How to Pick the Right Classic Novel (Without Getting Overwhelmed)

Most of the time, when we’re given too many choices, it gets hard to decide. You stand there thinking, What should I pick? It’s the same with classic novels. There are thousands out there—books that have stood the test of time, books people call “must-reads.” But let’s be honest—not every classic is right for every person.

If every classic book worked for everyone, we wouldn’t have genres like romance, horror, mystery, or adventure. We all like different things, and that’s okay. In this post, I’ll show you how to choose the right classic novel for you—the one that’ll pull you in and not put you to sleep.

1. Know What You Like (Even Just a Bit)

Start simple. Do you enjoy stories with love, mystery, survival, or family drama?
Here’s a quick guide:

• Love & drama? Try Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.
• Adventure & survival? Try The Call of the Wild by Jack London.
• Spooky stuff? Dracula by Bram Stoker might be for you.
• Big ideas & deep thoughts? Frankenstein by Mary Shelley hits hard.

You don’t need to know everything—just your mood or a theme you like can help a lot.

2. Don’t Worry About “Famous”

Just because a book is super famous doesn’t mean you’ll like it. And that’s okay.
You don’t have to force yourself to read Moby Dick just because it’s a “classic.” Pick something that feels right, not something that makes you feel bored or confused two pages in.

3. Start Small, Not Huge

Some classics are long. Like, really long. If you’re just getting started, don’t go for the 800-page books. Try short novels or even short stories by classic authors. For example:

• Animal Farm by George Orwell (easy to follow, under 150 pages)
• Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
• Short stories by Edgar Allan Poe or O. Henry

These give you the classic experience without the long haul.

4. Check the Language Level

Older books can have tricky words or strange sentence styles. Some are easier to read than others. If you find the language hard, try:

• A modern English version
• A graphic novel version
• Or even listen to the audiobook—sometimes hearing it makes it easier

Reading should feel fun, not like homework.

5. Use Your Feelings

If a book makes you feel something—sad, excited, curious, annoyed—it’s doing its job. If it makes you feel nothing, it might not be your match. And that’s totally okay.

Final Thought: Read What Matters to You

At the end of the day, classics aren’t just books—they’re time capsules. But you don’t need to read all of them. You just need to find the ones that speak to you.

And over here on Inspanet, we make that easier. We share thoughtful posts about classic novels, offer free reads, and even have downloadable versions if you’d rather read offline. Still, the real magic happens when you explore, try something new, and follow your own reading vibe.

You don’t have to read what everyone else reads. You just have to read what makes you feel something.

Want help picking your next classic? Check out our recommendations or drop a comment—we’ve got your back.