Over the last couple of centuries, some incredible books have been written. But there is one in particular that keeps being mentioned by avid readers who recommend it to everyone. The book has not only been adapted into films but also a musical, and it’s now available to stream on Prime Video.

One person said: “I recently re-read this book for the first time since seventh grade, and I don’t think I quite appreciated it enough back then. It’s literally the best writing I have ever seen. Very short but not a word wasted.”

Another added: “This novel is a beautiful representation of the American Dream, morality, desires, wealth, and the consequences of pursuing those parts of our lives. 

“Even though it is short, it has so much meaning and doesn’t waste time getting its message across.”

A third commented: “This is easily one of the best classics I’ve ever read. F. Scott Fitzgerald crafts an incredibly engaging story about the American Dream.”

Someone else said: “This book is a work of literal perfection. By not enjoying this book, you are failing to appreciate the entire life story of a deeply troubled individual.”

The novel they are all talking about is The Great Gatsby, a 1925 classic by American author F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Set in the Jazz Age on Long Island, near New York City, it follows narrator Nick Carraway as he becomes entangled in the life of millionaire Jay Gatsby, who is obsessed with rekindling a lost romance with Daisy Buchanan.

The novel was partly inspired by Fitzgerald’s own life, including his relationship with socialite Ginevra King, his experiences on Long Island, and the excesses of the 1920s.

Though it was not a big success when first published, the book gained popularity during World War II and is now considered one of the greatest novels ever written.

Its themes include wealth, class, longing, identity, and the American Dream, all told through Fitzgerald’s short, sharp and poetic writing.

The story has been adapted many times, most recently in a 2023 musical.

When it comes to film adaptations, the most recent one was released in 2013. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, the movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Gatsby, Tobey Maguire as Nick, and Carey Mulligan as Daisy.

The film went on to win two Academy Awards and grossed more than £275 million worldwide.

The Great Gatsby (2013) is available to steam on Prime Video.