Classic literature to add to your reading list
Reading classic literature is a lot like traveling back in time to a different era. It gives us a glimpse of how people viewed the world, what they valued, and the literary styles they were influenced by. These books are not only a great source of entertainment but also offer valuable insights into the social, cultural and political landscapes of the past. Whether you are a long-time lover of classic novels or are looking to explore this genre for the first time, here are some must-reads to add to your reading list.
1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Published in 1960, this novel by Harper Lee is a classic that should be on everybody’s reading list. It is set in the Deep South of America during the Great Depression, it follows the story of a young girl named Scout and her family. Her father is a lawyer who defends an African American man falsely accused of raping a white woman. This book deals with issues of racial injustice, prejudice, and loss of innocence. Despite being written in the 1960s, Harper Lee’s depiction of 1930s America feels relevant even today.
2. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Written in the early 19th century by English author Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet, a young woman in Regency England who is trying to navigate the restrictions placed on her by society. While she initially hates Mr. Darcy, the arrogant and mysterious man who enters her life, she slowly comes to see him in a different light. This witty, sharp and romantic novel looks at the relations between men and women in early nineteenth-century society in a witty, satirical manner.
3. 1984 by George Orwell
This dystopian novel written by George Orwell in 1949 imagines a totalitarian future world where the government has absolute control over every aspect of citizens’ lives. It follows the story of Winston Smith, a disillusioned man who is struggling to survive under the rule of Big Brother. This book is a grim warning of the dangers of a society that values conformity over individualism, and has prophetic implications for our current times.
4. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Published in 1847 by British author Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre is a timeless story that has captivated readers for over a century. The novel follows the life story of its titular heroine and is set in the harsh and austere moors of England in the 19th century. Jane Eyre is an inspirational and thought-provoking story that deals with themes of love, loss, morality, and the search for identity.
5. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
This historical adventure novel was written by French author Alexandre Dumas in 1844. It tells the story of Edmond Dantes, a man who is falsely accused of treason and sent to prison. After escaping, he discovers a treasure on the island of Monte Cristo, which he uses to take revenge on his enemies. This book has been adapted into films, television shows and plays, and is considered to be a masterpiece of historical fiction.
These are just a few of the amazing classic novels available to readers. Each one offers something unique, and they all should be read in order to fully appreciate the beauty and significance of classic literature.
Contemporary fiction That You Won’t Want to Put Down
Reading books is always a fun activity. It enhances our language and imagination skills and takes us into a different world of imagination and creativity. One such genre of books is contemporary fiction. The contemporary fiction books are a collection of different stories that capture the essence of daily life and human emotions. These books are often based on a philosophy, idea, or a character and reiterate them in everyday life. If you’re looking for such books, this reading list is perfect for you. Check out the recommendations below:
1. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a powerful novel that tells the story of a young girl named Kya Clark, who grows up in the marshes of North Carolina. The book takes the readers into the world of Kya and her journey as she navigates through the challenges of loneliness and heartbreak. It is a heart-warming tale of resilience, tenacity, and the strength of the human spirit. The book has been a New York Times bestseller and has gained immense popularity among the readers. The author’s writing style is engaging and crisp making it an unputdownable book.
2. The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a brilliant novel by Heather Morris, telling the story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew, who is imprisoned in the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during the World War II. The book takes the readers into the life of Lale and his journey through the horrors of the concentration camps. It gives us a glimpse of the strength of resilience, hope, and love even in the most challenging circumstances. The book is based on the true story of Lale Sokolov, and the author’s writing style is engaging, powerful, and emotive, making it an unforgettable read.
3. The Dutch House by Ann Patchett
The Dutch House by Ann Patchett is a beautiful and emotional novel that tells the story of two siblings, Danny and Maeve, who grow up in a grand house in Philadelphia. The book takes us through their relationship with their stepmother and the eventual loss of the family home. The Dutch House is a story of family, love, and loss, spanning over five decades. The author’s writing style is engaging, and the characters so well-developed that it makes the readers feel like they are part of the story. You won’t put this book down once you start reading it.
4. American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins is a gripping and moving novel that tells the story of a Mexican mother, Lydia, and her son Luca, as they flee from Acapulco for their lives after a cartel murders their family. The book takes the readers into the world of immigrants and their struggles through their journey to escape violence and poverty. American Dirt is a story of hope, resilience, and the power of the human spirit. The author’s writing style is powerful, and the emotions of the characters are vivid on the pages making it a must-read book.
5. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The book is about Alicia Berenson, a famous painter, who shoots her husband and never speaks again. The story takes us into the life of Alicia and her journey through a forensic psychiatrist named Theo Faber. The Silent Patient is a page-turner, with an unexpected twist that will leave you gasping. The author’s writing style is engaging and suspenseful, making it impossible to put the book down.
The above list of contemporary fiction is perfect for the readers who want to explore the nuances of human emotions and life’s realities. These books will keep you hooked till the last page with their engaging stories, compelling characters, and beautiful storytelling. Happy reading!
