10 Easy To Read Classics To Check Off Your List
An Introduction to Easy To Read Classics
If you are looking to dive into classic novels but don’t know where to start, I’d suggest picking one of these easy to read classics! This is an introduction to a few options so the choice isn’t overwhelming.
Some of these classic books you may have read in high school or even younger. Some you may keep passing over in favor of the latest bookstagram recommendation. My list of easy to read classics are either fairly short in length, easy to get through, or feature exciting plots that will keep you flipping pages!
If you are looking for another way to read the classics, try one of my suggestions for Modern Retellings of Classics!
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Easy To Read Classics For Any Reader
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
This novel clocks in at less than 200 pages. It’s a dystopian novel that showcases a future where books are burned, not read. With censorship and political correctness become more of an issue, this feels as timely as ever. This book packs a lot of punch in a short number of pages! | Amazon
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
A gothic mystery that will creep you out and keep you on the edge of your seat! If you like thrillers or mysteries, this is one of the easy classics to read that is perfect for you. A newlywed couple return to the husband’s manor, only to be haunted by memories of his late wife. The details about what really happened to her are slowly unraveled, resulting in suspense throughout. | Amazon
Emma by Jane Austen
Love is in the air throughout this Jane Austen classic. While not as well-known as Pride and Prejudice, it features an amusing heroine who has a penchant for matchmaking. This is one of the heavier books on this list in size and vocabulary, but it’s basically a rom com in classic form. | Amazon | BookOutlet
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Mark Twain’s best known work is worth a visit if you’ve never read it, or haven’t as an adult. From Goodreads “A 19th century boy from a Mississippi river town recounts his adventures as he travels down the river with a runaway slave, encountering a family involved in a feud, two scoundrels pretending to be royalty, and Tom Sawyer’s aunt who mistakes him for Tom.”
Nothing says summer like a trip down a river through the eyes of a young boy! | Amazon | BookOutlet
1984 by George Orwell
If you haven’t read this since high school, give this addition to my easy to read classics list another shot this summer! The dystopian society is fascinating and how it affects the lives of the characters is heart wrenching. | Amazon
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The Roaring 20’s in New York is the perfect summer escape. Gatsby and Daisy are one of literature’s most recognizable pairs. They center this rollicking masterpiece that includes more lavish parties, free flowing alcohol, and loving obsession than you’ve ever seen.
The Call of the Wild by Jack London
If you need to take a break from the heat, this adventure novel is set in Alaska. Buck is kidnapped and forced into the toilsome and rough life of a sled dog. He eventually must fight for his survival and rely on his animal instincts to become leader of the pack.
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
I have a soft spot for anything written by E.B. White, but Charlotte’s Web is a particular favorite. It brings back wonderful memories of reading as a child and it’s combination of farm / county fair setting makes it perfect for this list.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
If you’re a fantasy fan, this series is for you. Narnia is a magical and enchanting land filled with a variety of memorable characters. The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe will always be my favorite, but if you can’t get enough of Narnia then by all means, read on!
Are there any easy to read classics you’ll pick up first?
Rebecca is a great one – I read it for the first time last year, loved it, and now want to read more of her books.
I love The Chronicles of Narnia. I love the way The Magician’s Nephew sets up the series. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe is my favorite, though.
Same here with the rest of DuMaurier’s books. I think I’ll try My Cousin Rachel next.
Some really great picks! I’ve tried Rebecca a fair few times but have never been able to finish it. I really loved 1984 but I’d say I liked Animal Farm a smidge more, have you read it? I’m always intrigued by Farenheit 451, maybe I’ll add it to my read soon list
I think I read Animal Farm way back in middle school. It’s probably worth giving it a reread now that I’m older.
Great list! I have yet to read a Jane Austen book. I would probably start with Pride and Prejudice though, since it’s so notable. Although, I do like that Clueless was based on Emma. I could make those connections while I read. Thug Notes on YouTube also does a hilarious video about Emma that’s really good, so at least I’d be familiar with the story line.
Ahhh! Yes you have to read Austen at some point! Pride and Prejudice will always be my favorite so that’s a good one to start with 🙂
Rebecca is great–I’m planning to read more Daphne du Maurier after finally reading that one last year. Emma is my favorite Jane Austen novel (though I haven’t read them all). I like trying to squeeze in a classic every now and then–love this idea!