Are you looking for the best Tamil books to read during your leisure? I have a few book suggestions for you. I have read a few Tamil books and have been impressed by the story and the powerful lines of the authors. When you read a book in Tamil, it is the words that make your reading more interesting. So, I have come up with the 10 best Tamil books to read during your free time at school, college, or wherever you find time.

1. Ponniyin Selvan

If you are a person who loves Tamil historical novels, then the first book that I would suggest to you people is Ponniyin Selvan. The book narrates the story of Arulmozhivarman,  who later became the king of the Chola dynasty.
The story happens around 970CE and has all sorts of emotions life bravery romance, sacrifice, and jealousy shown in the book. Although we have movies that portray the life story of Arulmozhivarman, the experience that we get while reading this particular book is different in interesting.
  • Author: Kalki Krishnamurthy
  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Why Read: The book provides a glimpse into the aspirations and struggles for independence in ancient Tamil lands.
  • Moral: It teaches about the pursuit of one’s dreams and the significance of freedom.

2. Karuvatchi Kaaviyam

I am sure Karuvatchi Kaaviyam is one of the best Tamil books to read if you are a lover of rural narratives in this modern technology world. The book beautifully portrays the life story of a rural girl who faces a series of undesirable moments in her life.
You can say the difference in the uniqueness of the language used by Vairamuthu in this book. I can say that this is one of the best books that shows the perseverance of a rural girl in her personal and societal life.
  • Author: Vairamuthu
  • Genre: Fiction
  • Why Read: It’s a poignant exploration of rural life and the challenges faced by women.
  • Moral: The story brings to light issues of social injustice and resilience.

3. Parthiban kanavu

Parthiban Kanavu is another historical novel written by the same author who wrote Ponniyin Selvan. This Book talks about Vikram who defends the Chola dynasty from the Pallavan ruler named Narasimavarman I.  Vikram is none other than the son of Parthiban who dreams about Vikram recapturing the Cholan Kingdom.
The poetic and powerful words by Kalki will make your reading more interesting and take your experience to the next level. The best part about this book is the beautiful relationship between father and son making his father’s dream come true
  • Author: Kalki Krishnamurthy
  • Genre: Historical Fiction
  • Why Read: The book provides a glimpse into the aspirations and struggles for independence in ancient Tamil lands.
  • Moral: It teaches about the pursuit of one’s dreams and the significance of freedom.

4. Solaimalai Ilavarasi

If you like to read a patriotic book, then why not try Solaimalai Ilavarasi? The book talks about specific freedom fighter life during the colonial period in India. Not just the Patriotism, there are also the romantic endeavors of the freedom fighter being portrayed here and there in the book.
 If you ask me I would suggest this book to everyone who wants to read Tamil book in his life. After reading the book you will come to know the cultural diversity and how wealthy our country was.
  • Author: Kalki Krishnamurthy
  • Genre: Fiction
  • Why Read: It’s a captivating story that combines elements of romance, adventure, and historical fiction.
  • Moral: It highlights the importance of perseverance and integrity.

5.  Pen En Adimaiyaanaal

This is one of my favorite books about women empowerment and it was written by Periyar E. V.  Ramaswamy. He is the most significant figure in raising his voice against child marriage and the denial of women’s entry into temples. The book will enhance your rational thinking and make you realize how important social contribution is.
I am sure this is one of the best Tamil books to read that talks about gender equality and women empowerment that every student has to read at least once in their lifetime.
  • Author: Periyar E. V. Ramasamy
  • Genre: Non-Fiction
  • Why Read: It discusses the feminist ideology and critiques the subjugation of women.
  • Moral: Advocates for gender equality and women’s rights.

6. Maraikapatta India

Would you like to know the entire history of India? then I would recommend you to read the Maraikapatta India book. This book talks about ancient history from the journey of Chinese traveler Xuanzang to modern history. While reading this book you will come to know how rich our country’s history is.
Also, the book covers the entry of the Mughals,  British Portuguese, and other kingdoms that ruled over India. You can also suggest this book to students and other teenagers who must know the history of our country.
  • Author: S. Ramakrishnan.
  • Genre: History, Nonfiction.
  • Why Read: This book is praised for its detailed and engaging presentation of historical events that are not widely known.
  • Moral: The book underscores the importance of understanding and preserving history.

 7. Vanavaasam

Do you want to read an inspiring autobiography here is a book for you. Vanavaasam. This is a book written by Kannadasan where he describes his life in Dravidian politics. Kannadasan is one of the most prominent poets who is known for writing many unique poems with beautiful words.

You will come to know about the personal life story of Nationalist emergence and happenings in the Dravidian political party. I’m sure you will melt down while reading every line of Kannadasan in this book.

  • Author: Kannadhasan
  • Genre: Autobiography
  • Why Read: It’s an introspective look at the author’s life and his journey from atheism to spirituality.
  • Moral: The book explores themes of transformation and self-discovery.

8. Kaakitha Malargal

 If there is a novel that talks about society and its people, then Kaakitha Malargal is the one. The book narrates about the lives of ordinary people, politicians, and intellectuals, and how their lives are interconnected with each other.
The book also specifically describes women and their lives in overcoming the challenges in a male-centric society. This is one of the best Tamil books to read and a great suggestion to your children who must know about women’s empowerment.
  • Author: Aadhavan
  • Genre: Fiction
  • Why Read: It’s a reflective piece on societal norms and the roles individuals play.
  • Moral: The novel questions societal expectations and encourages individuality.

 9. Namakkul Sila Kelvigal

If you would like to get motivated and know the meaning of your life, then I would like to suggest this book to you. This book will make you introspect yourself and realize how important self-love is.
The author describes various aspects of life, from the significance of duty and the unseen forces that support our daily lives to the importance of experiencing and cherishing every moment. This is the one of the best Tamil books to read to take care of yourself in hard times and make you live a better life.
  • Author: V. Iraianbu
  • Genre: Personal Development
  • Why Read: The book offers insightful answers to common questions about life and self-growth.
  • Moral: It advocates for self-reflection and the pursuit of knowledge.

 10. Por Thozhil Palagu

I’m sure V. Irai Anbu is one of the most prominent civil servants who is also a writer, educator, and social activist in Tamil Nadu. Por Thozhil Palagu is one of his best writings that tells the importance of self-help and motivation.
I suggest this book to all those who need motivation in their lives and explore the world with their confidence. Moreover, he also talks about mental health and its vital role in leading a successful life. I can assure you that this will be the best Tamil books to read for all the school students to excel in studies and life.
  • Author: V. Iraianbu
  • Genre: Self-Help
  • Why Read: It provides practical advice on personal development and self-improvement.
  • Moral: Encourages self-reliance and continuous learning.