Schools have long been a staple of our collective imagination, capable of evoking vastly differing reactions from people across the spectrum. On one hand, they can be a hotbed of excitement and adventure, a time when youthful energies are unleashed and memories are forged. On the other, they can represent a tedious grind, an endless cycle of monotony and routine that seems to drag on for what feels like an eternity.
It’s no surprise then that schools have provided fertile ground for countless stories across all manner of genres. From the earliest days of kindergarten to the hallowed halls of higher education, there exists a rich tapestry of characters waiting to be brought to life – students and teachers, principals and administrators, professors and bureaucrats alike, each with their own unique personalities and motivations.
Elementary School
George by Alex Gino
As the eyes of others land on George, they perceive a typical boy. However, George herself knows that she doesn’t fit the bill – she’s a girl. The weight of this secret has been crushing her, making her wonder if she’ll ever be able to reveal her true identity. When her teacher announces that their class will be putting on Charlotte’s Web, George’s eyes light up with excitement at the prospect of playing the iconic pig, Charlotte.
But her enthusiasm is quickly doused when the teacher informs her that she can’t even audition for the part – simply because she’s a boy. Undeterred, George turns to her best friend Kelly for support and together they concoct a plan that not only allows George to pursue her dream role but also gives her an opportunity to finally be open about who she truly is.
Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar
A peculiar anomaly plagued Wayside School from its inception. The structure’s design featured a staggering 30 stories stacked vertically, with classrooms seamlessly flowing into one another. This unconventional architecture was reportedly an honest mistake by the builder, who later expressed regret for his oversight. It’s possible that this unusual layout contributed to the plethora of bizarre occurrences that took place within these walls, particularly on the ominous thirteenth floor.
Lola Levine is Not Mean! by Monica Brown, Illustrated by Angela Dominguez
Lola’s love for writing in her diary and playing soccer with the Orange Smoothies is well-known. However, a competitive recess game takes an unexpected turn when she accidentally hurts classmate Juan Gomez. The aftermath leaves her branded as ‘Mean Lola Levine.’ Overwhelmed by guilt, Lola seeks guidance from her family and trusted friend Josh Blot to find a way to rectify the situation and restore her reputation in true Lola style – with wit and words that inspire.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter’s life is marked by misery, following the tragic loss of his parents. He’s forced to live with his unfeeling relatives, relegated to a cramped and dismal closet under the stairs. However, this bleak existence takes an unexpected turn when he receives a letter that shatters his reality: he’s a wizard.
A mysterious stranger intervenes, rescuing him from his wretched circumstances and whisking him away to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he’ll discover a new sense of purpose and belonging.
Stella Diaz Has Something to Say by Angela Dominguez
Stella Diaz’s love for marine animals is unmatched, with Pancho, her beloved betta fish, holding a special place in her heart. However, Stella is far from being a solitary creature like her finned friend. She thrives on social interaction and cherishes time spent with her mom, brother, and best friend Jenny. The problem arises when Jenny moves to a different class, leaving Stella feeling isolated. Enter the new boy in town, who sparks Stella’s desire for friendship.
But her enthusiasm is tempered by the fear of making mistakes – she occasionally slips into Spanish and mispronounces words, leading to her cheeks turning roja with embarrassment. To make matters worse, she’s scheduled to give a presentation in front of her entire class. Despite these challenges, Stella Díaz has a powerful message that demands to be heard, and she must find the courage to overcome her fears.
Frindle by Andrew Clements
Nick Allen’s antics might be perceived as troublemaking by some, yet he simply seeks to inject excitement into his school days. His creative juices are sparked when he discovers an intriguing concept about word origins, leading him to concoct his most ingenious plan yet – the frindle. What if a pen didn’t have to be called a pen? Why not dub it a frindle instead? Nick’s initial plan unfolds innocently enough as he persuades his peers to adopt the new term.
As the idea gains traction, townspeople start using ‘frindle’ in everyday conversation, and before long, the school is abuzz with controversy. Nick’s teacher implores him to put an end to this whimsy, but the surprising twist is that frindle has transcended his ownership. The phenomenon spreads nationwide, leaving Nick powerless to halt its momentum.
School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex, Illustrated by Christian Robinson
As students and teachers alike step into Frederick Douglass Elementary on its first day, an undercurrent of anxiety is palpable. But it’s not just the students who are feeling the pressure – the very institution itself seems to be bracing for what’s to come.
