Marcus Richards
There are a lot of wild claims floating around about the benefits of reading. Whether people are saying that it improves memory, boosts vocabulary, reduces stress, or makes you live longer, it’s important to remember that the true value of a book lies within the pages.
Sure, a reading habit might boost tranquility, but getting engulfed in an amazing story is a valuable feeling that people have been after for centuries. There are a few tales that have stood the test of time as well.
We’re going to give you a list of classic books to read so that you can feel the benefits, the amazement, and the awe of reading a great story.
Let’s take a look.
5 of the Best Classic Books to Read
It can feel like the stressors of life are too large to justify sitting back and reading a book. Try setting some time aside, though. Use The PayStubs to get your finances in order, make sure your car is in good shape, and be sure that your family is all taken care of.
Once those things are handled, take your free time to curl up in a warm chair and read for a few hours, even if it’s only once a week.
1. The Wind and the Willows
Old children’s stories should never be ruled out as quality reads. The Wind and the Willows is a timeless story that evokes a world much like Alice in Wonderland or Winnie the Pooh, but in a way that might be a little foreign to you.
If you’re looking for something light, packed with metaphors and symbolism, and perfect to read before you doze into your dreams, give this book a shot.
2. Brave New World
Aldous Huxley’s masterpiece is a cautionary tale that prophesizes about the perils of mass control.
Dystopian novels are jarring to read, and this happens to be one of the greatest of all time. Reading this book in the 21st century might have you wondering whether or not Aldous really could see the future.
3. The Count of Monte Cristo
This novel details the life of a young romantic who is wrongfully put away and forced to plot his return.
If you’re a sucker for love, revenge, and 17th-century social hierarchies, you’ll love The Count of Monte Cristo.
4. The Odyssey
The Odyssey is one of the oldest pieces of Western literature to survive to modern-day. It plays upon many of the Greek tropes and archetypes that shine through in modern film and literature.
For the film buffs out there, you might be interested to know that Oh, Brother Where Art Thou? is closely based off of the figures in The Odyssey.
5. Invisible Man
Ralph Ellison’s masterpiece, Invisible Man, details the struggles of a young black man from the Southern United States in the 1940s and 50s.
It’s a nuanced portrait of racism and oppression, even if the oppressors believe they’re on the side of the people.
Need More Material?
Finding classic books to read can be tough. There are so many that it’s difficult to make a selection. The same goes for movies, art, museums, and more.
Explore our site for more information on great cultural works that will enrich your soul.
