Siddhartha — Hermann Hesse

The classic novel of a quest for knowledge that has delighted, inspired, and influenced generations of readers, writers, and thinkers -- a perennial favorite for graduation gifts.

Nominated as one of America's best-loved novels by PBS's The Great American Read

Though set in a place and time far removed from the Germany of 1922, the year of the book's debut, the novel is infused with the sensibilities of Hermann Hesse's time, synthesizing disparate philosophiesâ€"Eastern religions, Jungian archetypes, Western individualismâ€"into a unique vision of life as expressed through one man's search for meaning.

It is the story of the quest of Siddhartha, a wealthy Indian Brahmin who casts off a life of privilege and comfort to seek spiritual fulfillment and wisdom. On his journey, Siddhartha encounters wandering ascetics, Buddhist monks, and successful merchants, as well as a courtesan named Kamala and a simple ferryman who has attained enlightenment. Traveling among these people and experiencing life's vital passagesâ€"love, work, friendship, and fatherhoodâ€"Siddhartha discovers that true knowledge is guided from within.