Written By American literature is rich, diverse and full of incredible works that have shaped the literary canon over the years. From classic novels to inspiring non-fiction, there’s no shortage of great American reads out there. But with so many books to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start! That’s why we’ve put together a list of essential reading for anyone looking to delve into some of America’s most famous literary classics. From Mark Twain and Toni Morrison to Harper Lee and Ernest Hemingway, these iconic authors have left an indelible mark on American literature – and their works are still as relevant today as they were when first published. So without further ado, let’s dive in!
Mark Twain
Mark Twain is one of the most famous American authors of all time. Born in Missouri in 1835, he wrote some of the most popular and enduring works in American literature. His real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, but he adopted the pen name Mark Twain later in life.
Twain’s work often dealt with issues related to race and identity, as well as social commentary on American society at large. One of his most famous novels is The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which tells the story of a young boy who escapes from his abusive father and embarks on a journey down the Mississippi River with an escaped slave named Jim.
Despite its status as a classic piece of literature, Huck Finn has been subject to controversy over its use of racial slurs and depiction of African Americans. Nevertheless, it remains an important book for understanding not only Twain’s work but also America’s history.
In addition to Huck Finn, Mark Twain also wrote other iconic works such as The Adventures Tom Sawyer and A Connecticut Yankee In King Arthur’s Court. Each book offers unique insight into both Twain’s own worldview and that era’s cultural landscape.
Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison is one of the most influential and celebrated writers in American literary history. Her works explore themes such as race, identity, and gender in a way that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about our society.
One of her most famous novels is “Beloved,” which tells the story of an escaped slave who must come to terms with her past while living free in Ohio. The novel won numerous awards and has been hailed as a masterpiece of American literature.
Morrison’s writing style is known for its lyricism and poetic language, which creates a vivid sense of place and atmosphere. She also uses unconventional narrative techniques, such as fragmented timelines or multiple narrators, to convey complex emotions and experiences.
In addition to her writing career, Morrison was also an advocate for social justice issues throughout her life. She spoke out against racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression both through her work and through public speaking engagements.
Toni Morrison’s impact on American literature cannot be overstated. Her powerful storytelling continues to inspire new generations of writers and readers alike.
Harper Lee
Harper Lee is widely known for her novel “To Kill a Mockingbird,” which was published in 1960. The book tackles racism and prejudice in Alabama during the Great Depression. It won the Pulitzer Prize and has become an American literary classic.
Lee’s work portrays Atticus Finch as a moral hero who stands up against racial injustice, despite being threatened by his community. The character of Scout Finch, Atticus’ daughter, serves as a narrator that provides readers with insights into social issues from a child’s perspective.
Despite her success with this one novel, Harper Lee rarely made public appearances or gave interviews throughout her life. She preferred to keep to herself and focus on writing rather than fame or publicity.
In 2015 after decades of silence, Harper Lee released another book titled “Go Set a Watchman.” Many fans were excited to read it but some critics found it disappointing compared to its predecessor.
Harper Lee passed away at the age of 89 in 2016 leaving behind not only two books but also an important legacy of addressing complex social issues through literature.
Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway is one of the most iconic American writers of the 20th century. He was born in Oak Park, Illinois, in 1899 and went on to become a journalist before finding success as a novelist.
Hemingway’s writing style is known for its simplicity and directness. He believed that good writing should be clear and free from unnecessary flourishes or complexity. This approach can be seen in many of his works, including The Old Man and the Sea, which won him both the Pulitzer Prize and Nobel Prize for Literature.
Despite his literary acclaim, Hemingway led a tumultuous personal life that included multiple marriages and struggles with alcoholism. His own experiences often inspired his writing, particularly his time spent as an ambulance driver during World War I which informed A Farewell to Arms.
Hemingway’s influence can still be felt today not just through his own work but also through those he inspired such as Cormac McCarthy who cited Hemingway as one of his biggest influences. Overall Ernest Hemingway continues to remain relevant almost a century after he first burst onto the literary scene
William Faulkner
As we conclude our essential reading list of American literary classics, we cannot overlook the works of William Faulkner. His novels and short stories set in fictional Yoknapatawpha County depict life in the Southern United States from the Civil War to the early 20th century.
Faulkner’s writing style is characterized by his use of stream-of-consciousness narration, nonlinear plotlines, and multiple perspectives. He often tackled themes such as race relations, family dynamics, and social class.
Some of Faulkner’s most famous works include “The Sound and The Fury,” “As I Lay Dying,” “Absalom, Absalom!,” and “Light in August.” These novels are not always easy reads but are incredibly rewarding for those willing to invest time into them.
In conclusion (just kidding!), this essential reading list highlights some of America’s greatest writers whose contributions have shaped American literature today. Each author brings their unique style and voice to their work that has stood the test of time. These books allow us to experience America through different lenses while helping us understand its complexities better. Happy reading!
