Classics

Books that have stood the test of time and are recognized for their literary merit.

A Swim in a Pond in the Rain: In Which Four Russians Give a Master Class on Writing, Reading, and Life Cover
Rating: 3.8/5

A Swim in a Pond in the Rain Review

George Saunders’ 'Liberation Day' delivers humor blended with sharp insights. Saunders uses quirky tales, and playful storytelling. He dives into humanity’s oddities. Some tales confuse, but most entertain. Charming yet challenging.

The Joy Luck Club: A Novel Cover
Rating: 4.5/5

The Joy Luck Club Review

Joy Luck Club highlights mother-daughter tales with cultural twists, leaving me nostalgic for my own family stories. A touching read with humor, but sometimes complex in narrative shifts.

The Age of Innocence Cover
Rating: 4.5/5

The Age of Innocence Review

The Age of Innocence captures the stiff upper lip of New York's elite. Newland Archer faces love’s double-edged sword. This classic is about societal norms, personal sacrifice, and the ironic dance between duty and desire.

The Count of Monte Cristo cover
Rating: 4/5

The Count of Monte Cristo Review

Alexandre Dumas' 'The Count of Monte Cristo' serves up a delicious dish of revenge and redemption, with Edmond Dantès navigating 19th-century France's twists and turns. It's like an engaging soap opera with swords and castles!

Wolf Hall cover
Rating: 4.3/5

Wolf Hall Review

Wolf Hall captivates with its dynamic characters and historical detail. Cromwell's ambitious journey through Tudor intrigue gets you hooked, though the prose sometimes confuses. Worth a read for history fans.

A Prayer for Owen Meany: A Novel Cover
Rating: 4.3/5

A Prayer for Owen Meany Review

John Irving’s books feel like a strange road trip with friends you never meant to make. The ride gets bumpy, but you laugh, cry, and somehow end up caring about everyone—even the weirdos with missing limbs.

The Great Gatsby cover
Rating: 4/5

The Great Gatsby Review

Gatsby throws parties so wild, even my neighbor’s dog would RSVP. Daisy’s love is as tricky as my Wi-Fi. Fitzgerald’s story sparkles, but don’t expect hugs and happy endings from these spoiled rich folks.

American Pastoral: American Trilogy 1 (Pulitzer Prize Winner) (Vintage International) Cover
Rating: 3.5/5

American Pastoral Review

Roth takes the American Dream, shakes it up, and spills it all over the floor. You’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe call your dad after reading. Not a light read, but boy, does it stick with you.

Chaucer: A European Life Cover
Rating: 4/5

Chaucer Review

Chaucer’s jokes made me snort-laugh, even when I didn’t get all the medieval slang. Some stories drag, but his wild cast of weirdos kept me hooked. This isn’t just old school—this is old school with style!