Ben-Hur

By Jon Solomon,

Book cover of Ben-Hur: The Original Blockbuster

Book description

Ben-Hur was the first literary blockbuster to generate multiple and hugely profitable adaptations, highlighted by the 1959 film that won a record-setting 11 Oscars. General Lew Wallace's book was spun off into dozens of popular publications and media productions, becoming a veritable commercial brand name that earned tens of millions…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Ben-Hur as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Solomon’s gargantuan tome is a labor of love, offering a comprehensive tribute to General Lew Wallace’s epic historical novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ, from 1880.

Solomon traces its genesis, composition (during which Wallace, previously not a devout believer, saw the light), publication, and sensational worldwide impact in all manner of modern media, which even included Ben-His and Ben-Hers towels.

After stage adaptations with thrilling on-stage chariot races, the cinema took over. The appropriately big MGM production of 1959 can boast what was for decades believed to be the most spectacular action sequence ever filmed. In a nod to…

Want books like Ben-Hur?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Ben-Hur.

Browse books like Ben-Hur

Book cover of Sawdust Caesar: The Untold History of Mussolini and Fascism
Book cover of Hitler's State Architecture: The Impact of Classical Antiquity
Book cover of Spartacus

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,179

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in ancient Rome, Italy, and Rome?

Ancient Rome 304 books
Italy 410 books
Rome 339 books