best novel to start with

'The City of Dreams' could be a great start. It's a story that takes place in a big, bustling city full of different kinds of people. The main character is a newcomer trying to make it big, and through his eyes, we see all the glories and the hardships of the city. There are a lot of themes like hope, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness that are explored in a very relatable way.

'Factotum' is also a good one to begin with. It follows the life of Henry Chinaski, a character often based on Bukowski himself. The story is filled with his typical themes of alcohol, women, and the struggle to get by. It's relatively easy to follow compared to some of his other works and really shows what Bukowski is all about.

I would recommend 'Crime and Punishment' by Fyodor Dostoevsky. It's a great starting point as it delves deep into the human psyche. The story of Raskolnikov, a poor student who commits a murder, is full of moral and psychological dilemmas. It gives you a taste of the complex and profound nature of Russian literature.

I would recommend 'Horus Rising' by Dan Abnett. It's a great starting point as it delves into the early days of the Horus Heresy, introducing key characters, the complex politics, and the overall dark and gritty atmosphere of the 40k universe.

For a beginner, 'The Wind - Up Bird Chronicle' could be a good start. Although it's a long and somewhat complex novel, it has a really interesting plot that draws you in. Murakami's unique writing style, with his dream - like sequences and vivid descriptions, is well - represented in this book. It gives you a great taste of what makes his writing so special.

I would recommend 'The Old Man and the Sea'. It's a relatively short and accessible novel. The story of the old fisherman's struggle against the marlin and the sea is both simple and profound. It showcases Hemingway's unique writing style with concise language but deep emotions.

I would recommend 'Slaughterhouse - Five'. It's a great starting point as it showcases Vonnegut's unique writing style, which blends science - fiction elements with dark humor and a deep exploration of the human condition. The story of Billy Pilgrim's time - traveling experiences during World War II and after is both engaging and thought - provoking.

I would recommend 'The Sound and the Fury'. It's one of Faulkner's most well - known works. It gives you a good taste of his complex narrative style, with different perspectives and timelines. The story of the Compson family is both tragic and deeply engaging, and it showcases Faulkner's ability to explore themes like family decline, the South's past, and the human condition in a really unique way.

For a beginner, 'Life & Times of Michael K' is an excellent choice. It's relatively accessible compared to some of his other works. The story of Michael K, a simple man trying to survive in a war - torn and chaotic world, is both poignant and thought - provoking. It allows you to get into Coetzee's way of storytelling which often blurs the lines between the mundane and the profound.

I would recommend 'Crime and Punishment'. It's a very accessible and gripping story. The plot about a young man who commits a murder and then struggles with his conscience is both thought - provoking and engaging. It gives a good taste of Dostoevsky's exploration of the human psyche and moral dilemmas.