The kids are out of school, it's stifling hot, the beaches are packed, and the tubing gear is out. Ahh, the joys of summer! Bring out the pitcher's of ice cold lemonade, and platters of fruit.
I plan on reading tons of fluff this summer, but I wanted to get a classic in also. I haven't read a classic in forever, and i'm itching for some sophisticated reading. My problem is what to read. I could always read some favorites like Pride and Prejudice or The Great Gatsby, but I want something that's fresh to me.
I've narrowed it down to Wuthering Heights, Anna Karenina, Madam Bovary, The Catcher in the Rye, Jane Eyre, and Les Misérables. Do they seem a bit downerish (that isn't a word, is it?)?
I need to narrow this down. Can anyone give me a reason to eliminate one of these, or praise one to high heaven? I'm also open to suggestions if anyone can give me a title not up here, that they swear by.
I was leaning towards Wuthering Heights, but someone mentioned that is seriously depressing. Now I don't mind a depressing read, if the story is solid, and darn good.
I would be forever grateful for any input.
I've read Wuthering Heights a few times and really loved it. It is a dark story but the story is great. I do find some opinions mixed on that though.
ReplyDeleteI really want to read Jane Eyre and I have a copy I got for Christmas that I have yet to crack open. If you did that one maybe I'd try to read along at the same time. ;)
As for Madame Bovary, I want to read that again too (last time was in high school) but there is a new translation coming out soon so I would say to maybe wait on that and read that one with the nice new cover, lol. =)
Jenny- Who doesn't like a nice new cover..I think i'll wait for Madam Bovary. It would be cool to read Jane Eyre at the same time. Somebody to discuss the book with would be a added bonus.
ReplyDeleteThe ghost captures me every time in the beginning of Wuthering Heights. That's my vote :)
ReplyDeleteI need to read Jane Eyre :)
Anna Karenina - a must read. Strong woman character, interesting to the end and timeless. A long, but enjoyable book.
ReplyDeleteMadame Bovary is depressing. Wuthering Heights is just dark and stormy, in a good way.
ReplyDeleteBut my favorite of all time is Les Miserables. Not depressing or dark at all, but rather redemptive and joyful. Even the suffering and sad parts are full of hope and interesting characters.
Madame Bovary is depressing. Wuthering Heights is just dark and stormy, in a good way.
ReplyDeleteBut my favorite of all time is Les Miserables. Not depressing or dark at all, but rather redemptive and joyful. Even the suffering and sad parts are full of hope and interesting characters.