Which Classic Novels for Begginers Are Actually Worth Your Time?
This article is all about classic novels for beginners.
Classic novels are timeless works of literature, that has literally had an impact on the lives of real people through time.
But when it comes to reading classic novels, a lot of us feel apprehensive. I get it, they’re old, some are really, really long- i’m looking at you Tolstoy!- and some are in a language we barely recognise!
But I promise you, many classics are a lot more accessible than you may have previously realised… If you’re not sure where to start, I have you covered. I love classic fiction, and I know exactly which ones are really worth your time!
Reading is all about enjoyment, bettering yourself, exploration and a bit of time travel. Let’s get started.
This article is all about the classic novels for beginners that are actually worth your time.
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What do you use to track your reading goals?
Are you a fan of digital reading trackers? I have always had a hard time cataloguing books as I read them. I have tried goodreads, but I have learned I prefer a more analogue approach… which means I sometimes lose my lists and start a new one only to find the original a few weeks later.
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Not only does this feed into my time without internet daydreams, it also gives me the endorphins of physically ticking a box, and getting a book read. If you are a pen and paper type of person as well, you can gain free access to an abundance of reading trackers on the By Izzy Lily website by clicking here.
Are you a big reader of classic novels?
Upon conversations with my friends, I have found that many don’t read classic novels because they seem too… daunting. Which I can assure you, if you are a reader, is not the case. Listen carefully, classics (for all my annotation and dog-ear lovers out there) are a treasure trove of highlightable sentences.
Most of us have dabbled in the classic world, whether it be class required reading, a gift and therefore an obligated read, or maybe you are a full fledged fan of classics. My first classic novel was Rebecca, by Daphne De Maurier. I was 11, and 12 years later it still think about it often.
If you are new to classics, then this would be a great place to start.
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What are some accessible short classic novels, for non Classic readers?
Remember, a classic is literature that has remained loved and relevant across generations, really they are pre approved 5 star reads.
1.The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
I will never not recommend this book, it is perfect! It is a mere 182 pages, and the perfect haunted story. I would suggest saving it to your autumn reading list as it’s creepy and fitting for Halloween. I love this novel so much I have read it numerous times, and each time it 5/5.
2.The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
First published in 1890, this novel shocked its audience when it was later read aloud in Wilde’s trial. The novel itself is beautiful, and a must read for anyone who enjoys aestheticism and gothic literature. I gave this a 4.5/5.
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3. Blood and Guts in Highschool by Cathy Acker
I have always been wary to recommend this modern classic to anyone as it deals with some pretty graphic content, but it was a book just disturbing enough to make me fall in love with it. A voice of post punk feminism, Acker places the perspective in our protagonist Janey as she grows from childhood abuse into a surreal world of gangs, prostitution, and anarchic freedom. Written in an almost hallucinatory way, the writing is both captivating and disturbing, I simply could not put it down. I gave this a 4/5.
5 tips to make classic literature more accessible
1. Aim to read just 30 pages every single day
2. Annotate as you go
3. Start with modern classics
4. Track themes as you go with sticky tabs
- or try this customised bookmark.
5. Reflect often.
This article was all about classic novels for beginners that are both brilliant and accessible.
What is you favourite classic novel?
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