24 must-read books 1930s

1. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, Douglas A. Anderson

Contributor: Michael Hague(Illustrator)

What is this book about?

The Hobbit follows the unexpected journey of Bilbo Baggins, a comfort-loving hobbit who prefers the quiet life in his cozy hobbit-hole. When the wise wizard Gandalf and a company of thirteen dwarves arrive at his doorstep, Bilbo is thrust into an adventure he never sought. Tasked with the dangerous role of burglar, he must help the dwarves reclaim their treasure from Smaug, a fearsome dragon who has claimed their mountain kingdom as his own. Along the way, Bilbo encounters treacherous creatures, from goblins and trolls to giant spiders and elves, testing his courage and resilience. Through these challenges, he discovers a strength and bravery he never knew he possessed, ultimately proving that even the smallest person can change the course of history.

Who should read this book?

• Fantasy lovers
• Adventure seekers
• Fans of Tolkien's other works
• Anyone looking for a classic, engaging story

Awards

• Keith Barker Millennium Book Award
• Books I Loved Best Yearly (BILBY) Awards
• Mythopoeic Scholarship Award

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2. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

What is this book about?

Brave New World plunges into a seemingly utopian future where stability and happiness are paramount, achieved through technological advancements, genetic engineering, and strict social conditioning. The story follows Bernard Marx, a citizen of this World State, who grapples with discontent and a yearning for individuality in a society that shuns emotional depth and personal freedom. When Bernard and his love interest, Lenina, travel to a Savage Reservation, they encounter John, a "savage" raised outside their controlled world. John's presence and his exposure to Shakespearean literature expose the cracks in the World State's facade of happiness, leading to a clash between their manufactured contentment and the messy realities of human nature.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of dystopian fiction
• Readers interested in social commentary
• Those who enjoy philosophical explorations
• Anyone fascinated by the potential consequences of technology on society

Awards

• Deutscher Hörbuchpreis

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3. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

What is this book about?

"Of Mice and Men" tells the poignant story of George Milton and Lennie Small, two migrant workers who share a unique bond as they drift from job to job during the Great Depression. George is quick-witted and fiercely loyal to Lennie, who possesses immense physical strength but has a childlike mind and a tendency to get into trouble. They dream of escaping their harsh reality and owning a small farm, a place where they can find stability and independence. However, their hopes and dreams are tragically threatened by Lennie's innocence and inability to control his strength, leading to a heartbreaking climax that explores themes of friendship, loneliness, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of American literature
• Readers who appreciate Steinbeck's work
• Anyone interested in stories about friendship, hardship, and the American Dream

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4. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

What is this book about?

"Gone with the Wind" sweeps readers into the tumultuous world of the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras, focusing on the life of Scarlett O'Hara. Scarlett, a headstrong and determined young woman, experiences a complete upheaval of her privileged life on her family's plantation, Tara. As the war ravages the South and its traditions crumble, Scarlett fights to protect her family and rebuild their lives. Driven by her own desires and ambitions, she navigates complex relationships, endures personal loss and heartbreak, and ultimately discovers the true meaning of resilience and survival. Through Scarlett's experiences, the novel portrays the societal changes, racial tensions, and emotional complexities of a pivotal period in American history.

Who should read this book?

• Readers who enjoy historical fiction, especially stories set in the American South
• Fans of epic love stories and complex characters
• Anyone interested in the impact of war and social change on individuals and society

Awards

• Pulitzer Prize
• National Book Award

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5. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

What is this book about?

"The Grapes of Wrath" tells the harrowing story of the Joad family, driven from their Oklahoma farm by drought, economic hardship, and societal changes during the Dust Bowl era. Forced to migrate westward towards the promise of a better life in California, they embark on a grueling journey along Route 66 with thousands of other displaced families. Along the way, they face prejudice, exploitation, and despair as they struggle to survive in migrant camps and find work. Despite enduring immense suffering and loss, the Joads' unwavering spirit and resilience highlight the strength of family and the indomitable human will in the face of adversity.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in American history, particularly the Great Depression and Dust Bowl eras
• Those who appreciate Steinbeck's writing
• Anyone who enjoys stories about resilience, social commentary, and the human spirit.