I’m New Here by Anne Sibley O’Brien
In this vibrant elementary school community, three students – Maria from Guatemala, Jin from Korea, and Fatima from Somalia – are navigating the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. Despite being beginners in the English language, they’re making tremendous progress through a combination of self-motivation, peer support, and teacher guidance.
As they settle into their new surroundings, these students learn to balance their desire for cultural continuity with their need to adapt to their American school, ultimately discovering a sense of belonging that honors their heritage while embracing the diversity of their new home.
Yasmin the Teacher by Saadia Faruqi, Illustrated by Hatem Aly
When Ms. Alex had to leave suddenly, she entrusted Yasmin with the responsibility of taking over as teacher. Confident in her abilities, Yasmin was convinced that teaching would be a breeze. However, when unexpected challenges arose, Yasmin had to think on her feet and quickly find solutions to get the class back on track before Ms. Alex returned.
Middle School
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
With electrifying flair, 12-year-old Josh Bell declares his presence on the court: ‘With a bolt of lightning on my kicks… The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. Cuz tonight I’m delivering.’ As he and his twin brother Jordan dominate the game, it’s clear they’re not just born for basketball – Josh has an equally impressive talent for rhyme, weaving a powerful narrative of family and identity through verse.
But as their story hurtles towards its heart-stopping climax, Josh and Jordan must confront the consequences of breaking the rules and growing up too fast, with the entire family’s future hanging in the balance.
Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick
In a typical teenage world, Steven, 13, finds himself caught up in a whirlwind of normalcy. He’s got his drums to play with the All-Star Jazz band, has a crush on the most popular girl at school, and is perpetually frustrated by his five-year-old brother Jeffrey’s antics. But life takes an unexpected turn when Jeffrey receives a leukemia diagnosis, sending Steven’s world into chaos.
As he navigates his brother’s illness and his parents’ efforts to keep their family together, Stevens’ ordinary life gives way to extraordinary challenges. With humor serving as the balm for wounded hearts and harsh realities threatening to tear them apart, this heartwarming story chronicles a year in the life of a family struggling to find balance amidst crisis.
The First Rule of Punk by Celia C. Pérez
Surviving your first day at a new school is no easy feat – it’s not something that can be fixed with quick fixes or Band-Aids. For twelve-year-old Malú (or Maria Luisa, if you’d like to ruffle her feathers), the initial experience was particularly challenging.
Within hours of stepping foot into Posada Middle School, she inadvertently drew attention from the school’s self-proclaimed queen bee, breached the dress code with her bold punk rock attire, and failed to meet her college-professor mother’s expectations. Adding insult to injury, her distant dad offered some parting words of wisdom – that things would improve if Malú simply stuck to being herself.
Flying Solo by Ralph Fletcher
As fate would have it, Mr. Fabiano’s substitute never materializes, leaving his sixth-grade students to take matters into their own hands. With a dash of creativity and strategic thinking, they might just find themselves capable of running the class without a hitch. However, when tensions boil over between Bastian Fauvell and Rachel White in a heated argument over a classmate’s memory – Tommy Feathers, who tragically passed away six months prior – the whole dynamic begins to unravel.
Can Rachel confront the emotional scars that have silenced her since Tommy’s passing, or will they continue to hold her back?
Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson
In a space where no adults were present to influence their conversations, six kids found solace in sharing their thoughts and emotions with each other. The room they dubbed the ARTT Room (A Room to Talk) became a sanctuary where they could freely discuss their struggles, from Esteban’s father being deported to Haley’s father being incarcerated. Amari’s fears of racial profiling and Ashton’s adjustments to his family’s changing circumstances were also openly addressed.
As they navigated these challenges together, the six kids developed a sense of bravery and resilience that would serve them well in facing the uncertainties of their lives.
I, Funny by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein
Jamie Grimm’s determination to become a standup comedian is unwavering, despite the challenges he faces as a middle schooler adjusting to life in a new town. He’s forced to navigate a difficult living situation with his aunt, uncle, and their manipulative son Stevie, who takes pleasure in targeting Jamie’s wheelchair for bullying purposes. However, Jamie refuses to let his circumstances dictate his fate.
