Do you dislike reading books with sad endings? We tend to prefer books with happier endings, yet a sad ending can be very memorable. It's really quite brave of an author to end their book on a sad note, but it's often much more dramatic. Here are some books with sad endings that you must read …
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1. Flowers for Algernon
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Of all the books with sad endings that I've read, Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes has to be my favorite. It tells the story of a man with a low IQ who undergoes an experimental treatment to improve his intelligence. The experiment proves a success, but has an unexpected outcome. The ending will make you cry …
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Flowers for Algernon is a science fiction novel by American writer Daniel Keyes, originally published in 1959. It follows the story of Charlie Gordon, a mentally disabled man, who is chosen to undergo an experimental surgical procedure to increase his intelligence. The novel deals with themes of morality, the treatment of the mentally disabled, and the pursuit of intelligence. The novel won the Nebula Award for Best Novel in 1966, and was adapted into a 1968 film starring Cliff Robertson, and a 2000 made-for-television movie starring Matthew Modine. The novel has been translated into more than 20 languages, and has sold more than 5 million copies worldwide.
2. 1984
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Everybody knows what George Orwell's famous book is about, even if they haven't read it. So of course we all know that it's not a feel-good book. But the final sentences are among the saddest words I've ever read. Read the book for yourself and you'll see what I mean. It's quite frightening to think that in many ways we are already living in the kind of world where we're told what to think.
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George Orwell's 1984 was originally published in 1949, and has since become one of the most iconic and influential works of literature of the 20th century. It is a dystopian novel, set in a world where government surveillance and manipulation of citizens is the norm. The novel has been adapted into multiple films, television shows, and radio dramas. It is often referenced in popular culture, and has been the subject of countless academic studies. 1984 is an essential read for anyone interested in literature, philosophy, or politics.
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3. Of Mice and Men
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You may have seen one of the very good movie versions of John Steinbeck's classic Depression-era novel. If you haven't, then read the book; like Flowers for Algernon, the ending will make you cry. The fate of the slow-witted Lennie, and what his friend George does to protect him, is sad, moving and tragic.
4. Metamorphosis
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Franz Kafka's novel is another of those that you know what it's about, even if you haven't read it. The main character, Gregor, wakes up one day to find himself somehow transformed into a giant insect-like creature. This naturally presents Gregor and his family with considerable problems. It won't be any surprise to learn that the book does not end happily …
5. Jude the Obscure
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Thomas Hardy's famous novel tells the story of a would-be scholar in 19th-century England and his unhappy relationships. The book is very much about social attitudes, and Jude's decision to enter into an unmarried relationship with his cousin leads him and his family into disaster. The ending is really quite shocking - and definitely not one that you'll be expecting.
6. The Road
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A book about a father and son trying to survive in an apocalyptic landscape is hardly going to be cheerful. But Cormac McCarthy's novel isn't quite as dreary as you might think. It's actually rather beautifully written, even if the subject matter isn't upbeat.
7. Charlotte's Web
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This classic children's book by E.B White is one that adults can enjoy as well. It tells the story of the rather unusual friendship between a spider and a pig. Children's books don't usually end on a sad note, so this book is quite remarkable. Get it for your child, or just for yourself.
Even if you don't want to read too many books that end on a sad note, it's worth reading one occasionally for the dramatic power of a sad ending. A sad ending can be very moving, and the book will stand out in your mind. What is the book with the best ending - sad, happy or otherwise - that you've read?
Comments
Lexi: I think we're forgetting the fault in our stars,the mortal instruments series,the divergent series,and if I stay
Cee: One day :( read it at work and had to leave for 5 minutes to cry
Catherine: Jessica by Bryce Courtney has the saddest end to a book I've ever read.
Kimberly: I've read Of Mice and Men and watched the film. I teared up.
Midnight: One touching children's book is 'The Lionheart Brothers' (or something similar - I read it in the original Swedish) by Astrid Lindgren (who also wrote Pippi Longstocking) - this book breaks hearts TWICE (three times if one remembers it's based on an incident in Lindgren's childhood)
shannon: Charlotte's Web is my favorite children's book I bought it for my daughter taught me you only need one good friend in life who's loyal and true !
Djulsi: Me before you by Jojo Moyes is pretty sad. I did not cry, but my aunt and grandmother both cried after reading it..
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