You all asked, so here it is! My huge list of Classic Books for adults in printable form.
I love paper copies of lists so here’s a free downloadable one of my newest list: 185 Classic Books to Read Before You Die For Catholic Adults. Check out the list itself for details and recommended versions of the books listed here in the download. On this list, you’ll find British classics, American classics, Classics from other nations, Children’s classics, and even some modern books I predict may become classics.
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Did you know that Good Books for Catholic Kids started because I tried to find something like it online, and couldn’t? The Holy Spirit whispered, “Well, then write it.”
Lately, I was searching for lists along the lines of “100 Classic Books to Read Before You Die” and “50 Greatest Books of All Time.” I couldn’t find anything I actually agreed with, and again I heard, “Well, then write it.”
To explain why I cringed: as I write this I’m trying to homeschool four kids, my husband works 16 hours a day as we try to build our family business, and we’re moving in a month. So, just a little overwhelmed here. But you don’t say no to the Holy Spirit, so I sat down and came up with more like 185 books I thought everyone should read before they die. This is not necessarily a list of my favorite books, but a list of the “greats” in literature, at least in my humble opinion.
I decided to focus on fiction. In broad strokes, I broke my list down into American Classics, British Classics, Classics from Other Nations, Modern Classics and Children’s Classics. The Children’s Classics are there in case you are reclaiming the ruins of your education and may have missed some of the great building blocks that bring riches to your reading of later classics. The Modern Classics have living authors so they’re my guess at books which will outlast their writers. To be crystal clear, this list is for ADULTS and I definitely do not recommend all these books for children or even teenagers. Since this list is for adults I did not indicate moderate language, violence, or moderate sexual content.
This list is for all the women who have told me: I love your children’s lists but I need more ideas of what to read!
This page contains Amazon affiliate links. This means that I may receive a small fee if you buy through my link at no additional cost to you.
British Classics
Till We Have Faces is one of the greatest novels ever written. C. S. Lewis’s fiction is nothing short of brilliant at its worst, and Till We Have Faces is Lewis at his strongest. In this multilayered retelling of the Cupid and Psyche myth, Lewis crafts a story about sight and blindness, love and hatred, and lies and truth. Lewis describes Till We Have Faces as his greatest book.
The Great Divorce is an allegory about a journey from Hell to Heaven. If this sounds like Dante, it’s because this is Lewis transposing Dante into modern language. Short but deeply thought-provoking.
Lewis’ Space Trilogyis out of this world! Drawing deeply on Medieval Cosmology, Lewis writes a short travel quest in Out of the Silent Planet. In Perelandra, he reimagines a new Eden and temptation scenario on a new planet with a man and a demon fighing to influence the future of a new world. And That Hideous Strength is a ominously prescient dystopia that predicts transhumanism decades before anyone thought that was possible.
From Paris to London and back again, A Tale of Two Cities is both unusual in Dickens’ canon and my favorite of his novels. This French Revolution era historical fiction novel follows the intertwining fates of political prisoners Dr. Manette, his daughter, and her two suitors. Sydney Carton is still a byword in the English world for his example of selfless love.
Oliver Twist is another oft-referenced Charles Dickens novel. In true Dickens fashion, it deals with an orphan, London slums, a rough life, dark times, and moments of grace through personal kindness. Oliver Twist, Fagin, Bill Sykes, and The Artful Dodger are all frequently referenced characters in English literature.
In Great Expectations, Dickens again writes about an orphan with no prospects, but Pip’s life changes for the better unexpectedly when receives a mysterious bequest. Dickens creates a great sense for mystery and a twisty interwoven plot.
David Copperfield is Dickens’ semi-autobiographical novel. It’s very long, but memorable, presenting characters such as the Micawbers and Uriah Heep that have achieved a fame outside of their proper proportion in this story. I read this one as a high schooler and it made me love Dickens.
Bleak House is Dickens’ scathing condemnation of the court system, and perhaps bloated bureaucracy in general. In this novel, he very clearly shows his view that the solution to poverty and misery isn’t to be found in societies, bureaucracies, or government. His heroine Esther illustrates that helping the unfortunate must be personal and small to be truly helpful. In addition to a ton of social commentary, Bleak House has a murder, a mystery, and a startling case of spontaneous combustion.
I’m making myself stop on Dickens because I’ve already listed about 3500 pages worth of reading just by him.
J . R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings Trilogy is a modern day epic and a timely tale for our world that can seem overshadowed by a dark overruling power. One of the greatest works of the twentieth century.
G. K. Chesterton’s fiction soars on the winds of his fertile imagination. I loved The Man Who Was Thursdayimmediately because it’s Job meets detective story, but not everyone has the same reaction. I highly recommend buying the Ignatius press edition for its commentary and appendixes to really grasp this hilarious and thought-provoking nightmare.
Manalive is a fictional version of parts of The Everlasting Man in theme. An intruder bounces over the wall of a drab London boarding house and chaos and joy ensue. Mystery, a mock trial, and marriage all whirl through this topsy-turvy cyclone of a story. Its my favorite Chesterton story.
My third Chesterton must-read are the Father Brown Stories. The humble yet insightful Father Brown solves mysteries through his deep knowledge of human nature.
George Eliot writes about everyday people in The Mill on the Floss: their mistakes, their loves, their losses. The Tulliver brother and sister come of age in this novel. Level headed Tom turns his back on his sister Maggie when her high spirits lead her into a compromising situation. This was really a lovely book despite being a tear-jerker.
Middlemarch is George Eliot’s masterpiece. She outlines the tensions and dramas of a small English town on the cusp do the Industrial Revolution, weaving together the stories of residents from all ranks into a living tapestry.
One more George Eliot top pick here. Silas Marner is a shorter Eliot novel that follows the fate of an unjustly accused weaver. Theme of sin and redemption.
One of my very favorite novels, Brideshead Revisited is Evelyn Waugh’s masterpiece. Multilayered and defying easy definition, this is the unforgettable story of a house, a family of struggling Catholics, and the conversion of Charles Ryder.
Decline and Fall is a satirical novel about British society, education, the church, and aristocracy. Waugh’s satire is not to everyone’s taste, but I find it hilarious and insightful.
In his World War II trilogy Sword of Honor, Waugh brings his keen sense of the ridiculous to bear on the inevitable inefficiencies of a large bureaucracy. But besides being brilliant satire, this trilogy is actually a worthwhile war novel and has a subtle Catholic tinge.
I find Thomas Hardy one of the more readable Victorian novelists. The Mayor of Casterbridge is short by Victorian standards and moves fast, following the aftermath of a dramatic opening where a drunkard auctions off his wife and child. Really, it is short. Only like 300 pages.
Far From the Madding Crowd is known as Thomas Hardy’s pastoral novel. His heroine Bathsheeba Everdene is sought after by three men from different classes and professions: a wealthy landowner, a soldier, and a shepherd/farmer. Hardy follows her story for years as she learns to curb her impulses as she searches for lasting love and happiness.
Vanity Fair by Thackeray is one of those oft-referenced but seldom read works of English literature. I found it surprisingly readable despite its intimidating length. Thackeray was delivering social commentary through his novel that is still applicable in parts today. and the characters, well- we all know manipulative charmer like Becky Sharpe. And an unhappy good girl like Amelia.
Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre is so well known I really don’t need to give a commentary!
Wuthering Heights gets painted as more of a scandalous romance than it is. It’s really more of a story about mistakes, revenge, forgiveness, and consequences. The atmosphere of the moors and desolation fits the spiritual desolation of the characters like a glove.
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is another book that gets an unfair reputation for scandal when in actuality it’s a deeply moral tale. Helen, a wife fleeing domestic violence, tries to hide her circumstances from the locals to avoid criticism. Perhaps a story ahead of its time. Told very cleverly through various perspectives.
Confession: I have not read every single Shakespeare play. But I’m close! If I were to select a top five to list, they’d be: Macbeth, Hamlet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Tempest, and King Lear. Honorable mention to Romeo and Juliet, Taming of the Shrew, and The Merchant of Venice. The Folger editions have a really helpful layout if you’re not a Shakespeare scholar with side by side notes and text.
Dorothy Sayers is the other “great” of the Golden Age of detective fiction. Gaudy Night is often called her greatest mystery. But it’s more than a mystery. It’s romance, a commentary on marriage, a social commentary, educational insights, and of course, also a thoroughly good mystery. Cautionary note: you may end up caught by Sayers’s memorable characters and want to read the whole series.
Whether or not you agree with William Golding’s hopeless view of human nature unchecked in Lord of the Flies, it’s a classic worth reading and mulling over.
Wilkie Collins is one of my favorite Victorian novelists. His unique shifting first person narrator style keeps his novels fresh and intriguing. Woman in White is a combination of mystery, thriller, and horror story.
Wilkie Collins’s The Moonstone is generally awarded the title of First True Detective Novel. Told like a police file with contributions from the detective, letters, and reports, this novel keeps your attention from page one.
Gulliver’s Travels is a satirical version of the popular travel memoir of Swift’s time. Such a classic that everyone recognizes the name Gulliver.
I am a HUGE Wodehouse fan. You have to be in the mood for a light-hearted romp and British humor, but then nothing matches him. His diction. His understated humor. His characters. His aunts. The Most of P. G. Wodehouse is a collection of his short stories and a good introduction to his style.
