American Literature Reading List for High School Students
Being a high school student can be tough, but it can also be exciting as it opens up opportunities to learn about new and exciting things, including American literature. American literature is a broad and fascinating subject that encompasses many genres and styles. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive reading list of American literature that every high school student should read.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
This iconic novel, published in 1925, is a classic American literature read that is still as relevant today as it was almost a century ago. The book follows the life of the wealthy Jay Gatsby as he tries to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The novel is famous for its themes of love, corruption, and the American Dream. The Great Gatsby is a must-read for any high school student.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
To Kill a Mockingbird is another classic American novel that is a must-read for any high school student. The novel is set in the American South in the 1930s and focuses on the themes of racism and prejudice. The book follows the life of Scout Finch, a young girl who witnesses the injustices of the American justice system firsthand.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye is a novel that is considered a quintessential piece of American literature. The book was published in 1951 and is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Holden Caulfield, a teenager who is struggling to find his place in the world. The novel is famous for its themes of alienation and disillusionment, and it continues to be widely read and loved by high school students today.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Beloved is a novel by African American author Toni Morrison. The book was published in 1987 and is set in the aftermath of the Civil War in the United States. The novel focuses on the experiences of Sethe, a former slave, and her family. The book has won numerous awards and is known for its beautiful writing style and exploration of themes such as grief, memory, and the legacy of slavery.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is another classic American novel that is a must-read for high school students. The novel follows the adventures of Huck Finn, a young boy who runs away from his abusive father and teams up with an escaped slave named Jim. The book explores themes of freedom, race, and the moral complexities of society.
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Their Eyes Were Watching God is a novel written by Zora Neale Hurston. The book was published in 1937 and is considered a classic of African American literature. The novel follows the life of Janie, a young African American woman who is searching for love and identity in a society that is hostile to her. The book is known for its lyrical writing style and exploration of themes such as racism, sexism, and identity.
In conclusion, American literature offers a wealth of reading material for high school students. The above-listed books are just a small sampling of the countless excellent works of American literature that are available to read. As students continue to explore and appreciate American literature, they will undoubtedly develop a more profound understanding of American history, culture, and society.