The Greatest British "Coming of age" Books From 1940 to 1949

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 288 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Coming of age

The "Coming of age" category of books typically refers to stories that explore the transition from adolescence to adulthood. These books often focus on the challenges and experiences that young people face as they navigate the complexities of growing up, including issues such as identity, relationships, sexuality, and personal growth. Coming of age stories can be set in any time period or cultural context, and may feature protagonists of any gender, race, or background. Overall, the genre offers readers a glimpse into the universal struggles and triumphs of youth, and the process of becoming a fully realized adult.

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  1. 1. I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

    "I Capture the Castle" is a coming-of-age novel that tells the story of 17-year-old Cassandra Mortmain and her eccentric family living in a dilapidated English castle during the 1930s. Cassandra's father is a reclusive writer suffering from writer's block and her stepmother is a bohemian artist. The family's life changes dramatically when two American brothers inherit the estate. The novel, written in diary format, explores themes of love, poverty, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

  2. 2. The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham

    "The Razor's Edge" is a novel that explores the life of a young American, Larry Darrell, who rejects conventional society to search for spiritual enlightenment in the aftermath of World War I. His journey takes him from Illinois to Paris, and eventually to India. The story is narrated by an unnamed author who encounters Larry at various stages of his life, and through his eyes, we see Larry's transformation and the impact it has on the people around him. The novel is a profound exploration of self-discovery, spirituality, and the quest for meaning.

  3. 3. The Pursuit Of Love by Nancy Mitford

    The Pursuit of Love is a semi-autobiographical novel that follows the romantic escapades of the eccentric and aristocratic Radlett family, primarily through the eyes of cousin Fanny. The story centers on Linda, the most beautiful and free-spirited of the Radlett daughters, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery through her various relationships and marriages. The novel explores themes of love, marriage, and the societal expectations of women during the interwar period in England.

  4. 4. Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Dog by Dylan Thomas

    This book is a collection of semi-autobiographical stories that delve into the early life and formative years of a young Welsh poet. Through vivid, evocative prose, the reader is taken on a journey through the author's childhood and adolescence in Swansea, Wales, during the 1920s and 1930s. The stories are rich with the sensory experiences of youth, capturing moments of joy, confusion, and the pains of growing up. The narrative explores universal themes of nostalgia, the loss of innocence, and the artistic awakening of a young man with a keen eye for the beauty and absurdity of the world around him.

  5. 5. The Shrimp And The Anemone by L. P. Hartley

    This novel explores the complex relationship between two siblings, Eustace and Hilda, during their childhood in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a seaside town in England, the story delves into themes of innocence, cruelty, and the loss of innocence through the lens of their interactions and experiences. The title metaphorically reflects the dynamic between the siblings, with Eustace's vulnerability and sensitivity contrasted against Hilda's protective yet sometimes domineering nature. As they navigate their young lives, the book poignantly captures the nuances of growing up and the intricate bonds of family.

  6. 6. Eustace and Hilda by L. P. Hartley

    "Eustace and Hilda" is a three-part novel that revolves around the complex relationship between a brother and sister in the early 20th century. The story explores their emotional bond, with Hilda being the dominant and protective elder sister to the more sensitive and passive Eustace. Their co-dependent relationship is marked by manipulation, guilt, and a deep yet ambiguous love. The novel unfolds their lives from childhood to adulthood, capturing the nuances of their relationship and the societal pressures of their time.

  7. 7. Young Tom by Forrest Reid

    "Young Tom" is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of a young boy named Tom growing up in Northern Ireland in the late 19th century. Tom navigates the challenges of adolescence, grappling with his emerging sexuality and his love for his male friend, Arthur. As Tom matures, he confronts societal expectations and struggles to find acceptance in a world that is intolerant of his true self. This poignant and introspective novel explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download