Awards

• Pulitzer Prize
• National Book Award
• California Book Award
• Audie Award

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6. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

What is this book about?

"Rebecca" is a suspenseful tale of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower and finds herself haunted by the presence of his deceased wife, the titular Rebecca. As the new Mrs. de Winter settles into her life at the imposing Manderley estate, she becomes increasingly overshadowed by Rebecca's lingering memory, fueled by the chilling behavior of the housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers. Haunted by her own insecurities and the constant reminders of Rebecca's beauty and sophistication, the second Mrs. de Winter unravels the mysteries surrounding Rebecca's life and death, leading to a shocking revelation that exposes the truth behind the façade of Manderley.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of Gothic novels and mysteries
• Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with atmospheric settings
• Anyone who appreciates suspenseful stories with strong female characters

Awards

• National Book Award
• Anthony Award

7. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

What is this book about?

"And Then There Were None" is a chilling mystery that unfolds on a secluded island off the coast of Devon, England. Ten strangers, each with a dark secret in their past, are lured to the island under false pretenses by a mysterious host. Isolated from the mainland, the guests begin to die off one by one, each death eerily mirroring a verse from the nursery rhyme "Ten Little Indians." As the body count rises and suspicion mounts among the remaining guests, they must race against time to uncover the identity of the killer hiding in their midst before they become the next victim.

Who should read this book?

• Mystery and thriller enthusiasts
• Agatha Christie fans
• Anyone who loves a good whodunnit

8. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

What is this book about?

"Their Eyes Were Watching God" tells the story of Janie Crawford, an African American woman in the early 20th century, as she journeys through life in search of love, self-discovery, and fulfillment. Through three marriages, Janie experiences different forms of love and relationships, each shaping her understanding of herself and the world. From the confines of a forced marriage to a prominent but controlling town mayor, to a passionate but ultimately tragic romance with a younger man, Janie's journey is marked by both hardship and moments of profound joy. As she navigates the complexities of race, gender, and societal expectations in the American South, Janie ultimately finds her voice and embraces her own unique identity.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in African American literature and history
• Fans of coming-of-age stories
• Anyone who enjoys stories about self-discovery, love, and resilience

Awards

• Audie Award

9. The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett

What is this book about?

"The Maltese Falcon" throws readers into the shadowy world of San Francisco private investigator, Sam Spade, as he navigates a treacherous case involving the elusive statuette of the Maltese Falcon. When Spade's partner, Miles Archer, is murdered, he finds himself entangled with a cast of dangerous and enigmatic characters all seeking the valuable artifact. As Spade delves deeper into the case, he encounters the alluring but deceptive Brigid O'Shaughnessy, the enigmatic Joel Cairo, and the menacing Casper Gutman, each with their own motives and betrayals. Through a series of twists, double-crosses, and unexpected turns, Spade must use his wits, cynicism, and unflinching demeanor to uncover the truth, survive the deadly game, and ultimately solve the mystery of the Maltese Falcon.

Who should read this book?

• Mystery and hardboiled crime fiction enthusiasts
• Fans of classic detective novels
• Anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, atmospheric thriller

Awards

• Anthony Award
• Audie Award
• Grammy Award

10. Murder in the Cathedral by T.S. Eliot

What is this book about?

"Murder in the Cathedral" is a verse drama that recounts the historical assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. The play explores the spiritual and political conflicts leading up to Becket's death, as he faces pressure from King Henry II and his courtiers who seek to curtail the Church's power. As Becket grapples with his conscience, duty, and the threat of martyrdom, he engages in philosophical debates with tempters who represent worldly temptations and the allure of self-preservation. Ultimately, Becket chooses to stand firm in his beliefs, accepting his fate as a martyr for the Church, while the play reflects on themes of faith, sacrifice, and the abuse of power.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in religious and historical drama
• Fans of T.S. Eliot's poetry and plays
• Those who appreciate works that explore themes of faith, morality, and power

11. The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

Contributor: Stephanie Reents(Contributor), Cynthia Brantley Johnson(Editor)

What is this book about?

