Timeless Tales: 4 Books Everyone Should Read At Least Once: Part 2

Great books have the remarkable power to cross the boundaries of time, place, and culture. In Part 1 of this series, we explored novels that revealed deep truths about justice, love, loss, and society. In Part 2, we continue our literary journey with another four unforgettable classics, each vastly different in style and theme, yet equally impactful. These books range from epic myths to coming-of-age sagas and philosophical dramas. Whether you’re looking for poetic tragedy, magical escapism, or resilient heroines, this list brings you deeper into the rich world of literature everyone should experience at least once.      

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë:

Published in 1847, Jane Eyre is a revolutionary novel that combines elements of gothic fiction, romance, and moral growth. It follows the life of Jane, an orphaned girl who rises from a troubled childhood to become a strong, self-respecting woman. Her journey is one of resilience, independence, and emotional intelligence. What makes Jane Eyre so timeless is its bold portrayal of a woman asserting her identity and values in a patriarchal world. Charlotte Brontë’s narrative broke barriers in literature and continues to resonate with readers who admire strength of character and emotional depth.      

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling:

Few modern works have captured the imagination of the world like J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Beginning with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, this seven-book saga chronicles the magical adventures of a young wizard and his friends as they battle evil and discover the power of love, courage, and friendship. The books grow with the characters, starting with lighthearted wonder and evolving into darker, more profound themes about identity, sacrifice, and good vs. evil. Beyond the spells and potions, the Harry Potter series is about growing up, making choices, and finding strength in unity and hope.      

Hamlet by William Shakespeare:

This is arguably the most influential play ever written in the English language. This tragic masterpiece tells the story of Prince Hamlet, who seeks revenge for his father’s murder while grappling with questions of morality, madness, betrayal, and existential despair. With iconic lines like “To be, or not to be,” Hamlet explores the depths of human thought and emotion in ways that still feel eerily modern. Whether you read it in school or pick it up as an adult, Hamlet challenges readers to reflect on life’s greatest dilemmas and the fine line between action and inaction.      

The Odyssey by Homer:

An ancient epic that continues to inspire writers, artists, and filmmakers, it is a foundational piece of Western literature. At its core, it is the tale of Odysseus’ perilous ten-year journey home after the Trojan War. Along the way, he faces mythical creatures, gods, and personal trials that test his courage and cunning. More than a heroic tale, The Odyssey explores themes of homecoming, loyalty, resilience, and the human struggle against fate. For modern readers, this epic poem offers both thrilling adventure and timeless insight into the human spirit.     From the haunted halls of Thornfield Hall to the enchanted corridors of Hogwarts, from Danish castles steeped in tragedy to ancient shores filled with gods and monsters, these four works offer unforgettable experiences. Jane Eyre, Harry Potter, Hamlet, and The Odyssey represent the incredible diversity of literature’s power to educate, inspire, and transform. These are not just books, they are enduring mirrors of humanity.