This collection of six of the best Wodehouse novels is pretty spot-on in showcasing Wodehouse at his zaniest and best. You get three Jeeves and Wooster (The Inimitable Jeeves, Joy in the Morning, and the Code of the Woosters)along with two of the best Blandings novels (Something Fresh and Blandings Castle) and the hilarious Uncle Fred in Springtime.
Leave it to Psmith is my absolute favorite Wodehouse novel. But don’t read it first. You have to read the Blandings books first. Then the Psmith books. And then you get the epic comic collision of two great casts of characters in Leave it to Psmith.
George Orwell’s 1984 is not a pleasant, uplifting, or hopeful book. In fact, I rather hate it. But, I do think you should read it too even if you thoroughly dislike it. It’s a warning. A canary in the coal mine. It feels terribly timely.
Scottish-born Muriel Sparks combines a dark sense of humor with a sparse style that captures the post-war spirit of chaos and carepe diem well. Yet she herself was a Catholic convert and often includes subtle nods to her faith in her books. Memento Mori is one of her best works, about a group of elderly friends who begin to receive spooky telephone calls reminding them that they must die. Other Sparks favorites are The Prime of Miss Jean Bodie, The Bachelors, and The Hothouse by the East River (had to stay up half the night to finish that one). In tone, Muriel Sparks is often compared to Evelyn Waugh, her fellow post-war author.
James Herriot’s heart-warming stories about his life as a Yorkshire vet are true classic quality. Herriot’s favorite author was P. G. Wodehouse, and you can see that influence in the touch of humor he brings to his animal adventures and misadventures in All Creatures Great and Small.
Robinson Crusoe by Defoe is one of those classics that is frequently referenced in other classics. The original great castaway on a desert island scenario, what you won’t see unless you read it is the Christian worldview that kept Crusoe from despair.
Howard’s End by E. M. Forster is a deeply symbolic story that follows the intertwining lives of three families in Edwardian England.
Frankenstein is more than a horror novel; it’s a cautionary tale about the fallout of science leading men to believe they are God.
Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is another cautionary tale about science, but also a cautionary tale about greed and presumption. Dr. Jekyll he can “have it all” by dividing himself into the angelic Jekyll and the brutal Hyde.
Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier is a brilliantly told psychological thriller.
The Picture of Dorian Gray is an oft-maligned story. You have to read it as a cautionary tale, and actually read the whole book rather than a synopsis. Then you realize this classic is drawing out the unfortunate consequences of sinful decisions.
Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest is a simply hilarious situational comedy of mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and romance.
Ivanhoe is the classic tale of the age of King Richard the Lionheart. Beautiful Rowena and Rebecca, dark Sir Brian de Bois, and even Robin Hood and his merry men feature in this novel from the age of chivalry. Note that in my opinion, Scott’s language takes some adapting to as a twenty-first century reader. Once you get used to his prose, it’s a fine story but it takes an adjustment.
Rob Roy is Sir Walter Scott’s other great classic work. I actually like this story of a Scottish Robin Hood type figure more than Ivanhoe. However, fair warning that the Scottish dialect sections takes an ear for dialect or some notes. This version I’m linking does have notes to help.
Pygmalion is Shaw’s famous play that inspired My Fair Lady. Short and easy to read, this is social commentary buried in fiction. Higgins sets out to transform Eliza and is transformed himself.
In The Hound of the Baskervilles, Arthur Conan Doyle gives us not only a thoroughly intriguing mystery but a extremely well-crafted novel that breathes an atmosphere of suspense and horror.
Beowulf is the foundational English epic poem that deeply influenced Tolkien among others. Beowulf’s battle with the dread monster Grendel, Grendel’s mother, and finally a dragon to protect the people of Denmark and England is translated into modern English in this text.
Elizabeth Gaskell’s delightful Cranford stories paint a vivid picture of village life. Amusing, short, and easy to read Victorian novel.
Gaskell’s North & South is a longer, but equally readable Victorian novel about love, social tensions, and the evolution of England during the Industrial Revolution. Really love this one.
Rudyard Kipling’s Kim is atmosphere-laden novel of a young street orphan in India during British colonization.
When spoiled millionaire’s son Harvey is washed overboard and rescued by Portuguese fishermen, he receives a rude awakening. Captains Courageous is a classic coming of age novel about hard work, self respect, and friendship.
Paradise Lost by John Milton is a foundational text for Western literature. It also is a challenging text, so paying for the Norton edition may be worth it. Sweeping and dramatic and unforgettable, once you’ve read it you’ll find Paradise Lost references everywhere.
Yet another foundational text for the western canon, John Bunyan’s classic allegory Pilgrim’s Progress is more readable in this Norton Critical Edition with notes.
A Man for All Seasons is a short but thought-provoking play about a pivotal moment in the life of Saint Thomas More.
H. G. Wells wrote some of the first SciFi novels. War of the Worlds is one of his best-known classics. A compelling and quick-moving first person narrative with an unexpectedly happy ending.
In her twentieth century classic I Capture the Castle, Dodie Smith creates a memorable coming of age novel about a teenager from an impoverished English aristocratic family.
My Family and Other Animals is one part natural history about Corfu, one part humorous situational comedy about a zany English family, and one part travel memoir. And also, it’s completely charming and readable.
Lark Rise to Candleford is a detailed account of life in a poor 1880 era family. It follows the girlhood and youth of Laura, whose agricultural life is the perfect backdrop to learn about the food, housing, work, and festivals of the era. This is a peaceful trilogy with lovely writing.
Captain Blood is a fun classic. It’s the story of an unlikely pirate: a British doctor who tumbles onto this unlikely career path after being unjustly sent into penal servitude.
The original spy thriller, John Buchanan’s The Thirty-Nine Steps is a suspenseful chase across England with the future of a nation at stake. It’s fast-paced and short.
American Classics
East of Eden is one of my favorite American novels. Top three for sure. Steinbeck’s multi-generational saga is rife with Biblical themes and philosophy. My book club was blown away by the depths of this American masterpiece. The story goes Steinbeck delivered the manuscript to the publisher in a hand carved wooden box. This is the acme of his work. Tragic with moments of humor and a plenitude of characters that stick with you, you don’t forget this story. My favorite theme is the question of free will. One of the more graphic books on this list though, with a brothel and prostitute as major parts of the story.
Steinbeck’s The Pearl is my other favorite among his books. Incomparably shorter, this novella follows the metamorphosis of a simple, poor diver who discovers a valuable pearl. Surely this wealth will bring happiness to him and his wife and newborn son? A difficult but thought-provoking story. Don’t read postpartum.
I don’t actually enjoy reading Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. But. It’s one of those difficult stories that sticks with you and you end up telling someone else to read so you can talk it out together. Two day laborers in California dream of a better life. But when a tragic accident occurs how can the smart one care for the simple one?
Gone With the Wind is brilliant. A top five American literature list book for me, and one of my overall favorites up their with my beloved British authors. Why brilliant? It’s layered. You can read it for the romance (steamy). Or the historical accuracy (impressive). Or on a religious level. Or as a story of cast in the South. Or as an analogy. Or as a blind-to-sight journey of the soul. Or, you can just enjoy it as an amazing written piece of literature.
I love Willa Cather’s simple, lyrical style and evident love for the plains. My Antonia is one of her greatest novels that exemplify the pioneering spirit. Her other Plains trilogy novels are also excellent: O Pioneers! and Song of the Lark.
Death Comes for the Archbishop is another beautiful Willa Cather novel. Set in New Mexico, this book tells the story of a different sort of pioneer. Father Jean Latour is assigned as Apostolic Vicar to a huge and nearly undeveloped area of New Mexico. He is a pioneer of the Catholic faith to his sizable and delinquent diocese. A moving story of a quiet and holy man.
Edna Ferber’s masterwork So Big tells Selina Peake’s memorable story. A young school teacher with high hopes marries a simple truck farmer. After his death, she takes on running the farm single-handedly and makes a success of it. But she wants better for her son Dirk and sends him off to the university to give him a chance at a better life. Lots of food for thought about education, entrepreneurship, and more. Also just a really well-told story.
The Great Gatsby makes all the top 100 novel lists with reason: it’s a suspenseful story told with a noteworthy economy of expression. It’s not a pretty story. Midwestern outsider Nick watches the figurative train crash of multiple adulterous affairs among the wealthy of New York. Jay Gatsby’s mysterious riches and restlessness haunts the reader as author Fitzgerald brings the Jazz age to life. Jay’s on a quest to regain his lost love Daisy, who’s married. Narrator Nick watches with horrified fascination as inevitably tragedy results.
The Magnificent Ambersons is a mult-generational story of the declining fortunes of a family of American aristocrats in Indianapolis. The changing city and society through the Gilded Age and Industrial Revolution is played out through the fortunes of this one family. Tarkington is an underrated American author in my opinion and this book won him a Pulitzer.
If you missed reading The Adventures of Tom Sawyer & Huckleberry Finn growing up, be sure and read them as an adult. These American boyhood classics by Mark Twain are still hilarious for adults and paint a memorable picture of small town Missouri life.
