East of Eden, by John Steinbeck

(Paperback, 601 pages, first published in 1952)

A masterpiece of Biblical scope, and the magnum opus of one of America's most enduring authors, this classic novel follows the intertwined destinies of two families—the Trasks and the Hamiltons—whose generations helplessly reenact the fall of Adam and Eve and the poisonous rivalry of Cain and Abel.

Cautions: This book deals with extremely heavy topics, including murder, child abuse, adultery, racial prejudice, and sexual assault.

Ages: 15+