Thank you so much, Darryl. I'm so grateful for your support and positive attitude. Books, winter, and fellow readers, what a delightful combination. Happy reading to you.😀❤️
Right?! I'm less than a minute into this video, the first one I've ever seen of him, and I'm already subscribed and have the bell turned on. I WANT MORE OF TRISTAN!
Good afternoon, Tristan! I enjoy your videos and your enthusiasm for the books you talk about. Is Alone in Berlin by Hans Fallada, also known as Every Man Dies Alone?
I am an old Brit who lives in Sweden and your Winter Reading List is by far the most interesting compared to all the other literary You Tubers. Winter, you should see it here. I am in a house with a crackling fire in southern Sweden reading Arabic poetry. It is -7C outside. In Norrland it is -20C and in Lappland it is -35C. Your book list is magic. Cheers!
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte is my winter read. Especially on a stormy night. Merry Christmas and Happy New year Tristan and family. And to all readers🎅🎅
Tristan, I enjoyed your video and was delighted to learn your recommendations for some more books to enjoy in winter. For many years I have saved a number of favorite books to re-read during appropriate seasons. I would like to recommend six more for your list of “winter reads”. The first five were written for children, but have such compelling stories and characters that I have re-read them almost every year for more than 50 years of my seventy winters. First, of course, is Frances Hodgson Burnett’s masterpiece, A Little Princess. It has been butchered by Hollywood in several attempts to make a movie out of the plot, but since they never bothered to FOLLOW the story in the traditional fashion of Hollywood literary carnage, one must read the book to get the full flavor of Victorian London during a hard winter, and the two young girls from different levels of society whose lives are entwined in a delightful story. Second is John Masefield’s The Box of Delights, a true English Christmas classic. Nothing more to say except curl up in front of the fire with a cup of tea and prepare to be entertained and amused because the wolves are running. The third is the third book in the Susan Cooper fantasy The Dark is Rising, another victim of the idiots who take a beloved classic and trash it out of all recognition to put it in movie format. This book is one that weaves together a boy’s English Christmas with a mysterious and haunting plot dealing with the ongoing war between the Dark and the Light. It has all the beauty of an ancient tapestry. It is one of a series, but stands alone, with unforgettable characters that leave one wanting more. The fourth was written by Joan Aiken, daughter of Conrad Aiken, called The Wolves of Willoughby Chase. It is another English classic that makes one realize why the Chinese say that a good book is worth reading 100 times. It is also part of a delightful series that allows us to enjoy the adventures of characters who move seamlessly from the Old World to the New and back again, in an alternate English history that is thoroughly engrossing. Another book is the true story of Laura Ingalls Wilders’ pioneer girlhood called The Long Winter. This book is part of her autobiographical series Little House on the Prairie, and is also a victim of Hollywood’s fatal attempt to bring the books to a television format that completely loses the authentic voice of this fascinating read. Warning: it is a cold and desperate literary journey that must be read with hot cocoa or tea and plenty of biscuits to ameliorate the delightful shivers it will give you. Once read, you will have to go back and read the entire series. You will not be able to help yourself. Last, a book by Elizabeth Peters, the pseudonym of Dr. Barbara Mertz, a PhD in Oriental Studies and noted egyptologist. (She also writes under the name Barbara Michaels.) Drat! Now I have to recommend TWO of her books that are perfect winter reads. The first is Ammie Come Home, a shivery tale set in Georgetown, the toney historic district of Washington DC. This was actually the very first book of hers that I read, and it immediately prompted me to go out and buy all of the others. I have no idea how many there are, but they took up two full shelves of my former library, and were re-read until they were almost too worn to save. One review of her novels noted that they are so popular that libraries need to keep them under lock and key. I formed the vague idea that if Jane Austen had been an American who lived in modern times and had written intellectually amusing mysteries, they would have been very much like the works of this author. Another of her books that is a perfect winter read is called The Love Talker, set in the snowy grounds of a wintry historic estate in Maryland. This is simply a highly entertaining winter mystery with wonderful characters and a memorable villain. Oh, dear. I just remembered another one I tend to reread almost annually when winter comes. “Beauty” by Robin McKinley, a gorgeous re-telling of Beauty and the Beast that has become a new classic. And I have to add Elizabeth Marie Pope’s fascinating novel “The Perilous Gard”. This book had to read straight through. Okay, I am finished. Sorry, but when one discovers a book that is truly magical, it is difficult not to share. I had better quit; every minute that goes by I remember another book. That is the problem with having been a voracious reader for almost 3/4 of a century.
I haven't thought about Ammie Come Home since I was a kid! I think I read it when I was 11 or 12, back in the early 70s. Must find it and read it again! The Long Winter is one of my must-reads every winter. Well, my entire series of Little House books has been re-read so many times I'm surprised the covers are still intact.
The YT algorithm suggested this video and i'm so glad I clicked on it. LOVE your suggestions and will be picking up a few of these novels (have read all of Cadfael and Little Women).
The selections you’ve picked are spot on. Have read all of the Cadfael books ,I envy the person who is just starting on them! And don’t be afraid of Charles Dickens, you may have been forced to read them but his writings stay with you even when you’ve finished the story. I’m going to read the Return of the Native looking forward to reading it now that I’m a little older!
I've read all the Cadfael books and everything by Desmond Bagley, and of course Wodehouse and the Little Women quartet. I would recommend Dana Stabenow's mysteries set in Alaska, and Alistair MacLean's Ice Station Zebra, if you really want to feel the freeze!
No fireplace in my apartment, but I am currently curled up with a blanket and hot cup of tea, ready for some winter reading. Thanks for the tips, I'll bump up "Alone in Berlin" higher on my tbr so as to try and read it this winter.
