Hey everyone, I'm trying to get a jumpstart on my summer reading and wanted to ask: which books are frequently read or assigned in high school? Not only for any particular year, but throughout the entire high school journey?
The literature curricula can vary from high school to high school, but there are several classic novels that you'll often see in American high schools. Below are some you might encounter during your high school experience:
- "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee: Exploring racial injustice and moral goodness, this novel is a staple in many high school English classes because it is both thought-provoking and relatable for many students.
- "1984" by George Orwell: This dystopian classic is widely read for its critique of totalitarianism and its exploration of themes such as personal freedom and surveillance.
- "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald: This novel is a favored choice for exploring themes of the American dream, wealth, and the fleeting nature of happiness.
- "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding: This tale of stranded boys turning to savagery offers meaningful exploration of human nature and group dynamics.
- "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare: Most high schools include Shakespeare in their curriculum, with "Romeo and Juliet" being one of his most commonly taught plays.
- "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne: This novel frequently surfaces in American Literature classes thanks to its exploration of themes like guilt, punishment, and identity in a Puritan society.
Each of these books offers a wealth of themes and topics for discussion, which makes them ideal for in-depth study in a high school setting. Given their prominence, reading these could give you a substantial head start in your studies, although keep in mind that you could always see a wide variety of other offerings as well. Happy reading!
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