Reddit mentions of Steppenwolf: A Novel

Unfortunately, Hesse writes in that way. I would either recommend Steppenwolf, as I find the ending less rushed, but if you want his most comprehensive book, look to The Glass Bead Game.

What type of thing do you mean by similar subjects? The general idea of a bildungsroman? His interest in Hindu and Buddhist philosophy and spirituality?

I don't know how broke you are, but this book is available for two bucks and I promise it will be worth reading in your situation.