The Best Books You Read In High School

Not everyone is a fan of English class, but it's hard to deny that having a book club during English class is a fun brain break. For underclassmen, or those just looking for a good book to read, here are some of the best books you get to read in high school.

Freshmen Year:

Of Mice and Men- John Steinbeck 

A simply written book that is easy to read, Of Mice and Men is a heartfelt story of friendship that takes an unruly turn. Can be a little slow at times, but it a short book that can be finished quickly, for that I would rate it a 3.5/5.

Lord of the Flies- William Golding

This novel Lord of the flies frustrated me because it was a bunch of savage boys running around, trying to kill  each other. There was no order on this island besides a conch, which established who could talk. It is understandable why chaos broke out because its a group that is separated in "littluns" and "biguns", but in the end it was pure madness. I still enjoyed the book because it was climatic, but someone should have put Jack in his place. 3/5

Sophomore Year:

Catcher in the Rye- J.D. Salinger

In my top three favorite books I've read in high school, The Catcher in the Rye has a unreliable narrator that makes you want to dislike them, but can't help but fall in love with. Holden Caulfield, a teen trying to figure out the ropes of becoming an adult, shares the fear that lives within us all. Cleverly written with lots of humorous dialogue, The Catcher in the Rye is one of the most favorited books read in high school. 4.5/5.

The Metamorphosis- Franz Kafka

A very short story, only around 70 pages, The Metamorphosis is a philosophical book that undeniably makes you think and emphasis with those around you. This is probably my 2nd favorite book that I've read in high school so far. It made me change my perspective and exposed me to a whole new genre of literature. 5/5.

The Yellow Wallpaper- Charlotte Perkins Gilman

I am a sucker for psychological thrillers. Charlotte Perkins Gilman was FAR ahead of her time. Another short story, only 66 pages, The Yellow Wallpaper conveys several emotions from the reader that leaves you on the edge of your desks chair. I don't want to talk about it too much, but it raises a very important message and topic, while keeping you entertained. 4.5/5.

1984-  George Orwell

One of the most famous dystopian novels, 1989 is undeniably creepy. This novel opened my eyes and made me rethink controls of power. Also slightly philosophical, 1989 manages to keep you interested while feeding you important information. 4/5.

Junior Year:

The Things They Carried- Tim O'Brien

One of the most heartfelt novels I've read throughout my high school career. It is a collection of short stories based off of the Vietnam War. Tim O'Brien tells us his dreadful years that he spent fighting and surviving in the name of his country. The book gave me a contrasting definition on morality and truth. 4/5

The Great Gatsby- F. Scott Fitzgerald

English teachers tell you from the second you enter high school that you should look forward to reading The Great Gatsby. And although it is undeniably a well written book with lots of hidden meaning and messages, I do think it is a bit over-rated. Not bad by any means, but not the amazing and engaging novel English teachers tell you about. I found myself a bit bored at times. 3.5/5.

Senior Year:

Frankenstein- Mary Shelley

The prose, metaphors, and relationships in Frankenstein makes it one of my favorite books I've read, inside and outside of school. Extremely ingaging, even in it's old age, Frankenstein is a testament to time. With important themes such as feminism, betrayal, and loneliness, this novel will stay with you for a long time. 4.5/5.

The Stranger- Albert Camus

Saving the best for last, The Stranger is by far my favorite book read in high school. I may be a bit biased because Albert Camus is one of my favorite authors, but it is undeniably a deep, exhilarating book. A murder mystery that also touches on the human condition and moral regrets, The Stranger takes you on a journey that you will always remember. 5/5.