"The Good Earth" tells the epic story of Wang Lung, a Chinese peasant farmer, and his wife O-Lan, as they struggle for survival and strive to build a better life for their family in early 20th-century China. Beginning with their arranged marriage and Wang Lung's deep connection to the land, the novel follows their journey through years of both prosperity and hardship. They endure natural disasters, famine, social upheaval, and personal tragedies, all while navigating the complexities of family, tradition, and ambition. As Wang Lung's fortunes rise and fall, the novel explores themes of resilience, the importance of family bonds, and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of a changing world.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in Chinese culture and history
• Fans of sweeping family sagas
• Anyone who enjoys character-driven stories about resilience and the human condition

Awards

• Pulitzer Prize
• William Dean Howells Medal

12. The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain

What is this book about?

"The Postman Always Rings Twice" is a gripping noir novella that follows the dangerous affair between Frank Chambers, a drifter, and Cora Papadakis, the dissatisfied wife of a diner owner. Consumed by lust and a desire for a better life, Frank and Cora embark on a passionate but ill-fated love affair. Driven by their desires and trapped in their circumstances, they hatch a plan to murder Cora's husband and start a new life together. However, their crime sets off a chain of events marked by guilt, paranoia, betrayal, and ultimately, a tragic downfall, exposing the dark underbelly of the American Dream and the consequences of desperate choices.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of noir fiction and hardboiled crime
• Readers who enjoy suspenseful stories with morally complex characters
• Anyone interested in exploring themes of desire, betrayal, and the dark side of the American Dream

13. The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler

What is this book about?

"The Big Sleep" throws readers into the dark and morally ambiguous world of 1930s Los Angeles alongside private investigator Philip Marlowe. Hired by the wealthy and ailing General Sternwood to deal with a blackmail threat against his wild younger daughter, Carmen, Marlowe soon finds himself entangled in a web of deceit, murder, and corruption that reaches far beyond the confines of the Sternwood mansion. As he navigates the city's underbelly, encountering seductive femme fatales, ruthless gangsters, and a cast of shady characters, Marlowe must use his wit, cynicism, and street smarts to unravel the truth, confront his own demons, and ultimately bring the guilty to justice.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of hardboiled detective novels and noir fiction
• Readers who appreciate Chandler's sharp prose and cynical wit
• Anyone who enjoys a good mystery with complex characters and atmospheric settings

Awards

• Anthony Award
• CWA Best Ever

14. The Citadel by A.J. Cronin

What is this book about?

"The Citadel" follows the journey of Andrew Manson, a young and idealistic doctor who begins his medical career in a Welsh mining town. Initially driven by a passion to heal and alleviate suffering, Andrew faces challenges to his values as he encounters the realities of poverty, industrial strife, and a rigid medical establishment. As he navigates personal and professional conflicts, Andrew's ambition leads him to seek success in London, where he confronts the allure of wealth and status within a medical system often more concerned with appearances than patient care. Through Andrew's experiences, the novel explores themes of medical ethics, social inequality, and the complexities of human nature.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in stories about doctors and medical ethics
• Those who appreciate character-driven novels with social commentary
• Anyone who enjoys a compelling story about ambition, idealism, and disillusionment

Awards

• National Book Award

15. The Thin Man by Dashiell Hammett

What is this book about?

"The Thin Man" introduces readers to the sophisticated and quick-witted former detective Nick Charles and his wealthy, spirited wife Nora, who find themselves embroiled in a perplexing murder case during the Christmas holidays in New York City. When a quirky inventor disappears and his secretary turns up dead, Nick reluctantly agrees to investigate, much to the delight of his curious and cocktail-loving wife. As they delve into the world of the missing inventor, they encounter a cast of eccentric suspects, including the victim's family, shady business associates, and alluring women, all while trading witty banter and enjoying their fair share of martinis. Through a series of twists, red herrings, and clever deductions, Nick and Nora unravel the truth, exposing a complex web of secrets, lies, and ultimately, the killer's true identity.

Who should read this book?

• Mystery lovers
• Fans of witty banter and charming detectives
• Anyone looking for a fun, engaging read

16. The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Contributor: Patricia Reilly Giff(Foreword)

What is this book about?

