Every American student who had to sit through English class from Kindergarten to 12th grade knows the usual suspects: “Romeo and Juliet,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “The Great Gatsby,” “Fahrenheit 451” and more. Don’t get me wrong, these novels are extraordinary and have their place as some of the best novels written, but I think it’s time English classes evolve to more choices. So here are here’s a few books I would have students read:
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Austen’s 19th-century novel is much more than just a romance; it provides commentary on class, gender, and personal growth. Elizabeth Bennet, as a protagonist, is self-aware and unafraid to speak her mind during a time when women’s opinions were rarely valued. The novel offers lessons on challenging our first impressions. Even though it takes place in the past, its themes are strikingly relevant.
“Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley
So many students have had to read George Orwell’s 1984. It’s a great novel and warns against the dangers of surveillance and authoritarian control, but I think more students need to read Huxley’s “Brave New World.” “Brave New World” is a cautionary tale of a society drugged into complacency by pleasure and consumption. I think it’s also a great read right now because of how society is so involved and run on technology, and we need the warning to stop.
“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
First of all, the reason why I absolutely love this book is because it is told from the perspective of death. I think that’s such a creative way to narrate a book. Secondly, this book is a moving testament to human resilience in the midst of horror. This war novel doesn’t focus on just soldiers; it centers on a child in quiet rebellion.
“The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood
This novel is the work of a genius, painting a terrifying but needed picture of a society where women are stripped of their rights and reduced to their reproductive functions. This is needed because of the warning it gives readers; it reflects real histories of oppression and warns how easily freedoms can be lost. It’s not an easy read, but it’s a needed one amidst the current political climate in the United States.
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky
Chbosky’s coming-of-age novel captures the rawness of adolescence with raw vulnerability. We get to read this story through the eyes of Charlie, a quiet and observant freshman, exploring themes of trauma, mental health, friendship, and identity. Not enough, if any at all, English classes assign this book, but I think students will really enjoy literature when they read this one.
English class has to evolve with students. Go ahead and teach the classics; they’re needed, but also teach books the kids will enjoy and learn to apply in the real world.
