American Literature College Reading List
As a college student studying literature, you will come across many classic American books. These books have been instrumental in shaping the cultural, historical, and social landscape of America. Here is a list of some of the most important American Literature books that every college student should read.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Great Gatsby is a novel that explores the decadence and excess of the roaring 1920s. It follows the life of the mysterious and enigmatic Jay Gatsby, who throws lavish parties at his mansion in hopes of winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The novel is a commentary on the American Dream, the excesses of the wealthy, and the corruption of power.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird is a masterpiece that explores the deeply ingrained racism and prejudice in the American South during the 1930s. The novel revolves around a trial in which a black man is falsely accused of raping a white woman. The story is told through the eyes of Scout Finch, a young girl who learns to understand the deep-seated divisions in her community.
Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
Moby-Dick is a seminal work of American literature. Published in 1851, it is a novel that explores the nature of obsession, and the elusive nature of truth. The novel tells the story of Captain Ahab, who is obsessed with hunting down the white whale that took his leg. The novel is known for its poetic language and philosophical themes.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye is a coming-of-age novel that explores the theme of disillusionment. The novel follows the misadventures of Holden Caulfield, a teen who is struggling with the complexities of growing up. The novel is known for its exploration of the hypocrisy and phoniness of adult society and has become a symbol of teenage angst.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a novel that explores the theme of race relations in the American South. The novel follows the adventures of Huck Finn, a white boy who runs away from his strict and abusive father. Along the way, he meets Jim, a runaway slave, and the two embark on a journey down the Mississippi River, encountering a host of characters along the way.
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway
The Sun Also Rises is a novel that explores the disillusionment of the so-called ‘lost generation’ in the aftermath of World War I. The novel follows a group of expatriates living in Paris, who embark on a trip to Pamplona, Spain, to watch the running of the bulls. The novel is known for its minimalist prose and evocative descriptions of life in the 1920s.
In conclusion, these are some of the must-read American Literature books for every college student. The themes explored in these books are still relevant today and will inspire thoughtful, critical thinking about the complexities of American society, history, and culture.