Okay, everyone should read War and Peace. Just cause.

Well, no, not just cause. It’s really an awesome book! Why in the heck am I mentioning a book that has been called the best novel ever written? Well, I just really want to encourage everyone to read classics. In fact, we had this conversation in my literature class just two weeks ago.

 I had to do an oral book report on a book from a list my lit teacher compiled at the beginning of the year. While at first I chose Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, she thought I could do better than that (don’t get me wrong-Rebecca is a fantastic book), so I chose Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. When I was preparing the material I would present, the thought suddenly struck me-why is it so many people are almost afraid to read the classics? I know for me at least, that when I was younger, I was almost afraid to touch my first classic book (or what I had heard was considered classic). It seemed to be in a plane that was “above” all other books. What I really learned is that they’re not “above” all other books-they just have one element that most other books don’t have.

 I’m going to interrupt my speech here and ask, what is a classic? What do you think is a classic? What makes a classic a classic? Personally, as I presented in my book report, I believe a classic has (1.)characters you can relate to; (2.)timeless language; and (3.)somewhat of an engaging plot. For me (and I’ve never gone wrong on this in my experience), a classic is one of those I-can’t-put-down-no-matter-what books that makes you completely oblivious to the outside world (including your mom calling you for chores). A classic will be remembered long after it’s written; it won’t just be a one-hit sensation.

I can guarantee you will be considered more intelligent and more learned if you have read the classics. My lit teacher is always reminding us (and which I am constantly finding) that classics are constantly alluded to in both modern and older literature. When you’re talking with someone, and they bring up a Jane Austen book or something, you can proudly say, “Oh, I’ve read that. It was a great book and blah blah blah.” Basically, it’s good to have them “under your belt.” You’ll be more respected and you’ll respect yourself even more.

 Ever since I delved into Ivanhoe so many years ago, I can classify myself as a “hopeless classic fanatic,” and proudly, too. Since I’m homeschooled, sometimes I’ll get caught up in reading classics when I’m supposed to be doing geometry. Tip: get the work done, and then read. But, if you’re a hopeless procrastinator like me, then you have an excuse. ^_~

Again, I really encourage you to read classics. Go to your local library and type in classics. There should be a nice list, and you can even ask your local librarian. Some of the ones I know are bibliophiles, even more so than me. :D

Just one tip. Don’t start out with War and Peace. It’s 1,386 pages long, and that might be a bit daunting. ^_^

Now, get out there and read! You’ll definitely be glad you did.