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American Literature Books & Novels
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items If you’re looking for a list of classic American literature novels, here it is! Check out these 11 American literature books that have compelling themes, characters, and stories!
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Sections
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American Renaissance & Romanticism (1830s–1860s)
Modernism & Early 20th Century (1910s–1940s)
American Renaissance & Romanticism (1830s–1860s)
The Scarlet Letter shows the weight of shame and guilt in Puritan America, which makes it one of the most enduring American literature novels to date.
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Despite’s its controversies, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is one of the most important American literature novels someone can read. Not only does it tell a story of race, friendship, and collaboration, but it presents a controversial ending tha...
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (Dover Thrift)
Sirens of Titan, although a bit quirky, as almost all of Vonnegut’s books, is a story of free will vs external control in a life that is full of absurdity.
The Sirens of Titan by Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
As a protestation of ignorance, Uncle Tom’s Cabin emphasizes the evil, inhumanity of slavery.
Uncle Tom's Cabin - Beecher Stowe, Harriet: Books
Absurd, annoying, and frustrating are all characteristics to describe Holden Caulfield in this classic American novel, but is that because of his own doing, his loneliness, mental health, or all of the above.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Out of many American literature books, Invisible Man confronts identity, race, and invisibility in America, arguably, the best.
Invisible Man: Ellison, Ralph: 9780679732761
This early chronicle is one of the first books in American literature, capturing the Pilgrims’ journey. Definitely a captivating read.
Bradford's Manuscript "Of Plimoth Plantation"
An epic American literature novel of obsession, fate, and man’s struggle with nature.
Moby Dick; Or, The Whale by Herman Melville
It’s just one of the most famous books in American literature, and the best part about it? It celebrates democracy and individuality.
Leaves of Grass (1855)
Frederick Douglass was before his time. And as a result, he created one of the most important reads within American literature, one that confronts slavery and freedom.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Modernism & Early 20th Century (1910s–1940s)
Love creates and empowers identity in this touching reflection about relationships and marriage.
Their Eyes Were Watching God: Hurston Novel
As one of the best classic American books, Mice of Men captures the desire and determination to acquire the American Dream, despite the inevitable challenges that stop it from happening.
Of Mice and Men: Steinbeck, John: 9780140177398
Heartwarming and captivating, Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird” places the importance of seeing life from different perspectives, using race and ethics as the forefront of its primary plot.
To Kill a Mockingbird: Lee, Harper: 9780446310789
The Great Gatsby completely symbolizes what many feel about the American Dream, the longing for growth and the possibilities that follow—and what won’t happen because of it. That’s why many consider it to be perhaps the best American literature novel...
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Paperback
Set in The Great Depression, “The Grapes of Wrath” has become one of the best American books because of its ability the of showcasing importance of family, perseverance, and community during hardship and, more importantly, life.
The Grapes of Wrath: John Steinbeck, Robert DeMott