"The Yearling" is a coming-of-age story set in the backwoods of Florida that follows the life of Jody Baxter, a young boy who forms a deep bond with a fawn he names Flag. Living a simple life with his hardworking parents, Penny and Ma Baxter, Jody finds companionship and adventure in the wild beauty of the Florida scrub. As Flag grows from a playful fawn into a yearling deer, Jody's love for his animal companion deepens, but he also faces difficult lessons about responsibility, the harsh realities of nature, and the challenges of growing up. Through Jody's experiences and his relationship with Flag, the novel explores themes of love, loss, family, and the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.

Who should read this book?

• Coming-of-age story enthusiasts
• Animal lovers
• Readers who enjoy stories set in nature

Awards

• Pulitzer Prize

17. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Contributor: Richard Howard(Translator)

What is this book about?

"The Little Prince" tells the enchanting and thought-provoking story of a stranded aviator who encounters a young prince from a distant asteroid in the Sahara Desert. As the aviator learns to repair his plane, he also develops a unique bond with the Little Prince, who shares his whimsical perspectives on life, love, and the importance of imagination. Through the prince's extraordinary tales of his travels to different planets and encounters with a variety of characters, the story explores themes of loneliness, friendship, the search for meaning, and the power of human connection. The Little Prince's wisdom and innocence offer a fresh perspective on the complexities of the adult world, reminding readers of the importance of cherishing the simple joys in life.

Who should read this book?

• Readers of all ages
• Fans of philosophical and whimsical stories
• Anyone who enjoys a heartwarming and thought-provoking read

18. The Road to Wigan Pier by George Orwell

Contributor: Richard Hoggart(Introduction)

What is this book about?

"The Road to Wigan Pier" is a two-part exploration of poverty and working-class life in northern England during the 1930s, written with George Orwell's characteristic social critique. In the first part, Orwell provides a stark and unflinching account of the harsh living and working conditions he encountered in the industrial towns of northern England, detailing the realities of unemployment, poverty, and the struggles of coal miners. He delves into the social and economic systems that perpetuate these conditions, challenging readers to confront the inequalities of the time. In the second part, Orwell shifts his focus to a broader examination of socialism and his own evolving political views, analyzing the potential solutions to the problems he witnessed and critiquing the middle-class's often-flawed perceptions of the working class.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in social history and class issues
• Fans of George Orwell's writing and political commentary
• Anyone interested in understanding the social and economic context of 1930s England

19. The Nine Tailors by Dorothy L. Sayers

Contributor: Elizabeth George(Introduction)

What is this book about?

"The Nine Tailors" finds gentleman detective Lord Peter Wimsey stranded in the Fen country on New Year's Eve after his car gets stuck in a snowdrift. Seeking refuge in the nearby village of Fenchurch St. Paul, Wimsey stumbles upon a series of strange events, beginning with a curious inscription on a recently dug grave and culminating in the discovery of a murdered body in the bell chamber of the local church. As Wimsey delves into the case, he uncovers long-held secrets, hidden resentments, and a connection to a decades-old robbery that has haunted the village for years. With the help of the local inhabitants, including the intriguing and independent bell-ringer, Wimsey must decipher the clues, navigate the complexities of the village's history, and unmask the killer before the bells toll again.

Who should read this book?

• Mystery lovers
• Fans of British cozy mysteries
• Anyone who enjoys clever puzzles and intriguing characters

Awards

• CWA Best Ever

20. The 42nd Parallel by John Dos Passos

What is this book about?

"The 42nd Parallel" is the first novel in John Dos Passos' U.S.A. trilogy, a sweeping and experimental work that captures the essence of American life in the early 20th century. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, newsreel headlines, biographical sketches, and stream-of-consciousness narratives, the novel follows the lives of twelve different characters from various social backgrounds as they navigate the complexities of American society during a time of rapid industrialization, social upheaval, and the looming shadow of World War I. The novel paints a fragmented yet vivid portrait of the American Dream's promises and pitfalls, exploring themes of ambition, disillusionment, alienation, and the search for identity in a rapidly changing world.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in American literature and history
• Fans of experimental fiction and modernist writing
• Anyone who enjoys novels that offer a panoramic view of society

21. The Good Soldier Švejk by Jaroslav Hašek

Contributor: Josef Lada(Illustrator), Cecil Parrott(Introduction)

What is this book about?