As an artistic person as well as a reader, I have an attention for detail and thought it would be nice to see a work of art behind you depicting winter. Just a thought ❄️🌬️ Thanks for the wonderful book suggestions
I just love your descriptions of winter. However, some of us don’t experience much winter. I live in southern Florida so I’ll be sitting on a beach chair, next to a pool by some palm trees. 🌴🤣 The books of interest to me are: Alone in Berlin, Our Mutual Friend, Hogfather, The Woman in White, and The Virgin in the Ice. Thanks for the book recommendations.
Perhaps you could create a small campfire and surround it with open freezers😀 I envy the sunshine you have (I live in rainy Wales), but I'd miss winter a lot. 😀❤️👍
South Florida resident as well, so I tend to read winter books in summer, when I long for cooler temps! Laura Ingalls Wilder’s The Long Winter has been a great distraction during August!
@@laribex110Hahaha, I can relate! It got to the point where I would take a trip to a cold destination in the winter- just to put a coat on, drink my hot chocolate, and read a good book with a winter setting!!🤗
Great to have The Hogfather and also Cadfael on the list. The Hogfather is one of my absolute favourite Discworld novels. I have all of rhe Cadfael books and, although every one stands alone as its own mystery story, there is a gentle story arc when you read them all in sequence..and Cadfael is a wonderful and engaging companion. I must read the Woman in White, it sounds really intriguing.
Thank you for the eloquent and thoughtful video! I'm definitely adding a few of your picks to my winter reading list, especially Our Mutual Friend, which I haven't yet read. I'd like to offer an addendum: Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. Bronte's evocation of the bleakness of winter, experienced in hardship and in coziness, makes this a great choice for these cold short days.
Nice to see Pratchett on the list. I reach for him more than anything these days. Shall add Fallada and Bagley to my list of possibilities. Happy reading! 🍂🏡🌨⛄📚
It's great isn't it. Pratchett is brilliant. I love the Guards books in particular. Guards Guards; Men at Arms; Feet of Clay; The Nightwatch. Jingo is good too.
Terrific list. I'd add Ethan Frome (Edith Wharton) and A Christmas Memory (Truman Capote) to your list. I've read several. Mill on the Floss and The Return of the Native are two of my favorite books. I might pick up Jeeves & the Yuletide Spirit as a fun end of year read. And I'll add Woman in White and Alone in Berlin to my longterm TBR from which I'll shape my 2024 reading year very soon. Cheers.
Oh, Ethan Frome almost made it. The depiction of the snow and cold in that book are some of the best around. Though Ethan's wife gave me the creeps, skulking about in the dark like that.😀
I love your list - A Christmas Memory and A Thanksgiving Visitor by Truman Capote are both charming and enjoyable for any season, but especially those seasons.
@@barbarapaige4587 I once served a Thanksgiving to 13 french friends in the south of France. They didn't know much about our American Thanksgiving tradition and so under each of their plates I gave them a copy of A Thanksgiving Visitor, translated into French. It was a big success. Takeaways: French prefer dark meat. They don't like sweet and savory on the same plate. They are very dubious about cooked oysters. And American turkeys are HUGE freaks of nature!
@@marjoriedybec3450 What a charming story - thanks for telling us about your French Thanksgiving, and how wonderful you gave them such a joyous book to read. After a tour with my daughter through northern Europe, she wanted us to move to Denmark, and I said OK, but only if I could eat in France!
Yes! It’s so nice to find recommendations that are the standard handful of classics that end up on everyone else’s lists. Thank you for expanding our horizons.
Every couple of years or so, I reread Laura Ingalls Wilder's The Long Winter. I can take or leave her other books, but The Long Winter really capture what it means to be snowbound and running out of food. Yes, it's a kid's book, but give it a whirl.
I live about 45 minutes from the Gulf of Mexico. Today, December 16, will be about 80F (26.7C). I read “winter” books to fool my brain into thinking it’s cold. 😂 I’m going to add some from this to my winter list. I particularly look forward to re-visiting Jeeves and Cadfael.
1. Return of the Native Thomas Hardy 2.Alone in Berlin Hans Fallada 3. The Snow Tiger Desmond Bagley 4. Jeeves and the Yuletide Spirit PGWodehouse 5. Louisa May Alcott Little Women 6. Our Mutual Friend Charles Dickens 7. The Mill on the Floss 8. The woman in White 9. Hogfather Terry Pratchett 10. The Virgin in the Ice Ellis Peters
Another charming video, thank you. I now live in a home that has a secluded attic loft with a low slanted ceiling. I enjoy sitting inside when the rain pours and reading when it doesn’t.
What a great list and so evocative of the winter season! Unfortunately (for the sake of this video) Japan has its best weather in winter so it's all sunny skies here and no tapping tree branches on my window. But I'll keep this list on hand for the windy spring. 🤣
Thank you do much for all the recommendations Tristan . Unfortunately we're not in Winter here in Australia but all these books sound amazing!! Little Women is an all time favorite but the Cadfael series sounds awesome also!
Thank you so much. I wish I could read more books in winter especially. I hope you enjoy your book and that you can drift away on flights of fancy. 😀❤️
Some people can be very disparaging of the novel, but in many instances it is a novel (rather than an academic work of non-fiction) which captures what an historical period was really like. Alone in Berlin is a great example of this, and even more so would be another Fallada novel: Little Man, What Now? An historian gives us facts and figures and primary documents, but it is a great novelist that gives us truth.
I wholeheartedly second this sentiment, Duncan. I have written about this in my personal musings. I've considered making a video about it, too. It's a truth I think should be better appreciated. 😀❤️👍
Good to find you and your encouragement for me to read the classics. I just finished return of the native; what do you suggest I read next from your winter reading list?
@@tristanandtheclassics6538 I haven't! I'll be visiting a few of my favorite secondhand bookstores soon, and I'll be looking for a copy. Really excited to explore Hardy's work. Thanks again for bringing this book to my attention. Also going to look for Our Mutual Friend by Dickens, whom I also haven't yet read.
