One of those classic novels you've been meaning to read forever, this ticks off an important box on the list while making you realise what a jolly good writer DH Lawrence really was. A family saga, it tells of an overbearing mother whose son is looking for romantic adventures. A timeless theme, but with plenty of period detail to make you feel educated as well as entertained.

Sons And Lovers by DH Lawrence, £1.80 from Amazon.co.uk