Classic Novels

To be generally agreed upon as a classic, books need to meet some common standards for quality, appeal, longevity, and influence. Classic literature must be of high artistic quality, at least for the time in which it was written. A classic can be appreciated for how it has been constructed and its artistic character. In literature, a classic work is usually considered to be a representation of the period in which it was written and also deserves lasting recognition. A “modern classic” may apply to books written after World War II. Classics generally have universal appeal because they “touch” readers and explore themes that are understood by readers from a wide range of backgrounds and ages.