I just stumbled onto your site. I love your appreciation of literary prose, especially the scenery and feel for the setting. When you mentioned that one of the books was evocative of childhood, I guessed wrongly The Wind in the Willows. Thanks so much. I will share this.
I've read a lot of Discworld books but not Hogfather - will need to give that one a go! There's a few on that list I've read already - Little Women was one of my favourite books when I was a kid, and the Woman in White is also excellent. Of the new ideas, I think Alone in Berlin sounds really interesting, and the Cadfael books too, I might have to hunt these down for some Christmas reading. Thanks for the recommendations!
Great video as usual. The Woman in White is the only one I’ve read on the list, but it’s so incredibly good. I actually found some of the Cadfael books at a thrift store a little while ago and was intrigued so I bought them. Not this one, but I definitely want to give the few I found, a read now.
I too adore "The woman in white" and always wished a film had been made of it, with Orson Wells as Count Fosco. I'd recommend Wilkie Collins every time.
I would like to give it a go for Jeeves and teh Yule-tide spirit. I hope it's at the library. Thank you for these. I love how you are totally in it Tristan.
I just ordered Jeeves and the Yule-tide Spirit for my 14 yr old who has recently become obsessed with reading Jeeves and Wooster. Thank you! For myself, I'm very interested in reading The Mill on the Floss and Alone in Berlin. And I bet my husband would enjoy Hogfather. Thanks for the recs!
I hope that your son enjoys Wodehouse's short stories. It's a great way to discover some of his other characters. I would highly recommend the Psmith books for your son too. I hope that you enjoy the other books. If your husband enjoys The Hogfather he is going to be thrilled to have discovered Terry Pratchett. Such inventive and hilarious books.
I just wanted to extend a huge thank you for your recommended classics. I’m just past the halfway point in The Mill on the Floss by George Elliott. I must admit that the first chapter was a bit of a slog for me, as I was using your recommended slow reading technique of writing down the definitions of unfamiliar words. I think I defined around 12 words in just chapter 1! I also wrote down phrases that I felt were very memorable for me. I kept at it, little by little every day, when around chapter 3-4, the story suddenly became fascinating to me! I now love, love, love this book! Your thoughtful/slow reading technique has helped me begin really thinking about the storyline and the characters, and how it even relates to modern human experiences. I so appreciate your videos!
Im reading the Woman in White now and it's really good. You always have such great recommendations. I havent read George Eliot yet and would like to real Our Mutual Friend also- the title makes me think of Mark Twain for some reason. Thanks so much for the variety Tristan. These all sound great
I've read The Return of the Native so many times! I love that book. When I was a teenager I lived in a rural area of Missouri and take walks in the pastures and woods and pretended to stroll through Hardy's Wessex. Unfortunately, George Eliot and I do not get along; I've read three of her novels and I felt as though I knew what the rack was like.
Talking walks to read is one of the most underrated joys in life. As for Eliot, I understand why she is not everybody's cup of tea. Perhaps it could be a new method for police interrogation. Sit the criminal down, whom you wish to break, and start reading Daniel Deronda to them.😂
@@erglelergle8476 I love the greats who entertain me - Dickens, Hardy, Austin, the Brontes, Trollope...I can go on and on, but not George Eliot (I fight to stay awake). One of the gifts my daughter gave me for Christmas is a cookbook entitled "Jane Austen's Table." The recipes include Mr. Collins's Pea Soup, Captain Frederick Wentworth's Ship's Biscuits, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh's Caraway and Raisin Breakfast Bread. She also gave me a shirt with a pic of bookshelves on it that says "I have no shelf control." My daughter is very thoughtful.
Oh, Mandy, it's so great to hear from you! I hope you are well. Love the mutual Hardy appreciation. He's great. Are you still with the Classic Reading Lounge. I asked Jason what January's book choice is because I'm hoping to have time to come and join in.😀❤️
@@tristanandtheclassics6538 I am, but I'm currently taking a break from the main book of the month for a bit to focus on some other things. They are reading Bleak House and that will go through January. 😊
I recently found your channel and am enjoying learning about reading the Classics. I feel like I'm getting a degree in literature! Thank you for all you are providing for us 'bookies'.
I've honestly never heard of these books before but now I really want to read The snow tiger and The woman in white. These two are for sure added to my tbr, they sound very interesting and entertaining to me, Thank you!!
Desmond Bagley is terrific. Great adventure, suspense, action. Wilkie Collins is a classic writer. His stories develop so well, and his plotting is meticulous. If you enjoy these writers then you have a great deal of excellent books to enjoy. 😀👍
Oh goody. Two of my very favorite novels ~ Our Mutual Friend & Woman in White. How about Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe? Two others, not classics as but good winter bks: Smilla’s Sense of Snow by Hoeg & Snow by Pamuk.
Hi Tristan! I love your channel. I am new to reading fiction so frequently, and new to reading the Classics. Your channel gives me hope for myself... Unfortunately, I run intoso many stuffy classics readers, and it's been hard to find a space to explore what the wonderous world of classic fiction has to offer. Thank you for being you, and everything you do! I would also add Mary Shelley's Frankenstein to this list (: A book about isolation which features tons of icy imagery!
First time I have seen your videos and had a chuckle when you came to your first book as I am in the middle of reading "The Return of the Native" for about the 5th time; Egdon Heath is magical. What did I finish before this? "The Mill on the Floss", both very evocative books, indeed as Thomas Hardy always is whatever the time of year. Read quite a few of the others too, but never yet "The Woman in White". Look forward to listening to your other booky words of wisdom.
