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A complete guide to the best classic books that need to be added to your reading list

All handpicked by The Weekly…

Classic books are called classics for a reason; they’re some of the best books of all time.

If you’re looking to expand your reading list beyond modern romance, crime, fantasy and mystery books, you’re in the right place.

What is the best classic to read?

Here are a few of our favourite classics…

frakenstein

01

Frakenstein by Mary Shelley

Frankenstein is a pioneering work of science fiction that explores the ethical implications of creation, unchecked ambition, and the human condition. Through the tragic tale of Dr. Frankenstein and his monstrous creation, the novel delves into themes of isolation, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God.

best classic books - pride and prejudice

02

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

This novel is a sharp commentary on society and the dynamics of love, class, and marriage in early 19th-century England. Elizabeth Bennet’s wit and strong moral compass make her one of literature’s most beloved heroines, even today in the 21st century.

best classic books - war and peace

03

War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

Delving into the lives of several aristocratic families in Russia during the Napoleonic Wars, War and Peace is renowned for its detailed depictions of history, philosophy, and the nature of power.

best classic books - to kill a mockingbird

04

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

A poignant exploration of racial injustice and moral growth in the American South, this book is celebrated for its powerful narrative, memorable characters, and deep social impact.

best classic books - 1984

05

1984 by George Orwell

1984 is a dystopian that offers a chilling portrayal of totalitarianism, surveillance, and the manipulation of truth. Despite being written in 1949, its themes remain eerily relevant in today’s world.

best classic books - the great gatsby

06

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

A critique of the American Dream set in the Roaring Twenties, The Great Gatsby captures the glamour and despair of a society obsessed with wealth, status, and love.

crime and punishment

07

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

This psychological novel delves into the mind of a man who commits murder and the moral dilemmas he faces afterward. It’s a profound exploration of guilt, redemption, and the human psyche – aka a must-read.

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