At Red Kangaroo Books, we have a team full of Penguin Books buffs. To be honest, who doesn’t love a classic Penguin Book.
It’s one thing to deeply appreciate the timeless classics, but also to enjoy the modern masterpieces that Penguin Books has published over the years.
In this blog, we’re sharing 4 novels that have captivated readers across generations. But before we dive into the picks, we’re giving you a quick backstory on how these Penguin Books came to be.
About Penguin Random House
Penguin Random House is the world's biggest trade book publisher, on a mission to fuel our love for reading. Formed in 2013 by Bertelsmann and Pearson, and fully owned by Bertelsmann since 2020, they’ve got nearly 250 imprints and brands across five continents.
With over 15,000 new titles every year and almost 800 million books sold annually , they connect readers with amazing stories from more than 60 Nobel Prize winners and many of our favourite classic and modern authors.
Now that you know a bit more about how it all started, let’s dive into our top 4 Penguin Books picks!
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
This book was Irish poet and playwright, Oscar Wilde’s only novel.
It is a brilliant exploration of vanity and decadence and the duality of human nature. Wilde's wit and profound observations on society and human behavior make this a must-read.
What is The Picture of Dorian Gray about?
Dorian Gray, a handsome young man, wishes to remain youthful forever, and his wish is mysteriously granted. As he pursues a life of hedonism and moral corruption, his portrait ages and bears the scars of his sins, while he remains untouched by time.
Tender is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald
F. Scott Fitzgerald nails the themes of love, ambition, and the dark side of wealth in this book.
It’s an emotional rollercoaster that’ll stick with you long after you turn the last page.
What is Tender is the Night about?
Dick and Nicole Diver, a glamorous couple whose perfect life isn’t as perfect as it seems.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
We could’t not have this Gothic classic in amongst our top picks.
Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein when she was just 18 and still super relevant to this day!
What is Frankenstein about?
Victor Frankenstein creates a living being, only to be horrified by the creature he brings to life. What follows is a haunting tale of ambition, isolation, and the consequences of playing god.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Another classic! Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is the ultimate romantic comedy.
Austen’s sharp social commentary and unforgettable characters make this novel a lasting fave
What is Pride and Prejudice about?
The societal norms and romantic entanglements of early 19th-century England. Follow Elizabeth Bennet, a smart and sassy young woman, as she deals with love, family, and social expectations. Her dynamic with the enigmatic Mr. Darcy is legendary.
