10 timeless classics novels.
My favourite timeless classics which can be read again and again without losing their magic. Hard to narrow them down, but here's a list of 10 novels....
Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte, 1847)
A poor orphan experiences mistreatment by her distant relatives and is sent to boarding school. Despite harsh conditions, she thrives there and gets the necessary education to become independent as a governess. This profession brings her into the household of wealthy and unconventional Mr. Rochester, the quintessential Byronic hero. Inspiring and moving.
PS Many great adaptations, e.g. with Charlotte Gainsbourg (1996), Samantha Morton (1997), Ruth Wilson (2006) and Mia Wasikowska (2011).
Tender is the Night (F. Scott Fitzgerald, 1934)
A wealthy couple is spending time at the French Riviera, befriending other American expats and tourists. Not having a real occupation or purpose in life, their marriage is in a difficult position, influenced by their complex past and lack of direction. Partly autobiographical, inspired by Fitzgerald's wife Zelda and some of their struggles.
The Picture of Dorian Gray (Oscar Wilde, 1890)
A young, handsome man poses for a portrait for a painter. When an older mentor starts to corrupt him, there are unexpected consequences for both Dorian Gray and his portrait. Full of typically Wildean moments with plenty of satire and brilliance. Clever, funny, thought-provoking.
To Kill a Mockingbird (Harper Lee, 1960)
A widowed lawyer in a small town in the Deep South take care of his children and is a role model in his community. Things start to become complicated when he is appointed to defend a black man, and the underlying issues of society become apparent. Funny, educational and deeply inspiring.
PS Adaptation with Gregory Peck is a must. (1962)
Fiesta / The Sun Also Rises (Ernest Hemingway, 1926)
A group of American and British expats are passing time in Paris, hanging out in bars and cafés. Their relationships are becoming more complicated when some of them travel to Spain together, and jealousy and alcohol start to influence their behaviour. Based on Hemingway's own time in France and Spain. Quintessential novel of the Lost Generation. Mesmerising.
Far From the Madding Crowd (Thomas Hardy, 1874)
An inheritance turns the tables for Bathsheba Everdene, who takes over a large property. She is not only learning to be mistress of her farming business and finding her role as a woman, but also torn between several suitors. The most uplifting of Hardy's otherwise sorrowful oeuvre, funny and poetic.
PS Wonderful adaptation with Carey Mulligan and Matthias Schoenarts. (2015)
Giovanni's Room (James Baldwin, 1956)
A bisexual American living in Paris, where he can live free(r) from pressures of family and society, falls in love with an Italian waiter. They spend a lot of time in Giovanni's room, both being penniless and dependent on favours of friends and small jobs. But their relationship is not meant to last, as the protagonist is not ready to accept the consequences of living with a man...Heartbreaking and beautifully written.
Little Women (Louisa May Alcott, 1868-9)
Four sisters grow up together in New England, while the American Civil War is shaping their era. The sisters are are very different in character, but share many adventures. The heroine Jo March is an independent spirit and pursues a career in writing. Ahead of its time and often very modern in its ideas.
PS Not only is there a great adaptation from 1994, but the new version (2019) by Greta Gerwig is sensational.
A Tale of Two Cities (Charles Dickens, 1859)
A historical novel set both in London and Paris during the French Revolution. A doctor is released from prison after 18 years, and reunited with his daughter. In the following decades, their fate is intertwined with historical events, and the complex cast of characters is facing many unforeseen tuns of events. An impressive feat.
PS The famous first line is: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, (...)"
East of Eden (John Steinbeck, 1952)
A family saga set mainly in Steinbeck's native California. Two brothers try to make their way in life, however, one of them falls for a devious woman. She leaves him after giving birth to twins, so another generation of brothers takes the stage. Epic story about family, sin and forgiveness.
PS That was a tough choice as Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men are also among my all-time favourite books.
PS II: The adaptation with James Dean is still worth watching. (1955)