Set in the American South during the 1930s, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows young Scout Finch as she comes of age while her father, lawyer Atticus Finch, defends a Black man falsely accused of rape. Through Scout's innocent eyes, the story masterfully explores racism, injustice, moral growth, and the loss of childhood innocence, while painting a vivid portrait of a small Southern town grappling with prejudice and social change.
Celebrated for her powerful and enduring novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee explored themes of racial injustice and childhood innocence in the American South. Her poignant storytelling and memorable characters, like Scout Finch and Atticus Finch, have made a lasting impact on literature and continue to resonate with readers worldwide. Though she published only two novels, her insightful portrayal of human nature and societal issues cemented her place as a significant voice in American literature.
by Leo Tolstoy
Acclaimed by many as the world's greatest novel, Anna Karenina provides a vast panorama of contemporary life in Russia and of humanity in general. In it Tolstoy uses his intense imaginative insight to create some of the most memorable characters in all of literature. Anna is a sophisticated woman who abandons her empty existence as the wife of Karenin and turns to Count Vronsky to fulfil her passionate nature - with tragic consequences. Levin is a reflection of Tolstoy himself, often expressing the author's own views and convictions.
A landmark anti-slavery novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin tells the story of enslaved man Tom and the brutal realities of slavery in 19th-century America. With vivid characters and emotional power, it galvanized abolitionist movements and shaped public opinion like no other book of its time. Though controversial for its portrayals today, it remains a pivotal work in American literature and history, sparking empathy and national debate.
by Victor Hugo
Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables is an epic novel set in 19th-century France that follows the redemption journey of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict pursued by the rigid inspector Javert. The book weaves together stories of love, revolution, injustice, and mercy, featuring characters like the destitute Fantine, her daughter Cosette, and the student Marius. A profound social commentary on poverty, class, and morality, it combines human drama with philosophical reflection. Its enduring themes and sweeping narrative have made it a cornerstone of classic literature.
Elizabeth Gaskell’s North and South follows Margaret Hale, who moves from rural southern England to the industrial northern town of Milton. There, she witnesses class struggles, factory life, and the tensions between labor and capital. As she clashes with and ultimately grows to respect mill owner John Thornton, the novel blends social commentary with a slow-burning romance. It explores issues of gender, class, and morality with empathy and nuance, offering a compelling portrait of industrial Britain during the Victorian era.