We are discussing classics at Bagels and Books on Jan 10 (2:30 in the Trustees Room at the Maynard Library – 77 Nason Street) so here is another look at what we might call a classic courtesy of the New York Public Library.

By “modern classic,” we mean a defining or definitive work of art, published in 1960 or later, that’s a brilliant accomplishment or a near-perfect example of a genre — a standout book that’s important or representative of a particular idea or school of thought. It doesn’t have to be a bestseller, but the title and/or author is likely recognizable to most people who have an interest in books.

1.      The Color Purple by Alice Walker

2.      The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz

3.      In Cold Blood by Truman Capoteby Truman Capote

4.      Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin

5.      The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

6.      The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisernos

7.      Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk

8.      The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

9.      Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

10.  The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

11.  The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

12.  Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Alternates: Beloved by Toni Morrison, Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides