What makes a classic book a classic?
How do you define a classic book? Is it an older book? Is it considered a popular book that has perhaps made its way into the lexicon? Is it something you read as a child or had read to you as a child?
In preparation for my new adventure as a blogger for NPL, I asked my fellow staff members at the Edmondson Pike branch library two questions: 1) How do you define a classic book? 2) What is a classic book that you would recommend?
"A book that is captivating and stimulating enough that it remains in the public and academic consciousness long after any initial popularity surrounding its publication." - Adult/Teen Library Associate Tana
"One that can stand the test of time by its relatability and engaging plot." - Children's Library Associate Lex
"One that has had a lasting impact on some aspect of culture. People for more than 2-3 generations past when it was written still continue to want to read it, as it has something to relate to or learn from regardless of the time period it was set in. It managed to capture a timelessness that not every book can achieve. It is meaningful and well-written and is often a book that people continue to study for decades or even centuries." - Children's Librarian Emily
"Timeless... resonating across generations and sparking bridges of dialogue among youth and elder." - Adult Librarian Sade
While a classic book may start out as popular or well-read, sometimes it may vanish into obscurity for a time and then get re-discovered. Sometimes a classic book will even go virtually unnoticed after publication but then get discovered at a later date. Classic books have a degree of influence, a high literary quality, and longevity in terms of publication as well as appeal to readers all over the world.
