From Volumes to Victories: Why Schoolchildren Should Embrace Epic Reads

In the realm of literature, some authors have dared to craft narratives of immense length, weaving intricate worlds and delving deep into the human experience. These colossal tomes, often spanning thousands of pages, challenge both readers and writers alike.

Let’s embark on a journey to explore the reasons why students must consider reading them apart from delving deep into the longest books in the world.

The benefit of engaging in such a sustained activity can be manifold. 

Intellectual Growth: Reading lengthy books exposes students to complex narratives, intricate character development, and intricate plotlines, promoting critical thinking and analytical skills.

Language Proficiency: Exposure to rich and diverse vocabulary in lengthy books contributes to the expansion of students’ language skills, aiding in their reading comprehension and writing abilities.

Cultural Awareness: Epic novels often transport readers to different times and places, fostering cultural understanding and broadening students’ perspectives.

Patience and Persistence: Tackling a lengthy book requires commitment and discipline, teaching students the value of perseverance and the satisfaction of completing challenging tasks.

Empathy and Perspective: Long novels often delve deeply into the emotions and motivations of characters, helping students develop empathy and the ability to see the world from various viewpoints.

Now, let’s look at some of the longest books worldwide.

o   In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust – Length: Around 4,200 pages

Marcel Proust’s magnum opus, In Search of Lost Time (also known as Remembrance of Things Past), is a literary masterpiece that immerses readers in a profound exploration of memory, time, and human nature. This seven-volume work is a treasure trove of insights into human relationships, art, and society, all woven through the experiences of its introspective protagonist.

Why read it? While the length may seem intimidating, In Search of Lost Time offers a unique opportunity for young readers to engage with complex themes and masterful prose. The book encourages critical thinking, exposes students to different cultural contexts, and teaches patience and perseverance in tackling a lengthy narrative.

o   War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy – Length: Approximately 1,440 pages

Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace stands as a monumental achievement in literature. This epic historical novel navigates the lives of multiple characters against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars. Through its intricate web of stories and characters, the book delves into themes of war, love, society, and individual growth.

Why read it? The book offers an unparalleled glimpse into history, culture, and human psychology. Reading this novel can foster a deeper understanding of global events and the complexities of human behaviour. Moreover, the experience of conquering such a substantial book can boost students’ confidence in tackling challenging tasks.

o   Les Misérables by Victor Hugo – Length: Roughly 1,500 pages

Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables is a timeless tale of social injustice, redemption, and the power of human compassion. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, the novel follows the lives of its characters through adversity and transformation, ultimately revealing the resilience of the human spirit.

Why read it? It addresses issues of inequality and social change, making it relevant for students studying history and social studies. Reading this novel encourages empathy and a deeper understanding of societal struggles, while also exposing readers to Hugo’s vivid storytelling and thought-provoking insights.

While the prospect of reading the world’s longest books may appear daunting, the benefits these epic tomes offer to schoolchildren are immeasurable. 

According to Mr Ankit Jaiswal, an Assistant Professor at Department of English, Shri Aurobindo College, University of Delhi, “Reading epics can be quite beneficial for school students. Epics often reflect the values, beliefs, and historical context of the society in which they were created. So, the texts can provide kids with insights into different cultures, traditions, and historical periods. Additionally, there is a lot to learn from the larger-than-life characters of such narratives who typically go through a massive transformation. It can aid in understanding not only human psychology, but also chart the trajectory of personal growth and transformation. Alongside, while going through these complex narrative structures, young minds have a good chance of enriching their language, analytical and critical-thinking skills.”

He adds, “I would recommend the epics to all students. However, it depends on the age, interest, and reading ability of each child.” Sharing a similar view, Ms Dakshita Singh, English Facilitator at Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park says, “Epics like the Mahabharata and Iliad are, in my opinion, some of the most beautiful texts. Owing to their length, epics have the unique advantage of offering a broad canvas for the telling of stories. There can be a story within a story, and each character is etched out in all complexity. However, students don’t have to read these books from cover to cover. They can read a small part of it and still engage with the lessons it has.”

For those inspired to attempt to compose long form, Mrs Singh shares, “The key to writing anything, be it a novel or a haiku, is to just start. The biggest hurdle most people face is the inertia of the blank page. So, I would advise students to pen down their thoughts, in whichever order and manner they come to them. The editing and refining can happen later. Another important thing every aspiring writer must do is – READ! Reading exposes you to ideas and worlds and characters far beyond anything one could encounter in daily life. It is a powerful catalyst that fuels our imagination.”

From intellectual growth and language proficiency to cultural awareness and empathy, delving into these narratives is a rewarding journey that nurtures young minds and equips them with valuable life skills. By embracing the challenges of these lengthy masterpieces, students can unlock a world of knowledge, imagination, and personal growth.