I have read all of the Cadfael books by Ellis Peters and went to Shrewsbury .....her desk etc made me go again (I love in Cheshire). Same thing happened when I went to Dove Cottage: Dorothy (read a a lot of Wordsworth but not his sister's book, so I did) . Gosh, did they love walking for miles 😊 Love to read all of Sherlock 's adventures but in large print....any suggextion s,please ?
Great list! Wishing I had a winter to really experience winter reads. I live in a subtropical climate so there are no seasons other than hot and dry or hot and rainy. I usually save "winter reads" for our summer which is very hot and very rainy and the time of year I spend mostly indoors with the air conditioning on and reading while the torrential rains fall. I'm so happy you mentioned Our Mutual Friend. I don't always get on with Dickens but It is my favorite of his books and I don't hear many folks talk about it.
This is wonderful. Thank you. I was wondering about trying the Cadfael series. Definitely will now. And the Fallada again - I didn't give it enough time last time. All the others get a big tick. Hoorah.
Ah, George Eliot! I am currently reading my first work of her and decided to go for Silas Marner. Seems I picked the wrong one 🤭 Happy December! Wishing you a cosy reading month by the fireplace. 🕯
Silas Marner is the first George Eliot for many readers. On the face of it, it can be underwhelming. However, I think it grows on you the longer you think about it. There is a quiet melody that begins to thrum around Silas and the community. If I may make a suggestion, try looking for the symmetries in the tale. It's fascinating. Mill on the Floss is a delight, in my opinion.😀❤️
Greetings from a grizzled old Yank. Scintillating as always. I, too, am a big fan of P. G. Wodehouse. Also, Cadfael has become a favorite sleuth, although I've only seen the videos. Assuredly a TBR item. Merry Christmas to you and your wife and anyone else who might be lurking about.
I hope that you enjoy it, Kimberly. The style of narrative is particularly enjoyable for its uneasy, off-kilter sense that it gives the reader. Let me know what you thought of it.
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Your exuberance for, and love of, reading are such a joy to watch, Tristan! Great video, once again!
Thank you so much, Darryl. I'm so grateful for your support and positive attitude. Books, winter, and fellow readers, what a delightful combination. Happy reading to you.😀❤️
Right? It’s contagious
Totally agree!! Tristan, you make me so excited every time you share. I have such joy watching you and getting excited about books! Thank you!
Right?! I'm less than a minute into this video, the first one I've ever seen of him, and I'm already subscribed and have the bell turned on. I WANT MORE OF TRISTAN!
Good afternoon, Tristan! I enjoy your videos and your enthusiasm for the books you talk about. Is Alone in Berlin by Hans Fallada, also known as Every Man Dies Alone?
The Wind in the Willows is another great winter read.
Such a delightful book.😀
I was just thinking about this book.
I don't necessarily want to read about cold and snow in the winter.
@@susanstein6604 In that case, The Secret Garden might be a good choice. It starts in winter, but it's all about the coming of spring and summer.
I am an old Brit who lives in Sweden and your Winter Reading List is by far the most interesting compared to all the other literary You Tubers. Winter, you should see it here. I am in a house with a crackling fire in southern Sweden reading Arabic poetry. It is -7C outside. In Norrland it is -20C and in Lappland it is -35C. Your book list is magic. Cheers!
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte is my winter read. Especially on a stormy night. Merry Christmas and Happy New year Tristan and family. And to all readers🎅🎅
You’re such a great storyteller. You fervently explained each story, making me want to read them all. We don’t even have winter in our country 😅
Return of the Native by Thomas Hardy, Alone in Berlin by Hans Fallada, The Snow Tiger by Desmond Bagley, Louisa May Alcott's
Little Women,
Great video! Thank you!
I love to re-read Tolkien's Lord of the Rings in the winter. Thank you for all the great recommendations!
Only the English can communicate like this. Always delightful to hear someone from the UK review and recommend books.
Thank you. I hope that you enjoy exploring some of them.
Tristan, I enjoyed your video and was delighted to learn your recommendations for some more books to enjoy in winter. For many years I have saved a number of favorite books to re-read during appropriate seasons. I would like to recommend six more for your list of “winter reads”. The first five were written for children, but have such compelling stories and characters that I have re-read them almost every year for more than 50 years of my seventy winters. First, of course, is Frances Hodgson Burnett’s masterpiece, A Little Princess. It has been butchered by Hollywood in several attempts to make a movie out of the plot, but since they never bothered to FOLLOW the story in the traditional fashion of Hollywood literary carnage, one must read the book to get the full flavor of Victorian London during a hard winter, and the two young girls from different levels of society whose lives are entwined in a delightful story. Second is John Masefield’s The Box of Delights, a true English Christmas classic. Nothing more to say except curl up in front of the fire with a cup of tea and prepare to be entertained and amused because the wolves are running. The third is the third book in the Susan Cooper fantasy The Dark is Rising, another victim of the idiots who take a beloved classic and trash it out of all recognition to put it in movie format. This book is one that weaves together a boy’s English Christmas with a mysterious and haunting plot dealing with the ongoing war between the Dark and the Light. It has all the beauty of an ancient tapestry. It is one of a series, but stands alone, with unforgettable characters that leave one wanting more. The fourth was written by Joan Aiken, daughter of Conrad Aiken, called The Wolves of Willoughby Chase. It is another English classic that makes one realize why the Chinese say that a good book is worth reading 100 times. It is also part of a delightful series that allows us to enjoy the adventures of characters who move seamlessly from the Old World to the New and back again, in an alternate English history that is thoroughly engrossing. Another book is the true story of Laura Ingalls Wilders’ pioneer girlhood called The Long Winter. This book is part of her autobiographical series Little House on the Prairie, and is also a victim of Hollywood’s fatal attempt to bring the books to a television format that completely loses the authentic voice of this fascinating read. Warning: it is a cold and desperate literary journey that must be read with hot cocoa or tea and plenty of biscuits to ameliorate the delightful shivers it will give you. Once read, you will have to go back and read the entire series. You will not be able to help yourself. Last, a book by Elizabeth Peters, the pseudonym of Dr. Barbara Mertz, a PhD in Oriental Studies and noted egyptologist. (She also writes under the name Barbara Michaels.) Drat! Now I have to recommend TWO of her books that are perfect winter reads. The first is Ammie Come Home, a shivery tale set in Georgetown, the toney historic district of Washington DC. This was actually the very first book of hers that I read, and it immediately prompted me to go out and buy all of the others. I have no idea how many there are, but they took up two full shelves of my former library, and were re-read until they were almost too worn to save. One review of her novels noted that they are so popular that libraries need to keep them under lock and key. I formed the vague idea that if Jane Austen had been an American who lived in modern times and had written intellectually amusing mysteries, they would have been very much like the works of this author. Another of her books that is a perfect winter read is called The Love Talker, set in the snowy grounds of a wintry historic estate in Maryland. This is simply a highly entertaining winter mystery with wonderful characters and a memorable villain. Oh, dear. I just remembered another one I tend to reread almost annually when winter comes. “Beauty” by Robin McKinley, a gorgeous re-telling of Beauty and the Beast that has become a new classic. And I have to add Elizabeth Marie Pope’s fascinating novel “The Perilous Gard”. This book had to read straight through. Okay, I am finished. Sorry, but when one discovers a book that is truly magical, it is difficult not to share. I had better quit; every minute that goes by I remember another book. That is the problem with having been a voracious reader for almost 3/4 of a century.
