Best of 24 1930s books

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

Contributor: Michael Hague(Illustrator)

Step into the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" a timeless classic that has captured the imaginations of readers for generations. First published in 1937, this beloved tale introduces us to Bilbo Baggins, a comfortable and unassuming hobbit, who embarks on an extraordinary adventure that will forever change the course of his life. As Bilbo joins a company of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their lost kingdom from the fearsome dragon Smaug, he discovers hidden depths of courage and resilience within himself. Tolkien masterfully weaves a captivating story of friendship, bravery, and the enduring power of good over evil. Whether you're a lifelong fan of Middle-earth or a first-time reader, "The Hobbit" is an enchanting journey that will transport you to a realm of unparalleled imagination and wonder. As Bilbo himself says, "If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world."

Awards:

• Keith Barker Millennium Book Award(1970)
• Books I Loved Best Yearly (BILBY) Awards(1997)
• Mythopoeic Scholarship Award(1990)

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2. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Step into the dystopian world of Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World" where humanity has traded freedom and individuality for comfort and stability. Published in 1932, this visionary novel is a chilling exploration of the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and the corrosive effects of a totalitarian society. Set in a future where society is controlled by a World State that conditions its citizens from birth to fit into predetermined roles, "Brave New World" raises profound questions about the nature of happiness, free will, and the human spirit. As the novel's protagonist, John the Savage, struggles to reconcile his natural instincts with the artificial world around him, Huxley's words resonate with an urgent warning: "A really efficient totalitarian state would be one in which the all-powerful executive of political bosses and their army of managers control a population of slaves who do not have to be coerced, because they love their servitude."

Awards:

• Deutscher Hörbuchpreis(2014)

3. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

From the desolate landscapes of 1930s California, John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men" emerges as a timeless tale of friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of life. This poignant novella introduces us to George and Lennie, two migrant workers bound together by an unbreakable bond. George, the quick-witted and protective leader, dreams of a better life for himself and his childlike companion, Lennie. Lennie, a gentle giant with a heart of gold, yearns for acceptance and a place where he truly belongs. As they travel from ranch to ranch, their unwavering loyalty is tested by prejudice, loneliness, and the unforgiving nature of the Great Depression. Through Steinbeck's evocative prose, "Of Mice and Men" explores the complexities of human nature, the fragility of dreams, and the enduring power of hope amidst despair.

4. Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Step into the tumultuous world of Margaret Mitchell's "Gone with the Wind" a sprawling epic that paints a vivid portrait of the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction. At its heart is the unforgettable Scarlett O'Hara, a beautiful and headstrong young woman who must navigate the challenges of a changing world. As the war rages on, Scarlett's world is shattered, forcing her to confront her own resilience and the true meaning of survival. Through her journey, Mitchell explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. "Gone with the Wind" is a timeless classic that captures the complexities of a bygone era and continues to resonate with readers today. As Scarlett herself declares, "After all, tomorrow is another day."

Awards:

• Pulitzer Prize(1937)
• National Book Award(1936)

5. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

Immerse yourself in the heart-wrenching journey of the Joad family in John Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath" a Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece that captures the devastating effects of the Great Depression on ordinary Americans. As the Joads are forced to abandon their Oklahoma farm and embark on a perilous journey to California in search of a better life, Steinbeck paints a vivid portrait of the resilience and indomitable spirit of the human soul. Through their struggles and setbacks, the Joads embody the strength and determination of those who dared to dream during the darkest of times. "The Grapes of Wrath" is a testament to the American spirit, a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today, reminding us of the importance of compassion, unity, and the pursuit of justice for all.

Awards:

• Pulitzer Prize(1940)
• National Book Award(1939)
• California Book Award(1939)
• Audie Award(1999)

6. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

Step into the haunting world of Daphne du Maurier's "Rebecca" a captivating tale of love, loss, and the enduring power of the past. As a young woman marries the enigmatic widower Maxim de Winter and arrives at his grand estate, Manderley, she soon finds herself consumed by the shadow of his deceased first wife, Rebecca. The late Rebecca's presence lingers in every corner of the house, from the whispering servants to the mysterious housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a growing sense of unease, the new Mrs. de Winter delves into the dark secrets surrounding Rebecca's death, uncovering a web of deceit, tragedy, and forbidden love. With its atmospheric setting and unforgettable characters, "Rebecca" is a timeless classic that will keep you spellbound until the very last page. As the narrator herself declares, "Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again."

