American Classic Books for Middle School Students
Reading is an essential part of a child’s education. It not only enhances their imagination and creativity, but it also helps them develop critical thinking skills. American classic books are a great way to introduce young readers to different writing styles, cultures, and historical events. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the must-read American classic books for middle school students.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
First published in 1960, To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless classic that has won numerous awards and has been adapted into several films. The story is set in the 1930s in a small town in Alabama and follows the life of 10-year-old Scout Finch and her family. Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, is a lawyer who takes on the case of a black man accused of raping a white woman. Through the eyes of Scout, the reader experiences the deep racial prejudice and injustice in the town. This book is an excellent choice for middle school students as it teaches important lessons about empathy, morality, and social issues.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Published in 1951, The Catcher in the Rye is a coming-of-age novel that has become a classic of American literature. The story follows the 16-year-old Holden Caulfield as he navigates his way through life after being expelled from his prep school. The novel explores themes of identity, loss, and growing up. Despite the criticisms it has received over the years for its language and explicit content, this book remains a popular choice for young adult readers.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Set in the roaring 1920s, The Great Gatsby is a novel that delves into the excesses and decadence of the Jazz Age. The story follows the wealthy and mysterious Jay Gatsby as he tries to win back his former love, Daisy Buchanan. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, we see the extravagant parties, lavish mansions, and corrupt morals of the elite society. This book is a great way to introduce middle school students to American literature and the history of the 1920s.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is considered one of the greatest American novels ever written. It was first published in 1884 and is set in the pre-Civil War South. The story follows the adventures of Huck Finn and his friend Jim, a runaway slave, as they travel down the Mississippi River. The novel explores themes of race, slavery, and morality. This book is an excellent choice to teach middle school students about American history and the cultural significance of the time.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
The Outsiders is a novel published in 1967 by S.E. Hinton. The story is set in a small town in Oklahoma in the 1960s and follows the lives of two rival groups: the greasers and the Socs. The book is narrated by Ponyboy Curtis, a member of the greasers. The novel explores themes of class, identity, and the struggle to belong. It is a popular choice for middle school students as it deals with issues that are relevant to their lives.
In conclusion, American classic books are an excellent way to introduce middle school students to different writing styles, cultures, historical events, and important social issues. These five books are just a few of the many amazing American classics that are available for children to read. By reading these books, young readers can gain a better understanding of the past and the world around them while developing their reading skills and critical thinking abilities.