I haven't thought about Ammie Come Home since I was a kid! I think I read it when I was 11 or 12, back in the early 70s. Must find it and read it again! The Long Winter is one of my must-reads every winter. Well, my entire series of Little House books has been re-read so many times I'm surprised the covers are still intact.
Thank you for sharing!
The YT algorithm suggested this video and i'm so glad I clicked on it. LOVE your suggestions and will be picking up a few of these novels (have read all of Cadfael and Little Women).
I'm glad to meet you too. 😀
I've been a lifelong fan of Terry Pratchett and I often reread Hogfather during Christmastime. Thank you for including it as a classic.
The selections you’ve picked are spot on. Have read all of the Cadfael books ,I envy the person who is just starting on them! And don’t be afraid of Charles Dickens, you may have been forced to read them but his writings stay with you even when you’ve finished the story. I’m going to read the Return of the Native looking forward to reading it now that I’m a little older!
I've read all the Cadfael books and everything by Desmond Bagley, and of course Wodehouse and the Little Women quartet. I would recommend Dana Stabenow's mysteries set in Alaska, and Alistair MacLean's Ice Station Zebra, if you really want to feel the freeze!
No fireplace in my apartment, but I am currently curled up with a blanket and hot cup of tea, ready for some winter reading. Thanks for the tips, I'll bump up "Alone in Berlin" higher on my tbr so as to try and read it this winter.
Wow, never thought I´d hear Hans Fallada recommended as a cozy winter read! Especially since I know the ending. But I´m inspired.
I stumbled upon your channel tonight, so glad I did! I quickly subscribed due to your enthusiastic descriptions of your beloved books.
These videos are exceptional and the main reason is you. I'm so excited to get going on these books. Thank you!
I am a new subscriber and I just love your channel. I look forward to reading the books you are suggesting in this video. Have a blessed day!
As an artistic person as well as a reader, I have an attention for detail and thought it would be nice to see a work of art behind you depicting winter.
Just a thought ❄️🌬️ Thanks for the wonderful book suggestions
I just love your descriptions of winter. However, some of us don’t experience much winter. I live in southern Florida so I’ll be sitting on a beach chair, next to a pool by some palm trees. 🌴🤣 The books of interest to me are: Alone in Berlin, Our Mutual Friend, Hogfather, The Woman in White, and The Virgin in the Ice. Thanks for the book recommendations.
Lol I just relocated to a state where it rains in winter as opposed to snow from September through June.
Perhaps you could create a small campfire and surround it with open freezers😀 I envy the sunshine you have (I live in rainy Wales), but I'd miss winter a lot. 😀❤️👍
South Florida resident as well, so I tend to read winter books in summer, when I long for cooler temps! Laura Ingalls Wilder’s The Long Winter has been a great distraction during August!
@@laribex110Hahaha, I can relate! It got to the point where I would take a trip to a cold destination in the winter- just to put a coat on, drink my hot chocolate, and read a good book with a winter setting!!🤗
Great to have The Hogfather and also Cadfael on the list. The Hogfather is one of my absolute favourite Discworld novels. I have all of rhe Cadfael books and, although every one stands alone as its own mystery story, there is a gentle story arc when you read them all in sequence..and Cadfael is a wonderful and engaging companion. I must read the Woman in White, it sounds really intriguing.
'The Night Before Christmas' by Nikolai Gogol. Snow, witches, devils, spells, rustic laughter...
Thank you for the eloquent and thoughtful video! I'm definitely adding a few of your picks to my winter reading list, especially Our Mutual Friend, which I haven't yet read. I'd like to offer an addendum: Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre. Bronte's evocation of the bleakness of winter, experienced in hardship and in coziness, makes this a great choice for these cold short days.
Thanks for a great video. You've given me some new ideas. Thanks for mentioning Hogfather and Little Women
Ironically, a friend just recommended Hogfather to me. So now that you have recommended it also, it's a must-read for me.
It must be a sign.
This is the first video of yours I've watched, and I hope to read all the books you suggested here.
Pleased to meet you, Melissa. They are good books. Which one appeals to you the most?
