A Guide to American Literature for Middle School Students
Reading books is always an excellent way to explore new worlds, learn new ideas, and improve reading comprehension skills. When it comes to literature, American literature has a rich tradition that provides a vast array of genres, themes, and characters. In this guide, we will explore some of the best American literature books for middle school students.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
This classic novel provides an entertaining and humorous glimpse into what life was like in the 19th century. Tom Sawyer is a mischievous young boy who lives in a small town along the Mississippi River. The book follows his many adventures with his best friend, Huckleberry Finn. It is an excellent choice for any middle school student who loves adventure, humor, and engaging characters.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
This novel is set in the deep south during the Great Depression and explores themes of racism, discrimination, and injustice. It follows the story of a young African American girl named Cassie Logan and her family as they fight against racial injustice. This book is an eye-opening look at an important part of American history and is a must-read for any middle school student.
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
This novel is a collection of vignettes that tells the story of a young Mexican-American girl growing up in a poor neighborhood in Chicago. The book explores themes of identity, community, and growing up. It is a perfect choice for middle school students who love strong, relatable characters and beautiful language.
The Giver by Lois Lowry
This novel is set in a seemingly perfect society where everything is controlled, and there is no pain or suffering. The story follows a young boy named Jonas as he discovers that his world is not as perfect as it seems. This book is an excellent choice for middle school students who like science fiction or dystopian novels.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
This classic novel is set in the deep south during the Great Depression and explores themes of racism, prejudice, and justice. The story follows a young girl named Scout as she grows up and learns about the world around her, including the unjust treatment of African Americans in her community. This book is a must-read for any middle school student and is sure to spark important discussions about race and justice.
Overall, there are many fantastic American literature books that are perfect for middle school students. Whether you love adventure, history, or social issues, there is a book out there that is sure to spark your interest. So pick up a book today and start exploring the wonderful world of American literature.