2017 Classics Challenge Wrap Up

2017 comes to an end- and so does the 2017 Classics Challenge.  I’ve read and reviewed all my books, and now for the wrap-up.

1. A 19th century classic: Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens.

Though not my favourite Dickens book, I’m glad to have read this one.  It has all Dickens’ signature clever characterization, wit, and social commentary that I’ve come to love.  Borrowed from my grandparents.

2. A 20th century classic: The Problem of Pain

Perhaps not as good as ‘Mere Christianity’ or ‘The Screwtape Letters’, but still a perceptive and satisfying book.  Borrowed from my grandparents.

3. A classic by a woman author: Strong Poison, by Dorothy L.

Brilliant!  I believe Sayers has topped even Christie when it comes to creating an engaging mystery and charming detective.  Borrowed from my grandparents.

4. A classic in translation: The Pensées, by Pascal and translated by J.M. Cohen

This book is full of insightful and interesting pieces.  One of the most thought provoking books I’ve read.  Borrowed from my grandparents.

5. A classic originally published before 1800: The Song of Roland.

An interesting poem, but it’s ultimately too dismal for my taste.  I bought it.

6. A romance classic: Cyrano De Bergerac, by Edmond Rostand

A fantastic swashbuckling doomed romance! I reviewed it in three formats, but I’m not sure which one to call my favourite.  Borrowed from the library.

7. A Gothic or horror classic: The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde

A well written story, but it’s overall depressing.  I’d recommend it for English studies, but not for leisure.  Borrowed from the library.

8. A classic with a number in the title: The Big Four, by Agatha Christie.

Started off with potential, but I’m afraid this one was my least favourite of the Poirot mysteries.  Borrowed from the library.

9. A classic about an animal or which includes the name of an animal: The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame

Perhaps not the most well thought out book, but certainly charming.   Borrowed from my father.

10. A classic set in a place you’d like to visit: Rob Roy, by Sir Walter Scott.

Started off with promise, but sadly ended with disappointment. I bought it.

11. An award-winning classic: Island of the Blue Dolphins, by Scott O’Dell

This book is simple and beautifully written, but melancholy.  Borrowed from the library.

12. A Russian classic- the Brothers Karamazov, by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

I’m not too happy with the ending of this one, although it is still a deep and delectable book.  Borrowed from Project Gutenburg.

 

Looking back at this list, I have to say that my miserly nature is clearly seen by the ratio of books borrowed to books bought!  Just my luck that the books I bought ended up being the ones I liked least.  My favourites on this list would have to be Cyrano De Bergerac and Strong Poison, followed closely by The problem of Pain and The Pensees.  I’m quite pleased with the turn out.  Even with the books that I didn’t like, it’s good that I have finally read them.

 

Thanks to Karen at Books and Chocolate for organizing this challenge!  I enjoyed it, and I’m hoping to participate in the next one!