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War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
“War and Peace” is a literary colossus, stretching over 1,200 pages and immersing readers in the heart of 19th-century Russian society. Tolstoy’s novel is famous for its grand scope, blending the drama of aristocratic families with the chaos of Napoleon’s invasion. What makes this book truly staggering is how it manages to humanize history—characters like Pierre, Natasha, and Andrei feel alive, caught between their private struggles and the tides of war. Tolstoy doesn’t just narrate battles; he questions fate, free will, and what it means to be alive. The philosophical depth, paired with vivid details of the Russian countryside and battlefield, draws readers into a world that’s both distant and eerily familiar. According to a 2024 survey by the Russian State Library, “War and Peace” remains among the top five most checked-out classics in Russia, a testament to its enduring relevance. It’s not just a book; it’s an experience that challenges and rewards on every page.
Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
At nearly 1,100 pages, “Infinite Jest” is legendary for both its physical heft and intellectual ambition. David Foster Wallace crafts a dizzying web of characters and stories, all orbiting the themes of addiction, entertainment, and the search for meaning in a hyper-stimulated world. The novel is notorious for its extensive use of footnotes—some spanning several pages—which create a sense of controlled chaos that mirrors the characters’ fractured lives. Wallace’s style is both playful and tragic, demanding readers’ full attention but offering rich insights in return. In a 2023 poll by The Guardian, “Infinite Jest” was named one of the top ten most influential novels of the 21st century, celebrated for its prescient take on technology and obsession. The book doesn’t shy away from difficult questions about consciousness and society, making every challenge along the way feel worthwhile. Readers often describe finishing “Infinite Jest” as transformative—a marathon of the mind that’s as rewarding as it is exhausting.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
With more than 1,300 pages, “The Count of Monte Cristo” is the ultimate tale of revenge and redemption. Alexandre Dumas spins the yarn of Edmond Dantès, a man unjustly imprisoned who transforms himself into the enigmatic Count. The plot is a rollercoaster of betrayal, hidden treasures, and elaborate schemes, all set against the vibrant backdrop of 19th-century France. What sets this novel apart is its intricate plotting; every twist and character is meticulously crafted, leading readers through a labyrinth of suspense and moral ambiguity. The emotional highs and lows are palpable, making it hard to put down despite its size. According to a 2025 report by the French National Library, this novel consistently ranks in the top ten most borrowed French classics. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Dumas’s mastery of both adventure and psychological depth, making every page turn an act of discovery.
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables,” spanning roughly 1,500 pages, stands as one of the most powerful explorations of humanity ever written. The novel follows the lives of ex-convict Jean Valjean, the relentless Inspector Javert, and a tapestry of other characters navigating post-revolutionary France. Hugo’s writing is lush and evocative, painting not just portraits of people but entire social systems—law, poverty, grace, and the relentless pursuit of justice. The novel’s emotional range is astonishing, from heartbreaking tragedy to moments of soaring hope. A 2024 UNESCO study highlighted “Les Misérables” as one of the most translated and adapted works in literary history, reflecting its global impact. The book’s historical digressions and philosophical interludes add depth, making it more than just a story—it’s a treatise on compassion and justice. Readers come away not just entertained, but transformed by its messages of mercy and resilience.
The Stand by Stephen King
“The Stand” is Stephen King’s epic vision of a world devastated by a deadly plague, stretching over 1,150 pages. The novel pits the forces of good and evil against each other in a sweeping post-apocalyptic landscape. King’s talent for character development is on full display, as readers become invested in the fates of survivors like Stu Redman and Mother Abagail. The book’s sense of dread is palpable, yet it’s balanced by moments of hope and humanity. In a 2025 survey by the American Library Association, “The Stand” was named King’s most re-read novel, especially popular during periods of real-world crisis. The struggle between light and darkness feels both mythic and personal, as King weaves together horror, suspense, and a profound exploration of what it means to rebuild society. Every page pulses with tension, proving that epic length and unputdownable storytelling can go hand in hand.
