Books like The Stranger

A salesman named Gregor Samsa wakes up one day to find himself transformed into a monstrous insect-like creature. This seminal work of fiction of the 20th century by Franz Kafka deals with Gregor's attempts to adjust to his new condition and his family's reactions to his transformation.

Experience a remarkable journey as Charlie Gordon, born with an extremely low IQ, undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. This procedure has already been successful on lab mouse Algernon. With Charlie's intelligence expanding rapidly, he surpasses even his own doctors. But with Algernon's sudden deterioration, Charlie wonders if the same will happen to him. Discover the scientific breakthrough and emotional rollercoaster in this thought-provoking novel.

Explore the philosophy of existentialism with these thought-provoking essays that begin with a meditation on suicide in an absurd, disorderly universe. Influenced by Kafka and Don Juan, the author offers a way out of despair with poetic prose that affirms the importance of personal existence and the pursuit of dignity and authenticity.

Embark on a transformative journey with the tale of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who sets out from Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of buried treasure, only to discover the true wealth lies within. Paulo Coelho weaves a powerful and inspiring story full of wisdom and humanity, reminding readers of the importance of following our dreams and listening to our hearts.

This classic novel follows the Bundren family as they make a harrowing journey to bury their wife and mother, Addie, in the Mississippi countryside. Narrated by each family member, including Addie herself, the book ranges from dark comedy to deep pathos. A true 20th-century classic, As I Lay Dying is considered one of the most influential novels in American fiction, and this edition features the corrected text as established in 1985 by Noel Polk.

A Gothic and philosophical novel, this controversial book by Oscar Wilde explores the boundaries of morality and art. Originally censored before publication, the story of Dorian Gray offended British reviewers who accused Wilde of violating public morality laws. Despite the backlash, the author passionately defended his work and released a revised version with a preface that became a literary manifesto. With its unflinching examination of beauty, sin, and decadence, this classic continues to captivate readers today.

This coming-of-age novel follows Holden Caulfield, a complex and conflicted teenager from New York, as he navigates his way through society, grappling with love, fear, and uncertainty. J.D. Salinger's masterpiece has been widely regarded as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century, and for good reason. With poignant and introspective prose, The Catcher in the Rye explores themes of rebellion, angst, and the struggle to communicate in a rapidly changing world. This classic novel continues to captivate readers, sparking discussions of societal norms and the complexity of adolescence.

This haunting American classic by Sylvia Plath delves into the psyche of Esther Greenwood, a brilliant, successful, and beautiful woman who slowly falls into the grip of insanity. Plath's intense and realistic writing draws the reader into Esther's breakdown, making her madness palpably real. A deep exploration of the darkest corners of the human psyche, The Bell Jar is a masterpiece of literature that leaves a haunting impression.