"The Good Soldier Švejk" follows the darkly comedic and satirical adventures of Josef Švejk, a hapless Czech soldier, during World War I. Despite his apparent eagerness to serve the Austro-Hungarian Army, Švejk's bumbling nature, constant mishaps, and talent for finding himself in absurd situations lead many to believe he is feigning idiocy to avoid combat. As he navigates the chaos and bureaucracy of the army, Švejk encounters a cast of eccentric characters, from incompetent officers and opportunistic priests to opportunistic civilians and fellow soldiers. Through Švejk's experiences, often narrated with deadpan humor and satirical observations, the novel lampoons the absurdity of war, the incompetence of authority, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming circumstances.

Who should read this book?

• Readers who enjoy satirical and darkly comedic novels
• Those interested in World War I literature from a Central European perspective
• Anyone who appreciates anti-war stories and unconventional protagonists

Awards

• Kääntäjien valtionpalkinto

22. The Radetzky March by Joseph Roth

Contributor: Michael Hofmann(Translator)

What is this book about?

"The Radetzky March" chronicles the decline and fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire through the multi-generational saga of the Trotta family. The novel begins with the rise of the family's patriarch, Captain Trotta, who is ennobled after a heroic act during the Battle of Solferino in 1859. As the years pass and the empire crumbles under internal tensions and external pressures, succeeding generations of Trottas find their lives increasingly intertwined with the fate of the empire. From military officers to government officials, each Trotta grapples with their own sense of duty, ambition, and disillusionment, reflecting the gradual disintegration of the Habsburg dynasty's power and the inevitable collapse of the world they once knew.

Who should read this book?

• Readers interested in European history, particularly the decline of the Austro-Hungarian Empire
• Those who enjoy multi-generational family sagas
• Anyone who appreciates novels that explore themes of nostalgia, decay, and the passing of an era

Awards

• Премія імені Максима Рильського
• جایزه ابوالحسن نجفی

23. The Street of Crocodiles by Bruno Schulz

Contributor: Celina Wieniewska(Translator), Jerzy Ficowski(Introduction)

What is this book about?

"The Street of Crocodiles" is not a novel with a linear plot but rather a collection of interconnected vignettes and stories that blur the lines between reality, memory, and fantasy. Set in a mythical Polish town reminiscent of the author's childhood home, the book follows the unnamed narrator as he recounts surreal and often grotesque tales inspired by his eccentric family, the town's inhabitants, and the mysteries hidden within the walls of their decaying tenement house. The Street of Crocodiles itself, a place of both allure and danger, becomes a metaphor for the power of imagination, the fragility of memory, and the search for meaning in a world often teetering on the edge of chaos.

Who should read this book?

• Readers who enjoy experimental and surreal literature
• Fans of magical realism and dreamlike narratives
• Anyone who appreciates a richly evocative and imaginative writing style

Awards

• Prix du Meilleur Livre Étranger
• Tähtifantasia Award

24. The Death of the Heart by Elizabeth Bowen

What is this book about?

"The Death of the Heart" delves into the complexities of human relationships and the loss of innocence through the story of Portia Quayne, a naive and vulnerable 16-year-old orphan sent to live with her half-brother, Thomas Quayne, and his sophisticated wife, Anna, in 1930s London. As Portia navigates the complexities of their seemingly glamorous but emotionally sterile world, her genuine emotions and attempts to connect with those around her are met with indifference, manipulation, and ultimately, betrayal. Through Portia's experiences, the novel explores themes of loneliness, alienation, the clash between innocence and experience, and the destructive nature of emotional detachment within relationships.

Who should read this book?

• Readers who enjoy character-driven novels with psychological depth
• Fans of Elizabeth Bowen's writing
• Anyone who appreciates stories about human relationships, social dynamics, and the loss of innocence