Definitely 'The Scarlet Letter'. It's a classic that gives deep insights into early American society. Another must - read is 'Gone with the Wind' as it vividly portrays the South during a crucial period of American history. And 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' is essential as it had a huge impact on the nation's view of slavery.
I would say 'Cold Mountain' is a must - read for its beautiful writing and the way it tells a story of love and survival during the Civil War. 'The Killer Angels' is also a great choice for those interested in the Civil War battles. And 'The Red Badge of Courage' for its unique take on the experience of a young soldier in war.
Definitely 'The Great Gatsby'. It gives you a great insight into the Jazz Age and the hollowness of the upper class. 'To Kill a Mockingbird' is also a must - read as it shows the deep - rooted racism in the South and the struggle for justice. And 'Moby - Dick' which is full of symbolism about man's struggle against nature.
Definitely 'To Kill a Mockingbird'. It shows the deep - seated racial issues in the South, which is a big part of American history. Another is 'The Great Gatsby' as it reflects the pursuit of the American Dream and the excesses of the wealthy. 'Moby - Dick' also gives insights into the American spirit of adventure and man's relationship with nature.
One great African American teen novel is 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas. It deals with important issues like police brutality and racial identity in a very relatable way for teens. Another is 'Dear Martin' which also explores race relations through the eyes of a teen. And 'Brown Girl Dreaming' by Jacqueline Woodson is a beautiful memoir in verse that can be very inspiring for African American teens.
One great African American romance novel is 'The Wedding' by Dorothy West. It beautifully portrays the love story within the African American community. Another is 'For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf' by Ntozake Shange, which combines poetry and stories to tell of the experiences of black women, including elements of love and relationships. And 'Waiting to Exhale' by Terry McMillan is also very popular, showing the love lives and friendships of four African American women.
One of the must - read classic American novels is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. Another is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, which deals with racial injustice in the South. Also, 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville is a great one, with its complex exploration of obsession and the human struggle against nature.
One popular 2013 fiction book is 'The Goldfinch' by Donna Tartt. It's a coming - of - age story wrapped around a famous painting. The characters are complex and the plot is full of twists and turns.
I think 'Lessons in Chemistry' is a must - read. It not only has a great female lead but also shows the challenges women faced in the scientific community in the past. It has a great balance of serious topics like sexism and lighter moments, like Elizabeth Zott's relationship with her dog.
Definitely 'The Time Machine' by H.G. Wells. It was one of the first books to really explore time travel in a speculative way. Wells takes the reader on a journey to the far future, showing different species that have evolved. Another must - read is 'A Wrinkle in Time' by Madeleine L'Engle. It has a unique blend of science, fantasy, and religious themes as the characters travel through different dimensions to battle evil. And 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons is also a great one. It has an intricate plot and a diverse set of characters, all with their own stories, set in a far - flung future universe.
Definitely 'Moby - Dick'. It's a complex and epic adventure. The story of Captain Ahab's obsessive hunt for the white whale is filled with symbolism and profound exploration of human nature.
Definitely 'The Alchemist'. It's a classic that has touched so many hearts. Also, 'Veronika Decides to Die' is a must - read as it makes you think about life and mental well - being. And 'The Pilgrimage' gives you a deep look into Coelho's spiritual exploration.