Best Classic Book Recommendations

What is a classic book? In our opinion, it’s any work that proves a good story will endure. Classic books tend to populate high school reading lists, lists of books everyone should read, and more. 

There are books that are considered classics within specific genres, such as classic science fiction books, classic gothic horror novels and classic romance novels. There are classics that distill the voices of certain times and places, such as books from Lost Generation writers or from the Harlem Renaissance

Classic books also have the tendency to become cultural touchstones—everyone knows what it means to tilt at windmills; to chase a white whale; to ask “to be or not to be” (and if you don’t; it’s high time you cross these classic books off your TBR). They’ve also been turned into iconic films, sparked some of the most hated characters known to man, and invented fantastic places we can only dream of visiting

While many books that we consider classics were written long ago, the best ones are truly timeless, telling tales that resonate with people around the world and across generations. If you're wondering what all the fuss is about, it's time to see for yourself.

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14 Must-Read Ernest Hemingway Books

Incredible literary works, written in the most earnest (and Ernest) way.

22 Fantastic Short Books to Read in a Weekend

The perfect stories for when you don't have time to read.

11 Cult Classic Books People Swear By

Do these novels live up to the niche hype?

14 Witty and Wonderful Authors Like Jane Austen 

There’s more to discover outside of your favorite author’s six books.

Angela Thirkell and Her 29 Adventures into Barsetshire

Writing so rich makes us wish we could live in Barsetshire too. 

9 Unforgettable Books by Eudora Welty

The Pulitzer Prize winner captured the American South in her own way.

The Real-Life Inspirations Behind Scrooge

“Since you ask me what I wish, gentlemen, that is my answer. I don’t make merry myself at Christmas and I can’t afford to make idle people merry.” –Ebenezer Scrooge, A Christmas Carol, pre-ghosts. 

10 Books to Add to Your Modern Library

Fill your shelves (or ereader) with indispensable works.  

6 Overlooked Classic Books That Belong on Your TBR List

These works stand the test of time—even if you haven't heard of them all.

[CLOSED] Enter to Win 10 Classic Books From Modern Library

Five lucky winners will receive an incredible prize pack of books.

10 Modern and Classic Gothic Horror Novels to Get You in a Spooky Mood

With stories old and new, these gothic horror novels have the classic dark mood you love and the modern twists you can't resist.

Did Voltaire Start the Caffeine-Addicted Writer Stereotype?

The Candide author was known to drink copious amounts of coffee.

The 14 Best Graphic Novels of All Time for Lit Lovers

The best of visual and literary storytelling.

What Mary Shelley Wrote Besides Frankenstein

She created much more than the Modern Prometheus.

8 Modern and Classic Book Club Pairings

Discover new twists on definitive tales.

9 Books for Fans of Poor Things

“Besides, a life without freedom to choose is not worth having.”

The Most Beautiful Books With Gorgeous Prose 

“Happiness is not a possession to be prized, it is a quality of thought, a state of mind.” —Daphne du Maurier