When I started reading a lot of books, I made a goal to read a certain number of classics per year — more recently, 12, or an average of one per month. I’ve found reading classics, while not always the most fun, has increased my understanding of literary elements and allusions. It only does good. These are some of my favorites I’ve read.
Pride and Prejudice
I can hardly believe I never actually read P&P before 2021, but I didn’t. And I think I only ever watched part of the movie, too. The number of references to this classic in literature, film, and pop culture in general makes not reading this one nearly criminal.
Wuthering Heights
This was technically a reread for me, as it was required reading in my high school Language Arts class, but I remembered enjoying it and declaring it my favorite classic. Reading it by choice two decades later was even better.
The Martian Chronicles
This was also a reread, as I stole my brother’s high school required reading when I was ten years old. But I’ve always loved this compilation of stories from Ray Bradbury.
The Haunting of Hill House
I loved the Netflix series, but of course, it wouldn’t exist without this spooky classic. It’s a good addition to your October TBR.
Tess of the D’Ubervilles
This one feels very different from your Jane Austen classics, as it is depressing. But I think dark classics are important, too.
Jane Eyre
Funny enough, I read The Wife Upstairs and then I realized I should probably read Jane Eyre. Reader, how often is this novel referenced in pop culture and every day life? A lot.
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