Want to read classic books in 2026? Start with these 6 works.

Reading classic books is a way to broaden one's repertoire, understand the world from different eras, and recognize themes that cross generations. For those who wish to embark on this "literary journey" in 2026, the choice of the first titles makes a difference: excessively dense works or those far from the reader's experience may push them away, while more accessible narratives help to create consistency and curiosity.

The classic books gathered in this selection feature styles, historical periods, and diverse voices, but they share one thing in common: they remain relevant, engaging, and profoundly human. They are readings that invite reflection without losing the pleasure of narrative, serving as good entry points for those who want to build a lasting relationship with literature.

The Hour of the Star, by Clarice Lispector

The novel narrates the story of Macabéa, a young woman from the Northeast who lives in Rio de Janeiro under conditions of extreme simplicity. We observe her daily life marked by social invisibility, precarious work, and a naive view of her own reality.

Throughout the book, the narrator reflects on the character's fate and on the role of the storyteller. Among Brazilian classics, The Hour of the Star stands out for addressing inequality, solitude, and identity directly, placing the reader in front of realities often ignored.

Captains of the Sand, by Jorge Amado

Set in Salvador, the novel follows a group of street boys who live by petty theft and occupy an old abandoned wharf. Each character carries a story marked by abandonment, violence, and the desire for belonging.

The book depicts marginalized childhood and the social contradictions of urban Brazil. Captains of the Sand presents a human perspective on social exclusion, showcasing how affection, friendship, and survival coexist in contexts of vulnerability.

The Posthumous Memoirs of Brás Cubas, by Machado de Assis

Narrated by a man who is already dead, the book presents the memories of Brás Cubas, who revisits his life without the obligation to please or justify his choices. The account encompasses frustrated loves, personal ambitions, and relationships marked by interest and vanity.

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The work acts as a critical portrait of Brazilian society in the 19th century. Among the most important classic works of national literature, the novel reveals, through episodes and reflections, the human and social contradictions that remain recognizable to this day.

Hamlet, by William Shakespeare

The tragedy follows Prince Hamlet, who returns to the castle of Denmark after his father’s death and discovers that his uncle, now king, might be involved in the crime. Haunted by doubt and the desire for revenge, Hamlet begins to question not only the events around him but also his own actions.

The play deals with themes such as betrayal, morality, power, and internal conflict. Within the universe of classic theater books, Hamlet stands out for presenting a character profoundly divided between action and reflection, making the narrative intense and full of dramatic layers.

Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen

Set in early 19th century England, Pride and Prejudice follows the trajectory of Elizabeth Bennet and her family, particularly the social pressures related to marriage, inheritance, and social position. The arrival of new suitors to the neighborhood, including the reserved Mr. Darcy, triggers conflicts, hasty judgments, and changes in perception.

Throughout the narrative, the book addresses themes such as social conventions, family expectations, and individual choices. Among the world's most popular classic books, the work illustrates how personal relationships are crossed by pride, prejudices, and internal transformations, creating a story that remains relevant even outside its original context.

1984, by George Orwell

1984 takes place in a dystopian society governed by a totalitarian regime that controls information, thoughts, and behaviors. The protagonist, Winston Smith, lives under constant surveillance and works altering historical records to serve the interests of the State while he starts to question the reality around him.

The novel explores themes such as manipulation of truth, political repression, and loss of individual freedom. Among the classic works of the 20th century, 1984 remains relevant for portraying control mechanisms that continue to be debated in various social and political contexts.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creation agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.