When he learns about The Planet’s Funniest Kid Comic contest, he sees an opportunity to prove himself and silence doubters like Stevie. But as Jamie navigates the world of comedy, he must confront the possibility that others may be motivated by pity rather than genuine appreciation for his talent, leaving him to wonder if he’ll ever be able to reveal the truth about his troubled past.
Ghost by Jason Reynolds
Ghost, known as Castle Cranshaw, has spent his life running from one thing to another, never quite finding a sense of belonging. The thrill of competition is what drives him, but it’s not the track that he’s always been drawn to – it’s basketball. However, when Ghost impulsively challenges an elite sprinter to a race and unexpectedly emerges victorious, the Olympic medalist coach spots something in him: innate speed and a raw talent waiting to be harnessed.
But there’s more to Ghost than just his impressive physical gifts – he also carries a deep-seated anger and a troubled past that refuses to stay buried. Can he channel his passion for running into a successful partnership with the track team, or will his demons finally catch up with him?
The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
Holling Hoodhood, a seventh-grader at Camillo Junior High, is stuck with Mrs. Baker every Wednesday afternoon while the rest of the class receives religious instruction. His teacher’s disdain for him is palpable – why else would she assign him to read Shakespearean plays outside of class? Meanwhile, the world around him is grappling with more pressing concerns, like the tumultuous situation in Vietnam.
At home, Holling’s father is keenly aware that his business success hinges on his children’s good behavior. But for Holling, it’s a constant struggle to stay out of trouble amidst the chaos. From a bully demanding cream puffs to angry rats and a baseball hero signing autographs on the same night he has to perform in a play – all while wearing yellow tights!
As fate continues to conspire against him, Holling discovers unexpected sources of motivation and finds the courage to take control of his destiny, despite himself.
Drama by Raina Telgemeier
Callie’s passion for theater knows no bounds, but her lack of vocal talent means she’s had to find alternative ways to contribute to the school’s productions. This year, she’s set her sights on designing a set that would make Broadway proud – all without breaking the bank or requiring extensive carpentry skills. However, her challenges are far from limited to the technical aspects of set design.
The drama department is facing internal conflicts and financial woes, making it difficult for Callie to bring her vision to life. To make matters more complicated, a pair of charming brothers enter the scene, adding an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the mix.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
August Pullman’s journey begins with a unique facial characteristic that has long kept him from attending a traditional school. As he starts 5th grade at Beecher Prep, Auggie yearns to be perceived as an ordinary kid by his peers. However, his new classmates struggle to look beyond his extraordinary face, which sets the stage for a poignant exploration of identity, acceptance, and the challenges that come with being different.
El Deafo by Cece Bell
Cece’s first day at a new school was daunting, especially with a prominent hearing aid strapped to her chest. At her previous school, everyone in her class shared her same experience of being deaf. Here, she felt like an outsider. The Phonic Ear, a powerful device meant to help her hear, only seemed to make things worse, as she expected kids to stare at it. Her anxiety was palpable, wondering if the device would also repel potential friends.
However, Cece stumbled upon an unexpected discovery – with the Phonic Ear, she could not only hear her teacher in the classroom but anywhere they were within the school’s premises, including the hallway, lounge, and even the bathroom! This newfound power was intoxicating, making her feel like a true superhero, aptly named El Deafo, Listener for All. Yet, as Cece delved deeper into this superpower, she realized that being different can also be isolating.
Can she harness her abilities to find what she desires most – a genuine friend?
High School
Looking for Alaska by John Green
Miles ‘Pudge’ Halter has grown tired of the monotony of his life at home. The absence of excitement and adventure has left him yearning for something more profound – a ‘Great Perhaps’. This existential crisis propels him to Culver Creek Boarding School, where he is thrust into a whirlwind of unpredictability. Amidst this chaos, Pudge encounters Alaska Young, an enigmatic individual whose captivating presence embodies the very essence of the Great Perhaps.
Her radiant beauty, sharp intellect, and irrepressible energy captivate Pudge, drawing him into her orbit and forever altering his trajectory.
