Three Classical Reads That Are Anything But Boring

Classical literature is something that gets a bad reputation, despite having done nothing to deserve it. Many people claim it is too boring or too long, and in some cases, I completely agree! But to use that reasoning as an excuse to never read classical literature is a shame - because too many readers fall into this trap. These books are a fantastic way to learn about history, society, and different cultures from the people who lived through it. So with that in mind, here are three of my favorite pieces of classical lit - and why they should be essential reads.

1. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

I need to start this suggestion with a disclaimer: I have read The Lord of the Rings trilogy twenty-three times. I truly love it that much. I know it is a lot of prose, poetry, and description. However, I also believe it is worth the read. While the movies are a good adaption, there are plenty of new things to explore in the books: Tom Bombadil, The Scouring of the Shire, Faramir and Eowyn's adorable romance. Tolkien's love of the written word shines through in his descriptions and characterization, showing exactly how much of a genius the man was in creating Middle Earth.

2. The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery is best known for the Anne of Green Gables series - and for good reason, those books are amazing! However, The Blue Castle is what I believe to be her best work, and is typically overshadowed by the series as it is a standalone work. Our main character Valancy Stirling is told by a doctor she has a year to live, and she uses this as a sign to run away from her controlling family who has kept her entirely too sheltered. Valancy's story is one of finding freedom, finding love, and finding the best things life has to offer. I found it inspiring and ended up reading the entire novel in a day because the story is just that good.

3. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Frankenstein is a novel I taught to my students for five years - and I have found so many teenagers are surprised at how much they love it. And I think the main reason behind this is the novel is completely misrepresented within pop culture. While the majority of people expect it's a story about an evil monster going on a rampage and killing innocent villagers, the story is actually a powerful look at why we have ethics in science in the first place. In addition, it shows the consequences of creation and the importance of acceptance. I find Shelley's novel to be ahead of its time, and more important today than it was when it was first written.