Non-fiction books to expand your knowledge and worldview
Reading is one of the most rewarding hobbies you can have as it not only gives you a glimpse into another world, but it also allows you to expand your knowledge and worldview. Non-fiction books are particularly beneficial in this regard since they dive deep into specific topics and provide helpful insights into how certain fields operate. In this article, we’ve curated a list of three of the best non-fiction books that can aid in your personal growth and enlightenment.
“Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari
“Sapiens” is one of the most profound non-fiction books of our time. The book explores the history of humans, from our evolutionary beginnings to where we are today. Through the eyes of author Yuval Noah Harari, we see how a combination of language, storytelling, and imagination has allowed us to dominate the animal kingdom and create complex societies. This book will take you on a journey through time, providing you with a fresh perspective on humanity.
“Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman
If you’re looking to understand how the human mind works, then “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman is the book for you. The book delves into the two thought systems that govern our actions: the fast, intuitive, and emotional system, and the slow, deliberative, and logical system. By examining these two systems and how they work together, Kahneman shows how our thinking is often irrational and errors in judgment are prevalent. By the end of the book, you’ll have a better understanding of how you make decisions and how to avoid the common mistakes we all make.
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot
If you’re looking for a non-fiction book that reads like a novel, then “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” should be at the top of your list. This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cancer cells were taken without her consent and used to create the first immortal human cell line. The book explores the ethical issues surrounding the use of human tissue in medical research, while also providing a poignant account of Henrietta’s life and legacy. This book is a perfect example of how non-fiction can be just as engaging and compelling as any fictional work.
These three non-fiction books are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to expanding your knowledge and worldview. Each book provides a unique perspective on the world, and reading them is an excellent way to broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up one of these books today, and start your journey towards personal growth and enlightenment.
Bestsellers that live up to the hype
When it comes to bestsellers, it is easy to get swept up in the excitement and expectations. But how many times have you finished a much-hyped book, only to feel let down? To save you from disappointment, we have compiled a list of bestsellers that truly live up to the hype.
1. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
In this memoir, comedian Trevor Noah shares stories of his childhood growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. His unique perspective and insights on race, identity, and family make for a riveting read.
2. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This historical fiction novel tells of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France and their experiences during World War II. The emotional depth and vivid imagery make it a captivating read.
3. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
This non-fiction book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge or consent and used for decades in medical research. Rebecca Skloot’s meticulous research and personal connection to the subject make for a fascinating and thought-provoking read.
4. The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games trilogy sparked a cultural phenomenon with its thrilling storyline of a dystopian society where children are forced to fight to the death in a televised competition. The books have lived up to the hype with their gripping action and social commentary on power and control.
5. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
This psychological thriller has been compared to Gone Girl for its twisty plot and unreliable narrator. The suspenseful pacing and intricate characters make it a page-turner that lives up to its bestseller status.
So, there you have it – five bestsellers that truly live up to the hype. Whether you’re in the mood for a memoir, historical fiction, non-fiction, dystopian, or thriller, these books are sure to satisfy. Happy reading!
Hidden Gems That You May Have Missed But Can’t Afford To Overlook
There are plenty of books out there that may have slipped under your radar but are definitely worth a read. Here are five hidden gems that you can’t afford to miss out on:
1. “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah
“The Nightingale” tells the story of two sisters living in France during World War II. Each sister takes a different path when faced with the Nazi occupation, and their experiences show the strength and courage of women during a difficult time in history. This novel is not only a gripping story, but it sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of the war.
2. “The Alice Network” by Kate Quinn
“The Alice Network” is a historical fiction novel that intertwines the stories of two women: Charlie, a former American socialite on a mission to find her cousin who went missing during World War II, and Eve, a former spy during World War I who was part of a network of female spies called the Alice Network. The novel is a thrilling adventure that sheds light on the brave women who occupied the lesser-known roles of espionage during World War I.
3. “The Secret Keeper” by Kate Morton
“The Secret Keeper” follows the story of a family that is forced to confront their past when their aging mother reveals a shocking secret from her youth. The novel takes place in two timelines: the present day and 1941 London. The mystery of the secret is slowly unraveled, and the reader is taken on a suspenseful ride that will keep them on the edge of their seat until the very end.
4. “The Light We Lost” by Jill Santopolo
“The Light We Lost” is a love story that follows the lives of two people who meet during their college years on September 11, 2001. The novel chronicles the ups and downs of their tumultuous relationship as they navigate their careers, their ambitions, and their love for each other. The novel explores the complexities of love and the sacrifices we make for those we care about.
5. “Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel
In “Station Eleven,” a pandemic wipes out most of humanity, and the novel follows multiple interconnected storylines before and after the pandemic. The novel explores the importance of human connection and the beauty of art in a post-apocalyptic world. This book is not only thrilling but also offers a unique perspective on the end of the world as we know it.
These five hidden gems are definitely worth adding to your reading list. Don’t overlook these books, because they may surprise you with their powerful storytelling and unique perspectives.
