Dune Series by Frank Herbert
Don't be put off by it's place in the science fiction pantheon, though why you ever would is a mystery to me, these books are an exceptional series of tales examining the future of humanity in a brutal existence. Forcing the reader to examine the price that must be paid for having a future at all, so relevant in a world full of concerns about global warming, oil prices, food shortages and war. Follow the tale of House Atredies as they struggle to save humanity at the price of their own.War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
Set on the backdrop of Russia's war with the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte Tolstoy's much acclaimed epic more than lives up to its reputation. Delve into the people behind the masks as the lives of the Russian nobility unravel around them and there nation is brought to its knees. Tolstoy's narrative is superb and the book is worth reading simply because its such a classic.The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay
Its an exhilarating epic adventure of fierce passions, divided loyalties and religion. A magnificent, deeply moving book, Kay provides insightful glimpses into the goals and motives of all his characters as they struggle to do the right thing in a world full of horrors done in the name of religion. A brutally forward, no nonsense approach to the problems that religion can inspire and the nobler causes that are overrun by fanaticism and ignorance. Seven Pillars of Wisdom by T.E. Lawrence
Especially remarkable because its true, Seven Pillars of Wisdom is the story of Lawrence of Arabia as told by the great man himself.It describes the revolt in Arabia against the Turkish Empire, as it appeared to the Englishman who was so crucial to it's origins. This strange yet oddly pleasing mix of military chronicle, descriptions, philosophies, emotions, adventures and dreams. Winston Churchill described it as a "narrative of war and adventure it is unsurpassable." No literary experience would be complete without this book. It remains much like Lawrence himself brilliant yet controversial.Watchmen by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons
A work of ruthless psychological realism, "Watchmen" follows the stories of would-be superheroes with staggeringly complex and realistic characters. Examining morality and portraying hard truths all beautifully illustrated through a normally very 2D medium, superheroes. If you want an eye opener on how complex every individual is combined with a compelling story, look no further.The Outsider by Albert Camus
Winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, "The Outsider" examines the way in which society condemns those who will not conform. After his mothers the main character, Mersault, shows no sadness and when he commits a random act of violence soon after society is baffled. Where is his emotion? Mersault refusal to satisfy the feelings of others leads to his being tried for being an outsider- not because of what he has done. The book makes you think about the ways in which society makes us conform and we don't even realise it.Cold Blood by Truman Capote
A captivating tale of amorality, quoted as being the "American dream turning into the American nightmare", Cold Blood is both controversial and compelling. It follows the circumstances surrounding the killings and subsequent investigation of a Kansas farming family, at the centre of which is the lives of young killers Perry Smith and Dick Hickock. This books impact comes from the frighteningly human nature of two murderers, as conveyed by Capote's powerfully evocative narrative.The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
Follow the story of the White Tiger as he rises as from a poverty stricken sweetmaker in a remote Indian village to a successfully business, being sold into virtual slavery and committing murder along the way. Brilliant by virtue of the story alone its unique insight into modern India only makes it all the more invaluable. If you want to know about the real India via a fun medium this is the way to do it.Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams
While actually a play, its more than readable as a book. Watch the scenes unfold on the stage of your mind as you follow the tragic tale of Blanche Dubois as her fantasy world collapses and her hopes of creating a new life are dashed as her past catches up with her. Feel the tension build, scene by scene, as Blanche's doom comes steadily closer.Wuthering Heights
You have probably seen this book butchered on screen but I assure you that as always the book far outdoes the film. While admittedly the first two thirds is far superior superior to the books ending this doesn't detract overly from the emotionally gripping tale. Revel in the suppressed sexual tension of Cathy and Heathcliff as they struggle against victorian society's conventions and there own selfish impulses.
I hope you found this list informative and I would urge you to read any or all of them. They are truly superb peices of literature. If you have any recommendations of your own please feel free to comment.
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