What do these have in common?

They are all books from Penguin's Hardcover Classics. Editions of the world's favorite books with splendid packaging created by acclaimed designer Coralie Bickford-Smith. I think they are just about the prettiest books I've ever seen.

But the outside is not only what I'm so enthusiastic about. It is what's within that lights my fire. Well, let me show you.
Sense and Sensibility
Wuthering Heights
Pride and Prejudice
Jane Eyre
Great Expectations
EmmaAlice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass

All of these books I've read at one time or another, most of them in the 8th grade when I discovered my love for British literature. I had an amazing English teacher who fueled my fire and desire to immerse myself in the classics, and so I began a journey which changed my life forever.

I began with Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, enthralled by the heroine and her Mr. Rochester. After, I read Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, sister to Charlotte, and was absorbed in the dark tale within. Great Expectations followed shortly, with Lewis Carroll's Alice after. The Austen novels were an adventure for a few years later in my life.

I think what I love most about British literature classics, is the depth of character and the LANGUAGE. I love the challenge of reading a book which makes me focus, as I must be absorbed in the antiquated language to fully comprehend the story and characters. It is beautiful and completely satisfying to finish reading one of these books, either being the first time or the tenth.

Sadly, during the course of many moves, I have lost my copies of these books and am without my favorites on the bookshelf. I'm mainly writing about these as a "hint" and dream for the future. Michael asked me recently about my upcoming birthday in October and what we were going to do for it as far as celebrations, etc. Well, I will state that while I love a good party, I would REALLY LOVE these books. I can just picture them, occupying a well deserved spot on our bookshelf, when I'm not reading them.

That being said, what are some of your favorite books that have enraptured you? Any fond memories of first time reads? What books do you read and reread? Please share!