Another Mark Twain classic, The Prince and the Pauper, is a great situational comedy meets social commentary style book. A beggar child and the crown prince share an eerie resemblance. A case of mistaken identity leads to the complete upheaval of both their lives.
In her Pulitzer winning novel The Age of Innocence, Edith Wharton brings the Gilded Age’s high society in New York to life. But all that glitters isn’t gold. Newland Archer struggles to decide whether to stick with his fiancee, a girl of wealth and social standing, or pursue her cousin, poor and carrying an air of scandal. Conscience, love, and honor are all major themes here.
Another Pulitzer winner, To Kill A Mockingbird is Harper Lee’s powerful story of sweet Scout, who watches her father Atticus take a stand by defending a black man. Race relations, prejudice, honor, integrity are all parts of this book. And Scout and Atticus are two of the most memorable characters in American literature.
Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 is American literature’s first major dystopian novel. In the tradition of 1984 and Brave New World, Fahrenheit 451 imagines a future world under authoritarian control. What appeals to me about Bradbury’s dsytopia is the focus on the power of literature. Books are ruthlessly sought and burned by the “firefighters” because books have the power to reawaken the imagination. But what happens when one fireman starts to question the status quo? When he hides a book and dares to read it? As you might guess, Fahrenheit 451 is my favorite dystopia.
Moby Dick is Herman Melville’s classic tale of the giant whale, Captain Ahab, and Ishmael the sailor. Melville’s novel is lengthy for an American classic. Themes of revenge and madness, sanity and redemption.
The Scarlet Letter is a New England tale of sin, punishment, and the havoc guilt wreaks on the soul. Hester is forced by the Puritan society to wear a red A to signify her adultery and is shunned by all. But is she better off than her fellow adulterer whose guilt is hidden in his heart?
The House of the Seven Gables is another insightful Hawthorne novel that captures New England atmosphere well. With themes about generational guilt and suffering, this dark book nevertheless offers hope to subsequent generations by a belief in the expiating power of love and goodness.
Disillusioned and restless, Holden Caulfield’s narrating voice springs out of the The Catcher in the Rye with a realism that catches the reader from the first page. Although Salinger’s book is classic quality, it isn’t a pleasant book. The teenage narrator is angry and crass and irreverent. Needs to be read as a cry from a searching soul.
A Farewell to Arms is one of the great novels to emerge from World War I. A truly eye-opening account of the horrors of war and its aftermath. Hemingway’s trademark terse writing style creates a unique nihilistic feeling that works well with a war novel.
Owen Wister’s The Virginian is a genre-defining masterpiece of a novel. Considered to be the first true Western, The Virginian‘s eponymous hero is a hardworking cowboy with chivalry, humor, and at bottom a good heart. This is an easy, enjoyable read.
True Grit is better known for the movie adaptation with John Wayne than the novel. But the novel is actually a gripping and memorable tale! It’s told by a strong teenage girl, Mattie, and I think her voice hasn’t received enough attention in American literature. Mattie is set on a quest to avenge her father’s death and doesn’t much care who she has to inconvenience or outmaneuver to get what she wants.
Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey is a classic western that to some extent transcends its genre by its portrayal of the social problems of the polygamy and patriarchy in fundamental Mormon circles. It’s also just a great story about love, loyalty, and good guy versus bad.
James Fenimore Cooper captured the breathtaking beauty of the untouched wilderness and the danger of frontier life like no one else. His Leatherstocking Tales feature Natty Bumppo and his Indian friends and used to be enjoyed as adventure stories. Unfortunately, they read as wordy and slow-paced to our modern minds. Two of my favorites are The Last of the Mohicans , set during the French and Indian Wars, nad Deerslayer, which is the first book in the series chronologically.
Sensitive, passionate, and gifted, Francie Nolan seems destined to rise beyond her dirt-poor beginnings. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is an American coming of age classic that shows a variety of family struggles, failures, and reconciliations.
Flannery O’Connor’s darkly humorous short stories garner a love-or-hate type of reaction from most people. But they’re classics and the product of a deeply Catholic imagination, so even if you hate them it’s worth reading them. I found this podcast on A Good Man is Hard to Find, perhaps O’Connor’s most famous story, very helpful in understanding her work.
When a bridge collapses and five travelers die, Brother Juniper is determined to make sense for what seems senseless tragedy. Like a forensic detective, he unearths the true stories of the victims in a bid to prove that Divine Providence was at work even in a natural disaster like a bridge collapse. The Bridge of San Luis Rey is another Pulitzer winner.
Giants in the Earth is a powerful story about Norwegian pioneers in the Midwest. Based on the recollections of his immigrant ancestors, Rolvaag writes a lyrical and readable account of pioneer life with blizzards, locusts, isolation and depression. I felt like I was reading Little House on the Prairie from Ma and Pa’s perspective.
What if you were the last priest in Mexico, knowing you were going to be shot if you were caught? What if you struggled with alcohol, and women, and your faith? Graham Greene sets up a seemingly impossible situation for his protagonist in The Power and the Glory. Yet somehow, through something or someone beyond himself, the “whiskey priest” remains true to his vocation.
The End of the Affair is Graham Greene’s absolutely brilliant story of how even sin can lead to God. Maurice’s hate-filled diatribe, his attempt to exorcise his love for his mistress, leads him unexpectedly but inexorably to hatred of a God he didn’t believe existed prior to his affair. Note that this book has more sexual content than most on this list and is not a “pleasant” read- nor is it supposed to be.
In his fascinating memoir Two Years Before the Mast, Richard Henry Dana describes in detail his life on a two year voyage from Boston, around Cape Horn, and up to California. Set in the early 1800’s, this is an unforgettable account.
Some of Edgar Allan Poe’s short stories are classic-quality. The spooky and suspenseful Cask of Amontillado and The Masque of Red Death shouldn’t be missed.
O. Henry’s Short Stories are funny and atmosphere-laden. From New York City to the wild west, O. Henry captures the feel of America. Also, he’s the master of the twist at the end of a short story. My favorites are “Mammon and the Archer” and “The Ransom of Red Chief.”
Classics from Other Nations
Anna Karenina gets an unfair reputation as scandalous. In reality, Tolstoy’s timeless novel about adultery is a beautifully written cautionary tale. I find that Anna, though lengthy, to be a very readable Russian novel. Far more approachable for a toe-dip into Russian literature than Brothers K or War and Peace.
Crime and Punishment is the first Russian novel I ever read, and perhaps still my favorite. Raskolnikov’s gripping story of sin and redemption is also a fascinating psychological study. My Russian literature expert friend recommends this translation by Pevear and Volokhonsky as the most readable.
The Brothers Karamazov is a challenging novel to tackle, but so worth the time commitment! A murder trial, three brothers, existential questions, and mysticism make this book more exciting than most give it credit for. I was only disappointed to realize that Dostoyevsky died before he could write the sequel. That is my fair warning because you finish it and want the next volume!
An epileptic prince falls desperately in love with a mentally ill prostitute. Only in a Russian novel. The Idiot is another Dostoyevsky study of psychology, sin, class, redemption, and suffering. Fundamentally, Dostoyevsky is exploring what the world does to one who is fundamentally “like a child.”
One Day in the Life Of Ivan Denisovich by Alexander Solzhenitsyn is the only Russian novel on this list that is not a tome heavy enough to use as a paperweight. This book tells the story of a prisoner in Siberia’s struggle to maintain dignity and humanity under terrible conditions.
The Count of Monte Cristo: another hefty volume but such an amazing, even-life changing experience. One of the greats of French literature that transcended translation to become an English classic too. Betrayal, prison, escape, treasure, revenge… forgiveness.
Gertrud Von Le Fort’s classic novella The Song at the Scaffold follows the fate of a convent of Carmelite nuns towards their inevitable fate: the guillotine. This story is based on true historical events, but told to explicate how God can work despite, or perhaps through, human weakness. This is a very short but deeply moving story.
I’ll admit to a low tolerance for poor writing. Just because it’s Catholic doesn’t make it worth reading to me if the writing doesn’t flow. But The Song of Bernadette is the story of a saint that reads like a novel. Gorgeous writing by Jewish author Franz Werfel brings Bernadette, her country, her time all to life.
The Betrothed is one of, or perhaps THE great historical novel of Italian literature. Long but worthwhile story of young lovers who flee persecution and endure many trials and separations as they seek marriage.
With so many praiseworthy translations of the Inferno, Purgatory and Paradise available, it’s hard to pick. Dorothy Sayers? I’m partial because a huge fan. There’s this neat comparison of a few cantos from Inferno by different translators on Exodus Books you can check out to see if one appeals. At the moment I’m partial to the new Anthony Esolen translation. He has great notes and extra perk: the Gustave Dore covers are gorgeous.
Kristin Lavransdatter is a favorite and one I always recommend as a top ten must-be-read book for women. It’s a brilliant description of everyday life in fourteenth century Norway. It’s a story of love and fall and loss. It’s a coming of age story. It’s a religious story, a cautionary tale, a touch of fairy tale. It’s deep in symbolism. Basically, it’s amazing. But read all three parts: The Bridal Wreath, The Wife, and The Cross.
I also highly recommend Undset’s other series such as Master of Hestviken and The Wild Orchid.
