Fiction 101: Classics

Classics of literature, with a twist

by Shelby D., Evening Supervisor

Hello and welcome back to Fiction 101, the place where we talk about all things fiction (and nonfiction). In the past we’ve covered cozy fantasy, folk horror, science fiction and fantasy, and more.

We recently launched our new Beanstack Book Club. Join us online to read books, take part in reading challenges, and collect badges. This month our theme is classics! Pick up that book you’ve been meaning to read or choose one from our list. 

To go along with our Beanstack Book Club’s January badge, this month we will talk about classics, but with a twist! Each book suggestion comes with a retelling or modern adaptation to go with it, with three pairs in total.

Defining a “Classic”

Classic novels are books that had an impact on literature. They help define genres. These long-lasting stories are still read decades after publishing. Even if you don’t know the whole story, you probably know the characters, the tropes, and maybe even famous quotes.

Recommended Books

Pair #1: Pride and Prejudice and Bridget Jones’s Diary
Jane Austen is so funny and her books are beautiful. All of her books are good, but Pride and Prejudice is my favorite. Her books feel like a snapshot in time, and her witty commentary on society is what makes me (and so many others) love them so. For a fun twist on this classic, check out this other iconic book that acts like a retelling: Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding.

Pair #2: Frankenstein: the original and a graphic novel adaptation
A cornerstone for science fiction, this gothic horror story is a must-read. Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley writes such beautiful prose, and the story of Frankenstein is so eerie. Gris Grimly’s Frankenstein, Or, The Modern Prometheus is a graphic novel retelling that you can check out.

Pair #3: The Odyssey: a modern translation and a graphic novelization
It’d be hard to find a more classic classic. Homer’s The Odyssey is one of the oldest works of western literature. It’s been translated a lot, but I personally really like Emily Wilson’s translation. She keeps the cadence and rhythm but the clean prose gives it a contemporary feel. The library also has a graphic novelization by Gareth Hinds available for check out.

I’m such a fan of the classics! Often they give us a glimpse into the past and the writing is so poetic. Check out Beanstack for more classic book suggestions from us, and log your reading to earn badges!