9 Classic Books to Read for Pure Enjoyment
BY: AMEENA MARIA KHAWAJA
photo: chris lawson
At a loss for something to read? Turn to the classics!
Reading a classic is incredible for your vocabulary + also gives lovely insight into a different era of life! Dive into a world without computers, text messages, or social media, + get lost in the authors’ beautiful use of the English language. There’s a reason these books are still around + so well-loved! Added bonus? All of them (with the exception of #4…) are perfect to read with your kids!
We chose the following books because they are easy to read, beautifully written, and transport you into a magical world.
✨ Enjoy! ✨
1.
The Secret Garden
Frances Hodgson Burnett, 1911
The Secret Garden is a beautiful, Edwardian classic, full of enchanting description, spoiled children, and a sense that nature has the power to heal more than we realize.
MAKE IT MAGICAL: The Secret Garden is perfect for reading in the grass on a spring afternoon!
2.
Five Children and
It
E. Nesbit, 1902
An evil sand fairy in the English countryside, a gang of gypsies, + 5 siblings granted wishes gone awry…add to it all the wonderful writing of Edith Nesbit and it’s pure gold. added bonus—if you enjoyed this book, you’ll be quite happy to know it’s the first in a trilogy!
MAKE IT MAGICAL: Take this story with a cup of tea to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of 19th century England.
3.
Oliver Twist
Charles Dickens, 1839
A glimpse into the not-so-pretty world of being an orphan in 19th century London. Dickens’ vibrant characters shine through the grime in this somewhat satirical, often heartbreaking social novel.
MAKE IT MAGICAL: Read this classic in two-chapter installments to get a feel for its original publishing as a serial!
4.
The Picture of
Dorian Gray
Oscar Wilde, 1890
A darkly philosophical novel about beauty, upper class society, influence, + art. oscar wilde’s only novel, the picture of dorian gray was widely criticized in its first publication. Read it to find out why the original publisher deleted 500 words before publishing…without wilde’s knowledge!
MAKE IT MAGICAL: We recommend curling up next to a crackling fire with a strong hot toddy while reading this wonderfully written, sufficiently creepy book.
5.
Heidi
Johanna Spyri, 1880
If your childhood somehow passed by without at least one reading of Heidi, find a copy and get to page-turning! Arguably one of the most likeable characters in literature, Heidi’s resilient spirit + contagious enthusiasm for life leaps off the page and into the reader’s heart. also, Johanna Spyri’s vivid descriptions of the Swiss countryside will leave your imagination inspired—and, we have a feeling we know where you’ll head for your next vacation!
MAKE IT MAGICAL: If you don’t happen to have a trip to switzerland planned, take this book on a hike + read it at the top of a mountain. Better yet, invite a young friend to join + read it together!
6.
The Wind in the Willows
Kenneth Grahame, 1908
Did you know this novel was not actually written for children? Though it was the inspiration for a classic (and somewhat terrifying) Disneyland ride, Kenneth Grahame didn’t set out to write the adventures of Messrs. Rat, Toad, Mole, + Badger specifically for young people. While its themes + characters are quite mature (we’re looking at your arrogance, Mr. Toad), the beauty of The Wind in the Willows is that it can be enjoyed by young + old alike.
MAKE IT MAGICAL: If you don’t have a nearby meadow in which to relax with a book, this makes for a lovely bedtime read—silently to yourself, or aloud to an eager listener!
7.
Anne of Green
Gables
L.M. Montgomery, 1908
The simple fact that this book has sold over 50 million copies should make it a priority-read! Enter into the world of Anne Shirley + Avonlea…And prepare to fall in love with the writing, the characters, + Prince Edward Island!
MAKE IT MAGICAL: Why not read this novel in the same atmosphere that L.M. Montgomery wrote it: In the twilight of day, whilst looking out the window!
8.
Alice’s Adventures
in Wonderland
LEWIS CARROLL, 1865
It was inevitable that we include this classic treasure on our list. What a wondrous, fantastical world in which to be transported! Fun fact: Did you know Lewis Carroll (a pseudonym) was also a mathematician? dive in + Enjoy this satirical, illogical journey down a rabbit hole in its original, printed + bound form.
Make it Magical: This is a perfect Summer read; the warmth outside will act as the perfect mirror to the season in the story. and when you’ve finished, follow it up in winter with its sequel, Through the looking-glass and what Alice found there!
9.
Black Beauty
Anna Sewell, 1877
Step inside the magnificent mind + body of a horse in this timeless classic! Anna Sewell meant “to induce kindness, sympathy, and an understanding treatment of horses”. in her story, and by writing it through the eyes of the animal, she did just that. An incredible lesson can be learned simply by viewing life from a different perspective, and a reading of Black Beauty will remind you of the respect + equality all non-human creatures deserve.
Make it Magical: Spend some quality time with an animal during or after reading this book! We promise you’ll see them in a more different light than ever before ✨
Did any of your favorites get left off the list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Old World Tip: Try to find a vintage copy of classic books to give you the most authentic experience whilst reading 😊📖✨
