Reading classic novels in high school hardly gives room for you to actually enjoy the plot and meaning, especially when you’re on a strict reading schedule with…
Reading classic novels in high school hardly gives room for you to actually enjoy the plot and meaning, especially when you’re on a strict reading schedule with harsh deadlines and need to produce a certain number of discussion points for class. This can be overwhelming and may have caused you to miss out on actually appreciating these classics, some of which have intriguing plots that aren’t boring or dense and are even similar to more modern novels. If you want to feel smart while also liking what you're reading, here's a list of classic novels that may be perfect for you!
Brave New World explores a relevant dystopian society
1. [Brave New World](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/brave-new-world-aldous-huxley/1100158848?ean=9780060850524) By Aldous Huxley
If you love Dystopian novels, this is the book for you, as it is definitely a blueprint for modern favorites like The Hunger Games and Divergent. The writing style definitely comes across as literary, which may be a positive or a negative depending on your tastes. The story is unique and still feels like a relevant critique of our society today.
The Outsiders is a nostalgic and beautiful classic
2. [The Outsiders](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-outsiders-s-e-hinton/1100458329?ean=9780142407332) by S.E. Hinton
If you’re anything like me, this book made you cry when you first read it. Sometimes called "the original YA novel", The Outsiders is both simple and beautiful, as well as extremely nostalgic for those who read it in middle school or high school. If you remember having a crush on the actors in the movie, or if you have an emotional reaction to the phrase “Stay gold, Ponyboy,” you need to re-read this book ASAP!
Of Mice and Men offers a short tragic experience
3. [Of Mice and Men](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/of-mice-and-men-john-steinbeck/1100154558?ean=9780140177398) by John Steinbeck
This book is short and a very easy read, so it’s perfect if you don’t want to get into anything too long or complex while still reading a classic. It is so tragic throughout and ends with a shocking and sad twist. If you’ve never read this before and don’t know how it ends, you need to pick this book up right now, as reading it for the first time is truly a gut-wrenching experience! Even if you know what’s coming, the story is still both sad and sentimental, while also providing a tenderhearted take on the meaning of friendship.
Lord of the Flies examines complex human nature
4. [Lord of The Flies](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lord-of-the-flies-william-golding/1100154846?ean=9780143129400) by William Golding
This novel is a fever dream – one that may have ruined you when you were in middle school. There is so much imagery and hidden meaning behind every description that it’s worth looking back on years later. If you love crazy and weird commentary on human nature, this is the novel for you. If anything, it will make you glad you’re not 13 anymore!
Fahrenheit 451 is essential for every book lover
5. [Fahrenheit 451](https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fahrenheit-451-ray-bradbury/1100383286?ean=9781451673319) by Ray Bradbury
If you’re an avid fan of reading, this one might especially hit home for you because, if you don’t know, or don’t remember, it’s all about a futuristic society where they burn every book. Because it is a little dense, it will definitely be easier to understand on the second read. Like Brave New World, this is also a great option for fans of dystopian worlds.
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