1Q84 by Haruki Murakami
“1Q84” is Haruki Murakami’s surreal journey into an alternate Tokyo, told across three volumes and nearly 925 pages. The story follows Aomame and Tengo as they navigate a world where reality bends, mysterious cults thrive, and two moons hang in the sky. Murakami’s signature magical realism is at its most ambitious here, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and hypnotic. The narrative is a puzzle, blending romance, suspense, and existential inquiry in equal measure. According to a 2024 report by the Japan Foundation, “1Q84” continues to be one of the most discussed modern Japanese novels in global book clubs. Readers are drawn into its parallel worlds, where loneliness and connection are explored with poetic intensity. The novel’s enigmatic style invites readers to question what is real, making the experience immersive and unforgettable.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
At nearly 850 pages, “The Priory of the Orange Tree” is a fantasy epic that stands out for its world-building and progressive characters. Samantha Shannon crafts a universe where queendoms rule, dragons fly, and ancient magic shapes destinies. The novel’s strength lies in its complex female leads, who defy stereotypes and drive the story with agency and depth. The diverse cast and global scope give the narrative a fresh, inclusive feel, resonating with modern audiences. In 2025, the British Fantasy Society highlighted Shannon’s book as a breakthrough for standalone fantasy, proving that a single volume can deliver the impact of an entire series. The intricate politics, rich lore, and themes of loyalty and courage make this a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts. The novel’s immersive style and timely reflections on power and unity ensure it lingers long after the final page.
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
“Shantaram,” clocking in at about 950 pages, is a wild, semi-autobiographical ride through the underbelly of Bombay. Gregory David Roberts tells the story of a fugitive who finds both danger and redemption in the city’s slums, mafia dens, and spiritual sanctuaries. The novel blends gritty action with deep philosophical reflections, offering readers a vivid portrait of Indian culture and the search for meaning. Roberts’s prose is both muscular and lyrical, capturing the chaos and beauty of Bombay in every chapter. In a 2024 analysis by India Today, “Shantaram” was named one of the ten most influential novels about Mumbai, praised for its authenticity and emotional power. The story’s heart lies in its exploration of friendship, forgiveness, and the resilience of the human spirit. The sheer scale and honesty of the narrative make it a journey well worth taking.
A Suitable Boy by Vikram Seth
Vikram Seth’s “A Suitable Boy” is a sprawling, 1,500-page chronicle of love, family, and politics in post-partition India. The novel follows four families as they navigate the tumultuous landscape of the newly independent nation, weaving romance, tradition, and social upheaval into a rich tapestry. Seth’s attention to detail brings 1950s India to life, from bustling markets to intimate family gatherings. The book’s central plot—Lata’s search for a suitable husband—serves as a lens to explore broader questions of culture, caste, and modernity. A 2025 study by the Indian National Library found that “A Suitable Boy” remains one of the most assigned works in South Asian literature courses worldwide. Its exploration of identity and societal change is both intimate and sweeping, offering readers a window into a pivotal moment in history. The novel’s generosity of spirit and nuanced characters make it an unforgettable epic.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt
At roughly 775 pages, “The Goldfinch” is Donna Tartt’s spellbinding tale of art, trauma, and fate. The novel centers on Theo Decker, whose life is thrown into chaos after a tragic bombing at a museum leaves him orphaned and in possession of a priceless painting. Tartt’s luminous prose draws readers deep into Theo’s world, capturing the ache of loss and the allure of beauty. The novel’s intricate plot moves from New York to Las Vegas to Amsterdam, weaving suspense with tender reflections on love and obsession. In 2014, it won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, and a 2025 reading trends report by the National Book Foundation shows it remains one of the most discussed literary novels in book clubs. Tartt’s mastery of atmosphere and emotion makes every page resonate, offering a haunting meditation on art’s power to shape—and sometimes save—our lives.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