Alone in Berlin@@tristanandtheclassics6538
Nice to see Pratchett on the list. I reach for him more than anything these days. Shall add Fallada and Bagley to my list of possibilities. Happy reading! 🍂🏡🌨⛄📚
Pratchett is incredible. Bagley is a treasure trove if you decide that you like his style. Very action based.
Hogfather is so funny, its been one of my xmas favourites for years.
It's great isn't it. Pratchett is brilliant. I love the Guards books in particular. Guards Guards; Men at Arms; Feet of Clay; The Nightwatch. Jingo is good too.
I have been watching Booktube for several years, and never seen your videos. I have been missing out!!! Your channel is awesome.....
Thank you so much
Terrific list. I'd add Ethan Frome (Edith Wharton) and A Christmas Memory (Truman Capote) to your list. I've read several. Mill on the Floss and The Return of the Native are two of my favorite books. I might pick up Jeeves & the Yuletide Spirit as a fun end of year read. And I'll add Woman in White and Alone in Berlin to my longterm TBR from which I'll shape my 2024 reading year very soon. Cheers.
Oh, Ethan Frome almost made it. The depiction of the snow and cold in that book are some of the best around. Though Ethan's wife gave me the creeps, skulking about in the dark like that.😀
Ethan Frome is so depressing! But very fitting when read during a cold winter night
I love your list - A Christmas Memory and A Thanksgiving Visitor by Truman Capote are both charming and enjoyable for any season, but especially those seasons.
@@barbarapaige4587 I once served a Thanksgiving to 13 french friends in the south of France. They didn't know much about our American Thanksgiving tradition and so under each of their plates I gave them a copy of A Thanksgiving Visitor, translated into French. It was a big success. Takeaways: French prefer dark meat. They don't like sweet and savory on the same plate. They are very dubious about cooked oysters. And American turkeys are HUGE freaks of nature!
@@marjoriedybec3450 What a charming story - thanks for telling us about your French Thanksgiving, and how wonderful you gave them such a joyous book to read. After a tour with my daughter through northern Europe, she wanted us to move to Denmark, and I said OK, but only if I could eat in France!
Yes! It’s so nice to find recommendations that are the standard handful of classics that end up on everyone else’s lists. Thank you for expanding our horizons.
Thank you, Renee. I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. I appreciate your taking the time to comment too.
Love your enthusiasm!
Thank you. 😀
What a great work you are doing, love here from India.🌸
Thank you so much 😀
I’ve been hungry to dig into more classics, so thank you for this! Also, you’re such a compelling communicator. Now subscribed!
I am delighted to have found your channel and looking forward to my introduction to Jeeves! I love short stories.
I really enjoyed Ellis Peters. I bought them all.
Every couple of years or so, I reread Laura Ingalls Wilder's The Long Winter. I can take or leave her other books, but The Long Winter really capture what it means to be snowbound and running out of food. Yes, it's a kid's book, but give it a whirl.
Cadfael totally called out to me! I audibly said, "Oooo!" when I heard you describe it! Gonna have to check it out. 😍
I live about 45 minutes from the Gulf of Mexico. Today, December 16, will be about 80F (26.7C). I read “winter” books to fool my brain into thinking it’s cold. 😂
I’m going to add some from this to my winter list. I particularly look forward to re-visiting Jeeves and Cadfael.
1. Return of the Native Thomas Hardy 2.Alone in Berlin Hans Fallada 3. The Snow Tiger Desmond Bagley 4. Jeeves and the Yuletide Spirit PGWodehouse 5. Louisa May Alcott Little Women 6. Our Mutual Friend Charles Dickens 7. The Mill on the Floss 8. The woman in White 9. Hogfather Terry Pratchett 10. The Virgin in the Ice Ellis Peters
Another charming video, thank you. I now live in a home that has a secluded attic loft with a low slanted ceiling. I enjoy sitting inside when the rain pours and reading when it doesn’t.
I have a slanted loft, too, and I do exactly the same thing. The sound of rain is magic in a timeless sound.😀❤️
What a great list and so evocative of the winter season! Unfortunately (for the sake of this video) Japan has its best weather in winter so it's all sunny skies here and no tapping tree branches on my window. But I'll keep this list on hand for the windy spring. 🤣
So great to hear from you. How are things going? Pleased that you enjoyed the list. I wish you a happy, windy Spring.😂
Thank you do much for all the recommendations Tristan . Unfortunately we're not in Winter here in Australia but all these books sound amazing!! Little Women is an all time favorite but the Cadfael series sounds awesome also!
I'm reading Our Mutual Friend now and absolutely loving it. You've put together a great selection. I'll be adding some to my Winter tbr.
So pleased that you are enjoying it. Which of the others appeal to you?
Awesome another great rec vid from my favourite booktuber! I myself am reading The Prince and the Pauper, it has winter vibes.
Thank you so much. I wish I could read more books in winter especially. I hope you enjoy your book and that you can drift away on flights of fancy. 😀❤️
I just found your channel. What a joy you are!
Oh thank you, Stephanie! You are wonderful. I hope that you win the lottery or inherit a yacht, or something equally delightful.
Thank you Tristan for bringing me back to reading classics
You are wonderful I love your presentation I can't wait to read your recommendations
Thank you so much! Did any one in particular catch your fancy?
I've asked for the woman in white and mill on the floss for Christmas gifts thank you again for your wonderful recommendations
I am reading Alone in Berlin because of you. A wonderful, fantastic, amazing book!!❤
I always admire your taste and recommendations of books! Thanks for this!
Thank you so much. I'm pleased the recommendations appealed to you. Did any one stand out for you in particular?😀❤️
Some people can be very disparaging of the novel, but in many instances it is a novel (rather than an academic work of non-fiction) which captures what an historical period was really like. Alone in Berlin is a great example of this, and even more so would be another Fallada novel: Little Man, What Now? An historian gives us facts and figures and primary documents, but it is a great novelist that gives us truth.
