Classic literature has a way of transporting us to different eras, cultures, and perspectives, offering a glimpse into the human experience that transcends time and space. From timeless tales of love and loss to thought-provoking explorations of the human condition, certain books have earned their place in the canon of great literature.
In this article, we’ll journey through ten classic books that you cannot afford to miss in your lifetime.
10 Iconic Classic Books to Read in Your 20s or Once in a Lifetime
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Little Women is an empowering classic tale of March sisters Jo, Beth, Meg, and Amy. They are the ultimate squad goals and their story will make you laugh, cry, and cheer them on from the sidelines.
This classic book follows their lives from young girls to women in Concord, Massachusetts during the Civil War era. The story is loosely based on Alcott’s own life and offers a poignant portrayal of the challenges and joys faced by women during this period. This classic tale of sisterhood, friendship, and love is a must-read for anyone who just wants to be inspired by some seriously amazing females.
This classic novel is an easy read that children and adults can enjoy, making it a great introduction to timeless literature for young readers.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Are you ready to meet the grumpiest, most miserly man in town? Ebenezer Scrooge, the star of Charles Dickens’s classic tale, “A Christmas Carol.” But don’t worry, this isn’t just a story about a cranky old man – it’s a magical journey that will warm your heart and change your perspective on the holiday season forever.
This classic novella tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter old man visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve. The spirits, representing the past, present, and future, reveal to Scrooge the errors of his ways and help him see Christmas’s true meaning.
Dicken’s vivid descriptions of Victorian London and its inhabitants create a rich and immersive atmosphere that will draw you into the story. “A Christmas Carol” is a book that will leave readers reflecting on their own lives and the importance of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or the tenth, “A Christmas Carol” is a classic that promises to delight and inspire.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald! This classic novel is like a time machine that’ll transport you to the glamorous world of jazz, flappers, and Prohibition.
This classic novel is narrated by Nick Carraway, who moves to Long Island’s West Egg to work in the bond business and becomes entranced by his mysterious neighbor, Jay Gatsby. As the story unfolds, Nick witnesses the glamour and excesses of Gatsby’s lavish parties while uncovering the dark secrets behind the millionaire’s facade.
“The Great Gatsby” explores themes of class, status, and the corrupting influence of wealth. With its vivid depiction of the decadence and superficiality of the rich, this classic novel remains a timeless masterpiece that will fascinate you with its haunting beauty and piercing insight into the human condition. It’s a reminder that true happiness can’t be bought and that sometimes, the past is best left in the past.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
This iconic classic novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who, driven by his obsession with the mysteries of life and death, creates a monstrous creature from dead body parts. However, upon bringing his creation to life, Victor is horrified by what he has done and abandons the creature, leaving it to fend for itself.
As the creature traverses through the world, it learns to speak and think, developing a sense of self and a desire for companionship. But its grotesque appearance makes it an outcast, leading to a series of tragic events that threaten to destroy both Victor and the creature.
“Frankenstein” isn’t just a shallow horror story. It’s a deeply nuanced exploration of what it means to be human and the devastating consequences of playing God. In short, “Frankenstein” is a classic novella that will haunt you long after you finish reading it.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
“Pride and Prejudice” is a timeless romance about Elizabeth Bennet, a strong-willed and independent young woman, and Mr. Darcy, a wealthy and proud gentleman. The two meet at a ball and their initial impressions of each other are far from favorable, with Elizabeth dismissing Darcy as a snobbish aristocrat and Darcy viewing Elizabeth as nothing more than a lowly country girl.
However, as they continue to cross paths, they begin to see beyond each other’s pride and prejudices and develop a deep and passionate love for one another.
Set in the late 18th-century English countryside, “Pride and Prejudice” is a classic tale of love, family, and social hierarchy. Austen’s wit and satire shine through as she pokes fun at the societal norms and conventions of her time, while also exploring themes of gender roles, class, and identity.
Whether you’re a fan of romance, historical fiction, or simply great writing, “Pride and Prejudice” is a must-read classic that promises to delight and captivate you from start to finish.
If you are a fan of old-school romance classics, you can also explore 10 Classic Romance Books for Old-School Romance Lovers.
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
“Great Expectations” is a novel that follows the life of Pip, a young boy who is randomly selected to receive an inheritance from a mysterious benefactor. As Pip navigates the complexities of adulthood, he finds himself entangled in a web of unrequited love, betrayal, and deceit.
Dicken’s masterful storytelling paints a vivid picture of contrasts between the wealthy elite and the struggling working class, shedding light on the harsh realities of life in 19th-century England.
This classic book will linger in your mind, sparking reflection on humanity’s condition. So why wait? Dive into the world of Pip, Magwitch, and Miss Havisham, and discover why this classic tale continues to enchant readers generation after generation.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
This classic novel follows the life of Jane Eyre, a young woman who faces numerous challenges and struggles on her journey to finding happiness and fulfillment.
Orphaned at a young age, Jane faces poverty, abuse, and loneliness before becoming the governess of Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with the brooding and mysterious Mr. Rochester. But as their relationship deepens, dark secrets from Mr. Rochester’s past threaten to tear them apart. Will Jane and Mr. Rochester be able to overcome their challenges and find true love?
It’s a tale of courage, perseverance, and the power of love to conquer even the darkest of obstacles. So why not add it to your list of classic books to read in your lifetime? It’s a journey you won’t soon forget.
One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
One Hundred Years of Solitude” is a magical and mesmerizing tale that will transport you to the mystical town of Macondo. The book tells the story of the Buendia family and their experiences in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel spans several generations and explores themes of isolation, solitude, and the search for meaning and connection in a chaotic world.
This classic book is known for its unique magical realism style, which combines elements of fantasy and realism to create a rich and imaginative world. The narrative jumps back and forth in time, blurring the lines between past, present, and future, and creating a sense of timelessness.
This classic book will offer you a unique and unforgettable reading experience that will stay with readers long after they finish the book. It’s a must-read for fans of magical realism, Latin American literature, and anyone looking for a thought-provoking and immersive reading experience.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley is a classic dystopian fiction novel. It is set in a futuristic society, where people are genetically engineered and conditioned to conform to a rigid social hierarchy. The story follows Bernard Marx, a scientist who creates a being called Lenina Crowne, who is designed to be the perfect citizen. However, things take a turn when Lenina begins to question the system and seeks answers outside of her programming.
Huxley’s writing is both haunting and prescient, as he predicts a future where people are controlled by propaganda, drugs, and manipulation.
“Brave New World” is a powerful warning about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of personal autonomy. It’s a thought-provoking and unsettling read that will leave you questioning the direction of our own society. If you haven’t already, add this classic to your reading list – it’s a must-read for anyone interested in science fiction, philosophy, or political theory.
Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
“Crime and Punishment” is a psychological thriller and a philosophical inquiry into the human condition. The story follows the troubled and impoverished former student Raskolnikov, who murders an old pawnbroker and grapples with guilt, redemption, and the nature of crime and punishment.
“Crime and Punishment” continues to captivate readers and challenge their assumptions about justice, morality, and the human condition. This classic novel is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the depths of human nature and the consequences of our choices.
