The Ultimate American Classic Literature List You Need to Read

When it comes to the literary world, American classic literature has a distinctive place of its own. It has a rich and diverse history, timeless themes, and unforgettable characters. From the iconic novels of the 19th century to the modern works of contemporary authors, American literature continues to inspire and captivate us today. If you are a book lover, then this is the ultimate list of American classic literature you need to read!

1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Published in 1960, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is an American classic that explores racial inequality and prejudice in the South during the 1930s. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of a young girl named Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father, Atticus, who defends a black man accused of rape.

2. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Set during the Roaring Twenties, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is a tale of love, wealth, and corruption. This American classic follows Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man who throws extravagant parties to impress his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. A must-read for anyone who loves Jazz Age glamour and drama.

3. Moby-Dick by Herman Melville

Herman Melville’s epic novel Moby-Dick is a masterpiece of American literature. Published in 1851, this classic tells the story of Captain Ahab and his obsession with hunting the white whale, Moby-Dick. The book is a symbol of man’s struggle against nature, and it explores themes of revenge, fate, and mortality.

4. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a coming-of-age novel that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. This American classic tells the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy who is expelled from his prep school and wanders aimlessly around New York City. The book explores themes of alienation, identity, and innocence.

5. Beloved by Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison’s Beloved is a powerful novel about the legacy of slavery in America. Set in the 19th century, this novel tells the story of Sethe, a former slave who is haunted by the ghost of her daughter. The book explores themes such as motherhood, memory, and the trauma of slavery.

6. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is one of the most beloved American novels of all time. Published in 1884, this classic tells the story of Huck Finn, a young boy who runs away from home and embarks on a journey down the Mississippi River with a runaway slave named Jim. The book explores themes of racism, freedom, and the corrupting influence of society.

7. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston is a novel about love, self-discovery, and racial identity. Set in the South during the 1930s, this classic tells the story of Janie Crawford, a young woman who defies social norms and discovers her own voice. The book explores themes of empowerment, community, and the search for identity.

In conclusion, these seven American classic literature books are some of the most important and influential works in the literary canon. They continue to inspire readers today and capture the essence of American life and culture. So, grab a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and dive into these timeless tales.