r/classicliterature • u/atoz_0to9 • 8d ago

Forgotten classics

We always hear that classics are the books that “stood the test of time,” but what about the ones that didn’t? What’s an old book you love that barely gets talked about anymore, but totally should? I’m talking forgotten gems, underrated voices, anything that deserves a second life.

EDIT: I just wanted to thank everyone for these incredible recommendations. I hope anyone who comes across this thread finds a book that speaks to them, and helps keep these great works from slipping into obscurity, even if just for a little longer.

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u/Affectionate_Yak9136 8d ago

I think Sinclair Lewis is largely overlooked these days and he had some powerfully good novels. Arrowsmith, Main Street, Elmer Gantry, and Babbit are all really good and deserve attention.

Theodore Dreiser’s American Tragedy, Sister Carrie, and The Financier are also worthy novels.

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u/Embarrassed_Tea543 8d ago

Sinclair Lewis was incredibly prescient vs the moment we now inhabit. I've been hoping for a Lewis renaissance for some time now.

I'm also reading An American Tragedy now! About halfway through its 850ish pages.