Ah, the classics—timeless masterpieces of literature, endlessly reprinted, adapted into films, plays, and series and countless retellings. These celebrated tales have elevated their authors to a status of immortality.

Despite their enduring appeal, however, classics often face skepticism, even among voracious readers. The classics can be intimidating to read due to their dense language, unfamiliar cultural contexts, and misconceptions about their accessibility.

But these book recommendations will change that perspective. Here are 12 engaging books to get you started: