The 1920s is arguably one of the most significant decades in the timeline of published literature. During this time some of the world’s most popular and recognizable books were written and presented to the world. These 6 novels are some of the most endearing, educational, and entertaining books produced during the 20s. Now, one hundred years later and these works are still being read and experienced by the current generation.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925)
There is pretty much no way that this book could not be on this list. Over the last century, The Great Gatsby has become synonymous with the roaring 20s. The tale of millionaire Jay Gatsby and his unrequited love obsession with Daisy Buchanan paints a vivid picture of the opulent side of life during that time. F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the themes of gender relations, hedonistic impulses, and the concept of the “American Dream” in the pages of this classic novel. With its rise in popularity over the last 70 years, the book has been adapted into multiple movies, radio and theater productions, and even television series and video games. If you are looking for a near perfect example of 1920’s literature, The Great Gatsby should make the top of your list.
*LKF -It was not until after Fitsgerald died in 1940 that the book was re-released and sent to soldiers overseas during WWII that the book increased in popularity.
Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf (1925)
A combination of two short stories by Virginia Woolf, Mrs. Dalloway introduces us to the life of Clarissa Dalloway, a member of London high society. The book follows her as she plans a party that is to involve people from her present and her past. She thinks about her husband and daughter, as well as the life she could have had with her former love interest, Peter Welsh. Throughout her book, the author explores various themes including mental illness, feminism, and even bisexuality. This story addresses subject matter that was a bit controversial for the time, but none the less this book rose in popularity. Mrs. Dalloway is still revered one of the great novels written in the 20th century.
*LKF- In 2005, TIME Magazine included Mrs. Dalloway on its list of 100 Best English Language Novels written since TIME was established in 1923.
The Age Of Innocence by Edith Wharton (1920)
This book is the twelfth book published by revered author Edith Wharton. The Age of Innocence is a fictional tale of a lawyer and a love triangle of sorts. Newland Archer is looking to marry, and is soon engaged to May Welland. All is well until Newland meets Ellen Olenska, who is May’s super exotic and gorgeous cousin. Archer falls in love with Ellen, who is in the middle of a tumultuous marriage herself. Of course, that is when all of the shenanigans ensue and the drama begins. This book was met with much enthusiasm and even won a Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1921.
*LKF- Edith Wharton was the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize.
The Story Of Dr. Dolittle by Hugh Lofting (1920)
One of the world’s most beloved children’s stories is that of Dr. Dolittle. The story of physician and bachelor John Dolittle and his transformation into veterinarian and animal communicator is one that has thrilled kids for decades. He becomes famous among his animal clients which leads him on an adventurous trip to Africa. John embarks on a journey that is full of ups and downs and many animal friends before he returns home. The Story of Dr. Dolittle has been adapted into multiple tv and theater productions as well as many successful movies. The newest version of Dr. Dolittle starring Robert Downey Jr. was released in early 2020.
*LKF- The Story of Dr. Dolittle is actually the first in a series of 15 books.
A Farewell To Arms by Ernest Hemingway (1929)
A Farewell To Arms is arguably Ernest Hemingway’s most famous novel. The love story set during the first World War describes an affair between an American military man Frederic Henry and an English nurse Catherine Barkley. The two spend a summer together which is soon brought to an end when Frederic is sent back to the front. Luckily that is not the end of their story but their love affair is further complicated by alcohol, war, and a pregnancy. Spread out over a series of “books”, the tale follows the two lovers on their journey to be together. Hemingway’s novel is still hailed as a piece of wartime literature.
*LKF- Hemingway’s premier novel was banned in some countries until after the end of WWII.
The Mysterious Affair At Styles by Agatha Christie (1921)
Agatha Christie is hailed as one of the greatest mystery writers of all time. The novel that started it all was The Mysterious Affair At Styles. In her first book, Agatha introduces us to Hercule Poirot and his friend Arthur Hastings who set out to solve the murder of a woman whom Arthur was staying with. There are a handful of suspects and Poirot uses his deduction skills to answer the question of ‘ Who did it’. Full of twists and turns this novel keeps you guessing. Upon initial publication, the novel was well recieved by the public. It was this book and the character of Poirot that officially launched Agatha Christie’s iconic writing career.
*LKF- Christie and her husband named their house ‘Styles’ after her first book.
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