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18 Books You Avoided Reading in School That You Should Revisit Now
Introduction
While school often subjects us to a prescribed reading list, certain literary gems may have slipped under our radar. Whether due to their complexity, themes, or simply poor timing, many beloved classics are worth revisiting. This article highlights 18 essential novels that challenge our perspectives and fantasies about love, society, and the individual, encouraging a second look from today's readers.
1984
George Orwell’s 1984 provides a chilling depiction of a totalitarian regime dominated by oppressive surveillance and public manipulation. Taking place in Airstrip One, it encapsulates themes like the loss of individualism and the dangers of mass conformity, with terms like Big Brother and thoughtcrime now ingrained in our cultural lexicon. This novel remains unsettlingly relevant in an age marked by extensive surveillance and the struggle for personal rights.
To Kill A Mockingbird
Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird is a profound exploration of racism and moral growth set in the Deep South. Crafted through the innocent eyes of young Scout Finch, it challenges systemic prejudice while emphasizing empathy and compassion through the character of Atticus Finch, a lawyer who defends an unjustly accused black man. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a necessary revisit for its rich moral lessons and emotional narrative.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray is a haunting tale that examines the morality of beauty and indulgence. Dorian Gray’s wish to remain young forever comes at a horrifying cost, as his portrait bears the brunt of his moral degradation. Wilde explores themes of vanity, morality, and the consequences of hedonism, making this novel more than just a captivating story but a significant moral inquiry.
The Handmaid's Tale
Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid's Tale offers a harrowing glimpse into a dystopian future where women are subjugated in the name of the state. Through the eyes of Offred, a Handmaid living under a repressive regime, Atwood unveils the perils of totalitarianism and gender oppression. With its unsettling relevancy in today’s sociopolitical climate, this story serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of freedom.
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often considered the first science fiction novel, exploring themes of creation and responsibility through the tragic story of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. The narrative challenges the Enlightenment notion of scientific progress by examining the psychological and ethical consequences of defying natural laws. Shelley's work remains integral in discussions about technology and moral responsibility.
The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby vividly captures the essence of the American Dream during the Jazz Age. Through Jay Gatsby’s longing for Daisy Buchanan, the novel critiques the moral decay hidden beneath the glittering surface of wealth and glamour. Its exploration of themes such as love, aspiration, and social class continues to resonate, making it an essential read for anyone enamored with American literature.
Beloved
Toni Morrison’s Beloved confronts the horrors of slavery through the haunting narrative of Sethe, an escaped slave who is physically and psychologically scarred by her past. Morrison's lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance create a powerful meditation on memory, trauma, and the struggle for identity that remains profoundly relevant to discussions of race and history. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a compelling read that demands contemplation and reflection.
Slaughterhouse-Five
Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five ingeniously blends war, science fiction, and autobiography. Centered around the firebombing of Dresden during World War II, the novel follows protagonist Billy Pilgrim's bizarre time travel experiences amidst the chaos. Vonnegut’s satirical yet poignant exploration of trauma and the absurdity of war crafted this novel into a perennial classic that speaks to the ongoing conversation about the impacts of conflict.
Fahrenheit 451
Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 presents a dystopian future where books are banned and firemen burn any that remain. Protagonist Guy Montag's awakening takes shape as he embraces literature, leading him to question societal norms and the true cost of conformity. This thought-provoking exploration of censorship and intellectual freedom resonates deeply in our current age of information overload.
Crime and Punishment
Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment delves into the psyche of Raskolnikov, a tormented student who rationalizes murder to escape debt and elevate himself above moral law. Through this psychologically intense narrative, Dostoevsky examines guilt, redemption, and the implications of free will, creating a complex exploration of the human condition that is as riveting as it is profound.
Catch-22
Joseph Heller’s boundless satire, Catch-22, revolves around WWII bomber John Yossarian and the absurdities faced by soldiers under military bureaucracy. The nonsensical regulation known as “Catch-22” embodies the paradox of sanity amidst insanity, expertly critiquing the military and war’s absurdities. Its humor and insight make it an enduring classic that continues to resonate with readers who seek authenticity in the turbulent world we inhabit.
