Homer Adventure Fantasy Historical The Iliad and The Odyssey – Homer The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer are two epic poems chronicling the Trojan War and Odysseus’s perilous journey home, shaping Western literature and mythology.
Margaret Atwood Classics Fantasy Historical The Penelopiad – Margaret Atwood (2005) Penelope reclaims her story from the Odyssey, offering a witty, feminist retelling that reexamines power, loyalty, and the fate of the twelve hanged maids.
Charlotte Bronte Historical Romance Villette – Charlotte Brontë (1853) Lucy Snowe seeks independence in a foreign land, navigating love, solitude, and self-discovery in this deeply introspective novel.
Robert Louis Stevenson David Balfour Adventure Historical Romance Kidnapped – Robert Louis Stevenson (1886) Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson follows David Balfour as he is betrayed and taken captive, embarking on a harrowing journey through 18th-century Scotland.
John Steinbeck Classics Historical Young Adult The Red Pony – John Steinbeck (1933) Jody Tiflin, a young boy on a California ranch, learns life’s harsh realities through experiences with horses, nature, and personal loss.
Stephen King Different Seasons Classics Historical Mystery Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption – Stephen King (1982) Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a wrongfully imprisoned banker, and his quest for freedom inside Shawshank Penitentiary.
H Rider Haggard Allan Quatermain Adventure Historical King Solomon’s Mines – H Rider Haggard (1885) King Solomon's Mines by H. Rider Haggard follows Allan Quatermain’s perilous expedition to find the legendary treasure, facing ancient secrets and deadly foes.
John Steinbeck Classics Historical Psychological The Winter of Our Discontent – John Steinbeck (1961) Ethan Hawley struggles with morality and ambition in mid-century America, questioning whether success is worth compromising integrity.
Jojo Moyes Historical Romance The Ship of Brides – Jojo Moyes (2005) The Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes follows Australian war brides in 1946 on a voyage to England aboard HMS Victorious, facing heartbreak, hope, and camaraderie.
Paulo Coelho Historical Psychological Fifth Mountain – Paulo Coelho (1996) Set in biblical times, this novel follows the prophet Elijah as he struggles with faith, exile, and destiny while facing trials that test his resilience and purpose.
