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High School Summer Reading: Choose Your Own Reading Journey
This summer, your reading journey is yours to design. Whether you’re drawn to thought-provoking fiction, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, powerful memoirs, or stories that challenge your perspective, the freedom to choose is in your hands. Reading isn’t just a school task—it’s a chance to grow, reflect, and connect with voices and ideas that matter to you.
High school students must read at least one book this summer, but we strongly encourage you to keep reading beyond that—explore multiple genres, authors, and themes that resonate with your interests and identity.
Need inspiration? Below is a list of high-interest titles curated by Mrs. Brensinger to spark your curiosity and fuel your reading journey. These are just suggestions—you are not limited to the list. Let your curiosity guide you. When you return in the fall, your teachers will be ready to talk with you about your reading and help you continue your journey as a thoughtful, independent reader.
Books are waiting—where will yours take you?
*** For students in AP and Honors courses in grades 9-12, please review and complete the required assignments to prepare for the fall.
PTHS Library Titles
PTHS Library Titles
Fiction
Fiction
Nonfiction
Nonfiction
Graphic Fiction and Non-Fiction
Graphic Fiction and Non-Fiction
Poetry
Poetry
Start thinking of your college essay! You have seven prompts, but endless possibilities to tell your story. Here are some ideas to inspire your thinking!
Check out some additional resources below!
27 Outstanding Essays by College Essay Guy
The Art of a Personal Essay by Monmouth Writing Center
Juniors & Seniors- Brainstorm Your College Essay
Juniors & Seniors- Brainstorm Your College Essay
25-26 Prompts:
Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?
Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?
Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.
Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?
Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design
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