PBS has been hosting a series highlighting what they've determined to be America's most loved books. Regardless of the method, it is an interesting list of all variety of styles, periods, and subjects. I enjoyed browsing the list to see how many I've read and have added a couple to my wish list. I believe there is some voting and there has been some life changing commentaries by ordinary and famous people on video feature I've seen.
http://www.pbs.org/the-great-american-read/books/#/