Big Books That Are Worth the Investment

“A tremendous accomplishment. It does every last blessed thing a masterpiece is supposed to—and a few things we never even knew to expect.” —San Francisco Chronicle.

Set in 1984 Tokyo, Haruki Murakami’s 1Q84 introduces readers to Aomame, a woman who, following a cryptic suggestion from a taxi driver, enters a parallel world rife with haunting mysteries. Simultaneously, aspiring writer Tengo's life spirals into chaos as he engages with a dubious ghostwriting project. The convergence of their stories unveils profound themes of love, self-discovery, and the complexities of existence within a richly imagined dystopian framework.

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A gripping narrative that explores the depths of friendship, Hanya Yanagihara's _A Little Life_ follows four college friends as they navigate the tumultuous waters of life and ambition in New York City. The story poignantly focuses on Jude, a man haunted by childhood trauma, emphasizing the enduring ties of friendship and love, while tackling complex themes of addiction and survival.

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In Diana Gabaldon's epic tale, _Outlander_, Claire Randall, a World War II nurse, finds herself transported back to the war-torn Scotland of 1743 after touching a mysterious stone. The ensuing love affair with Scottish warrior Jamie Fraser and her battle between two conflicting lives creates a gripping romantic saga that transcends time, testing loyalties and love.

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James Clavell’s _Shōgun_ is often hailed as a groundbreaking representative of historical fiction. This epic tale follows the journey of John Blackthorne, an English navigator, as he becomes embroiled in the complex feudal era of Japan. Rich in cultural detail and political intrigue, this novel immerses readers in a world where loyalty, honor, and ambition collide.

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Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, _The Goldfinch_ by Donna Tartt follows the life of Theo Decker after a tragic accident robs him of his mother and introduces him to the dark allure of art and crime. Tartt’s exploration of loss, obsession, and identity is compelling and beautifully woven into a tale that transcends time and fate.

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Through Marion Zimmer Bradley’s lens in _The Mists of Avalon_, the Arthurian legends are deeply reimagined, exposing the powerful roles of women in a male-dominated narrative. This engaging saga reflects the dreams and struggles of Morgaine, Gwenhwyfar, and the legendary figures whose lives intertwine amidst the shifting tides of mythology and reality.

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Susanna Clarke’s debut novel, _Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell_, interweaves magic with the history of 19th-century England. This enthralling tale revolves around the rivalry between two magicians who seek to revive England’s magical heritage, culminating in profound consequences for both their lives and the nation itself.

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Written by Larry McMurtry, _Lonesome Dove_ chronicles a cattle drive through the American West, exploring themes of friendship, life, and the complexities of the human experience. This sweeping narrative not only captures the landscape's challenges but also delves into the emotional journeys of its memorable characters.

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Alexandre Dumas’s classic tale, _The Count of Monte Cristo_, follows Edmond Dantès, wrongfully imprisoned, who escapes and seeks retribution against those who betrayed him. This adventure novel explores themes of hope, desire, and the human spirit’s capacity for forgiveness versus vengeance, making it a timeless narrative relevant across ages.

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Winner of the Booker Prize, Marlon James’s _A Brief History of Seven Killings_ canvasses the violent history and cultural dynamics in Jamaica during the 1970s, intricately weaving multiple narratives surrounding the attempted assassination of Bob Marley. Combining brutal realism with rich storytelling, this novel is a testament to the complexities of life, culture, and politics.

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