Matt Yglesias: reading books makes me feel calmer.

This book delves into the history of England, focusing on the English Civil War and its lasting impact on British politics. It explores the key figures, events, and ideas that shaped the nation's political landscape. The book provides insights into the constitutional and religious conflicts that defined the era, and how these conflicts continue to resonate in modern times. It also examines the legacy of the Civil War on British identity and political culture. The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the historical roots of British politics.

The novel follows Emma Woodhouse, a beautiful, clever, and rich young woman who has lived nearly twenty-one years with very little distress. Emma decides to take up matchmaking, despite the advice of her friend Mr. Knightley. Her attempts to match her new friend Harriet Smith with various men lead to complications and ultimately test her own detachment from the world of romance. The novel explores themes of education, courtship, and social class in Georgian-Regency England, highlighting Emma's journey of self-discovery and learning from her mistakes[2][3][4].

Published in 1847, 'Wuthering Heights' is a novel that tells the story of the tumultuous relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and the foundling Heathcliff, whom her father brings home to Wuthering Heights. The narrative, framed by the visitor Lockwood and the housekeeper Nelly Dean, explores themes of love, revenge, and the cyclical nature of life. Heathcliff's bitter vengeance against those who wronged him drives the plot, which spans generations and delves into the dark, passionate, and often destructive aspects of human nature. The novel is renowned for its dramatic and poetic presentation, its unique structure, and its vivid depiction of the Yorkshire moors as a reflection of the characters' inner lives.

Published in 1861, 'Silas Marner: The Weaver of Raveloe' by George Eliot is a novel that explores themes of betrayal, community, and redemption. The story follows Silas Marner, a linen weaver who is falsely accused of theft by his friend William Dane in the Puritan community of Lantern Yard. After being exiled, Marner settles in the rural village of Raveloe, where he lives a life of isolation, hoarding gold as his only comfort. However, his life changes dramatically when his gold is stolen and he adopts a young girl named Eppie, who brings him back into the community and restores his faith in humanity. The novel delves into complex issues of faith, isolation, and the essential need for human connection, leaving lasting messages about love and forgiveness[3][4][5].

The Talented Mr. Ripley is a 1955 novel by Patricia Highsmith that follows Tom Ripley, a young American con artist who travels to Italy to persuade Dickie Greenleaf to return home. As Ripley becomes increasingly obsessed with Dickie's lifestyle, he commits a series of crimes to assume his identity. The novel explores themes of identity, morality, and the blurred lines between reality and deception. Highsmith's portrayal of Ripley as a charismatic yet amoral character has captivated readers and inspired numerous adaptations.

Romola is a historical novel by George Eliot, published in 1863, set in Florence during the late 15th century. It follows the story of Romola, the daughter of a blind scholar, and her tumultuous marriage to Tito Melema, a charming but morally corrupt Greek-Italian. The novel delves into themes of integrity, betrayal, and the conflict between paganism and Christianity, set against the backdrop of political upheaval and the rise of Savonarola.

Published in 1859, *Adam Bede* is George Eliot's first long novel. It is set in the fictional town of Hayslope in the Midlands and follows the intertangled lives of its characters. The story centers around Adam Bede, a carpenter who falls in love with Hetty Sorrel, a local beauty who becomes embroiled in a tragic situation. The novel also features Dinah Morris, a Methodist preacher, and Arthur Donnithorne, a seducing squire. Eliot's masterful realism and detailed characterization bring to life the rural community, exploring themes of morality, human complexity, and the consequences of one's choices. The novel is praised for its truthful observation of minute detail and its combination of deep human sympathy with rigorous moral judgment[1][4][5].

Middlemarch, written by George Eliot, is a novel that delves into the complexities of provincial life in 19th-century England. The story revolves around the intersecting lives of its characters, particularly Dorothea Brooke and Dr. Tertius Lydgate, as they navigate marriage, vocation, and social class. Eliot critiques the conventional romance narratives of her time by portraying marriage as a complex and often problematic institution. The novel also explores themes of idealism, self-interest, hypocrisy, and the constraints on women's lives. Set in the fictional town of Middlemarch between 1829 and 1832, the novel incorporates historical events such as the Great Reform Act of 1832 and early developments in medicine. Eliot's realistic portrayal of ordinary human life, with its quiet tragedies and small triumphs, has made 'Middlemarch' a masterpiece of English literature.

The novel follows Fanny Price, a young girl from a poor family who is sent to live with her wealthy uncle and aunt, Sir Thomas and Lady Bertram, at Mansfield Park. Fanny navigates the complexities of her new environment, dealing with the mistreatment by some family members and the kindness of her cousin Edmund. The story unfolds with the arrival of the charming but morally dubious Crawfords, leading to a series of scandals and moral dilemmas. Ultimately, Fanny's integrity and compassion guide her through the challenges, and she finds love and a sense of belonging with Edmund[1][3][5].

Percival Everett's "James" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that reimagines the classic tale of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim. Everett's writing is both sharp and witty, blending humor and pathos to create a compelling narrative. The novel explores themes of race, freedom, and identity in a way that is both timely and timeless. Everett's unique voice and perspective offer a fresh take on a familiar story, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about race and American history. The novel's unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged until the very end, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.