A Year of Literary Epiphanies: My Classic Must-Reads for 2024

Hey there! So, before I dive into my classic books list for the year, I want to let you know that I’m not exactly a bookworm. My list might seem basic or even a bit on the shorter side, but don’t worry, it’s all good! For those of you who are just starting to get into reading, this list is perfect to help you kick off your bookish journey. Think of me as your friendly guide along the way! Oh, and if you’re curious to learn more about me, feel free to check out my About page. I’d love to share more with you!

The Stranger, Albert Camus:

I just finished this book, and I absolutely adored it. It marked my first dive into Camus’s writing and my initial encounter with the philosophy of absurdism.

Bonjour Tristesse, Françoise Sagan

This book kicked off my reading journey for the year, and it was such a delightful and entertaining experience. However, the ending caught me off guard…

The Fall, Albert Camus

“The Stranger” has completely captivated me with Camus’s unique writing style. It inspired me to delve deeper into his works, eager to unravel more of his philosophical insights into life.

The Bell Jar, Sylvia Plath

This book stands as her sole novel alongside her renowned poetry. People describe it as melancholic, delving into themes such as mental illness and suicide. Yet, there’s a certain allure to the exploration of these dark themes that draws readers in. After all, who can resist the emotional depth and raw honesty of a truly poignant and thought-provoking read?

Of Mice And Men, John Steinbeck

It offers a poignant portrayal of companionship and survival amidst the challenges of the Great Depression. It’s acclaimed for its emotive storytelling and its exploration of the resilience of the human spirit.

The Plague, Albert Camus

It immerses readers in the gripping narrative of a town besieged by an epidemic. It’s reputed for its profound exploration of existential themes and the human condition.

The Great Gatsby, F.Scott Fitzgerald

Renowned for its depiction of the opulence and allure of the 1920s. Yet beneath the veneer of luxury, it’s said to offer poignant reflections on love, wealth, and the pursuit of dreams.

The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde

The novel intrigues with its premise of a man retaining youth while a portrait ages. Regarded as both dark and captivating, it’s praised for its exploration of societal norms and the consequences of vanity.

White Nights, Fyodor Dostoevsky

I’ve heard so many praises for Dostoevsky’s profound exploration of the human psyche in his writing. Despite being shorter in length, this particular book is often said to be a perfect entry point into Russian literature. It offers a glimpse into Dostoevsky’s masterful storytelling and his ability to delve deep into the complexities of human nature.

Extraordinary Tales, Edgar Allan Poe

This collection comprises some of Poe’s most iconic short stories and poems, known for their psychological depth and eerie atmospheres. It seems like an ideal entry point into Poe’s captivating and macabre world of Gothic literature.

The Death of Ivan Ilyich, Leo Tolstoy

It is lauded for its depth and insight into the complexities of life and death. It’s often recommended as an accessible entry point into Tolstoy’s work and Russian literature in general, offering readers a poignant reflection on the nature of existence.

On Love, Alain de Botton

After immersing myself in numerous videos by Alain de Botton and being captivated by his perspectives on love, I’ve felt a strong inclination to delve into his acclaimed writings on the subject. (Maybe your typical classic, but I find it a necessary read for myself…)