Blue Archipelago

Kristen over at Book Club Classics has just tagged me for a Classics Meme that she has written to celebrate the opening of her new website Lit Guides. If you haven’t come across Kristen’s sites before you need to go over there and check them out - she writes fantastic Book Club Discussion guides and the new site Lit Guides promises to help students, teachers and parents navigate great literature.

And without further ado here is the meme:

What is the best classic you were “forced” to read in school (and why)?

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte - it was on the required reading list and was a struggle to read - but I loved the story. I did plan to re-read it as part of Trish’ Classics Challenge but when I picked it up on Saturday it was like I was trying to read a foreign language - I really want to but I may have to try again another time!

What was the worst classic you were forced to endure (and why)?

Hard Times by Charles Dickens - this was the first ‘classic’ we had to read at aged 12 and oh my goodness did it not scar me for life. I just remember it being so heavy going and dull! I’ve not touched Dickens since though one of my friends is imploring me to try Great Expectations

Which classic should every student be required to read (and why)?

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee - I just read it this year and don’t know how I was able to reach the age of 31 without having read that book. It has so many discussion points - and isn’t a difficult read as some classics are!

Which classic should be put to rest immediately (and why)?

Well I suppose I’d say Hard Times for the reasons stated above!

**Bonus** Why do you think certain books become “classics”?

Because the stand the test of time - because the message still holds true today - because they teach us something important.

Thanks Kristen and good luck with the new site! Oh and if you’re reading this post consider yourself tagged - post on your blog and link me up in the comments - or answer in the comments - wither way I’d be interested to find out what you think about classics.

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