Reading List of American Dream Books – 2024 Update

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The Great Gatsby

by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby, a classic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a captivating exploration of the ‘American Dream’ in the 1920s. Set in the glittering Jazz Age, the story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and his relentless pursuit of wealth, success, and the love of his life, Daisy Buchanan. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, readers are drawn into a world of lavish parties, secret affairs, and the disillusionment that comes with the pursuit of the ‘American Dream’. Fitzgerald’s lyrical prose and vivid portrayal of characters make this a timeless tale of ambition, love, and the emptiness that can accompany the relentless desire for success. The Great Gatsby is a thought-provoking ‘book about the American Dream’ that continues to resonate with readers today.

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The Grapes of Wrath

by John Steinbeck

The Grapes of Wrath, a powerful book on the American dream, is a classic novel by John Steinbeck. Set during the Great Depression, it follows the Joad family as they leave their drought-ridden farm in Oklahoma in search of a better life in California. The novel paints a vivid picture of the hardships and injustices faced by migrant workers as they struggle to achieve the ‘American Dream’ of prosperity and success. Steinbeck’s poignant portrayal of the Joad family’s journey is a compelling and emotional exploration of the human spirit and the resilience of the human will. The Grapes of Wrath is a timeless, thought-provoking book about the American dream, which continues to resonate with readers today.

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Beloved

by Toni Morrison

Beloved by Toni Morrison is a haunting and powerful tale about the devastating legacy of slavery in America. Set in post-Civil War Ohio, the novel follows Sethe, a former slave who is haunted by the trauma of her past. When a mysterious young woman named Beloved enters her life, Sethe is forced to confront the painful memories she has long tried to suppress. Through rich and evocative prose, Morrison delves deep into the complexities of motherhood, trauma, and the enduring effects of slavery. Beloved is a profound exploration of the pursuit of freedom and fulfillment in a society that has long denied these opportunities to African Americans. It is a thought-provoking and poignant reflection on the struggles and resilience of those who have been denied access to the ‘American Dream’.

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The Catcher in the Rye

by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that delves into the disillusionment and alienation of the protagonist, Holden Caulfield. The story follows Holden as he navigates the complexities of adolescence and his struggle to find his place in the world. The novel is a poignant exploration of the ‘American Dream’, portraying the pursuit of happiness and success as a challenging and often unattainable aspiration. Through Holden’s introspective and rebellious nature, the novel offers a thought-provoking critique of societal expectations and the pressures of conformity. The Catcher in the Rye is a timeless and compelling read that continues to resonate with readers as a profound reflection on the complexities of growing up and the pursuit of fulfillment.

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To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

To Kill a Mockingbird, written by Harper Lee, is a classic novel that delves into the complexities of race, morality, and injustice in the American South. Set in the 1930s, the story is narrated by Scout Finch, a young girl who observes her father, Atticus Finch, defend a black man accused of raping a white woman. The novel explores themes of empathy, compassion, and the pursuit of justice in the face of prejudice and discrimination. With its powerful storytelling and timeless messages, To Kill a Mockingbird remains a poignant and thought-provoking book about the American dream and the struggle for equality. It is a compelling reminder of the challenges and triumphs that come with striving for a fair and just society.

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The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, written by Mark Twain, is a classic American novel that follows the journey of a young boy named Huck Finn as he escapes his abusive father and embarks on a series of adventures along the Mississippi River with a runaway slave named Jim. The novel explores themes of freedom, friendship, and morality, while also shedding light on the complexities of race and society in the American South during the 19th century. With its timeless portrayal of the pursuit of happiness and freedom, this book on the American dream continues to be a thought-provoking and relevant read for readers of all ages.

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The Color Purple

by Alice Walker

The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and moving novel that delves into the lives of African American women in the early 20th century. Set in the deep South, the story follows the journey of Celie, a young girl who overcomes adversity and abuse to find her own voice and strength. Through her letters to God and her sister, Celie’s story of resilience, love, and redemption unfolds. The novel explores themes of oppression, race, and the pursuit of happiness in the face of adversity. The Color Purple is a profound exploration of the ‘American Dream’, offering a poignant and sometimes harrowing portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of marginalized individuals in pursuit of a better life.

