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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8 Romantic Books to Read If You Love Jane Austen

This one's for all the Mr. Darcy lovers out there.

6 Rachel Carson Books That Will Make You See the World With New Eyes

Through writing and research, the legendary conservationist shaped our modern perspective of the environment.

Delve into the Mystery of Nancy Drew’s Legacy with Girl Sleuth 

This book dives into the true story behind every girl’s favorite detective.

9 Female Authors Who Wrote Under Male Pen Names

They broke through barriers to get their voices heard.

Required Reading: 15 Classic High School Books to Read Again

It's time to revisit the great literature we skimmed through in English class.

8 Books to Read Based on Your Favorite Stories

Love the oldies, but looking for something new? You’ve come to the right place.

The Early, Unfinished Work of T.S. Eliot 

A look at The Waste Land author’s initial drafts and unpublished poetry. 

The Trailer for Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase Promises an Epic Reboot

Nancy may have upgraded to a cellphone and a skateboard, but she’s still the plucky heroine of your childhood.

MI6 Recruits a Bumbling Salesman in Our Man in Havana

When you're in need of an undercover spy, who you gonna call? The owner of a vacuum cleaner store, of course.

The Re-Read: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Crawl back through the wardrobe and experience Narnia all over again.

Rediscover the Magic of P.L. Travers' Mary Poppins

Get reacquainted with the original story that stole the hearts of readers everywhere.

100 Years: The Life and Work of Madeleine L’Engle 

The ability to understand a child’s imagination is just one of the reasons why the A Wrinkle in Time author’s work has stood the test of time. 

Fitzgerald's Tender is the Night is Coming to Hulu

The iconic author's fourth (and favorite) novel is getting a limited series adaptation.

To Kill a Mockingbird is Officially America's Favorite Book

Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel came out on top of The Great American Read competition.

The Works of H.G. Wells and His Role in Shaping Science Fiction

The legendary author's sci-fi works were political and realistic, sometimes prescient—and always entertaining.

Poll: Which Judy Blume Novel Do You Want to See Adapted?

The beloved author is ready for her work to go from page to screen. 

10 Captivating Writer Biographies

See these talented authors in a whole new light.

The 10 Best Mr. Darcys: From Favorite Films to Books

He's bewitched us, body and soul—on the page and on the screen.

Editors' Picks: What's Our Staff Recommending?

A full list of recommendations from the people who know our books best.

Jane Austen’s Unfinished Novel Sanditon is Being Adapted for PBS

Acclaimed screenwriter Andrew Davies, who also wrote the 1995 Pride and Prejudice miniseries, will be adapting the novel for the small screen.