Hero by S.L. Rottman
As a 15-year-old, Sean’s world has been turned upside down – with no one to look up to and nothing left to lose, he feels like he’s got nowhere to go. But then, everything changes when he gets arrested. The only way for Sean to clear his name is by serving community service on Mr. Hassler’s farm. He can simply do the minimum required or take a chance to confront the chaos that has consumed his life. It’s a choice that could change everything.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Starr Carter, a 16-year-old student, navigates two distinct environments: the impoverished neighborhood where she resides and the affluent prep school she attends. This precarious equilibrium is disrupted when Starr witnesses the senseless shooting of her childhood friend Khalil by a police officer, who was unarmed at the time. The incident gains national attention, with some people labeling Khalil as a thug or a gangbanger.
As protests erupt in his name, local law enforcement and a notorious drug lord attempt to intimidate Starr’s family, seeking to silence her. But there’s one person who can shed light on what really transpired that fateful night: Starr herself. However, what she chooses to say – or not say – could have far-reaching consequences for her community, putting her very life at risk.
The Rest of Us Just Live Here by Patrick Ness
What if being the hero isn’t a predestined fate? What if instead of fighting apocalyptic forces or supernatural entities, you’re more concerned with navigating the everyday struggles of high school? Like, what if you’re just trying to make it through graduation and attend prom without any catastrophic events intervening? Perhaps, like Mikey, you’re more focused on building up the courage to ask your crush out than saving the world.
This thought experiment encourages us to seek out the extraordinary in our ordinary lives, finding purpose and meaning beyond grand, globe-threatening crises.
Final Draft by Riley Redgate
As an 18-year-old, Laila Piedra’s idea of risk is limited to the fictional worlds she creates in her stories – think epic sci-fi adventures filled with quests, forbidden love, and robots. Her creative writing teacher has always praised her unique talent, but when a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist like Nadiya Nazarenko takes over just three months before graduation, everything changes.
Nazarenko’s unconventional assignments initially seem absurd, but Laila soon becomes fixated on impressing the notoriously critical mentor. As she pushes herself beyond her comfort zone, exploring nightlife, fleeting relationships, and uncertainty, Laila starts to believe that she must choose between perfection and sanity – a choice that may only be resolved by breaking free from Nazarenko’s all-powerful influence.
This is Where It Ends by Marieke Nijkamp
As Opportunity High School’s principal wrapped up her motivational speech at 10:00 a. m., signaling the start of a new semester, the students’ minds were already racing with anticipation for what lay ahead. Little did they know, their morning routine was about to take an unexpected and deadly turn. Within a mere three minutes, chaos erupted as the auditorium doors refused to budge, trapping students inside. And just as panic began to set in at 10:05 a. m.
, the sound of gunfire shattered the silence, plunging the school into a heart-pumping game of survival that would last for what felt like an eternity – a total of fifty-four agonizing minutes.
The DUFF: Designated Ugly Fat Friend by Kody Keplinger
Bianca Piper, a 17-year-old high school student, embodies cynicism and loyalty, but her self-perception is far from flawless. She’s convinced she’s not the most attractive among her peers, and her intelligence only makes her more skeptical of the charms wielded by popular guy Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca detests him, and when he reduces her to ‘the Duff,’ she retaliates with a Coke-filled response.
However, her world is turned upside down as she navigates the turmoil at home and desperately seeks an escape. Her impulsive decision to kiss Wesley takes an unexpected turn – she enjoys it. Seeking solace in a tumultuous enemies-with-benefits relationship with him, Bianca soon finds herself entwined in a messy situation. But as their connection deepens, she discovers that beneath his façade lies a complex individual whose struggles mirror her own.
The realization dawns on Bianca with crushing intensity: she’s falling for the person she once despised above all others.
The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier
As Jerry Renault gazes at the thought-provoking poster in his locker, he finds himself grappling with the weighty query: Do I dare disrupt the status quo? Initially, it may seem like a small act of rebellion to refuse participating in Trinity’s annual school fundraiser by selling chocolates. However, when Jerry dares to challenge The Vigils, a secretive and influential school society, his defiant stance sparks an intense conflict that puts everything at stake.
Now, as tensions escalate, the only question remaining is: Who will emerge unscathed from this all-out war?
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
Justyce McAllister’s academic achievements, including being at the top of his class and set to attend an Ivy League university, seem inconsequential when a police officer places him in handcuffs. The ridicule from former peers and classmates alike only intensifies Justyce’s struggles as he navigates his new environment. Seeking guidance, he turns to the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., keeping a journal as a means of exploring their relevance in today’s world. As he reflects on Dr.