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The Jungle

by Upton Sinclair

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair is a scathing exposé of the meatpacking industry in early 20th century America. While it is often considered a book on the American dream, it actually portrays the dark side of the so-called dream. The novel follows the struggles of Jurgis Rudkus, a Lithuanian immigrant who comes to America with hopes of achieving prosperity and success. However, he soon discovers the harsh reality of exploitation, poverty, and corruption in the industrialized city of Chicago. Through vivid and graphic descriptions, Sinclair reveals the deplorable working conditions, unsanitary practices, and the exploitation of immigrant workers. The Jungle offers a powerful critique of the capitalist system and serves as a cautionary tale about the illusion of the American dream, making it a thought-provoking and eye-opening read for anyone interested in the darker side of the ‘American dream’.

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The Sun Also Rises

by Ernest Hemingway

The Sun Also Rises, written by Ernest Hemingway, is a classic novel that delves into the disillusionment of the ‘Lost Generation’ after World War I. Set in the 1920s, the story follows a group of expatriates as they journey from Paris to Pamplona, Spain, for the running of the bulls. Amidst the backdrop of the bullfights and the beauty of the Spanish countryside, the characters grapple with love, desire, and the search for purpose in a world that seems devoid of meaning. The novel explores themes of longing, aimlessness, and the pursuit of fulfillment, making it a poignant reflection on the complexities of the human condition. Hemingway’s masterful prose and evocative storytelling make The Sun Also Rises a timeless exploration of the ‘book about american dream’ and the struggles that accompany it.

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Invisible Man

by Ralph Ellison

Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison is a groundbreaking novel that delves into the complexities of race, identity, and the pursuit of success in America. The story follows an unnamed African American protagonist as he navigates through a society that often renders him invisible. Through his journey, the protagonist grapples with the harsh realities of discrimination, prejudice, and the elusive nature of the ‘American Dream’. Ellison’s vivid storytelling and powerful exploration of the African American experience make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities in America. This book about the ‘American Dream’ offers a thought-provoking and poignant reflection on the challenges and obstacles faced by those striving for success and recognition in a society rife with inequality and injustice.

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Death of a Salesman

by Arthur Miller

Death of a Salesman, a classic play by Arthur Miller, delves into the disillusionment and downfall of Willy Loman, a struggling salesman. The play is a poignant exploration of the ‘American Dream’ and its elusive promise of success and happiness. As Willy grapples with the harsh reality of his life and failed aspirations, the play raises profound questions about identity, values, and the relentless pursuit of success in a capitalist society. Miller’s masterful storytelling and powerful characters make Death of a Salesman a timeless and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition and the complexities of the ‘dream’ that so many strive for.

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The Joy Luck Club

by Amy Tan

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan is a captivating exploration of the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, cultural identity, and the pursuit of happiness in America. Set against the backdrop of San Francisco, the novel delves into the lives of four Chinese immigrant women and their American-born daughters, as they navigate the challenges of assimilation and the pursuit of the ‘American Dream’. Through poignant and heartrending storytelling, Tan skillfully weaves together the experiences of these women, shedding light on the universal themes of love, sacrifice, and the quest for success. The novel offers a profound and thought-provoking reflection on the immigrant experience and the enduring desire for prosperity and fulfillment in a new land. A truly remarkable and unforgettable portrayal of the ‘book on American Dream’.

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The Age of Innocence

by Edith Wharton

The Age of Innocence, a novel by Edith Wharton, is a captivating exploration of society and love in 1870s New York. At its core, it is a book about the American dream, depicting the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations. The story follows Newland Archer, a young lawyer torn between his passion for the unconventional Countess Ellen Olenska and his duty to conform to the rigid conventions of his social circle. As the narrative unfolds, Wharton skillfully delves into themes of tradition, class, and the pursuit of happiness, offering a poignant commentary on the complexities of the human heart. The Age of Innocence is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers, offering a thought-provoking reflection on the challenges and sacrifices inherent in the pursuit of one’s dreams.

