously bad books published by major publishers have received widespread criticism for poor writing, weak storytelling, or misguided premises. Here are a few contenders:
1. Atlanta Nights (2005) – Travis Tea (A Hoax, But Still)
Atlanta Nights was deliberately written to be terrible as a test to expose vanity publisher PublishAmerica’s lack of editorial standards. It was full of plot holes, nonsensical dialogue, and inconsistencies—one chapter was even randomly generated by a computer. Shockingly, PublishAmerica accepted it, proving the point.
Bookshop.org – https://bookshop.org/a/2537/9781411622982
2. Handbook for Mortals (2017) – Lani Sarem
Published by GeekNation, this YA novel was accused of scamming its way onto The New York Times bestseller list through bulk purchases. The writing was criticized as amateurish, and the story—a Mary Sue self-insert fantasy about a girl who is just so special—was widely panned.
Out of Print
3. The Eye of Argon (1970) – Jim Theis
Though originally self-published, this fantasy novel became legendary for its purple prose, nonsensical plot, and awkward phrasing. It has since been republished by major publishers in various editions, often for comedic effect.
Bookshop.org – https://bookshop.org/a/2537/9780809562619
4. Mein Kampf (1925) – Adolf Hitler
Technically a bestseller, but universally criticized for its rambling, incoherent writing and horrifying ideology. Various major publishers have released it with historical annotations.
No link, go find it yourself
5. Tyra Banks’ Modelland (2011)
A dystopian fantasy novel by supermodel Tyra Banks, Modelland was meant to be a satire of the fashion industry but ended up being bizarre, overlong, and incomprehensible.
Out of Print
6. Forrest Gump (1986) – Winston Groom
While the movie became a beloved classic, many readers were shocked by the book’s messy plot, crude humor, and inconsistent character development.
Bookshop.org – https://bookshop.org/a/2537/9780307947390
7. Fifty Shades of Grey (2011) – E.L. James
Originally Twilight fanfiction, this erotic romance was heavily criticized for repetitive prose, poor character development, and problematic relationship dynamics. Despite this, it sold millions.
Bookshop.org – https://bookshop.org/a/2537/9780345803481
This page was created by an City Book Review staff member.