Awards:

• National Book Award(1938)
• Anthony Award(2000)

7. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

Have you ever found yourself on the precipice of a thrilling adventure, where the line between reality and imagination blurs? "And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie, a gripping masterpiece of the 1930s, invites you to unravel a sinister mystery that will leave you breathless. Ten strangers, each burdened with a dark secret, are lured to a secluded island under the pretense of a weekend retreat. As the sun dips below the horizon, a disembodied voice accuses them of past crimes, setting in motion a deadly game where one by one, they meet their demise. With each victim, the haunting nursery rhyme, "Ten Little Indians," becomes a chilling harbinger of doom. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable tale of suspense and intrigue, where the boundaries of justice and morality are tested, and the darkest recesses of the human heart are laid bare.

8. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

As the author once said, "Every story is a journey into the reader's heart." Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" is a poignant and powerful novel that takes us on a profound journey through the life of Janie Crawford, a young black woman in the early 20th-century South. With lyrical prose and an unforgettable protagonist, Hurston explores themes of love, identity, and the search for self-fulfillment. As Janie navigates three marriages and the complexities of her own desires, she grapples with societal expectations and the limitations placed upon her as a black woman. Through her trials and triumphs, Janie's resilience and determination shine through, inspiring readers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and empowerment.

Awards:

• Audie Award(2001)

9. The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett

Step into the shadowy world of Dashiell Hammett's "The Maltese Falcon" where hard-boiled detective Sam Spade finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue and deception. Hired to investigate a missing persons case, Spade soon discovers that the beautiful and enigmatic Brigid O'Shaughnessy is not who she seems to be. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a trail of murder, lies, and stolen treasure—the legendary Maltese Falcon. With his quick wit and relentless determination, Spade navigates a treacherous underworld filled with dangerous criminals and corrupt officials. "The Maltese Falcon" is a classic noir masterpiece that captures the essence of the genre with its gritty atmosphere, unforgettable characters, and intricate plot. As Spade himself declares, "When a man's partner is killed, he's supposed to do something about it."

Awards:

• Anthony Award(2000)
• Audie Award(2010)
• Grammy Award(2010)

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

As the author once said, "Every story is a journey into the reader's heart." T.S. Eliot's "Murder in the Cathedral" is a poignant and powerful verse drama that transports us to the fateful events leading to the assassination of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Through poetic language and a chorus of voices, Eliot explores themes of faith, politics, and the nature of martyrdom. As Becket grapples with his own mortality and the conflicts that surround him, the play delves into the complexities of human nature and the eternal struggle between good and evil. "Murder in the Cathedral" is a timeless work that continues to resonate with audiences, offering insights into the power of faith and the enduring legacy of those who stand up for their beliefs.

11. The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

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

Immerse yourself in the timeless tale of "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck, a poignant and evocative novel that transports readers to the heart of rural China in the early 20th century. Through the eyes of Wang Lung, a humble farmer, we witness the struggles and triumphs of a family bound to the land. As the seasons change and life unfolds, Wang Lung and his wife, O-lan, endure hardships and find moments of joy, all the while cherishing the soil that sustains them. "The Good Earth" is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of family ties. It is a story that resonates with readers of all backgrounds, offering insights into the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.

Awards:

• Pulitzer Prize(1932)
• William Dean Howells Medal(1935)

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

Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure in the seedy underbelly of 1930s America with James M. Cain's "The Postman Always Rings Twice" This noir masterpiece introduces us to Frank Chambers, a drifter who stumbles into a fateful encounter at a roadside diner. As he becomes entangled in a web of passion and deception with Cora, the beautiful but enigmatic wife of the diner's owner, Frank finds himself drawn into a dangerous game where nothing is as it seems. With its explosive plot and unforgettable characters, "The Postman Always Rings Twice" is a gripping tale of love, obsession, and the consequences of forbidden desire. As Frank himself declares, "I saw her… and I knew right then and there that I had to have her, no matter what."

