20 Amazing French Classics You’ll Want to Read Right Now

I’ve found myself turning to these French classic books whenever I want something that feels both timeless and thought-provoking.

Take Les Misérables by Victor Hugo, for example. It’s a long read, but it’s worth every page if you enjoy epic tales of love, justice, and redemption.

And for a real escape, Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry offers a gentle, yet profound, reflection on life, love, and childhood.

There’s also Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand, a play that mixes humor and heartache in a way that stays with you.

Whether you’re in the mood for romance, mystery, or a bit of philosophy, there’s something in French literature for every kind of reader.

From the passionate Cyrano to the existential L’Étranger by Albert Camus, these books will definitely make you think, feel, and maybe even dream a little differently.

So why not pick one up? You might just discover a whole new favorite!

1. Les Misérables by Victor Hugo

Set in post-revolutionary France, this epic follows the life of Jean Valjean, an ex-convict seeking redemption.

Alongside him, characters like the relentless Inspector Javert and the tragic Fantine weave a tale of justice, love, and the human spirit against a backdrop of societal inequality.

2. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

A gripping story of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, this novel centers on Edmond Dantès.

Wrongfully imprisoned, he escapes, uncovers treasure, and seeks vengeance on those who wronged him, all while grappling with questions of morality and justice.

3. Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

Emma Bovary, a doctor’s wife, dreams of escaping her mundane provincial life through romantic escapades.

Her pursuit of passion leads to financial ruin and personal tragedy.

This novel is a landmark of literary realism, which offers a critical look at society and human desires.

4. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Though written as a children’s book, this tale of a young prince traveling to various planets explores profound themes like love, friendship, and the meaning of life.

Its poetic simplicity appeals to readers of all ages.

5. The Red and the Black by Stendhal

This story of ambition follows Julien Sorel, a young man from modest means who seeks to rise in society through charm and manipulation.

It’s a sharp critique of social hypocrisy in 19th-century France.

Related: 45 Non-Fiction Classics You’ll Want to Pick Up (and Won’t Want to Put Down)

6. Candide by Voltaire

A satirical adventure that critiques optimism and societal flaws, Candide follows its naive hero through a series of misfortunes across the globe.

Voltaire’s wit and sharp commentary make this a timeless classic.

7. Germinal by Émile Zola

A powerful portrayal of the lives of coal miners in 19th-century France, this novel highlights their struggles against oppression and the rise of socialist ideals.

8. The Stranger by Albert Camus

This existentialist masterpiece tells the story of Meursault, a detached man who commits a murder and confronts the absurdity of life during his trial.

9. In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust

Spanning seven volumes, this introspective novel delves into memory, love, and time through the narrator’s reflections on his life in French high society.

10. The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas

A swashbuckling adventure featuring d’Artagnan and his three musketeer friends, this story is filled with intrigue, camaraderie, and noble ideals, set against the political backdrop of 17th-century France.

Also See: 30 Amazing Romantic Classics Everyone Needs To Read

11. The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo

Set in medieval Paris, this Gothic novel revolves around Quasimodo, the hunchbacked bell-ringer, and his love for the beautiful gypsy Esmeralda.

It’s a tragic exploration of love, beauty, and the societal alienation of the marginalized, with Notre-Dame Cathedral itself as a central character.

12. Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand

This play tells the tale of Cyrano, a poet and swordsman with an enormous nose, whose insecurity prevents him from confessing his love for Roxane.

Instead, he helps another man win her heart, leading to a bittersweet conclusion about self-sacrifice and love.

13. Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

A scandalous story of seduction, deceit, and manipulation, this epistolary novel follows the scheming Marquise de Merteuil and Vicomte de Valmont as they use others’ emotions as pawns in their games.

14. Bel-Ami by Guy de Maupassant

This novel chronicles the rise of Georges Duroy, a charming but unscrupulous journalist who climbs the ranks of Parisian society through manipulation and romantic entanglements.

15. Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux

Set in the Paris Opera House, this mystery-romance follows Christine, a young soprano, and her encounters with the enigmatic Phantom.

It’s a tale of love, obsession, and the haunting beauty of music.

You May Also Like: 15 Female Authors Who Shaped Classic Literature (and Their Best Books)

16. Therese Raquin by Émile Zola

This dark and gripping novel explores themes of adultery, guilt, and psychological torment as Therese and her lover Laurent plot a murder, only to be haunted by their crime.

17. Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne

A thrilling science fiction adventure where Professor Lidenbrock and his team descend into volcanic tunnels, discovering prehistoric creatures and hidden landscapes.