Classics can be quite intimidating. I have made it a goal this year to start reading more classics and to be able to understand what the hype is all about. These are some that I found to be pretty simple to understand and get something out of as a be...
Sections
6
Short Classics
Classics That Feel Modern
Emotional Reads
Funny and Witty
Adventure
Gothic and Moody
Short Classics
Under 250 pages, these classics are perfect for readers just trying to dip their toes in and are a bit intimidated by the larger reads.
The Great Gatsby is a great read if you like the glitz and glamour vibe that it gives and is under 200 pages.
The Great Gatsby: A Classic 1925 Jazz Age Novel
Animal Farm is still a very relevant read in today's world. I reread it recently for the first time since high school and got so much out of it. I believe there is also an animated movie coming out this summer on this book.
Animal Farm
This book is inspired by the author's own upbringing and heritage. It is such a powerful read about really finding and inventing yourself on your own.
The House on Mango Street (Vintage Contemporaries)
Classics That Feel Modern
These books feel like they could have been published recently if you hadn't known any different. They are a bit easier to understand because of this.
A tale of sisterhood and family dynamics.
Little Women (Puffin in Bloom)
A very powerful read focusing on women's mental health.
The Bell Jar: Timeless Coming-of-Age Classic
Often described as the first enemies to lovers. This one is witty and funny at times, but also romantic.
Pride & Prejudice
Emotional Reads
These reads are very much character driven and really make you feel something.
A story that touches on what it means to belong and be loyal. It also focuses on grief. It is beautiful and powerful.
The Outsiders
An absolutely beautiful story of self discovery and women empowerment. Also a film.
The Color Purple (Color Purple Collection 1)
This book will make you realize how important and powerful literature is and can be.
The Book Thief
Funny and Witty
Witty, satire, and unexpectedly hilarious.
A parody of gothic novels that were written during this time.
Northanger Abbey
An absurd sci fi comedy with a lot of unforgettable humor.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Everyday awkwardness turned into comedy. I could definitely relate to this.
Diary of a Nobody (Wordsworth Classics)
Adventure
Fast moving reads with a very strong plot.
This list wouldn't exist without this book. It is long, but it is extremely bingeable. One of the most loved classics of all time.
The Count of Monte Cristo (Penguin Classics)
I remember watching this movie as a kid and fell in love. It was so much fun to re experience the story as an adult.
Swiss Family Robinson, The
An easy to read American classic that everyone should read at least once.
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (Dover Thrift)
Gothic and Moody
Moody, atmospheric beginner classics from my favorite era.
My first classic I read as an adult and will always hold a special place in my heart. Very accessible.
Jane Eyre (Dover Thrift Editions: Classic Novels)
A beautiful read that touches on vanity and corruption. Very important in today's world.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
The classic that took BookTok by storm due to the recent film adaptation. Talks about toxic and dark romance.
