50 Short Classics you should try

Summary

In this video, Ruby shares a curated list of classic literature recommendations, focusing on shorter, manageable reads ideal for those new to the genre or with limited time. She emphasizes the importance of reading classics, not only for cultural enrichment but also for the joy of storytelling and community. Ruby introduces a book club through Fable, an app designed for readers to discuss literature, and selects 'Enchanted April' as the inaugural read, aligning with her theme of reading with the seasons. The video is sponsored by Fable, and Ruby's enthusiasm for literature and community engagement is palpable as she encourages viewers to join the book club and dive into the world of classics.

Takeaways

• 📚 Ruby introduces a curated list of book recommendations, focusing on classic literature that is shorter and more manageable for beginners.
• 🌟 She emphasizes the importance of reading classics, suggesting that they are not solitary experiences but shared through discussions and connections with other readers.
• 💬 Ruby is starting a book club through Fable, an online platform designed for readers to discuss literature, making it easy to engage in conversations without spoilers.
• 📅 The book club is themed 'Reading with the Seasons', aiming to read books that resonate with the current month, starting with 'Enchanted April' for April.
• 🎉 Fable is highlighted as a sponsor, offering an interactive space for readers to not only read but also to share thoughts and discuss books chapter by chapter.
• 📖 Ruby mentions that classics like 'A Christmas Carol' and 'Animal Farm' are not only short but also culturally significant and philosophically rich.
• 🎨 The script touches on various themes in classic literature, such as existentialism in 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus and societal critique in 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell.
• 🌱 Ruby discusses the significance of having a 'Room of One's Own' by Virginia Woolf, emphasizing the need for space and time to write, especially for women in history.
• 📚 The list includes a variety of authors and styles, from the poetic depth of Oscar Wilde to the societal commentary in 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
• 🌐 Ruby invites viewers to join her book club, experience the joy of reading classics, and engage in meaningful discussions about the selected books each month.

Q & A

What is the main theme of Ruby's video?

The main theme of Ruby's video is book recommendations, specifically focusing on classic literature that is shorter and more manageable for beginners or those with limited time.

Why does Ruby suggest starting with shorter classic books?

Ruby suggests starting with shorter classic books because they are less daunting for beginners and can be more easily read alongside other commitments such as work or education.

What is the significance of Fable in the video?

Fable is significant in the video as it is the platform sponsoring the video and is described as a space for book lovers to discuss literature, where Ruby is starting a book club.

How does the book club on Fable work?

The book club on Fable works by creating chat rooms for each book and separating discussions by chapters to avoid spoilers, allowing readers to discuss as they progress through the book.

What is the theme of Ruby's book club on Fable?

The theme of Ruby's book club on Fable is 'reading with the seasons,' where the group reads books linked to the particular month, starting with 'Enchanted April' for the month of April.

Which book does Ruby recommend for those interested in the works of Oscar Wilde?

Ruby recommends 'De Profundis' for those interested in the works of Oscar Wilde, as it is a profound letter he wrote while in prison and is shorter than his other works like 'The Picture of Dorian Gray.'

What is the connection between 'A Christmas Carol' and the holiday season?

'A Christmas Carol' is said to have eternalized Christmas, with many Christmas traditions found within the story, making it a nostalgic and culturally significant read during the holiday season.

Why does Ruby recommend 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell?

Ruby recommends 'Animal Farm' because it is an allegorical critique of communism, specifically the events in Russia at the time, and is a quick and engaging read that is also insightful.

What is the significance of 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus in the context of philosophy?

The significance of 'The Stranger' by Albert Camus lies in its exploration of existentialism through fiction, using the protagonist's experiences to critique the modern justice system and societal structures.

Why does Ruby recommend 'A Room of One's Own' by Virginia Woolf?

Ruby recommends 'A Room of One's Own' because it is an essay that acknowledges the privilege tied to writing and discusses the historical lack of opportunities for women to write, making it a significant piece of feminist literature.

What is the unique aspect of 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' by Herman Melville that Ruby highlights?

The unique aspect of 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' that Ruby highlights is the protagonist's gradual descent into refusing to do tasks with the phrase 'I would prefer not to,' serving as a critique of the emerging city culture and capitalism.