The Shawshank Redemptionisone of the very best movies of the 1990s.
This list looks at some of the very best novels that explore similar ideas toTheShawshank Redemption.
Fans ofFrank Farabont’s seminal film should find something to appreciate among these titles.
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The book is harrowing but also effortlessly readable, with King’s economical style keeping things flowing smoothly throughout.
The supernatural elements are kept in the background, with psychology and morality placed front and center.
Once again,the author leans into psychological depthrather than gore or action.
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This approach was fairly controversial, leading to the book beingbanned in at least one school district.
7'11/22/63' (2011)
“The past is obdurate.
It doesn’t want to be changed.”
One of King’s better novels from the 2010s,11/22/63is a time-travel thriller that blends history and romance.
Papillonwas a runaway success on release, with one reviewerdeclaringit “the greatest adventure story of all time”.
(That said, some commentators have questioned the accuracy of some of these supposed feats of derring-do.)
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In the process,Papillonbecamea stirring statement on perseverance and courageagainst seemingly impossible odds.
Sometimes we cry with everything except tears."
The novel isa sweeping saga of exile and the quest for identity in an unfamiliar land.
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The character development is substantial, making Shantaram far more than just a typical escape story.
The book is a little daunting at 936 pages, but it should reward those who stick with it.
There, he befriends Turner, a more cynical boy who sees survival as the only priority.
However, the harshness is balanced with a gripping plot and striking imagery.
Jefferson’s godmother enlists Grant Wiggins, a local teacher, to help Jefferson die with dignity.
Over many prison visits, Grant and Jefferson form an unexpected bond, changing both men in the process.
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Yet again, this is a bleak novel, not ideal for entertainment reading.
She steals books and shares them with others, particularly Max, a Jewish man hiding in her basement.
This simple premise becomes a vehicle for a powerful study ofmortality, love, and the power of language.
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The Book Thiefis wonderfully written, full ofcolorful phrases, memorable descriptions, and profound statements.
One of its best elements is the use of Death as the narrator.
It’s much, much stronger than the film adaptation.
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It doesn’t remember how well you treated it yesterday; it’ll cry out for more tomorrow.
“One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovichis a stark depiction oflife inside a Soviet labor camp.
In particular, he finds solace in meaningful labor.
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NEXT:10 Great Novels To Read if You Love ‘Interstellar’
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