Polish author Henryk Sienkiewicz’s novel Quo Vadis won a Nobel Prize for Literature. This historical fiction novel brings the days of the early Church and decline of Rome to life with its portrayal of the catacombs, persecution under Nero, confusion and chaos. The Roman centurion Vicinius falls in love with a Christian woman. His love for her leads him towards love for God.
I will admit, full transparency, I have yet to read Les Miserables. I fully intend to before I die though so it’s going on this list to remind me. At over 1400 pages, Jean Valjean’s saga probably wins as the longest book on this list.
The Iliad is another book, or rather epic poem, where translation makes or breaks the experience for the reader who is not fluent in classical Greek. Here’s a link to six respected translations compared.
Similarly, The Odyssey is another epic where you’ll want to be sure the translation works for your taste. Comparison here. Why bother to read Iliad and Odyssey? One good reason is because they’re foundational building blocks of subsequent literature. Even if you don’t enjoy reading epic poetry, you’ll come away enriched for reading other western classics with new eyes.
Sophocles’ Three Theban Plays are the essential Greek plays to be familiar with.
The Aeneid translation comparison is here at Exodus Books. I’m partial to the Fitzgerald one personally. Like Iliad and Odyssey, Aeneid is fundamental to Western literature.
Spanish classic Don Quixote‘s eponymous hero has become a household name even in the English world. Along with his faithful squire Sancho, Quixote roams the world in search of love and adventure. A modern twist on the ancient Roman comedy form of the foolish master and wise servant duo meets the age of chivalry meets modernity.
The Hutchback of Notre Dame is Victor Hugo’s classic novel about Quasimodo, the hunchback bell ringer. It’s a story set in a time of great historical and social change and presumes a familiarity with European literature.
Anton Chekhov’s Selected Stories draw vivid portraits of Russians from diverse classes, ages, and professions. Like most Russian stories, these are often dark, plumbing the depths of human misery and suffering.
I recently read All Quiet on the Western Frontfor the first time and was blown away by the simplicity yet depth of this true account of a German soldier’s experience during World War I. I think reading this classic truly helps bring to life the evil of war and the brotherhood of all mankind.
Modern Classics
If any modern novel becomes a classic, I think it will be Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry. With an amazingly believable female voice, Berry tells Hannah’s life story from girlhood to old age. Through her eyes he explores the changes in rural America brought about by technology and specialization. This book is an elegy to a lost way of life.
Jayber Crow, town barber and student of human nature, tells his own life story in this other masterwork from Wendell Berry. In the process, Jayber tells us a lot about Port William, rural America, friendship, happiness, and eternity.
If you didn’t know better, you might think Dostoyevsky wrote Laurus. But in actuality, this is a recent Russian novel by Eugene Vodolazkin, a rising star in literature. Laurus rightfully gained international acclaim. This book deserves a full review eventually, but in short, if you are fascinated by Medieval times, mysticism, Russian literature, journey of the soul type stories, or travel stories, this is for you. To warn you, in the best Russian tradition it is something like 800 pages.
Cormac McCarthy’s All The Pretty Horses is beautiful in its simplicity yet dark in its recognition of the brokenness of the world. John Grady Cole sets off for Mexico, chasing dreams of the cowboy life. A love affair, murder, prison, and more await him over the border. Definitely got some content and language. The sequels are even grittier and hold out less hope.
McCarthy’s The Road is his Pulitzer winner and my favorite of the half dozen of his work books I’ve read. I think this story of a father and son walking through a post-apocalyptic wasteland that was America has the potential to be regarded as a classic.
Donna Tartt is actually a Catholic; this is not immediately apparent from her rather dark stories. You have to look past the dark surface to see the themes of redemption and hope below. If you like Flannery O’Connor, this is similarly dark. The Goldfinch is a masterfully woven story about art, beauty, suffering, and redemption. But also has lots of language, drugs, alcohol, violence, adult content. Not for everyone, but classic quality.
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson is a slow moving, reflective novel, a letter really, that a dying man writes to his young son as he faces death. A reflection about father and son relationships across several generations, about gratitude and silence and jealousy and forgiveness.
Piranesi is a truly rare modern novel in that I fell in love with it immediately and completely. You can read my rave review here.
When the Bolsheviks condemn Count Rostov to hotel arrest for life, the formerly cosmopolitan aristocrat finds his world reduced to the Metropolitan, and his home reduced to an attic room. With its humor, hope, and a cast of unforgettable characters, A Gentleman in Moscow is one of my favorite modern novels.
Island of the World tackles the big questions like how does retain identity through a life of turbulence, suffering, and horror? Joseph is born into war-torn Yugoslavia. Michael O’Brien chooses the Balkan conflict in the twentieth century as the backdrop for this moving, difficult, yet ultimately uplifting novel.
“Children’s” Classics
Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows was a huge influence on C. S. Lewis. A children’s book that adults probably enjoy more nowadays, this story about friendship, fantasy, and the misadventures of the unforgettable Toad is sure to delight.
Everyone has to read Little Women as a part of understanding the American literary canon. Louisa May Alcott’s great classic about four sisters growing up celebrates family life and the power of friendship.
I also highly recommend the rest of Alcott’s books, especially Little Men, Jo’s Boys, Rose in Bloom, Eight Cousins, Jack and Jill, and Under the Lilacs.
Jack London’s The Call of the Wild is a classic story of survival against the magnificent backdrop of Canadian wilderness.
If you happened to miss the unmitigated pleasure that is reading Anne of Green Gables as a girl, then treat yourself. And if you read it too young and hated it, go back and re-read the series now and fall in love.
Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is one of those children’s classics which influenced a whole generation of writers. After I read it aloud to my kids, I started finding Alice references in lots of my books: Dorothy Sayers, C. S. Lewis, G. K. Chesterton.
Treasure Island is perhaps the quintessential adventure novel. Buried treasure, treachery, and high-jinks on the high seas.
All seven novels in The Chronicles of Narnia are absolutely essential reading at some point in your life. If by chance you missed going through the wardrobe as a child, consider reading these aloud with your whole family. A classic for all ages.
George MacDonald was another huge influence on C. S. Lewis. The Princess and the Goblin a classic story with deep symbolism and allegory.
Aesop’s Fables are classic morality tales from the ancient world.
Uncle Remus stories are American folk tales, melding morality stories with humor and Southern flavor.
Rudyard Kipling’s early life in India brings authenticity to his Just-So Stories.
Iconic children’s classic The Jungle Book deserves a reading as an adult if you missed it.
The Grimm Brothers didn’t write these fairy tales in the strict sense; they traveled around Germany collecting the folklore and fairy stories and then published their synthesis of these stories. A familiarity with these stories enriches reading the classics.
The Arabian Nights translated by Andrew Lang or Padraic Colum is a great addition to your family library. These classic tales bring the Eastern world to you.
Greek Myths are also building blocks for Western literature, so D’Aulaires’ Greek Myths is a great addition to your literary toolbox.
Beloved classic Winnie the Pooh has a gently humorous touch that even adults enjoy.
A Little Princess is a wonderful story about friendship, resiliency, and hope.
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a classic about the transforming power of nature and friendship.
Robin Hood is a legend, and his Merry Adventures as told by Howard Pyle are a great option for familiarizing yourself with this classic.
The story of the little Swiss orphan girl Heidi and her life in the Alps among goats and memorable village characters is yet another classic to revisit if you didn’t read it growing up.
The complete Little House series is an American classic very worth discovering or re-reading as an adult. I was stunned to revisit this series as an adult and think about the events from a mom perspective. The Long Winter in particular really moved me.
The Swiss Family Robinson is an enduring classic by Swiss Johann Wyss. It’s actually quite different than the famous movie, with a more realistic story and more of an emphasis on Divine Providence.
These children’s classics have been some of the hardest to select, since there are hundreds of children’s classics. I was trying to hone in on foundational building block books and oft-referenced children’s classics to contain the scope of this section of the list.
I hope you enjoyed this list and are inspired to try some new classic books!
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My 9 year old was laughing so hard the other night over a book that he woke up his youngest sister. He just loves a laugh out loud funny book, and I bet he isn’t the only one! Depending on who you ask, laughter keeps us sane, is good medicine, and makes life worth living.
“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.”
Lucy Maud Montgomery
It’s Robert Frost who said laughter keeps us sane by the way. And Byron says it’s cheap medicine.
Anyway, here’s a list of the funniest chapter books for 8-12 year old middle grade readers.
Homer Price captures bank robbers- with a little help from his pet skunk Aroma. He watches the donut shop for his uncle- and ends up making thousands of donuts. Robert McCloskey’s wry illustrations help make this comic classic memorable. Our world is so much more complicated, but kids still laugh about Homer Price’s small-town escapades.
Tom Sawyer: American legend. Kids would have to read this book anyway for cultural literacy, but it’s so funny they read it voluntarily. Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer still have charm.
Life is an adventure on McBroom’s Wonderful One-Acre Farm where beanstalks grow sky high overnight. Sid Fleischman tells original American tall tales about a large family on a miraculously productive farm.
Good Old Archibald is a vintage schoolboy story of accepting differences and forging friendships through sports and pranks. Reprinted and available from Bethlehem Books.
