As a book lover, there are always those certain titles that have been on your “to-read” list for what seems like forever. Whether it’s due to lack of time, other books taking priority, or simply forgetting about them completely, these books continue to sit on your shelf, patiently waiting to be cracked open and devoured. Here are the top ten books I’ve wanted to read for over a decade and still haven’t gotten around to:
1. “One Hundred Years of Solitude” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez – This classic novel has been on my radar for years, and I’ve heard nothing but praise for its magical realism and intricate storytelling.
2. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger – This coming-of-age novel is a staple in American literature, and I’ve always wanted to experience the angst and rebellion of its protagonist, Holden Caulfield.
3. “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte – A tale of love, revenge, and passion set against the backdrop of the moors, this novel has been on my list for as long as I can remember.
4. “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville – The epic tale of Captain Ahab’s quest for revenge against the whale that maimed him has intrigued me for years, but its length has always been a deterrent.
5. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen – Considered one of the greatest works of English literature, this romance has been recommended to me time and time again, but for some reason, I’ve never picked it up.
6. “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky – The psychological depth of this novel about a man’s descent into madness has always fascinated me, but its weighty themes have kept me at bay.
7. “War and Peace” by Leo Tolstoy – Another Russian classic that has eluded me for years, this sweeping epic of love, war, and politics is a daunting read that I have yet to tackle.
8. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee – A powerful story of racial injustice and moral growth, this novel has been on my list for ages, but somehow I’ve never gotten around to reading it.
9. “Infinite Jest” by David Foster Wallace – Known for its length and complexity, this novel has been on my radar for years, but its daunting reputation has made me hesitant to dive in.
10. “The Brothers Karamazov” by Fyodor Dostoevsky – Yet another Russian classic that I’ve been wanting to read for over a decade, this novel about family, faith, and morality is one that I know will captivate me once I finally get around to it.
While my list of books I’ve wanted to read for 10+ years and still haven’t continues to grow, I remain optimistic that one day I will tackle each of these literary masterpieces and experience the wonder and joy that has been promised to me by fellow book lovers. In the meantime, I’ll continue to add to my ever-growing list and savor the anticipation of finally delving into these long-awaited treasures.