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The House on Mango Street

by Sandra Cisneros

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the life of a young Latina girl growing up in a Chicago neighborhood. Through a series of vignettes, the protagonist, Esperanza, navigates the challenges and triumphs of adolescence while dreaming of a better life beyond the confines of her impoverished community. The book touches on themes of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of the ‘American Dream.’ As Esperanza yearns for a life filled with opportunity and freedom, the novel offers a poignant exploration of the complexities of the immigrant experience and the quest for a better future. Cisneros’ lyrical prose and vivid imagery make The House on Mango Street a timeless and poignant reflection on the aspirations and struggles of those seeking a brighter future in a new land.

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The Great Santini

by Pat Conroy

The Great Santini, written by Pat Conroy, is a compelling novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the pursuit of success in a military career, and the struggle to achieve the ‘American Dream’. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the Meecham family as they navigate the challenges of living with a tough, authoritarian father who is determined to mold his children into successful individuals. As the family grapples with issues of love, loyalty, and identity, the novel presents a poignant exploration of the ‘American Dream’ and the sacrifices made in its pursuit. With vivid storytelling and powerful character development, The Great Santini offers a thought-provoking reflection on the nuances of the ‘American Dream’ and the impact it has on individuals and their relationships.

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The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao

by Junot Díaz

The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz is a captivating and heartbreaking novel that delves into the complexities of the American Dream. Set in New Jersey, the story follows the life of Oscar, a sweet and nerdy Dominican boy who dreams of finding love and success despite the odds stacked against him. Through Oscar’s journey, the novel explores themes of identity, immigrant experience, and the pursuit of happiness in America. Díaz’s writing is raw, honest, and filled with a mix of humor and tragedy, making it a powerful portrayal of the struggles and hopes inherent in the pursuit of the American Dream. This is a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of the immigrant experience and the quest for fulfillment in the land of opportunity.

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The Glass Castle

by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a captivating memoir that delves into the author’s tumultuous upbringing and her family’s unconventional pursuit of the ‘American Dream’. Set against the backdrop of poverty and instability, Walls recounts her experiences growing up with dysfunctional parents who held onto their grandiose dreams of building a glass castle, despite their inability to provide stability for their children. The book offers a poignant exploration of resilience, hope, and the complexities of family dynamics. With vivid storytelling and raw honesty, Walls invites readers to reflect on the true meaning of the ‘American Dream’ and the sacrifices and struggles that often accompany it. This memoir is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the realities behind the facade of the ‘American Dream’.

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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

by Sherman Alexie

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is a captivating coming-of-age novel that explores the challenges and triumphs of a young Native American boy, Arnold Spirit Jr. As he navigates the complexities of reservation life, poverty, and racial prejudice, Arnold dreams of a better future. This heartwarming and humorous story delves into the struggles of a teenager trying to break free from the confines of his circumstances and pursue his own version of the ‘book on American dream’. With poignant illustrations and a powerful narrative, Alexie’s book about American dream sheds light on the resilience and determination of a young boy who refuses to let his background dictate his future. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a must-read for anyone seeking an inspiring and thought-provoking take on the ‘American dream’.

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The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of African American maids in 1960s Mississippi. The book shines a light on the struggles and discrimination they face as they work for wealthy white families. Through the courageous voices of Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter, the novel explores themes of inequality, racism, and the pursuit of a better life. This poignant story challenges societal norms and provides a powerful commentary on the ‘American Dream’ – the belief that everyone should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity. The Help is a thought-provoking and heartwarming tale that captures the resilience and strength of those who dare to dream of a better future.

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The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the harsh realities of slavery in America. This Pulitzer Prize-winning book takes readers on a journey with the protagonist, Cora, as she escapes from a Georgia plantation and embarks on a treacherous journey to freedom using the underground railroad. Whitehead’s vivid storytelling and compelling characters shed light on the brutalities of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. This book delves into the themes of freedom, oppression, and the pursuit of a better life, making it a captivating read that challenges the traditional narrative of the ‘American Dream’. It’s a poignant and gripping novel that offers a unique perspective on the complexities of the ‘book on American dream’ and the struggles faced by those seeking a better life.