My kids loved and laughed at Owls in the Family from about age 3 onwards. It’s got that universal appeal that makes all ages laugh out loud. Farley Mowat humorously recounts his childhood complete with a menagerie of pets including two Great Horned Owls that thought they were human.
In The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking, you get a three books in one volume! This illustrated edition of the beloved Pippi stories brings the irrepressible red-head to life for today’s kids.
Edward Eager’s Tales of Magic series follows sibling groups on unlikely magical escapades usually with a twist. Like in Half Magic the children find a magic charm that gives them get exactly half of whatever they wish. Of course general hilarity ensues and they learn the hard way to be careful what they wish for!
The “magic” in Eager’s books is in the the Nesbit tradition: fairy-tale like magic that just happens to everyday people. The children are not trying to be witches or wizards. The magic happens through a toad that grants wishes in one book, a magic penny in another.
The Mad Scientists’ Club is vintage boys’ fiction with lots of science, pranks, and brainy kids saving the day. Overall I recommend these books for older middle grade readers with a few reservations. Things I don’t like: outsmarting domineering adults such as the Mad Scientists’ archenemy the mayor of the town is a common part of this collection of stories. There’s also some “fibbing” and disobedience to parents without real consequences.
But on the other hand, there’s a lot of positive themes about loyalty, friendship, problem-solving, and good clean fun. It’s quite funny and will inspire kids to explore and delve deep into STEM. This review from First Things captures the positives and negatives of the series well.
Give someone you love the gift of getting lost in a good story this Christmas!
What’s better than a book for Christmas? It doesn’t take up much space, is easy to mail, and gives the gift of an experience without leaving the comfort of your home! Find picture books, chapter books, picks for teens, and even the adult who won’t read on your list here this year!
This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you buy through my link I recieve a small fee at no additional cost to you.
Beautiful picture books to treasure
Swedish author Elsa Beskow’s beautifully illustrated picture books are favorites at our house. In Peter’s Old House, a community comes together to help renovate an old neighbor’s house.
Or if you’re looking for a classic fairy tale gift, Beskow’s rendition of Thumbelina may be the perfect fit.
Classic Picture Books that no one knows about
Flicka, Dicka, and Ricka are three sisters who always dress the same. In Flicka, Ricka, Dicka Bake a Cake, they learn how to make the perfect cake for their mothers’ birthday. This vintage series of charming stories about three sisters is over 100 years old, but back in print in collectible hardcover editions at a reasonable price! Only $10 a book!
Have little boys? No worries, there’s a brother series about three little boys named Snipp, Snapp, Snurr that is equally charming! (Note that these are only available in paperback that I could find).
For the Little Girl in Your Life
Have a 3-6 year old girl in your life? She’s sure to love The Milly-Molly-Mandy Storybook. These simple and sweet stories about a little girl’s small everyday village adventures will charm you. Plenty of illustrations and short chapters help hold interest making this a great first chapter book.
For the small boy with the heart for big adventure
Tall tales are always a hit with the 4-6 year old boy crowd. Try Steven Kellog’s renditions of Paul Bunyan, Mike Fink, and Pecos Bill with their detailed illustrations.
Or for a really unique and neat gift, give this little-known classic story from Virginia Lee Burton: Calico the Wonder Horse: Christmas Gift Edition. Calico is a smart ranch horse who saves the day when Stewy Stinker and his Bad Men come to town to try to steal Christmas.
For the elementary schoolers in your life
This interactive edition of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderlandand Through the Looking Glass is amazingly detailed! Tons of illustrations and even movable elements. Watch the Cheshire Cat appear and disappear, help Alice get bigger and smaller, and more. Hardcover quality edition at a very good price!
Or for the adventurous child, you can’t go wrong with this beautiful hardcover illustrated edition of The Hobbit. Again, quality illustrations, paper quality, and binding make this a great gift edition of a beloved classic.
For your godchild, niece or nephew, or child who loves audiobooks
My kids will listen to Glory Stories on repeat if I let them! These full cast productions bring the saint to life in a vivid and memorable way. There’s a nice variety of Saint Stories to choose from, ancient to modern. My kids’ current favorite is the newly released story of Blessed Carlo Acutis, available from publisher Holy Heroes.
The book that every teen should read
Even middle schoolers can understand the message in Animal Farm, George Orwell’s classic dystopian allegory about the dangers of Communism.
For the teen who enjoys historical fiction
I really enjoyed Sword and Serpent, the first in a Catholic historical fiction series which imagines the lives of St. George, St. Catherine of Alexandria, St. Nicholas, St. Blaise, and other early saints.
For the teen who loves fantasy and fairy tales
Shannon Hale’s rendition of the fairy tale The Goose Girl is masterfully done! A little romance, a lot of adventure, and great themes about friendship and courage make this a great teen novel.
For the teen who’s ready for a classic mystery
I’ve gotten the question of which Agatha Christie to start a teen on a few times. You can’t go wrong with The Secret Adversary, Crooked House, or Murder on the Orient Express. (Note that some Agatha Christie books mentions adulterous relationships as a plot point but there is never any sexual content.)
For that teen or adult who won’t read a book
What about Andy Serkis’s amazing new performance of the Lord of the Rings? An unabridged reading by the man who voiced Gollum- what could be better!? Audio Books still count as books!
For the adult story lover on your list
Reading Piranesi was a highlight in my 2021 Literary Adventures. This thought-provoking story inspired by The Magician’s Nephew brings together mystery, art, philosophy, and suspense into a unique and gripping plot. My full Review of “Piranesi” is up on the blog.
For the adult who loves the classics and beautiful editions
Check out the beautiful editions at The Folio Society! Most book lovers would drool over these gorgeous illustrated copies of favorites like Around the World in 80 Days, Austen’s books, the Bronte classics, or The Wind in the Willows.
For that person who likes looooonnnngggg (and amazing!) books
I’ve read pretty much everything Michael O’Brien has written. The Island of the World is my favorite. So if you need a tome for someone like me who thinks 1000+ pages is a positive, then you’ve found the perfect reflection on art, love, and the power of suffering.
For the Mystery Lover
For those who love classic mysteries but have read all the greats like Sayers and Christie and Allingham, Alan Bradley’s The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie is a contemporary mystery in the classic tradition. Full review up on the blog here.
For the adult who loves historical fiction
A Gentleman in Moscow is one of those books that draws you right back into a particular time period and way of life. Aristocrat Alexi is sentenced to lifelong house arrest in the attic of the Grand Hotel in Moscow as the Communists take over Russia. How does the last Gentleman remaining in Moscow maintain sanity, find community, and even thrive over the next decades?
For more ideas, check out my 2020 Christmas book guide!
I’ve ragged on a few New York Times Bestseller’s recently, so I wanted to share one I did love. Piranesi is that rare contemporary book I can wholeheartedly recommend to all my friends with no reservations. It’s well-written, superbly plotted, and has just the right amount of nods to the classics without coming across as trying too hard. Probably I mostly like it because the author is clearly playing with a Magician’s Nephew theme and you all may have noticed that I’ve never outgrown my childhood love of Narnia.
For the Moms
To be clear, this book is for you, mom, not your kids. Well, if you have a high schooler they might like it too, but mostly I’m thinking of moms here. If you love fantasy, or mystery, or art, or fairy tales, or books about social issues, you’ll probably enjoy this book. That’s a pretty eclectic list, I know, but this is a book that keeps you guessing. It defies categorization. I was telling a friend, “It’s like a mystery… noooo, more of a suspense…. no, actually, more fantasy. You just have to read it.”
Piranesi plays with contrasts: ancient versus modern consciousness, freedom versus bondage, contemplation versus action. There’s a compelling sense of place. A touch of art history. It deals with important topics like misuse of power, but in the most powerful way: through the story. It’s that rare book with great depths to ponder, but you read it in 24 hours. Then, if you’re me, you re-read it.
I really don’t want to give away any spoilers, but here’s a few tips on how to read it. First, this book is all told in diary form by an unreliable narrator (echoes of Wilkie Collins). Second, it helps to have read The Magician’s Nephew recently. Third, enjoy the mystery of it and don’t get turned off by the intentional strangeness of the first few chapters!
You can buy Piranesi through my Amazon affiliate link: Piranesi
Check out this FREE downloadable printable list to help your sons track their reading throughout the middle grade! It’s based on my popular book list 60 Classic Books for Middle Grade Boys, but has even more awesome book ideas!
Here’s a preview of what the first page looks like!
Both boys and adventure-loving girls will love these classic books about high adventure, funny talking animals, mysteries, and more!
To download this FREE pdf, click on the link below!
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Today I’m excited to share my new project with you! Due to popular demand from my readers, I’m beginning a series of printable reading lists with check boxes and space for date read so your children can track their reading! Click the link below to download!
This is a free printable pdf for your daughter to keep track of her middle grade reading. I based this list on my popular book list 50 Classic Books that Middle Grade Girls Love but added in sequels and a few extra titles to bring the total number of titles up to 90! That’s a lot of books! Challenge your daughter to read them all between the ages of 8-12. These are classics, so most libraries should have a high percentage of these books available to borrow.
Here’s a peek at what it looks like!
I’m so happy with how it turned out!
