Modern Classics Books That Must Be On Your TBR
Pride and Prejudice. Wuthering Heights. Hamlet. Everyone knows these books or has heard of them. If you’re a bookworm, chances are you’re very familiar with these modern classics.
In this article, we present a compilation of modern classic books that you should definitely consider adding to your TBR – if you haven’t read them already, that is!
What is a classic book?
But what makes these books some of the greatest classics of all time? Why do people still read them and hail them as great literary works?
For a book to be considered a classic, it must, most importantly, be timeless. Timelessness includes talking of universal themes and emotions like love, grief, joy and togetherness. The book must be accessible to as many people as possible. It needs to have made widespread, meaningful impact on people’s lives and challenge the framework of existing literature.
Our list of modern contemporary classics, diverse in genre and target demographic, includes books that have been published in and after the year 2000. The books are also listed in chronological order of release year, starting with the oldest.
Author: Marjane Satrapi
Published in 2000, Persepolis is a graphic memoir depicting the author’s childhood and early adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. It offers a poignant and personal perspective on the political upheaval and its impact on everyday life. Although set in a specific time period, it focuses on history and personal narratives during pressing global crises, thereby being more relevant than ever before.
Author: Suzanne Collins
Set in a dystopian future, the story follows Katniss Everdeen, a teenager who volunteers to take her sister’s place in a deadly televised competition where participants must fight to the death. The series, although published from 2008 onwards, stands as a solid example of rebellion in the wake of corruption and injustice, themes that always stand the test of time. This series has also been many readers’ gateway into YA literature.
However, the series isn’t over yet! Collins recently announced a prequel to the series which will follow the beloved Haymitch Abernathy and his backstory. Check out the announcement and details here!
Author: John Green
When you think of modern-day romance, The Fault in Our Stars cannot go amiss! This classic love story of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenage girl with cancer, and Augustus Waters, a charming and witty survivor explores themes of illness, love, and the desire to make the most of life. So many people have turned into bookworms and begun reading in the first place because of this one.
We also have a lot more timeless romance book recommendations to offer. Take a glimpse into these brilliantly written books here.
Author: Fredrik Backman
The first book of non-fiction on this list, in Backman’s signature writing style comes a collection of humorous and heartfelt essays where the author imparts life lessons and advice to his young son. Readers of any group can read these nuggets that cover everything from love and friendship to the quirks of modern life, reminiscent of Tuesdays with Morrie. Backman includes witty and touching reflections on questions like “Why, sometimes, a dad might hold onto his son’s hand just a little too tigh” and “Why airports explain everything about religion and war”
Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid
Presented as an oral history, this novel follows the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band, delving into the dynamics between band members and the creative process behind their music. To many readers, Daisy Jones and the Six, the band, is very reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac themselves. Themes of music, jealousy and togetherness form the core of this timeless saga.
Author: Matt Haig
A mix of memoir and self-help, Haig’s non-fiction explores how modern life contributes to anxiety and stress, offering personal insights and practical advice on coping with the fast-paced world. With the unstoppable rise of AI and added stressors that affect both mental and physical health, this book proves to be a classic in helping one find calm in a chaotic world.
Author: Emily Henry
Released just last year, Happy Place is a romantic comedy about Harriet and Wyn who have broken up but pretend to still be together for a weeklong vacation with friends, exploring themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Emily Henry has been a staple in the romance genre all over social media for a few years now and we cannot recommend a more well-rounded romance author!
