aWhat are some underrated classic novels that are still easy and enjoyable to read?

If you are looking for classic novels that feel accessible and engaging rather than dense or dry, here are a few titles often recommended for their wit and storytelling:

• "The Wife of Bath's Prologue and Tale" from The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer: Often cited for its personality, the Prologue is essentially a candid, lively monologue by the main character detailing her five marriages.
• "Under the Net" by Iris Murdoch: This novel offers a witty and philosophical look at post-war London. It follows the misadventures of protagonist Jake Donaghue and is noted for its playful narrative style and exploration of existential questions.
• "Emma" by Jane Austen: While Austen is widely known, Emma is often praised for being sharper and more observant regarding human relationships than some of her other more famous works.

Because "underrated" is subjective, these are just a few starting points. Many readers find that mid-20th-century classics or works with strong, character-driven narratives tend to be the most "readable" if you are trying to avoid the heavier prose styles found in some older classics.