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Here’s a list for the boys: those 8-12 year old middle grade boys with their burgeoning desire for adventure and love of facts. There are a lot of classic adventure stories on this list, tons of exciting historical fiction, some mysteries, some fantasy, and some humor. All these books are good, clean fun that parents can feel confident handing to their sons to peruse (or devour, depending on the kid).
The books on this list are generally arranged by difficulty level with the easiest books coming first.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links.
Are there actually bears on Hemlock Mountain? In The Bears on Hemlock Mountain, Jonathan finds out when he ventures up the mountain alone in this easy-to-read, exciting story.
Beverly Cleary’s Henry and Ribsy books are simple but humorous stories about one of the best-loved plots in children’s literature: a boy and a dog.
A crippled boy, a wise monk, a journey, an adventure. The Door in the Wall is a great historical fiction novel with themes both about trusting God and pushing oneself to personal heroism.
McBroom’s Wonderful One-Acre Farm is a collection of hilarious tall tales. McBroom has a large, happy family and a miraculous one-acre farm. Boys crack up at these tall tales.
In the tradition of Charles Dicken’s Prince and Pauper, The Whipping Boy is a story of swapping places. A funny, exciting story of an unlikely friendship.
Clyde Robert Bulla wrote the perfect chapter books for 8 year olds: exciting historical fiction stories complete with illustrations to hold interest. Riding the Pony Express and The Secret Valley are two favorites with boys.
Boys who enjoy mysteries will love The Boxcar Children Books. These four caring siblings help solve problems while always looking out for one another. The first 19 books in the series were written by the original author and are the ones worth buying.
Freddy is a pig-of-all-trades: detective, football player, politician, lawyer. These talking animal stories are classics of the innocent, humorous older variety.
The Happy Hollisters are a large, cheerful family who love to help others. As they travel around the world, they solve mysteries, make friends, and always smile. Lots of clean outdoor family fun in this series. See my full review here.
Prince Martin Wins His Sword is the first in this quartet of books written in the time-honored epic style of the Iliad. These great books inspire courage and loyalty. Read my full review here!
Red Sails to Capri is a thought-provoking story about superstition and truth. It’s also gently humorous in places, describes a truly inspiring friendship between two young boys, and a great introduction to Italian culture.
In this Newberry Medal winner, a cricket, a mouse, and a cat form an unlikely friendship. The Cricket in Times Square truly captures the flavor of New York City.
This adventure story by Ian Fleming of Bond fame is always a hit with boys! In Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, a family heads off on a trip with their magical car; along the way they’ll encounter dastardly villains and some scrumptious French desserts.
In the same style as her more famous Little House books, Laura Ingalls Wilder describes her husband’s childhood in Farmer Boy. Boys will enjoy this account of life on an American farm with all the requisite animal training and feasting.
Owls in the Family is a hilarious boyhood memoir from naturalist Farley Mowat. My kids laugh until they cry at the escapades of Farley and his two horned owls, dogs, gophers, pigeons, and other animal friends.
Follow My Leader is a heart-warming classic about a young boy who is blinded in an accident. As he adjusts to life without vision, his family and friendships are his anchor. This book is great for building awareness about disabilities, blindness, and guide dogs.
Five for Victory is the first in Hilda Van Stockum’s beloved Mitchells series. This World War II era American family must pull together to build a victory garden, help their mother, and, maybe, capture a spy.
By the Great Horn Spoon! is a Gold Rush era novel by Sid Fleischman, who has a talent for humorous adventures. A boy and his butler set out to make their fortunes and general comedy ensues.
The Redwall books are always a favorite with middle grade boys. Mice, badgers, and other forest animals engage in epic quests, battles, and feasts
Homer Price by Robert McCloskey is clean, old-fashioned small town fun. Homer captures bank robbers, helps the stuttering town sheriff, and makes hundreds of donuts in this comedic classic.
In Snow Treasure, a group of Norwegian children and their families come up with a daring plan to smuggle their country’s gold out of Norway- right under the Nazi’s noses! This is a tale of courage that is loosely based on a true story.
The Green Ember is the first in a fantasy series by a Christian author. These tales of a rabbit’s quest and journey are reminiscent of Narnia and Redwall.
The Good Master describes Jansci’s happy life in Hungary, which is stirred up when his family takes in his wild cousin Kate. This is a great story about family relationships, Hungarian Catholic culture, and family love changing a person.
The Singing Tree is the sequel to The Good Master, and a truly beautiful and memorable story about World War II. Not at all a typical war novel, this book focuses on the toll the war took on the tiny Hungarian town where Jansci’s family lived. Jansci’s family illustrates incredible Christian compassion as they open their farm to townsfolk, refugees, distant relatives, orphan children, and even a group of Russian prisoners of war.
The Chronicles of Narnia is, of course, a must-read for middle grade children. I believe in reading them in the original publication order: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe first, then Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, The Horse and His Boy, The Magician’s Nephew, and last of all The Last Battle.
The Winged Watchman is a fantastic World War II historical fiction adventure about the underground movement in Holland. Despite the suffering and poverty of life under Nazi rule, one boy finds courage to be a hero and save a downed RAF pilot.
Big Red is just one of many wonderful outdoor adventure books by Jim Kjelgaard. These books are at once action-packed and exciting while also inspiring an appreciation for the beauties of nature and all animals. Irish Red, Outlaw Red, Snow Dog, and Stormy are all favorites.
Tintin, boy reporter, is always finding himself drawn into hair-raising escapades by his cast of quirky friends Captain Haddock, Professor Calculus, and Thomson and Thompson (with a p). Funny and clean, these do contain some very inventive “cussing” along the lines of “billions of blue blistering barnacles in a thundering typhoon.” There is also some alcohol abuse by Captain Haddock, portrayed as a negative habit
King of the Wind is the story of the origin of a great grandsire of Arabian and Thoroughbred horses: the Godolphin Arabian. It’s also the story of a quiet boy who believed in this horse despite the superstition that his markings were bad luck. Master writer Marguerite Henry captures the atmosphere of Morocco in a powerful way.
Adam, after losing his father and dog, sets off on a journey across England, determined to find them. Adam of the Road is an enjoyable historical fiction book depicting life in 13th century England, especially for a wandering minstrel.
Shipwrecked on an island with a wild stallion, Alex must rely on his wits and courage to help them both survive. The Black Stallion is a timeless adventure story about the special friendship between a boy and a horse.
The Toothpaste Millionaire is a great introduction to the concept of entrepreneurship. Two middle schoolers envision and develop a successful toothpaste business.
The Melendy children have boundless curiosity and creativity. These four siblings work as a team whether building a dam to make a swimming pond, planning a play, or adopting a sibling. The Four-Story Mistake and Then There Were Five have great themes about sibling relationships and older adoption.
In My Side of the Mountain , Sam feels stifled in the city. He decides to move to the mountains and live alone. Can a boy survive alone and forage for food in the wilderness? Maybe with a little help from a peregrine falcon!
Beorn the Proud is an exciting story about two countries and two faiths colliding when a Viking boy and an Irish girl meet. This is one of Catholic Publisher Bethelehm Books‘ Living History Library, all of which are excellent historical fiction titles for this age range!
Enemy Brothers is a thought-provoking historical fiction novel about World War II. Amidst the turmoil of World War II, an English boy who was kidnapped as a baby and raised in Germany is recovered by his birth family. Thoroughly indoctrinated in Nazism, Max hates his family at first. But their Christian love and patience win him over eventually.
Red Hugh is Irish historical fiction about a Prince of Donegal who heroically resisted English oppression of Ireland. This is a nail-biting novel of intrigue and adventure.
Based on what is known of the dog who accompanied Lewis and Clark, SeaMan is an account of westward exploration through a lovable Newfoundland’s big black eyes.
The Great Wheel chronicles the adventures of an Irish lad who ends up in Chicago helping build the first Ferris wheel for the Chicago 1893 Exposition.
Bush Boys on the Move is part of a wonderful series by an Australian Catholic priest. Sadly out of print, these are worth buying used.
In The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs, a father challenges his dissatisfied son to find the seven wonders of his home town instead of longing for adventures abroad.
Johnny Tremain is one of those classic historical fiction war books boys love. This book follows the events leading up to the American revolution through a silversmith apprentice’s eyes.
In The Sign of the Beaver, a 13 year old frontier boy, already scared to be home alone, loses the family rifle. He finds unexpected help, friendship, and wisdom from the nearby Indian tribe.
The Small War of Sergeant Donkey is a story of small heroisms in Italy during World War II. A fascinating story about a young boy and a diminutive donkey, this book brings attention to a little known part of World War II: American action in Italy.
North to Freedom is another World War II novel: a classic about a boy who has spent almost his entire life in concentration camp and escapes. Thought-provoking and touching story that makes the reader appreciate freedom and peace
The son of American diplomats, Henry has spent most of his life outside his homeland. This quirky boy returns home for a summer in small town America, and general mayhem ensues. Henry Reed, Inc. is a classic “summer” book that keeps readers laughing throughout.
In The Mysterious Benedict Society, four exceptional children are recruited to defeat a psychopath bent on using mind control to gain world domination. This book is full of puzzles and mystery. Read my full review here.
