Common English Texts and Resources
When learning a new language, one of the best ways to develop a better understanding of it is by reading classic novels written in that language. Beyond simply helping to improve vocabulary, it can also give further insight into the culture and linguistic intricacies. For people who are learning English as a second language, there are plenty of classic novels that can be studied. Many of these form the basis of school curricula for English classes. While reading each one, use the resources below to help you better understand the text.
The Things They Carried (1990), O’Brien
- The Things They Carried Summary, Author Bio, and Related Resources
- Vocabulary from The Things They Carried
- The Things They Carried Glossary and Vocabulary Sheets (PDF)
The Great Gatsby (1925), Fitzgerald
- A Reader’s Guide to The Great Gatsby
- The Life of F. Scott Fitzgerald
- The Great Gatsby Vocabulary and Definitions (PDF)
To Kill a Mockingbird (1960), Lee
1984 (1949), Orwell
- 1984 Story, Character and Plot Summary
- Learn About George Orwell
- A Guide to Understanding 1984 (PDF)
The Grapes of Wrath (1939), Steinbeck
- Understanding The Grapes of Wrath
- A Biography of John Steinbeck
- Vocabulary from The Grapes of Wrath (DOC)
On the Road (1957), Kerouac
The Catcher in the Rye (1951), Salinger
- The Catcher in the Rye Reading Guide
- Vocabulary in The Catcher in the Rye (DOC)
- An Introduction to J. D. Salinger
Wuthering Heights (1847), Bronte
Animal Farm (1945), Orwell
- An Analysis of Characters in Animal Farm
- A Quick Guide to Animal Farm (PPT)
- Animal Farm Summary and Reading Guide
Frankenstein (1818), Shelley
The Sun Also Rises (1926), Hemingway