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Grade 9-10 Core Literature List
Welcome to the Grade 9-10 Reading List! This curated collection includes classic literature, timeless stories, and powerful narratives that provide a deeper understanding of the human experience. From exploring personal identity and societal issues to venturing into epic adventures and timeless romances, each book is chosen to inspire, provoke thought, and encourage empathy in young readers.
Encourage your child to read for 20-30 minutes each day and fill in their weekly reading logs, which can be redeemed for exciting rewards at the Motivation Station!
Our Curated Book List:
To Kill a Mockingbird
By Harper Lee
Set in the American South during the 1930s, this classic novel tells the story of Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus, a lawyer defending a Black man accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Through Scout’s innocent perspective, readers encounter themes of prejudice, justice, and empathy, making it a poignant exploration of morality and humanity.
Theme: Coming of Age, Social Justice
Romeo and Juliet
By William Shakespeare
The iconic tale of star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet captures the intensity of young love against the backdrop of feuding families. Shakespeare’s play examines the themes of love, fate, and the devastating consequences of hate. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with readers as it portrays the passionate and tragic journey of its young characters.
Theme: Tragedy, Romance
The Odyssey
By Homer
This ancient Greek epic poem follows the hero Odysseus on his long and perilous journey home from the Trojan War. Filled with gods, monsters, and legendary trials, The Odyssey explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the power of resilience. It’s a timeless story of adventure and the enduring human spirit.
Theme: Epic, Adventure
The House on Mango Street
By Sandra Cisneros
Through a series of poignant vignettes, this novel follows Esperanza Cordero, a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago. Her stories capture the struggles and triumphs of adolescence as she explores themes of identity, belonging, and the desire for independence. The House on Mango Street is a powerful depiction of growing up, shaped by one’s culture and community.
Theme: Realistic Fiction, Cultural Identity
The Old Man and the Sea
By Ernest Hemingway
In this tale of perseverance, an old Cuban fisherman named Santiago battles a massive marlin in the Gulf Stream waters. Hemingway’s sparse prose captures the essence of struggle, endurance, and the human spirit’s resilience against nature’s forces. This novella is a powerful metaphor for personal triumph in the face of adversity.
Theme: Classic, Survival
Ethan Frome
By Edith Wharton
In a bleak New England setting, Ethan Frome’s life is marked by hardship and unfulfilled desires. This tragic story explores the consequences of unrequited love, loneliness, and moral conflict. Wharton’s powerful narrative and vivid descriptions make Ethan Frome a haunting tale of passion and despair.
Theme: Tragedy, Forbidden Love
Black Like Me
By John Howard Griffin
This eye-opening memoir recounts Griffin’s journey as he transforms himself into a Black man to experience life in the segregated South. Through his journey, readers confront the realities of racism, prejudice, and inequality. Black Like Me is a powerful account of courage and empathy, challenging readers to reflect on issues of race and humanity.
Theme: Memoir, Social Justice
A Tale of Two Cities
By Charles Dickens
Set during the turbulent times of the French Revolution, this novel follows the intersecting lives of Charles Darnay, a French aristocrat, and Sydney Carton, a disillusioned lawyer. Dickens explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the power of love amidst political unrest. It’s a classic story of hope and resilience in the face of turmoil.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Revolution
Great Expectations
By Charles Dickens
This beloved classic tells the story of Pip, an orphan raised by his harsh sister, who yearns for a better life. Through a mysterious benefactor, Pip finds himself thrust into London society, where he confronts themes of ambition, loyalty, and self-discovery. Dickens’ novel captures the journey of maturation and the value of integrity.
Theme: Classic, Coming of Age
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
By Maya Angelou
This memoir recounts Maya Angelou’s childhood experiences as she overcomes trauma, racism, and adversity. Her powerful prose reveals the resilience of the human spirit and explores the themes of identity, self-worth, and hope. Angelou’s story is a profound testament to the power of perseverance and courage.
Theme: Memoir, Resilience
The Chocolate War
By Robert Cormier
Set in a Catholic high school, this thought-provoking novel follows Jerry Renault as he defies the corrupt powers within his school by refusing to participate in a chocolate sale. Cormier’s narrative explores themes of individuality, peer pressure, and the cost of standing up for one’s beliefs, making it a powerful study in courage and rebellion.
Theme: Realistic Fiction, Rebellion
A Death in the Family
By James Agee
This novel follows a family in Tennessee as they come to terms with the sudden loss of their father. Through beautiful and haunting prose, Agee examines the grieving process, the complexities of family relationships, and the journey toward healing. This emotional story provides a profound reflection on love, loss, and resilience.
Theme: Tragedy, Family
The Martian Chronicles
By Ray Bradbury
In this collection of interwoven stories, humans colonize Mars, leaving Earth behind. Bradbury’s tales explore the nature of humanity, cultural conflict, and the consequences of technology. Each story is a poetic commentary on society’s potential, making this book a timeless exploration of the human experience.
Theme: Science Fiction, Society
Barrio Boy
By Ernesto Galarza
This memoir recounts Galarza’s journey from a small Mexican village to the United States, capturing his experiences as an immigrant. His story reveals themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream, shedding light on the immigrant experience and the strength found in cultural pride and determination.
Theme: Memoir, Cultural Identity
The Hobbit
By J.R.R. Tolkien
Join Bilbo Baggins on his thrilling adventure to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. This epic fantasy classic introduces readers to courage, friendship, and personal growth in a magical world full of dwarves, elves, and wizards. The Hobbit is an enchanting journey that celebrates bravery and discovery.
Theme: Fantasy, Adventure
The Red Pony
By John Steinbeck
In this series of four interconnected stories, young Jody Tiflin grows up on his family’s ranch, learning about life, loss, and responsibility. Steinbeck’s poignant narrative delves into the complexities of growing up, exploring themes of maturity, empathy, and the bond between humans and nature.
Theme: Coming of Age, Rural Life
The Hound of the Baskervilles
By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
In this classic mystery, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson investigate the legend of a terrifying supernatural hound haunting the Baskerville family. Doyle’s suspenseful tale keeps readers captivated as Holmes uses his unparalleled deductive skills to uncover the truth behind the legend. It’s a thrilling adventure in deduction and mystery.
Theme: Mystery, Suspense
The Color Purple
By Alice Walker
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Celie, a young Black woman in the South, as she overcomes abuse and discovers self-worth through love and friendship. Walker’s powerful narrative sheds light on themes of resilience, empowerment, and sisterhood, making it a transformative story of personal liberation and inner strength.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Resilience
Hey Reading Rangers,
Remember to log your reading every day in your Weekly Reading Log. Once completed, get it signed by a parent and redeem your points at our Motivation Station for fun rewards! Happy reading!
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