Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(5) Tree Line

As long as you can go with the flow and relax yourself into the twisted mind of Henry Miller, Tropic of Cancer isn't too tough. Sure, there's some jumping around and a few flashbacks that can lead to a little confusion—oh, and he goes on for pages about how the world is imploding—but if you put on your philosopher's hat and don't mind the filth, it'll be an easy ride.