Biographies & Memoirs > Ethnic & National - Best Rated Books

"The Yearling" by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings is a coming-of-age novel set in the Florida scrubland during the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy, Jody Baxter, and his relationship with a fawn he adopts as a pet. Rawlings' novel explores themes of family, nature, and the challenges of growing up in a rural environment. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1939.

"My Son, My Son!" by Howard Spring is a family drama that explores the complexities of relationships and the impact of war on individuals and families. The story revolves around the Hamer family and the challenges they face during World War I. Spring's novel delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds that connect family members.

"Rebecca" is a Gothic novel by Daphne du Maurier that tells the story of a young bride who becomes increasingly haunted by the memory of her husband's first wife, Rebecca. The novel explores themes of identity, jealousy, and the lingering influence of the past. "Rebecca" has become a classic of 20th-century literature and has been adapted into various films and stage productions.

"All This and Heaven Too" by Rachel Field is a historical novel based on true events. The story revolves around the life of Henriette Deluzy-Desportes, a governess in 19th-century France, and explores themes of love, scandal, and societal expectations. The novel was adapted into a film in 1940.

The story of a Russian grand duchess who is forced into exile after the Bolshevik Revolution.

In the early 1900s, an Englishman named Philip Carey goes to Paris to study art. There he meets and falls in love with a Frenchwoman named Nora. The two must contend with the outbreak of World War I and Philip's own insecurity.

The novel is set in Edwardian England and chronicles the lives of three generations of women

When seventeen-year-old Tom learns he has tuberculosis, he is confined to a sanatorium in an effort to stop the spread of the disease. There, he must come to terms with his own mortality and his emerging homosexuality.

"Northwest Passage" by Kenneth Roberts is a historical novel set during the French and Indian War. The story follows the adventures of Major Robert Rogers and his Rangers as they embark on a daring expedition through the wilderness. The novel explores themes of courage, survival, and the frontier spirit.

The novel follows the life and career of a young Scottish doctor, exploring his journey through medical school, professional challenges, and ethical dilemmas. It delves into the complexities of the medical profession and social issues.

The novel tells the story of Roger Sherman, a young man from a wealthy family who is trying to find his place in the world. Sherman is a disillusioned idealist who is critical of the shallowness and hypocrisy of the upper class.

The Nazarene is a historical novel by Sholem Asch set in first-century Judea. The novel tells the story of Jesus from the perspective of Judas Iscariot.

A love story set against the backdrop of the Boxer Rebellion in China.

"Stars on the Sea" by F. Van Wyck Mason is a historical novel set against the backdrop of naval warfare during the American Revolution. The story follows the adventures of a young American naval officer, providing a vivid portrayal of the challenges and dangers faced by seafarers during a pivotal period in history. Mason's novel combines action and historical drama.

In the early 1900s, two American siblings, Ned and Faith, move to England to live with their father. The siblings fall in love with two English people, and the four must contend with the outbreak of World War I.

A novel about a woman who inherits a fortune and must choose between love and money.

Set during the American Civil War, the novel follows Scarlett O'Hara's journey through love, loss, and societal change.

A historical novel set during the American Revolution, following the lives of a young couple in the Mohawk Valley.

"The Last Puritan" by George Santayana is a philosophical novel that explores the life of Oliver Alden. Alden grapples with his identity, beliefs, and the changing world around him. Santayana's novel delves into themes of morality, self-discovery, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The narrative offers a complex portrait of a man navigating the complexities of his existence.

A novel set in England during the 1930s, exploring themes of love, politics, and societal changes as experienced by the characters.

"The Weather in the Streets" by Rosamond Lehmann is a classic novel that explores the themes of love, societal expectations, and personal identity. The story follows Olivia Curtis as she navigates the complexities of relationships and societal norms. Lehmann's evocative prose and insightful portrayal of characters contribute to the novel's enduring appeal as a classic work of literature.

"Sanfelice" by Vincent Sheean is a historical novel set during the Naples revolution of 1799. The story revolves around Eleonora de Fonseca Pimentel, a poet and revolutionary, and her involvement in the political upheaval. Sheean's novel combines elements of historical fiction, romance, and drama, providing a vivid portrayal of a tumultuous period in Italian history.

"House Divided" by Ben Ames Williams is a historical novel set during the American Civil War. The story revolves around two families, the Parkers and the Morses, and explores the impact of the war on their lives, relationships, and principles. Williams delves into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict.

A historical novel spanning several decades, focusing on the lumber industry and the lives of those involved in its ups and downs.

Of Time and the River is the second novel in Thomas Wolfe's autobiographical series. The novel chronicles Wolfe's life from his early days as a struggling writer in New York City to his years as a student at Harvard University.

A novel that combines elements of romance and inspiration, exploring themes of love, faith, and the impact of positive actions on others.

"Young Renny" by Mazo De La Roche is a historical novel and part of the Jalna series. The story follows the Whiteoak family and focuses on the character Renny, capturing the generational saga of the Whiteoaks at the family estate, Jalna. De La Roche's storytelling unfolds against the backdrop of changing times and family dynamics, creating a rich tapestry of historical fiction.

Set during World War I, Paths of Glory is the story of a group of French soldiers who are court-martialed and executed for their alleged cowardice

Lucy Gayheart is a young, beautiful music student in Nebraska. She falls in love with a married man, and the story follows their tragic love affair.

Vein of Iron is a novel by Ellen Glasgow, published in 1935. The novel is set in the American Civil War, and is a story of love and war, of the South and the North, of slavery and freedom.

"Europa" by Robert Briffault is a science fiction novel that envisions a utopian society on Jupiter's moon, Europa. The novel explores themes of social order, governance, and the potential for a harmonious existence. Briffault's speculative work delves into the possibilities of an advanced and enlightened civilization, providing readers with a vision of an alternative future.

"It Can't Happen Here" by Sinclair Lewis is a political satire that imagines the rise of a populist, authoritarian leader in the United States. The novel explores the dangers of complacency, the erosion of democracy, and the impact of political ideologies on society. Lewis's work serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to remain vigilant and engaged in protecting democratic values.

A classic mystery novel featuring the detective duo Nick and Nora Charles as they investigate a murder case in a witty and stylish narrative.

Collection of short stories with gothic and fantastical themes.

Classic novel exploring the lives of the American expatriate community in France.

Family drama novel exploring Jewish identity and tradition.

A historical novel presenting the life of Roman Emperor Claudius, blending fiction and historical facts.

"So Red the Rose" by Stark Young is a historical novel set during the American Civil War. The story follows a Southern family as they navigate the challenges and tragedies of war, providing a vivid portrayal of the era's social and political upheavals.

A family drama novel depicting the challenges and struggles of a Midwestern farm family during the Great Depression.

"Ann Vickers" by Sinclair Lewis is a novel that explores the life of the title character, Ann Vickers, as she navigates societal expectations and challenges related to women's roles, activism, and social reform. Lewis' novel provides a critical commentary on contemporary issues, including gender dynamics and political corruption. The narrative reflects Lewis' satirical and incisive style.