13. The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler

From the shadowy depths of 1930s Los Angeles, Raymond Chandler's "The Big Sleep" unfolds a gripping tale of crime, corruption, and the enigmatic Philip Marlowe. Hired by a dying millionaire to uncover the truth behind the blackmail of his daughter, Marlowe plunges into a treacherous underworld filled with femme fatales, dangerous mobsters, and a web of secrets that run deeper than he could ever imagine. As Marlowe navigates the labyrinthine streets, he uncovers a trail of kidnappings, pornography, and murder, all connected to the enigmatic Sternwood family. With his quick wit and relentless determination, Marlowe follows the clues, peeling back layer after layer of deception to reveal a shocking truth that threatens to consume him. "The Big Sleep" is a classic noir masterpiece that captures the essence of the genre with its atmospheric setting, hard-boiled detective, and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

Awards:

• Anthony Award(2000)
• CWA Best Ever(2013)

14. The Citadel by A.J. Cronin

Have you ever pondered the profound responsibility of those who wield the power to heal? A.J. Cronin's "The Citadel" takes us on a thought-provoking journey through the life of Andrew Manson, a young and idealistic doctor whose unwavering commitment to patient care challenges the very foundations of the medical establishment. Set amidst the impoverished mining towns of Wales and the plush consulting rooms of London, "The Citadel" exposes the stark contrast between the healthcare available to the poor and the wealthy. As Manson navigates the moral dilemmas that arise from these disparities, he grapples with the question of whether a doctor's primary duty is to their patients or to the pursuit of financial success. Cronin's deeply moving novel, inspired by his own experiences as a physician, offers a timeless exploration of the ethics of medicine and the transformative power of human compassion.

Awards:

• National Book Award(1937)

15. The Thin Man by Dashiell Hammett

Have you ever encountered a detective duo as charming and witty as Nick and Nora Charles? Dashiell Hammett's "The Thin Man" introduces us to this unforgettable couple, whose sophisticated banter and playful relationship add a touch of glamour to the world of hardboiled crime. As Nick, a retired detective, and Nora, his wealthy and quick-witted wife, find themselves drawn into a complex murder investigation, they navigate a web of suspects with effortless style and a keen eye for detail. With its sharp dialogue, intriguing plot, and unforgettable characters, "The Thin Man" is a classic mystery novel that has delighted readers for generations. As Nora herself declares, "There's no sense in sitting around feeling sorry for yourself. Every once in a while, fate hands you something nice, and you just have to take it."

16. The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Contributor: Patricia Reilly Giff(Foreword)

Nestled amidst the untamed wilderness of 1870s Florida, "The Yearling" by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings unfolds a heartwarming and poignant tale of love, loss, and the enduring bond between a boy and his animal companion. At the heart of this classic novel is young Jody Baxter, a spirited boy who adopts an orphaned fawn named Flag. As Jody and Flag embark on countless adventures in the untamed backwoods, their friendship blossoms, mirroring the unbreakable connection between humans and nature. However, life on the frontier is fraught with challenges, and Jody's family struggles to make ends meet. As the harsh realities of survival encroach upon their idyllic existence, Jody and Flag's bond is tested, leading to a profound understanding of the complexities of life and the sacrifices that must sometimes be made. "The Yearling" is a lyrical and deeply moving story that explores the beauty and fragility of life, the power of family, and the unforgettable bond between humans and the natural world.

Awards:

• Pulitzer Prize(1939)

17. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Contributor: Richard Howard(Translator)

Published in 1943, "The Little Prince" is one of the most widely read and beloved books of the 20th century. Few stories have captured the hearts and minds of readers of all ages like this wise and enchanting fable. When a pilot is stranded in the desert, he encounters a remarkable little prince from a distant planet. As they journey together, the pilot learns valuable lessons about friendship, love, and the true meaning of life. "The Little Prince" is a timeless classic that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of readers everywhere.

18. The Road to Wigan Pier by George Orwell

Contributor: Richard Hoggart(Introduction)

Have you ever wondered what happens when we put our faith in the seemingly impossible? This book takes you on a journey to discover the magic of belief. In the 1930s, George Orwell embarked on a mission to investigate the living conditions of the working class in northern England. His journey, documented in "The Road to Wigan Pier" is a powerful and moving account of the struggles and resilience of those living in poverty. Orwell's vivid descriptions and sharp insights into the human condition make this book a must-read for anyone interested in social justice and the power of hope.

