There’s something uniquely enticing about escaping into a good book. Even more so when you’re high. If you’re on the hunt for something special, look no further. Hit that bong and dive into these ten intellectual stoner books to read high.
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“Infinite Jest” by David Foster Wallace
At over 1,000 pages, this massive tome is not for the faint of heart, but for those who love a challenge, it’s perfect.
Set in a near-future dystopia, “Infinite Jest” is a complex and multi-layered work that explores addiction, entertainment, and the human condition. Set in a surreal, postmodern world, this complex and witty read is both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams
This classic sci-fi satire follows the misadventures of a hapless human and his alien friend as they traverse the cosmos. The dry and often absurdist humor of this book makes it an absolute gem.
Adams’ witty prose and imaginative world-building are a perfect match for any mind-altering substance. But it pairs exceptionally well with weed.
“The Doors of Perception” by Aldous Huxley
This influential essay explores the author’s experiences with mescaline and its implications for the nature of consciousness and perception.
Huxley’s insightful and thought-provoking writing will leave you questioning the nature of reality itself.
“The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test” by Tom Wolfe
This non-fiction book chronicles the adventures of Ken Kesey and his Merry Pranksters as they travel across America in a psychedelic bus, spreading the gospel of LSD. Not unlike the work of Terence McKenna, this book is as much a snapshot of historically significant moments as it is the literary equivalent of live-streaming a wild trip.
Set in the 1960s, this tale is full of crazy characters and trippy experiences. It perfectly captures the spirit of the counterculture movements of the day.
“Gravity’s Rainbow” by Thomas Pynchon
This sprawling postmodern masterpiece weaves together a multitude of characters and subplots against the backdrop of World War II.
Its kaleidoscopic structure and dense symbolism makes it a challenging read, to say the least. But it offers such a wonderful portrait of the era that it’s worth the effort.
“The Book of Disquiet” by Fernando Pessoa
This strange and beautiful book is a collection of fragments, musings, and meditations on life, love, and the human experience. It’s a deeply introspective work, perfect for those who want to take a journey into their own minds.
“Catch-22” by Joseph Heller
This satirical novel is a masterpiece of absurdity and black humor. Set during World War II, “Catch-22” follows the misadventures of Captain John Yossarian and his fellow airmen as they try to survive the horrors of war.
With its biting wit and surreal plot twists, this book is sure to keep you entertained.
“The Marijuana Food Handbook” by Bill Drake
Of course, fictional satires and non-fictional trips are wonderful. But there are plenty of other genres such as a humorous cookbook made for stoners.
With recipes for everything from pot brownies to THC-infused smoothies, this book will help you take your culinary game to the next level. And if you happen to read it high, it may just unlock your inner MasterChef.
“Slaughterhouse-Five” by Kurt Vonnegut
This anti-war novel is a classic of American literature. And it is perfect for people who want to explore the absurdity of war and the human condition.
With its nonlinear narrative and surreal plot twists, “Slaughterhouse-Five” is a mind-bending read that will stay with you long after you finish it.
“Steal This Book” by Abbie Hoffman
This counterculture classic is perfect for those who want to stick it to the man.
With tips on everything from dumpster diving to making your own substnaces, “Steal This Book” is a must-read for any intellectual stoner who wants to rebel against the status quo.
“The Tao of Pooh” by Benjamin Hoff
“The Tao of Pooh” by Benjamin Hoff is a charming and whimsical book that explores the principles of Taoism through the beloved characters of Winnie the Pooh.
The characters of the show have often been used as muses when exploring complex concepts. The most notable one being the exploration of mental health disorders represented by each character. So it isn’t surprising that the same approach is used when detailing other complex things, such as philosophy or religion.
This book is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the concepts of mindfulness and living in the present moment. It’s a great way to relax and unwind while you’re high.
“The Illuminatus! Trilogy” by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson
“The Illuminatus! Trilogy” by Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson is a mind-bending and hilarious conspiracy theory satire that’s perfect for anyone who wants to explore the weirder side of reality.
With references to everything from the JFK assassination to Aleister Crowley, this book is a wild ride that’s sure to blow your mind.
A Room With a View
A good book is one that leaves you feeling a mix of emotions. But these intellectual stoner books take things to the next level, especially if you read them when you’re high. They will leave you pondering, questioning, laughing, yearning, and so much more. Just be sure you have enough bud to help you coast through the trip.