I wholeheartedly second this sentiment, Duncan. I have written about this in my personal musings. I've considered making a video about it, too. It's a truth I think should be better appreciated. 😀❤️👍
I've read that the Sherlock Holmes stories, with their many details about daily life, are an invaluable resource to historians.
I loved your book recommendations. They are my kind of books. 😁
I'm so pleased 😀 Great to meet a fellow booky. ❤️👍
Thank you so much for this video. I just ordered Our Mutual Friend and it should arrive at some point tomorrow!
I don't want to read about winter when I'm cold. I like to be reminded of warmth .
😅It depends how warm the fire is when I'm reading.
Good to find you and your encouragement for me to read the classics. I just finished return of the native; what do you suggest I read next from your winter reading list?
Great video! You have sparked my interest in Cadfael. Never heard of it before. Sounds intriguing.😊
Let me know how you get on with Cadfael.
Ellis Peters was born in the town where I live.
You've absolutely sold me on The Return of the Native with that incredibly alluring description. Thanks so much for the recommendation! Subscribed :D
It's a wonderful book. Have you read anything by Hardy before? Thank you for subscribing, I really appreciate it.
@@tristanandtheclassics6538 I haven't! I'll be visiting a few of my favorite secondhand bookstores soon, and I'll be looking for a copy. Really excited to explore Hardy's work. Thanks again for bringing this book to my attention. Also going to look for Our Mutual Friend by Dickens, whom I also haven't yet read.
Love love love your videos. Thank you.😊
Thank you. You are very kind.
(Melanie here) Great video. I will definitely check a couple of these out!
A great introduction to the december month. Thank you!
Glad you liked it! Winter and books; is the anything better?
Loved it! And I’ve read five of them! So looking forward to the others.😊
Awesome! Which ones have you read? 😀❤️👍
EXCELLENT video! Such wonderful recommendations. Thank you!
I just stumbled onto your site. I love your appreciation of literary prose, especially the scenery and feel for the setting. When you mentioned that one of the books was evocative of childhood, I guessed wrongly The Wind in the Willows. Thanks so much. I will share this.
I've read a lot of Discworld books but not Hogfather - will need to give that one a go! There's a few on that list I've read already - Little Women was one of my favourite books when I was a kid, and the Woman in White is also excellent. Of the new ideas, I think Alone in Berlin sounds really interesting, and the Cadfael books too, I might have to hunt these down for some Christmas reading. Thanks for the recommendations!
I hope that you enjoy Cadfael. The writing is nothing special, but the stories are such easy, cosy reading.
I read the Caedfael one decades ago when it first came out. I hadn’t forgotten it, and you have persuaded me to read it again this winter coming.
Great video as usual. The Woman in White is the only one I’ve read on the list, but it’s so incredibly good. I actually found some of the Cadfael books at a thrift store a little while ago and was intrigued so I bought them. Not this one, but I definitely want to give the few I found, a read now.
I too adore "The woman in white" and always wished a film had been made of it, with Orson Wells as Count Fosco. I'd recommend Wilkie Collins every time.
The picture of summer/spring behind you is lovely but not making me feel very wintery ☺️
I would like to give it a go for Jeeves and teh Yule-tide spirit. I hope it's at the library. Thank you for these. I love how you are totally in it Tristan.
❤ thanks.
Tristan just found your site. What descriptions! You need to go to libraries and get children to get into reading! Also you should do audiobooks.
Thank you!
Wow, just found your channel and I’m really enjoying it!
I just ordered Jeeves and the Yule-tide Spirit for my 14 yr old who has recently become obsessed with reading Jeeves and Wooster. Thank you!
For myself, I'm very interested in reading The Mill on the Floss and Alone in Berlin. And I bet my husband would enjoy Hogfather. Thanks for the recs!
I hope that your son enjoys Wodehouse's short stories. It's a great way to discover some of his other characters. I would highly recommend the Psmith books for your son too.
I hope that you enjoy the other books. If your husband enjoys The Hogfather he is going to be thrilled to have discovered Terry Pratchett. Such inventive and hilarious books.
I just wanted to extend a huge thank you for your recommended classics. I’m just past the halfway point in The Mill on the Floss by George Elliott. I must admit that the first chapter was a bit of a slog for me, as I was using your recommended slow reading technique of writing down the definitions of unfamiliar words. I think I defined around 12 words in just chapter 1! I also wrote down phrases that I felt were very memorable for me. I kept at it, little by little every day, when around chapter 3-4, the story suddenly became fascinating to me! I now love, love, love this book! Your thoughtful/slow reading technique has helped me begin really thinking about the storyline and the characters, and how it even relates to modern human experiences. I so appreciate your videos!
Lovely vlog. My first time of listening to to you but not my last 😊
Im reading the Woman in White now and it's really good. You always have such great recommendations. I havent read George Eliot yet and would like to real Our Mutual Friend also- the title makes me think of Mark Twain for some reason. Thanks so much for the variety Tristan. These all sound great
I've read The Return of the Native so many times! I love that book. When I was a teenager I lived in a rural area of Missouri and take walks in the pastures and woods and pretended to stroll through Hardy's Wessex. Unfortunately, George Eliot and I do not get along; I've read three of her novels and I felt as though I knew what the rack was like.
Talking walks to read is one of the most underrated joys in life. As for Eliot, I understand why she is not everybody's cup of tea. Perhaps it could be a new method for police interrogation. Sit the criminal down, whom you wish to break, and start reading Daniel Deronda to them.😂
Agreed. Her moralizing was heavy handed. True greats weave the moralizing into the dialogue or with short, witty jabs, a la Dickens or Hardy.
