Hey there fellow bookworms! Even though April, which marks National Literature Month, is coming to an end, it's never too late to join in the celebration by finding some great classic books to read and enjoy. There's nothing quite like the feeling of discovering a good read while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. It's a heavenly experience that can be enjoyed any time of year.
The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald
If you're looking for a great novel to read, look no further than F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic work, The Great Gatsby. The story follows the wealthy Jay Gatsby as he pursues his desire to reconcile with his former flame, Daisy Buchanan. Narrated from Nick Carraway's perspective, the book depicts the failure of Gatsby's efforts to rekindle their relationship. Interestingly, the novel did not gain popularity until after Fitzgerald's death, when it was included with The Last Tycoon by Edmund Wilson. Despite the seemingly sad storyline, The Great Gatsby is widely regarded as one of the pillars of world literature.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison's Beloved is a spiritual and haunting novel that won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 1988. The story revolves around Sethe, a black woman who was enslaved and later settles in Ohio, and the detrimental effects of slavery on her life. The novel highlights how Sethe confronts her traumatic past in order to move forward and live a meaningful life. The message of Beloved emphasizes the importance of living in the present and not letting the past define us. This powerful novel teaches us to be moral and strong individuals. If you're wondering about the title, you'll have to read the book to find out!
Frankenstein Mary Shelley
Don't let its simple structure fool you, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a profound book that should not be overlooked. The story features the mad scientist Victor Frankenstein, who creates a creature that he soon regrets bringing to life. The monster is rejected by humanity, including Victor himself. The novel brilliantly portrays the complexity of human emotions and the consequences of our actions. Don't miss out on this classic tale!
War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace is a must-read novel, albeit quite lengthy and realistic. The book focuses on Napoleon's invasion of Russia, and Tolstoy masterfully depicts the historical events and details surrounding the conflict. It's worth noting that Tolstoy dedicated six years of his life to writing this novel, a true testament to his commitment to his craft. As he wrote, "The strongest of all warriors are these two – Time and Patience," a quote that embodies the effort and dedication he put into this masterpiece. Don't miss out on this epic tale!
Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
Fyodor Dostoevsky's Brothers Karamazov is a classic of Russian literature that delves into philosophical and theological themes such as the origin of evil, the nature of freedom, and the search for faith. The novel is a complex exploration of human existence, addressing the dilemmas of faith and doubt, free will, and moral responsibility.
The characters in the novel are all significant, each representing different aspects of the human experience. Alyosha is a shining example of goodness, providing hope and wisdom to those he encounters. Ivan's skepticism challenges the reader to contemplate the mysteries of life. And Dmitri's passions and flaws serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked desire.