I will most likely call myself a beginner at classics. Let’s be honest, not everyone is like Rory Gilmore, right? I mean, classics can be complex and difficult to understand. So where do you begin your classics journey? I’ve seen people recommend books like Wuthering Heights and whenever I’ve picked it up, I begin to question myself if I can even read any classics. So here’s a list of classic books that are relatively easy to read and understand.
Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley
Beware; for I am fearless, and therefore powerful.
Mary Shelley, Frankenstein
Mary Shelley’s eerie classic “Frankenstein” explores themes of ambition, morality, and the human condition. Written in 1818, it narrates the tale of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who, through a careless experiment, creates a terrible creature. Shelley examines the loneliness of Victor’s abandoned invention, the Creature, and the moral quandaries of scientific discovery when the results of his activities become apparent. The novel “Frankenstein” forces readers to examine their own ideas of humanity and the results of unbridled ambition through vibrant prose and deep characterization. A timeless masterpiece whose terrifying story and deep ideas never fail to enthral.
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by R.L. Stevenson
Quiet minds cannot be perplexed or frightened but go on in fortune or misfortune at their own private pace, like a clock during a thunderstorm.
Robert Louis Stevenson, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Robert Louis Stevenson’s compelling novella “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” explores the duality of human nature. Stevenson tackles topics of morality, temptation, and the results of unbridled appetites through the story of Dr. Henry Jekyll and his evil alter ego, Mr. Edward Hyde. Readers are gripped by the story’s captivating narrative and rich characterization as they follow Jekyll’s psychological collapse and Hyde’s destructive rampage. The ageless themes and succinct writing style of “Jekyll and Hyde” make it an engrossing and provocative look into the murky corners of the human psyche.
The Stranger by Albert Camus
Since we’re all going to die, it’s obvious that when and how don’t matter.
Albert Camus, The Stranger
Albert Camus’s philosophical book “The Stranger” chronicles the existential odyssey of Meursault, the book’s emotionally cold and uncaring protagonist. The story, which is set in colonial Algeria, is told from a distance by Meursault and follows the circumstances that lead to his arrest and trial for what appears to be a senseless act of violence. Camus examines issues of absurdity, alienation, and the quest for purpose in an uncaring environment. Camus questions society’s conventions and moral conceptions through Meursault’s stoic manner and existential meditations. Long after the last page, “The Stranger” will continue to provoke readers’ thoughts as it explores the complexity of the human condition.
Perfume by Patrick Süskind
He realized that all his life he had been a nobody to everyone. What he now felt was the fear of his own oblivion. It was as though he did not exist.
Patrick Süskind, Perfume: The Story of a Murderer
Patrick Süskind’s eerie and atmospheric book “Perfume” transports readers to the smell-filled world of eighteenth-century France. The narrative centres on Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, a talented but troubled perfumer who lacks a signature scent. Süskind skillfully crafts a story about obsession, murder, and the quest for perfection as Grenouille tries to distil the essence of human scent into the perfect fragrance. “Perfume” is a sensory experience that captivates and disturbs in equal measure with its descriptive prose and vivid imagery, leaving an enduring imprint on those who dare to breathe in its seductive perfume.
My reaction on finishing this book!https://www.instagram.com/reel/C348UlxPRql/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Agatha Christie
The impossible could not have happened, therefore the impossible must be possible in spite of appearances.
Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express
Christie is one of my favourite writers, and I cannot stop myself from recommending her books. Whenever I am in a reading slump I always pick up one of her books because they are easy to read, fast-paced, and honestly, I just love a good mystery. Her ‘And Then There Were None’ pulled me out of a 3-year reading slump. For beginning readers, Agatha Christie’s books are the ultimate classics because they provide engrossing mysteries with clever narratives and endearing characters. Readers are kept guessing until the very end by Christie’s detectives, who tackle complex riddles and sinister secrets. From the renowned Hercule Poirot to the astute Miss Marple. Her novels, which give thrills, tension, and satisfying resolutions, make an ideal introduction to the realm of great literature because of their approachable language and ageless locales. Christie’s books promise an engrossing and enjoyable reading experience for everyone, whether they explore the exotic locations of “Death on the Nile” or the country house killings of “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.”
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