America is full of amazing things but one thing they are known for it their American classic literature that has lasted the test of time. The following are just some of the few American classic which make a great read for any ESL students.

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn – Betty Smith

Publish 1943

This book is a coming of age and heart-warming story of an idealistic and young Francie Nolan as she lives and grows up in the early 20^th century in the slums of Williamsburg. Although a penny candy lover and an avid reader, Nolan must battle the horrors of life – extreme loneliness, battling sexual assaults, and lost love –  in an effort to survive through her demanding environment.

The Adventures Of Huckleberry Fin – Mark Twain

Published in 1884

Known as one of the greatest American novels of all time, this story follows Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer through the 19^th century antebellum South and along the Mississippi River with Jim, the freed slave. It was one of the first books which were written in Vernacular English.

Atlas Shrugged – Ayn Rand

Published in 1957

This is a lengthy book which is set within a fictional dystopian USA where all the shakers and movers have abandoned society which leaves the world and all the people in a state of flux. Although a long read, the capitalism is good.

The Awakening – Kate Chopin

Published In 1899

This is a somewhat feminist novel back in its era which pushed bounties. Kate tells of a story about a Louisiana housewife who yearns for independence from her children and her husband while losing herself in an extramarital affair. The Awakening has stayed as a gripping novel to this day.

The Collected Poems of Emily Dickinson – Emily Dickinson

Published In 1890

A true master of the English language Emily Dickinson’s work became well known for her vocabulary, capitalisation, and idiosyncratic punctuation. For someone who wouldn’t leave her room she had profound knowledge and understanding of human conditions. Today she is known as one of the greatest poets of all time.