You can start by looking at classic literature lists online. Many websites curate lists of important twentieth - century American novels. Then, pick the ones that seem most interesting based on the brief descriptions. For example, if you like stories about the South, you might start with Faulkner's works from the list.
Another great one is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It tackles issues of race and justice in the American South. Through the eyes of Scout, we see the unfairness and also the goodness in people.
You can start by picking a well - known title like 'The Scarlet Letter' by Nathaniel Hawthorne. It's a relatively short and accessible classic that gives a good taste of American literature from an earlier period. Then you could move on to something more modern like 'The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao' by Junot Díaz.
'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger. It follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a teenager who is disillusioned with the adult world. It has been highly influential in the portrayal of adolescent angst.
Well, among the best 200 twentieth - century American novels, 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville is a classic. It's not just a story about a whaling voyage but a profound exploration of human nature, obsession, and the power of nature. Then there's 'The Sound and the Fury' by William Faulkner. Faulkner uses a complex narrative structure to tell the story of a Southern family in decline. Also, 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison is significant as it delves into the African - American experience and identity in a society that often makes them feel invisible.
You could start with the most well - known ones like 'One Hundred Years of Solitude'. It's a great entry point as it's widely read and has elements that are very characteristic of Latin American literature. Read reviews or summaries first to get an idea of what to expect.
You can start by choosing a well - known classic like 'The Great Gatsby'. It's relatively short and has a very engaging story. You could also pick up 'To Kill a Mockingbird' as it's very accessible and deals with important themes. Another option is to start with 'Catcher in the Rye' which is a coming - of - age story that many people can relate to.
One of the great twentieth - century 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. 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, though published in the 19th century, had a profound influence on 20th - century literature and is also considered a great American novel.
One of the greatest is 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It vividly portrays the Jazz Age, with its themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. Another is 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee. It tackles important issues like racism and moral growth through the eyes of a young girl in the South. And 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, although published in the 19th century, had a profound impact on 20th - century American literature with its exploration of obsession and the human struggle against nature.
A good way is to start with the more popular ones like those I mentioned before. Since they are popular, there are usually more resources available for understanding the story, such as walkthroughs and character guides if you get stuck. And they often have been translated into multiple languages, making them more accessible.
You can start by looking at the classics. For example, pick up 'Jane Eyre'. It has a great story of a strong - willed woman. Reading reviews and summaries online can also give you an idea of which novels might interest you.