Far out, man! These books will take you back to the 1960s. From the history that is still being felt today to the music scene that impacted generations, the 1960s were historic. Walk through and remember with us.
Pure '60s Vibes
The '60s Made Your Childhood
Classic Books From the '60s
Music
Pop Culture
History
Far Out '60s: Discover the Best Books of the Sixties
The 1960s was a decade of revolution, creativity, and profound social change. Whether you’re drawn to the counterculture, fascinated by historic civil rights movements, or simply captivated by the pop culture and style of the era, this collection makes it easy to find books on the 1960s that match your interest. Browse below to buy books of the 1960s—ranging from top 1960s history books and Beat Generation novels to memoirs, fashion retrospectives, and more. Dive in and relive the energy, hope, and upheaval that made the sixties truly unforgettable.
Explore 1960s History & Social Change
If you’re searching for the best books about the 1960s or want to understand the decade’s sweeping changes, you’ll find powerful narratives and true stories among our top-rated books on the sixties. These titles bring the era’s defining events to life, from the civil rights movement to the space race and beyond:
- The Sixties: Freedom, Change and Revolution offers an accessible overview of key moments and figures, making it a great starting point for anyone wanting a broad perspective on this transformative decade.
- Time It Was: American Stories from the Sixties collects personal accounts and essays, putting real voices at the center of the era’s most pivotal events.
- 11/22/63 by Stephen King is a unique blend of fiction and history, as a modern man travels back in time to prevent the assassination of JFK. It’s a compelling way to experience the tension and possibility that defined the decade.
For readers who crave a deep dive into activism and social justice, our selection of 1960s civil rights books and Vietnam War memoirs from the 1960s offers essential perspectives:
- Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March gives a firsthand account from one of the youngest participants in the historic march—perfect for both teens and adults interested in civil rights history.
- Time It Was: American Stories from the Sixties also includes important narratives on the antiwar movement and cultural shifts.
Dive into Sixties Counterculture & Literature
No exploration of the books of the sixties would be complete without a look at the counterculture. From the Beat Generation to the hippie movement, these used 1960s books and 1960s counterculture literature are must-reads for anyone curious about the ideas and lifestyles that challenged the status quo:
- The Portable Sixties Reader brings together essential writings from Allen Ginsberg, Tom Wolfe, and other icons, offering a true flavor of the era’s literary experimentation and activism.
- Hippie Chick: Coming of Age in the ’60s is a personal memoir that vividly captures the spirit, music, and social rebellion of the time.
- What the Dormouse Said: How the Sixties Counterculture Shaped the Personal Computer Industry tells the surprising story of how free-thinking innovators from the 1960s laid the groundwork for today’s technology.
- Gettin' Home: An Odyssey Through the '60s blends humor and insight as it follows one young man’s cross-country adventures, channeling the restless energy of the decade.
Relive Sixties Pop Culture, Style, & Daily Life
The sixties were about more than just politics—they were also a time of bold fashion, unforgettable music, and playful experimentation. Explore books that showcase the fun, style, and everyday experiences of the era. If you’re nostalgic for the pop culture of the 1960s or want to see what made the decade so colorful, these picks are for you:
- Hippie Chic is a vibrant celebration of sixties fashion, from tie-dye to fringe, perfect for style enthusiasts and aspiring designers.
- Great Fashion Designs of the Sixties Paper Dolls in Full Color offers a fun, interactive way to explore haute couture from designers like Saint Laurent and Courreges.
- G Is for Go-Go: A Sixties Alphabet turns pop culture into an A-to-Z adventure—ideal for younger readers or anyone who enjoys a playful take on the era.
- Automobiles of the '60s Ultimate Crossword Puzzle is a clever way to test your knowledge of classic cars and culture.
- Green Stamps to Hot Pants: Growing Up in the '50s and '60s offers a warm, relatable look at daily life, making it perfect for anyone who grew up in or is curious about the era.
Sixties Stories for Young Readers & Families
Introduce kids and families to the excitement of the 1960s with books that capture the hope, creativity, and challenges of the time. Whether you’re looking for illustrated stories or chapter books, these titles make history accessible and fun:
- Countdown is a gripping middle-grade novel set during the Cuban Missile Crisis. It’s a great way for young readers to experience the tension and daily life of the era.
- Arch Books Treasury: Vintage Collection, 1964-1965 collects classic illustrated stories from the sixties, perfect for sharing with children or rediscovering as an adult.
- Home Free: Adventures of a Child of the Sixties gives a unique perspective on growing up during a decade of change, blending memoir and social history.
Memoirs, Personal Stories & Nostalgia
Looking for used 1960s books that offer a personal touch? Memoirs and firsthand accounts let you step into the shoes of those who lived through the decade’s most memorable moments. These titles are ideal for readers who want to connect with the human side of history:
- Summer of '69 by Elin Hilderbrand is a vivid coming-of-age novel that captures the joys and challenges of family life against the backdrop of a changing America.
- Hippie Chick: Coming of Age in the ’60s offers honest reflections and colorful anecdotes from a young woman who embraced the decade’s spirit.
- Gettin' Home: An Odyssey Through the '60s chronicles a journey across America, filled with humor and countercultural encounters.
How to Find & Buy Books of the 1960s on ThriftBooks
Ready to start your journey? ThriftBooks makes it easy to buy books of the 1960s and discover hidden gems. Use this collection as your guide to:
- Find the top-rated books on the sixties, from classic fiction to essential nonfiction.
- Browse used 1960s books for affordable, eco-friendly options.
- Explore sixties-themed books for all ages, interests, and reading goals.
Whether you’re a history buff, a pop culture fan, or simply curious about the era, this curated collection helps you discover the best books about the 1960s—so you can experience the revolution, reflection, and resilience of one of history’s most fascinating decades. Start exploring today and find your next great read from the sixties!