@@erglelergle8476 I love the greats who entertain me - Dickens, Hardy, Austin, the Brontes, Trollope...I can go on and on, but not George Eliot (I fight to stay awake). One of the gifts my daughter gave me for Christmas is a cookbook entitled "Jane Austen's Table." The recipes include Mr. Collins's Pea Soup, Captain Frederick Wentworth's Ship's Biscuits, and Lady Catherine de Bourgh's Caraway and Raisin Breakfast Bread. She also gave me a shirt with a pic of bookshelves on it that says "I have no shelf control." My daughter is very thoughtful.
Thank you for the recommendations! Added Hogfather to my TBR 😊
Your great your description of books is wonderful
I enjoy this video very much then
Hi Captain!! Great list! I'm especially glad to see Thomas Hardy on it. Hope all is well my friend.
Oh, Mandy, it's so great to hear from you! I hope you are well. Love the mutual Hardy appreciation. He's great. Are you still with the Classic Reading Lounge. I asked Jason what January's book choice is because I'm hoping to have time to come and join in.😀❤️
@@tristanandtheclassics6538 I am, but I'm currently taking a break from the main book of the month for a bit to focus on some other things. They are reading Bleak House and that will go through January. 😊
I’m going to get the Pratchet one and the Monk one, thank you!
I recently found your channel and am enjoying learning about reading the Classics. I feel like I'm getting a degree in literature! Thank you for all you are providing for us 'bookies'.
I've honestly never heard of these books before but now I really want to read The snow tiger and The woman in white. These two are for sure added to my tbr, they sound very interesting and entertaining to me, Thank you!!
Desmond Bagley is terrific. Great adventure, suspense, action.
Wilkie Collins is a classic writer. His stories develop so well, and his plotting is meticulous. If you enjoy these writers then you have a great deal of excellent books to enjoy. 😀👍
@@tristanandtheclassics6538perfect, thank you!!
I'm binge watching all your videos by the way, great content ❤☺️
Oh goody. Two of my very favorite novels ~ Our Mutual Friend & Woman in White.
How about Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe? Two others, not classics as but good winter bks: Smilla’s Sense of Snow by Hoeg & Snow by Pamuk.
I adore your channel!!!
Hi Tristan! I love your channel. I am new to reading fiction so frequently, and new to reading the Classics. Your channel gives me hope for myself... Unfortunately, I run intoso many stuffy classics readers, and it's been hard to find a space to explore what the wonderous world of classic fiction has to offer. Thank you for being you, and everything you do!
I would also add Mary Shelley's Frankenstein to this list (: A book about isolation which features tons of icy imagery!
Thank you Serenity. I really appreciate your support and generous comment. I wish you the greatest joy in your adventure into the classics.
I read it for the first time just recently! I LOVED IT!
You are good at what you do!
First time I have seen your videos and had a chuckle when you came to your first book as I am in the middle of reading "The Return of the Native" for about the 5th time; Egdon Heath is magical. What did I finish before this? "The Mill on the Floss", both very evocative books, indeed as Thomas Hardy always is whatever the time of year. Read quite a few of the others too, but never yet "The Woman in White". Look forward to listening to your other booky words of wisdom.
I have read all of the Cadfael books by Ellis Peters and went to Shrewsbury .....her desk etc made me go again (I love in Cheshire).
Same thing happened when I went to Dove Cottage: Dorothy (read a a lot of Wordsworth but not his sister's book, so I did) . Gosh, did they love walking for miles 😊
Love to read all of Sherlock 's adventures but in large print....any suggextion s,please ?
Such great reviews, my TBR will include several of your recommendations!
Yay, thank you! Does any one catch your interest in particular?
Alone in Berlin, A Mutual Friend and The Woman in White and perhaps The Mill on the Floss. Will explore Hogfather. Thank you so much!
Great list! Wishing I had a winter to really experience winter reads. I live in a subtropical climate so there are no seasons other than hot and dry or hot and rainy. I usually save "winter reads" for our summer which is very hot and very rainy and the time of year I spend mostly indoors with the air conditioning on and reading while the torrential rains fall. I'm so happy you mentioned Our Mutual Friend. I don't always get on with Dickens but It is my favorite of his books and I don't hear many folks talk about it.
This is wonderful. Thank you. I was wondering about trying the Cadfael series. Definitely will now. And the Fallada again - I didn't give it enough time last time. All the others get a big tick. Hoorah.
Ah, George Eliot! I am currently reading my first work of her and decided to go for Silas Marner. Seems I picked the wrong one 🤭 Happy December! Wishing you a cosy reading month by the fireplace. 🕯
Silas Marner is the first George Eliot for many readers. On the face of it, it can be underwhelming. However, I think it grows on you the longer you think about it. There is a quiet melody that begins to thrum around Silas and the community. If I may make a suggestion, try looking for the symmetries in the tale. It's fascinating. Mill on the Floss is a delight, in my opinion.😀❤️
@@tristanandtheclassics6538 I do feel a bit underwhelmed, yes. Thank you for the advice!
Ooh that avalanche book sounds really intriguing! Will have to look out for it!
And if you like it, Bagley wrote a lot of other books 📚
Greetings from a grizzled old Yank. Scintillating as always. I, too, am a big fan of P. G. Wodehouse. Also, Cadfael has become a favorite sleuth, although I've only seen the videos. Assuredly a TBR item. Merry Christmas to you and your wife and anyone else who might be lurking about.
Totally intrigued by the idea of a cosy winter read about some bad guys taking out a hit on Santa Claus. Hogfather is up next on my reading list.
This is great! Also, you are really good at this! I want to read them all!! Lol
Thank you so much, Jolene. There are just so many wonderful sounding books 📚 😀
Looking forward to Alone in Berlin. In the States it’s named Everyman dies Alone, so it took me some research to find it.
I hope that you enjoy it, Kimberly. The style of narrative is particularly enjoyable for its uneasy, off-kilter sense that it gives the reader. Let me know what you thought of it.