19. The Nine Tailors by Dorothy L. Sayers

Contributor: Elizabeth George(Introduction)

In the quaint English countryside, a gruesome discovery sends shockwaves through the village of Fenchurch St. Paul. When a disfigured corpse is found in the local church, Lord Peter Wimsey is called upon to unravel the mystery. As he delves into the investigation, Wimsey encounters a world of secrets, hidden motives, and the intricate art of bell ringing. Dorothy L. Sayers' "The Nine Tailors" is a classic whodunit that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its rich characters, atmospheric setting, and clever plot, this book is a must-read for fans of traditional detective fiction.

Awards:

• CWA Best Ever(2013)

20. The 42nd Parallel by John Dos Passos

Hailed as one of the great American novels of the 20th century, "The 42nd Parallel" is the first installment in John Dos Passos's acclaimed "U.S.A." trilogy. Set at the dawn of the 20th century, this sprawling epic follows the interconnected lives of five characters as they navigate the rapidly changing landscape of industrial America. Through a kaleidoscope of stories, Dos Passos paints a vivid portrait of a nation on the cusp of modernity, where fortunes are made and lost, and the pursuit of the American Dream becomes an elusive ideal. With its experimental style and unflinching exploration of social and economic inequality, "The 42nd Parallel" remains a groundbreaking work of literature that captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the complexities of the American experience.

21. The Good Soldier Švejk by Jaroslav Hašek

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

Like a mischievous jester in the face of war's absurdity, Jaroslav Hašek's "The Good Soldier Švejk" is a literary masterpiece that blends humor and satire to devastating effect. Set against the backdrop of World War I, the novel follows the misadventures of the titular Švejk, a bumbling yet cunning soldier whose unwavering loyalty to the Austro-Hungarian army is matched only by his ability to subvert and undermine it. Through Švejk's hilarious exploits, Hašek skewers the idiocies of war, the hypocrisies of authority, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its unforgettable characters, irreverent humor, and timeless message, "The Good Soldier Švejk" remains a classic of world literature that will entertain and provoke readers for generations to come.

Awards:

• Kääntäjien valtionpalkinto(1992)

22. The Radetzky March by Joseph Roth

Contributor: Michael Hofmann(Translator)

In the twilight of empires, where the echoes of bygone glories haunt the present, Joseph Roth's "The Radetzky March" paints a poignant portrait of a family and a nation on the cusp of profound change. The novel traces the Trotta family through three generations, from the Battle of Solferino to the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. As the Radetzky March, a military anthem of imperial grandeur, reverberates through the years, it becomes a haunting backdrop to the family's triumphs and losses. Roth's lyrical prose captures the melancholy and nostalgia of a world on the brink of transformation, evoking both the allure of the past and the inevitability of the future. "The Radetzky March" is a masterpiece of historical fiction that explores the complexities of loyalty, identity, and the enduring legacy of empire.

Awards:

• Премія імені Максима Рильського(2001)
• جایزه ابوالحسن نجفی(1396)

23. The Street of Crocodiles by Bruno Schulz

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

Published by Penguin Classics in 1992, Bruno Schulz's “The Street of Crocodiles” is a collection of interlinked short stories set in and around the author's boyhood home, in the Polish city of Drogobych. The stories are semi-autobiographical and draw on Schulz's own experiences of growing up in a Jewish family in the early 20th century. They are full of vivid imagery, surrealism, and black humor, and explore themes of childhood, family, and the nature of reality. Schulz's unique style and distinctive voice have led him to be compared to Franz Kafka and Jorge Luis Borges, and his work has been praised for its originality, imagination, and beauty. "The Street of Crocodiles" is considered a masterpiece of 20th-century literature and is a must-read for anyone interested in surrealism, modernism, or the works of Bruno Schulz.

Awards:

• Prix du Meilleur Livre Étranger(1974)
• Tähtifantasia Award(2014)

24. The Death of the Heart by Elizabeth Bowen

Set in 1930s London, Elizabeth Bowen's "The Death of the Heart" is a piercing story of innocence betrayed. Orphaned Portia Quayne is sent to live with her wealthy half-brother and his wife, but soon finds herself lost in a world of superficiality and cruelty. Bowen deftly exposes the darkness that lurks beneath the polished surfaces of polite society, and her characters are unforgettable in their complexity and depth. "The Death of the Heart" is a classic of 20th-century literature that explores the themes of innocence, loss, and the nature of evil.