Classic Literature: Alternatives and Additions for Your Library

1. Jack London (Author of The Call of the Wild, White Fang):

Although intriguing and well-written, London’s works highlight dangerous evolutionary ideologies, such as Naturalism, the Survival of the Fittest, and the glorification of the primitive. As believers we know that it it is not “the survival of the fittest” that is to be admired, but the wondrous thought that, “God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong;” (1 Cor. 1:27). For a selection of adventure-

Shipwrecked, But Not Lost
The Wanderer in Africa
The Braveheart
The Least of These
Frozen Fire
The Gardener’s Apprentice
Hungering and Thirsting
Little Sir Galahad
Buried in the Snow
Overtaken: The Wild Lad of London

2. Charlotte and Emily Brontë (Authors of Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights):

For a more redemptive twist on the classic novels by the Brontë sisters, explore the titles below. These stories highlight love, passion, dashed hopes, and dreams realized—paired with godly convictions, biblical morality, self-denial, and purity of heart.

Standing with Grace
The Treasure of the Secret Cove
The Lamplighter
The Chateau by the Lake
Dear Olive
The Locked Cupboard

3. Nathaniel Hawthorne (Author of The Scarlet Letter): 

The Scarlet Letter has been considered a classic for decades, but woven within are dangerous worldviews that beckon us to empathize with and justify sin (specifically adultery), rather than exposing and denouncing acts that violate God’s ways. On the contrary, the works listed below show a clear divide between light and darkness, good and evil, and right and wrong. These stories show that, yes, mankind sins and our hearts are “…deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9),” but they also show that crossing the boundaries God has set for us brings consequences, and that God rewards true humility, repentance, purity, integrity, and self-control.

The Lamplighter (Published the same year as The Scarlet Letter)
A Peep Behind the Scenes
The Hedge of Thorns
The Three Weavers
The Basket of Flowers
Idols of the Heart
The Secret Bridge

4. Dystopian Novels (e.g., 1984, Animal Farm, Fahrenheit 451, Brave New World):

Often filled with vulgar language, immorality, violence, sensuality, and rebellion against authority, dystopian literature can subtly (and not so subtly) impose an anti-Christian worldview into the hearts and minds of its readers. Read the article linked HERE for more on why dystopian novels can be harmful. While the books listed below do not exactly mirror the themes and plots of many popular dystopian novels, they offer an alternative view of the world where righteousness exalts a nation, and humility, truth, and the fear of God bring about peace and lasting transformation.

That Printer of Udell’s
Rags to Righteousness
The Courage of Nikolai
Escape from the Eagle’s Nest
Sir Knight of the Splendid Way
Phil Tyler’s Stand
The Captive

5. Grimm’s Fairy Tales

Classics in many homes across the centuries, Grimm’s Fairy Tales have become some of the most widespread and retold stories of all time. However, while many of the original fairytales do show clear lines between good and evil, true heroism, and even Gospel themes, they can also be filled with crudeness, violence, and dark imagery that should not find a resting place in a child’s mind. The stories listed below still offer a fairytale feel, without overtly describing violence, darkness, and evil. 

The Golden Thread
The Little Woodsman and His Dog Caesar
Rosa of Linden Castle
The Crown of Success
Little Threads
Sir Knight of the Splendid Way
Sir Malcolm and the Missing Prince
The Orphan Queen
The Beggar’s Blessing (Illustrated)