If you enjoy reading books by Victor Hugo then you might also like the following authors:
In addition to both French authors, Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas were also born in the same year (in 1802). Both authors were part of the 19th-century Romantic movement. That movement emphasized emotion, individuality, and dramatic narratives.
Alexandre Dumas wrote several exciting adventure novels. One of the famous ones is “The Count of Monte Cristo.”
That story follows Edmond Dantes, a young sailor who is falsely accused and imprisoned. During his time in prison, Dantes meets another prisoner who tells him about a hidden treasure.
The themes of justice and redemption that run deep in this novel might appeal to fans of Victor Hugo’s dramatic storytelling.
If you enjoy Victor Hugo’s way of portraying society’s flaws through unforgettable characters, Dickens offers a similar experience.
Charles Dickens was a storyteller who captured the struggles of ordinary people in harsh societies. His books often highlight social injustices and the resilience of the human spirit.
His novel Oliver Twist tells the story of an orphan boy who grows up in grim workhouses and faces the dangers of London’s underworld after escaping.
Along the way, Oliver encounters shady characters, but also finds moments of kindness and hope. The book explores poverty, crime, and the fight for dignity against overwhelming odds.
Honoré de Balzac was a French writer who created a massive collection of interconnected novels called “La Comédie Humaine.”
His work paints vivid portraits of 19th-century French society. One of his famous novels is “Père Goriot.” The story follows the downfall of a devoted father, Goriot, who sacrifices everything for his two ungrateful daughters.
Set in a Paris boarding house, the novel also introduces Eugène de Rastignac, a young man navigating ambition and morality while trying to rise in social status.
The book captures the struggles of love, power, and greed in a way that feels very close to life, especially in its portrayal of Paris as a city filled with both hope and heartbreak.
Émile Zola was a French author who wrote during the late 19th century. He was a key figure in the literary school of naturalism. One of his notable works is “Germinal.”
This book tells the story of a young miner named Étienne Lantier who arrives in a small mining town in northern France. Étienne faces harsh working conditions and low wages, leading to a strike among the miners.
The novel explores the struggles of the working class and the social issues of the time. If you enjoy the detailed social commentary and rich character development found in Victor Hugo’s works, you might find Zola’s “Germinal” equally captivating.
Gustave Flaubert was a French writer who left a significant mark on literature. His book “Madame Bovary” tells the story of Emma Bovary, a doctor’s wife who lives beyond her means and has affairs.
The story is filled with detailed descriptions of provincial life and Emma’s dreams of luxury. The book caused controversy when it was first published, but it has since become a classic.
If you enjoy the detailed worlds and social commentary in Victor Hugo’s books, you might find Flaubert’s work interesting as well.
George Sand, whose real name was Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin, was a French novelist and memoirist. She often wrote under a male pseudonym, which was quite unusual for her time. One of her notable works is “La Mare au Diable.”
This story is set in the French countryside and follows the life of a humble farmer, Germain. He meets a kind woman named Marie and her children on his journey to a neighboring town. The story explores their growing friendship and the simple joys of rural life.
It’s a heartwarming tale that captures the essence of human connection and the beauty of nature. If you enjoy Victor Hugo’s works, you might find Sand’s writing equally engaging.
Fyodor Dostoevsky was a Russian author who explored deep themes of psychology, philosophy, and spirituality in his works. Readers of Victor Hugo will find familiar themes of social justice and moral dilemmas in Dostoevsky’s books.
In “Crime and Punishment,” a poor ex-student, Raskolnikov, believes he can commit a perfect crime. He plans to kill a nasty pawnbroker, thinking that her money could be used for good deeds.
However, Raskolnikov’s life spirals into a dark, introspective journey as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. The story is intense, filled with complex characters and thought-provoking situations that keep readers engaged until the very end.
Leo Tolstoy, a Russian author, wrote stories that often explored themes of love, death, and morality. In “Anna Karenina,” he tells the story of a married aristocrat who falls in love with a wealthy army officer.
