Classic Books Everyone Should Read: A New York Times Review

As a lover of literature, I find myself turning to classic books time and time again. There’s just something about the way the language flows and the stories unfold that captivate me in a way that modern books often don’t. And according to The New York Times, there are a few classic books that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime.

Here are some of The New York Times’ top classic book picks:

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Published in 1925, The Great Gatsby is one of the most well-known and beloved American novels. Set in the Roaring Twenties, the book follows the life of Jay Gatsby as he chases his impossible dream of winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The book is a commentary on the excess and disillusionment of the time, and has become a staple of high school and college English curriculums for good reason.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Published in 1813, Pride and Prejudice is a classic tale of love and social hierarchies in Georgian-era England. The book follows the Bennet sisters and their quest for love and marriage, with a particular focus on the headstrong Elizabeth Bennet and the wealthy and reserved Mr. Darcy. Austen’s wit and humor, combined with her sharp social commentary, make this a must-read for anyone interested in classic literature or romance novels.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Published in 1960, To Kill a Mockingbird is a fearless look at racial injustice in the American South. The book follows young Scout Finch as she navigates the complexities of race and inequality in her small town, and her father Atticus Finch’s role as defense attorney for a black man wrongly accused of a crime. The book is a classic of the civil rights era and has become an important jumping off point for conversations about race and justice even today.

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

Published in 1961, Catch-22 is a satirical look at the absurdity of war and bureaucracy during World War II. The book follows Captain John Yossarian as he tries to make sense of the nonsensical rules and regulations of the military, and the experiences of the other soldiers around him. Heller’s dark humor and biting satire make this a classic for anyone who loves a good anti-war story.

Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

Published in 1851, Moby-Dick is a sprawling epic that tells the story of Captain Ahab’s obsessive quest for revenge against the white whale that took his leg. But the book is much more than just a revenge tale; it’s a meditation on obsession, madness, and the limits of human understanding. Melville’s writing is dense and complex, but the payoff is worth it for anyone who wants to explore the depths of classic literature.

These are just a few of the classic books The New York Times recommends everyone should read, but there are countless more out there waiting to be discovered. So pick up a classic book today and get lost in the intricate worlds and timeless themes that have captivated readers for centuries.