Tom Playfair: Or Making a Start is in the classic school story tradition, but with a Catholic twist. This book is the beginning of a trilogy written by Father Finn, a Catholic priest, inspired by the boys at his boarding school. These wholesome stories encourage sports, friendship, Latin, and virtue.
That Football Game: And What Came of It is another Father Finn book, this one about priorities and suffering, with the usual themes about good friendships and the importance of academics.
In The Great and Terrible Quest, a near feral boy finds himself swept up in mission to find the true king. This book has an amazing mystical undertone combined with an action-packed quest and a sprinkling of mystery.
Outlaws of Ravenhurst is one of those inspiring historical fiction Catholic books I believe every child should read for perspective. Set during a time when hearing Mass was a rare joy, this exciting story sheds light on persecution in Scotland.
The Good Bad Boy is a simple book in the school story tradition, describing the 8th grade year of a Catholic school boy. This book gives a positive depiction of Catholic private schools as they once were, rich with Catholic culture and tradition.
The Hobbit is, of course, a classic that all middle grade boys should read. Tolkien’s books about the struggle between good and evil are timeless and important.
The Trumpeter of Krakow is Newberry Award winning historical fiction book set in 15th century Poland. A young boy and his family must protect a precious crystal from a mad tartar villain. A little slow in the beginning but the excitement builds as the story goes.
Little Britches is the first in a fantastic American memoir by Ralph Moody. In this first book, Ralph and his family settle out west and Ralph learns to ride and be a real help to his father. Great father/son relationship depiction.
Animal lovers always enjoy Lad: A Dog by Terhune. This clever collie protects his family from robbers. Based on Terhune’s own experience with his pet collies.
The Ruins of Gorlan is the first in the popular Ranger’s Apprentice series. Will is disappointed at first to be apprenticed to a quiet ranger instead of a bold knight, but soon learns that there is more than one way to serve bravely. This fantasy series has great friendships, lots of adventure, and a little humor.
Where the Red Fern Grows is another classic dog story that every boy should read. This is a great tale of loyalty, friendship, and making the right decision even when it’s difficult. Note: sad ending.
Banner in the Sky is a great story about a teenage boy who is determined to honor his father’s memory by climbing the great Citadel mountain. Can he succeed where his father died trying?
In The Red Badge of Courage, a young soldier runs away from battle. Later, he conquers his fear and rejoins the army, hoping to be wounded to erase his cowardice. This is a heavy novel dealing with war, death, and psychology.
Midshipman Quinn is a collection of four novels starring a young English midshipman fighting in the Napoleonic wars. Septimus Quinn’s quirky, clever personality adds humor this wartime historical fiction novel.
The Weka-Feather Cloak is an exciting Catholic novel where mystics, time travel, and a spiritual battle collide with the everyday life of a high school boy.
Carry On, Mr. Bowditch conveys a good deal about navigation, sailing, and ships. This is an interesting story, but does have some tragic parts with several characters dying.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer is an American classic, depicting a simple, adventurous type of boyhood unknown now
Coming up on its 150 year anniversary, Treasure Island is as exciting now as it was at its first printing. This tale of pirates, treasure, betrayal, and greed is a true adventure novel.
The Eagle of the Ninth is a fine historical fiction novel by Rosemary Sutcliff. It follows Marcus, a Roman youth who is determined to uncover the mystery of what happened to his father’s legion. Skillful writing and attention to detail really bring Sutcliff’s novels alive. Read my Guide to Sutcliff for clarity about which of her novels are appropriate for children.
What type of books should middle grade girls read? Books with admirable, imitable female characters. Books with uplifting themes about growing up and growing in character. Books about friendships and family relationships. Classic chapter books for the 8-12 year old crowd.
The books on this list are time-tested classics, beloved by middle grade girls over the decades. They’re all completely clean, don’t focus on romance, and have great themes!
This list is arranged by age, with the easier books coming first.
The first four Betsy-Tacy Books are combined into one collection here, perfect for young girls encountering this charming trio for the first time. Three girls with very different personalities, families, and even hair colors become best friends in this beloved series from Maud Hart Lovelace.
The Courage of Sarah Noble has a great theme about discovering the true nature of courage: freedom from fear, or bravery in the face of fear?
Mystery lovers will enjoy the adventures of the Hollister family, which begins with The Happy Hollisters. Check out my full review of the series here!
I have yet to meet an 8-10 year old girl who didn’t love The Ordinary Princess. Her older sisters have all the typical princess qualities of beauty and grace and talent, but Amy is simply ordinary. What will life look like for an ordinary princess?
Thoughtful 8 year old Lisa tells about life in a tiny Swedish village. The Children of Noisy Village is a great early chapter book due to its short 2-4 page chapters. Each chapter tells an anecdote that happened in or around Noisy Village.
Love Noisy Village? Read more adventures of Lisa, Britta, Anna, and the brothers in Happy Times in Noisy Village. Humorous yet great exposure to Swedish culture and traditions.
The Secret Valley is a pioneer story set during the Gold Rush years. A sister and brother travel west with their parents searching for gold, but learn that true happiness is not found in a gold nugget.
The Boxcar Children are easy mysteries about a harmonious set of siblings. Girls will easily identify with responsible, confident Jessie or shy, sweet Violet. Each sibling’s skills help solve the mysteries.
In A Lion to Guard Us, big sister Amanda courageously sets off with her little brother and sister to follow their father across the ocean to Jamestown. She’ll have to have both courage and faith to succeed. This is a classic historical fiction easy enough for younger readers.
Carolyn Haywood’s Betsy series begins with “B” Is for Betsy. The Betsy books follow Betsy through her school years starting with 1st grade. In this book, Betsy learns that going to school can actually be fun and makes new friends. Betsy and Billy follows Betsy into 2nd grade, and Back to School with Betsy covers 3rd grade.
Twenty and Ten is a wonderful World War II historical fiction novel about a group of Catholic schoolchildren who successfully hide a group of Jewish children from the Nazis. The 1st person narration by a schoolgirl gives a truly authentic feel to this story.
Wild and charming, sassy and sweet, who can resist Pippi? The Adventures of Pippi Longstocking is a collection of three Pippi books, Swedish classics by Astrid Lindgren. Note that Pippi gets into a decent amount of mischief and there is some level of outsmarting adults that occurs.
Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle loves children, and children love Mrs. Piggle Wiggle’s wisdom and spirit
First Farm in the Valley is the first in Anne Pellowski’s wonderful First Farm in the Valley Series. Each book describes the life and adventures of a family in the valley. Based on the memories of the author.
Family From One End Street is a collection of short stories about the seven siblings in a large, very poor London family. Set in the early 20th century, the poor but happy Ruggles family has various escapades as they scrape a living.
In these stories which span generations, a bored young girl finds treasures like a special quilt in her Grandma’s attic. Each random object has a story attached. Grandma’s Attic Treasury are sweet stories of a simpler time.
For girls who enjoy older classics, the Five Little Peppers are a good fit. Another set of stories about a large family and their adventures living on a shoestring budget.
Fern’s compassion for Wilbur saves his life. Charlotte’s Web is a true children’s classic.
My family loves all the Hilda Van Stockum books, but Five for Victory, and its sequels Canadian Summer and Friendly Gables, are particularly special. Girls will love these funny, heartfelt stories about a Catholic military family during World War II and the years following.
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a lovely classic girls’ book about bearing hardships with fortitude and courage.
A shy girl must reach deep in herself to find the bravery to help save her country in Toliver’s Secret. American Revolutionary War historical fiction
E. Nesbit is a beloved British author of children’s fantasy, and The Enchanted Castle is one of her more accessible books for modern day children. Girls love the mysterious castle and princess in this book.
Hitty, or Methibale, is a doll from the 1800s. She recounts her memoirs of life over the course of a different century in Hitty: Her First Hundred Years.
In this very well-known children’s classic, Heidi is raised by her grandfather, goes to school, and embarks on an adven
Girls love the tiny, imaginative world of Mary Norton’s The Complete Adventures of the Borrowers. These books record the adventures of a group of miniature people who live a hidden life in the houses of the big humans.
Narrated by a girl, The Toothpaste Millionaire is the story of two middle schoolers who come up with a brilliant business idea. A celebration of entrepreneurship and friendship.
The Little House books are such classics they don’t need a description! These gentle stories are perfect for middle grade girls. The first four books in the series are best for this age range.
The All-of-a-Kind Family books are another wonderful series for middle grade girls. These stories are about a joyful Jewish family with five girls living in New York city in the early 1900’s. Great exposure to Jewish traditions and fun stories.
Lois Lenski does an amazing job bringing alive the realities of the tough, even brutal life of a poor farm family in the early 1900’s. Yet Strawberry Girl also is a celebration of simple joys and the beauty of peace.
I trace my love of gardening back to reading The Secret Garden as a child. Cranky Mary’s transformation from a fretful, selfish little person to a good friend and young woman can be traced to the “magic” of caring for a garden.
The Princess and the Goblin by master writer George MacDonald is on my must-read list of children’s classics. This beautiful book is filled with Christian symbolism and allegory. And it’s an engaging story about a Princess, a Miner Boy, and some Goblins.
Caddie Woodlawn is a growing-up story about a tomboyish young girl in early America. From uproarious adventures with her brothers to getting a voice in deciding her family’s future, Caddie grapples with growing up and learning what being a young lady truly means.