The tale follows Anna as she navigates the complexities of her new life, with Tolstoy’s keen observations of societal expectations and personal desires making the story especially engaging.
The novel is filled with vivid scenes, such as a memorable ballroom dance where Anna’s feelings first become clear, and a thrilling horse race that showcases Tolstoy’s ability to write excitement into everyday events.
Gustave Flaubert was a French writer who made a big impact on the literary world. His book “Madame Bovary” is a story about a woman named Emma who is unhappy in her marriage.
She dreams of a more exciting life and finds herself in trouble after she spends too much money and has affairs. The story takes place in a small town in France and shows the struggles of provincial life.
Flaubert’s writing style is detailed and realistic, which was new for the time. Readers who enjoy Victor Hugo’s stories might find Flaubert’s work interesting too.
John Steinbeck, an American author, wrote stories that often focused on the struggles of everyday people.
His novel “The Grapes of Wrath” tells the story of the Joad family, who leave their farm in Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl and travel to California in search of a better life. Along the way, they face many hardships, including poverty and the harsh conditions of migrant labor.
The story is filled with memorable characters, such as Ma Joad, who becomes a source of strength for her family, and Tom Joad, who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the journey.
Steinbeck’s powerful narrative captures the resilience and humanity of the Joads, making it a classic that resonates with readers.
Thomas Hardy was an English novelist who wrote about the struggles of rural life in the Victorian era. One of his notable works is “Tess of the d’Urbervilles”.
This book tells the story of Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman who faces many hardships after her family learns of their connection to a wealthy family with a similar name. Throughout the book, Tess encounters difficult situations that test her strength and resilience.
The story includes a moment where Tess works at a dairy farm, finding a brief period of happiness and peace. However, her past continues to haunt her, leading to a tragic conclusion.
Readers who enjoy the dramatic storytelling and emotional depth of Victor Hugo’s works may find Hardy’s portrayal of rural life and societal pressures equally engaging.
Miguel de Cervantes, a Spanish writer, created a lasting impact on literature with his works. His book “Don Quixote” is a classic tale that follows the adventures of a man who believes he is a knight.
The story is filled with interesting encounters, such as Don Quixote’s battle with windmills, which he imagines are giants. This imaginative and humorous journey makes the book a delightful read.
Readers who enjoy Victor Hugo’s detailed storytelling and character development will find similar joy in Cervantes’ work.
Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American author who explored themes of morality, guilt, and identity in his works. His writing often blended historical events with fictional stories, creating a unique atmosphere that kept readers engaged.
In “The Scarlet Letter,” Hawthorne introduces us to Hester Prynne, a woman condemned to wear a scarlet 'A' for committing adultery in a Puritan society. The story unfolds as Hester raises her daughter Pearl, while the secret of her partner in the adultery hangs heavy in the air.
The tension builds when Hester’s husband, presumed lost at sea, returns under a new identity, setting the stage for a dramatic revelation. This exploration of sin, punishment, and redemption is a powerful narrative that resonates with readers long after the final page.
Robert Louis Stevenson was a Scottish author who penned some truly engaging stories. One of his notable works is “Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.” This book tells the tale of Dr. Jekyll, a respected London doctor, and his mysterious connection to the evil Mr. Hyde.
The story explores the darker side of human nature, with shocking revelations that keep readers on edge. It’s a thrilling read that fans of Victor Hugo’s dramatic storytelling might enjoy.
Louisa May Alcott, born in 1832, was an American writer who penned the classic novel “Little Women.” Set during the American Civil War, this story follows the lives of the four March sisters: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy.
The sisters face personal struggles and growth as they navigate life’s challenges. One memorable part is when Jo, the tomboyish and independent sister, cuts her hair to raise money for her family, showing her strong will and determination.
This heartwarming tale of sisterhood and family might appeal to readers who enjoy Victor Hugo’s works.