The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder

The Bridge of San Luis Rey follows Brother Juniper, a monk in Lima, through the lives of five individuals that were on the main bridge in Lima when it collapsed.  He is trying to study their lives in the hope that he can explain that things happen for a reason.  It also expresses some universal themes like true love and happiness.  In all honesty, this book was very depressing but I did not feel very attached to the characters as they died because you only read about them for a brief moment.  I don't think I would really recommend this book as a good read, however every book makes you a better reader and it is a classic.