The Good Master and The Singing Tree by Kate Seredy are windows into life in Hungary before and during World War I. Young Jansci and his family’s life is upended by the arrival of his wild cousin Kate, but their patience and love work a miracle. In the second book, Jansci must grow up quickly as his father leaves for the war.
Olivia and the Little Way is a wonderful introduction to the spirituality of St. Therese of Lisieux for middle grade girls.
Misty of Chincoteague is the story of a sister and brother and their love for a special horse. Great themes about hard work, perseverance, and unselfish love.
The Kellyhorns is like an older, cleaner version of The Parent Trap. Long-estranged twins find each other and conspire to unite their beloved aunt and father.
The Swallows and Amazons series is a quintessential middle grade classic: well-written, exciting adventures, and a great assortment of relatable characters for both girls and boys.
Calico Bush by Rachel Field is a serious look at the reality of life for indentured servants and the hardships the early American settlers experienced. But it’s also a celebration of a young girl’s loyalty and courage and will to survive
In Number the Stars, young Annemarie’s family risks their lives to save her Jewish friend from the Nazis. Focuses on the heroism of the Danish resistance during World War II.
In Turn Homeward, Hannalee, brave 12 year old Hannalee embarks on a long journey to escape the Northern factory she is forced to work at and return home to Georgia.
The Saturdays is the first of the Melendy Quartet books from the great storyteller Elizabeth Enright. Four creative children with a small allowance pool resources so each can have a special adventure once a month. Great stories about harmonious sibling relationships, creativity, and adopting an older child. The Melendy story continues with The Four-Story Mistake, Then There Were Five, and Spiderweb for Two.
In The Crystal Snowstorm, orphaned Catherine travels to the tiny Catholic kingdom of Letzenstein to meet her distant relatives. Soon she is caught up in intrigue and a battle for the throne. A wonderful classic series with memorable Catholic characters that continues in Following the Phoenix, Angel and Dragon, and The Rose and Crown.
The Mysterious Benedict Society is a fun, quirky adventure series about exceptional children who are sent on a mission to save the world from a pyschopath bent on universal mind control. Read my full review here!
Cheerful Pollyanna is a sunbeam to her grumpy old aunt. But when tragedy strikes and leaves her a cripple, can Pollyanna still be cheerful?
Historical fiction about a courageous girl who must step up to defend her family when her father is away. Madeleine Takes Command will resonate with middle grade girls.
Living alone on a desolate island with only animals for companions, Karana must find courage to fight for survival. Island of the Blue Dolphins is a sometimes gritty but inspiring story.
The Light Princess is a short but thought-provoking fairy tale by George MacDonald. Full of puns but also great themes about the true meaning of love.
Little Women is another classic that needs no introduction. This story of the love between four very different sisters has charmed generations.
Eight Cousins is another great Lousia May Alcott book for middle grade girls. Rose learns to see beyond surface appearances to which of her many cousins are the most worthy.
Jack and Jill was actually my favorite Alcott book as a child. A sledding accident cripples two children and forever changes a small town. A wonderful look at the power of friendship and compassion.
Mara, Daughter of the Nile is an exciting story of spies, counter-spies, and palace plots set in ancient Egypt. It’s also a story of a girl learning to choose loyalty and self-sacrifice over selfishness. This book does have a romance and is better for older middle grades.
Princess Academy is one of those classic girl stories about friendship and coming of age. Read my in-depth review here!
The Sherwood Ring has a satsifyingly twisty plot with time travel, a gentle love story, and fascinating American revolution details all twined masterfully together.
An Old-Fashioned Girl offers a much-needed theme about staying true to one’s values and beliefs despite peer pressure.
Drovers Road is the first of one of my favorite coming of age series about Gay, a spirited young girl growing up in New Zealand. Gay lives in a rougher, more exotic world of horses, sheep-herding, and hunting. The subsequent two books follow Gay through college and beyond.
Want a printable version of this list? Check out my printable lists page!
Do you have a dog lover in the family? A horse crazy daughter? A budding naturalist? The child who loves all creatures great and small? I was one of those children, and here is a list of some of my very favorite children’s stories about dogs, horses, and more exotic animals! This list is for the books with animals which act like, well, real animals.
If you’re familiar with the movie Homeward Bound, you’ll already know the basic plot of The Incredible Journey. Three animal companions set off on an incredible cross-country journey, determined to return home to their family. Unlike the movie, in the book the animals don’t actually talk.
Jim Kjelgaard, one of my favorite childhood authors, is best known for Big Red, the story of a boy named Danny and the friendship with an Irish Setter that changes his destiny. Kjelgaard was a prolific author who wrote a plethora of adventure stories about the outdoors, animals, and boys. I can recommend everything I’ve read by him, including: Snow Dog, Irish Red, Stormy, Wild Trek, Trailing Trouble, and Swamp Cat.
Lad: A Dog by Albert Payson Terhune is heaven for dog lovers. Lad’s big, gentle heart and courage are guaranteed to make the reader want a collie. Terhune’s other collie books are all excellent. I particularly love Bruce, Gray Dawn, and Treve.
James Herriot’s Favorite Dog Stories are a delightful introduction to this beloved Yorkshire author. This is a collection of some of the funniest, and most poignant, dog stories Herriot wrote.
Follow My Leader is a heart-warming story about a middle school boy whose life is shattered when he loses his eyesight in an accident. Thanks to his supportive family and friends, Jimmy soon bounces back and learns to navigate life blind. But the real game-changer is when he meets Leader, his guide dog. Great book that offers a window into life with a disability.
Where the Red Fern Grows can be a love-hate experience for dog lovers since it has a bittersweet ending. If your child is sensitive to animal dying, steer clear of this one. Otherwise, it is a great story about grit, loyalty, and doing the right thing even when it’s hard.
Along Came a Dog is an out of print treasure by Meindert DeJong. A homeless dog encounters a little red hen and a lonely man, and all their lives are changed. This one is worth buying a used copy!
SeaMan is based on the true story of the dog who explored the west with Lewis Clark. The gentle Newfoundland is always a favorite with dog lovers who appreciate his loyalty, courage, and personality. Historical fiction fans will also enjoy the attention to historical detail in this book.
Did you know 101 Dalmatians was originally a novel? This classic story about Pongo the Dalmation father’s fight to find and rescue his kidnapped puppies is sure to be a hit.
Scout by Julie Nye is a lovely story about a boy, boats, horses, and a dog set in Michigan’s beautiful upper peninsula. When Scout appears half dead in the water, no one knows where he came from. Jeff nurses him back to health but eventually has to make a tough decision about where Scout really belongs. Warning: there is a slight fundamentalist Christian flavor to this book since the family is Baptist. Nothing anti-Catholic or heretical though.
Beverly Cleary’s classic humorous stories about Henry and Ribsy are always popular with animal lovers! Everyone cracks up at Henry’s schemes and Ribsy’s escapades.
Part of the wonderful Little Britches series The Home Ranch has always been a favorite of mine since it’s all about horses, really. Barely a teenager, young Ralph goes to work as a hand on a cattle ranch. He soon learns that the key to sucess is having the right string of horses and learning to work with them.
The Black Stallion by Walter Farley is a beloved classic about a boy and a horse. Shipwrecked on a desert island, Alec and the Black forge a friendship that survives their return to civilization. The themes about resilience, self-reliance, trust, and friendship always resonate with kids.
Smoky the Cowhorse was a 1927 Newberry Medal Winner about a wild mustang and a cowboy. Will Smoky give up his freedom in return for friendship?
National Velvet by Enid Bagnold is another old equestrian classic, this time about a girl and a horse. Horse-crazy Velvet breaths all things equine but money is tight. Very different from the more famous movie, this is a book about an awkward adolescent girl’s determination to ride.
I love My Friend Flicka more as an adult than I did as a kid. Although often recommended for young horse lovers, this book is more appropriate for teenage and up readers due to some serious marital strife between Ken’s parents and some sensuality. If you have an older horse lover, though, it’s the perfect book! The sequel Thunderhead is excellent too!
Books for Lovers of Unusual Animals
Owls in the Family by Farley Mowat is a hilarious, delightful memoir of the author’s boyhood in rural Canada with a veritable zoo of pets. His fond memories of the escapades of his animal friends are strung together into an engaging book. The reader also learns quite a bit about the likes, dislikes, and peculiarities of Great Horned Owls.
My Side of the Mountain is a true modern classic by Jean Craighead George. Teenaged Sam flees his overcrowded city life and decides to learn to survive on old family property in the wilderness of the beautiful Catskill Mountains. He wouldn’t be able to survive without the assistance of his Peregreine Falcon, Frightful.
How’s Inky? is the first in the Living Forest series by naturalist and philosopher Sam Campbell. Fun for adults and children alike, this series follows the escapades of the orphaned baby animals Sam cares for in his wilderness sanctuary.
Animals You Will Never Forget is a wonderful collection of excerpts from articles and books by the best animal writers and naturalists of the 20th century. An anthology that is worth tracking down a used copy of for your family library!
When a down-on-his-luck painter receives a mysterious package from an Arctic explorer, life takes an unexpected turn. Mr. Popper’s Penguins have soon taken over the Popper house!
