Smart Picks

Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ
Lew Wallace
Published in 1880, it met with phenomenal success. The film did likewise, winning 11 Oscars. It combines events in the life of Jesus with those of Judah Ben-Hur, a wealthy Jew. Ben-Hur is betrayed by his best friend, Messala, and sent to the galleys. During a sea battle, Ben-Hur saves the life of a commander who adopts him and helps him become a champion charioteer. He takes revenge on his old friend but finally learns to forgive.


Gone with the Wind
Margaret Mitchell
Won the Pulitzer in 1937 and the film won 10 Oscars. It is about the American Civil War and Scarlett O'Hara, the spoiled daughter of a well-to-do plantation owner. She survives the hardships of war and shows great spirit when the chips are down. The romance between Scarlett and the rakish Rhett Butler is compelling.

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