With the changing of the leaves from green to golden hues, these classic novels will change you as the characters change themselves. Consider re-reading these literary treasures as the weather grows colder, and if you haven’t read these titles yet, it is time to remedy that problem.

“The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne
“The Scarlet Letter” centers on a young mother and her child conceived out of wedlock as they go about their lives in the 1600s, shunned and excommunicated by the townspeople. The overarching theme of identity within society appeals to the audience after its publication back in 1850, as the mother transforms herself and grows.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
Scout Finch is an ambitious girl who refuses to be a young lady during the Great Depression. Her ideology about race and right and wrong is simple at first. But these ideas, toward the end of the novel, manifest into something more complicated than some might think. Racism and the difference between good and bad pushes the novel along and brings out a new point of view that Scout cherishes at the end.

“The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
Amir, as a young child, was meek, helpless and dependent on everyone for everything. His friend, Hassan, opposes him in every way — strong, helpful and independent — he consistently helps Amir whenever he can. Amir sees himself as being a disgrace to his father and the only way he can redeem himself is by standing up for what he believes is right and not backing down to challenges thrown his way. In this search for redemption, it is the only way he can find peace.