The Catcher in the Rye
J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye captures teenage angst and alienation through the voice of Holden Caulfield, a disenchanted sixteen-year-old. The narrative’s frankness and wit provides a portrait of youth grappling with loss, identity, and the desire for connection in a seemingly phony world, making it both an essential and relatable piece for generations of readers navigating the tumult of adolescence.
Jane Eyre
Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre narrates the journey of an orphaned girl who becomes a governess and navigates themes of class, gender, and morality. With its vibrant character development and exploration of self-identity, Jane challenges societal limitations, emerging as a proto-feminist icon. This novel continues to be relevant, inspiring modern discussions surrounding female independence and empowerment.
Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice remains a compelling social satire that explores the complexities of love, class, and self-awareness. Through Elizabeth Bennet’s encounters with the proud Mr. Darcy, Austen masterfully critiques societal expectations while delivering a delightful love story. Its witty prose and relatable characters continue to captivate readers, inviting them to ponder their notions of love and judgment.
Emma
Another Austen classic, Emma depicts the life of a young woman given to meddling in the love lives of her friends. Despite her charming disposition, Emma’s matchmaking efforts unravel hilariously, leading to introspection and growth. Austen's ability to intertwine humor with rich character studies has solidified Emma's status as one of her most well-loved and insightful works.
Wuthering Heights
Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights is an intense tale of passion, revenge, and the destructive power of love. Centered around the tumultuous relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, this novel defies conventions with its raw emotion and complex characters. Brontë’s atmospheric setting and gothic elements provide a haunting backdrop, making it a timeless exploration of love's darker sides.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is a joyous exploration of childhood adventures along the Mississippi River. Combining humor with significant social commentary, it follows Tom and his friend Huck Finn as they navigate friendship, adventure, and the peculiarities of adolescence. Twain’s keen observation of human nature and society makes this novel a cherished classic that resonates with readers young and old.
The Canterbury Tales
Geoffrey Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales paints a vivid picture of medieval life through the stories of travelers on a pilgrimage. This collection of tales features characters who reveal the complexities of human nature, societal roles, and moral lessons. By incorporating humor and serious reflections, Chaucer's work continues to captivate and provoke thought about social dynamics, ethics, and storytelling itself.
Closing Thoughts
These 18 literary masterpieces transcend time, offering insights and experiences that remain relevant today. Each book presents unique perspectives on challenging concepts such as morality, societal norms, and the human experience. By revisiting these classics, we may discover new layers of meaning and perhaps find reflections of our own lives within the pages. Let your next reading journey take you through these profound works and invigorate your appreciation for literature.
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- Articles
- 7 Books That Feel Like a Summer Vacation
7 Books That Feel Like a Summer Vacation
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One Italian Summer

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! Rebecca Serle's novel takes readers on an emotional journey to the Amalfi Coast, where Katy must come to terms with her mother’s death while taking the trip they had always planned together. As she steps into the beautiful surroundings of Positano, she is unexpectedly reunited with a thirty-year-old version of her mother. This magical trip serves not only as a backdrop for exploration but also as a moving testament to the bond between mothers and daughters, illuminating how love transcends even the deepest grief. Get your copy here!
The Vacationers
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Bad Summer People
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Big Summer
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The Summer I Turned Pretty
Jenny Han captures the essence of youthful summers in her beloved series starter. Belly’s summers have always been about the beach house, friendship, and first love. As her life evolves with poignant memories and new romantic interests, Belly learns that some summers are destined to be transformative. This coming-of-age story offers nostalgia for those fond of unforgettable summer experiences filled with love, heartache, and growth. Get your copy here!
Every Summer After

Carley Fortune tells a sweeping tale of love over the course of six summers. As Persephone returns to her childhood spot by the lake after a decade away, she finds herself confronting past mistakes and rekindling feelings for Sam, the boy she once loved. Rich in nostalgia and emotional depth, this novel examines how summers can shape us and how returning to our roots offers the chance for redemption. Get a copy here!