King’s words, a pivotal moment unfolds: Justyce and his best friend Manny are driving with the windows down, music blasting, when a white off-duty cop intervenes, sparking a confrontation that quickly escalates into chaos. The media fallout ensues, with Justyce at its epicenter, facing scrutiny and criticism that threatens to upend his entire world.
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Melinda’s social status plummeted after she broke up an end-of-summer party by summoning the authorities. As a result, her peers shunned her, refusing even to engage in conversation with her. The once-vibrant Melinda gradually withdrew into herself, her voice all but silenced by the crushing isolation. A glimmer of hope emerged, however, when she found solace in her art class.
It was through the therapeutic process of creating that she finally mustered the courage to confront the traumatic events of that fateful night.
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
At Mica Area High School, a long-standing unwritten rule dictates that students should blend in seamlessly with their peers. For Leo Borlock, this meant avoiding any actions that might draw attention to himself. However, everything changed when Stargirl burst onto the scene, radiating an infectious energy and a kaleidoscope of colors. As she began her tenth-grade year after 15 years of homeschooling, the entire student body was captivated by her unique spirit and ukulele-playing skills.
But as Stargirl’s individuality became more pronounced, the delicate social hierarchy at Mica High began to topple, leaving her ostracized for her very differences. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, Leo Borlock found himself inexplicably smitten with Stargirl, his ordinary life forever altered by her extraordinary presence.
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
In a seemingly idyllic English boarding school setting, far removed from the urban influences, students at Hailsham are carefully nurtured and supported. They’re taught to excel in art and literature, shaping them into the kind of individuals society deems desirable. However, a peculiar aspect of their education is the complete lack of knowledge about the outside world. Their interactions with it are strictly limited, as if they’re meant to remain sheltered from reality.
Within Hailsham’s confines, Kathy evolves from schoolgirl to young woman alongside her friends Ruth and Tommy. But it’s only when they venture beyond the school’s secure boundaries – a transition they always knew was inevitable – that they discover the shocking truth about their existence at Hailsham.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Stephen Chbosky’s debut novel, Perks of Being a Wallflower, is a poignant coming-of-age tale that explores the complexities of adolescence. The story follows Charlie, an introverted protagonist, as he navigates the challenges and uncertainties of transitioning from childhood to adulthood. With themes of first love, family struggles, and social awkwardness, Charlie’s journey is a relatable and authentic portrayal of growing up.
Through his experiences with sex, drugs, and music – including a memorable night spent watching The Rocky Horror Picture Show – Charlie must confront the harsh realities of life, including loss and heartbreak, while learning to find balance between living in the moment and escaping into fantasy.
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
Xiomara Batista’s voice was stifled by the unspoken rules of her Harlem neighborhood. As her body transformed into curves, she learned to express herself through her fists and a fierce determination. However, this fiery spirit wasn’t enough; Xiomara yearned to share her thoughts, feelings, and frustrations with others. She found solace in a leather-bound notebook, pouring her emotions onto the pages like a prayer.
Her secret passion was ignited when she caught feelings for Aman, a boy from her bio class, whose existence had to remain hidden from her family. With Mami’s unwavering dedication to upholding church teachings, Xiomara understood that her thoughts were best kept private. When an invitation to join the school’s slam poetry club arrived, she was torn between the desire to share her words and the fear of being discovered by her mami.
Despite the risks, Xiomara couldn’t shake off the idea of performing her poems aloud. In a world where her voice might not be welcomed, she refused to remain silent, driven by an insatiable urge to be heard.
One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
As the clock struck Monday afternoon at Bayview High, five students found themselves facing an unexpected detention session. Among them were Bronwyn, a Yale-bound student with a penchant for perfection; Addy, the quintessential beauty and homecoming princess; Nate, already on probation for dealing; Cooper, the star baseball pitcher; and Simon, the mastermind behind Bayview’s infamous gossip app. However, the meeting would prove to be Simon’s last.
Before detention was over, he fell victim to a tragic and untimely death, with investigators concluding that his demise was anything but accidental. The twist? Simon had planned to expose his classmates’ deepest secrets just 24 hours later. The suspects list read like a Who’s Who of Bayview’s elite: Bronwyn, Addy, Nate, and Cooper. But are they really guilty of murder or merely pawns in a game orchestrated by the true killer, still at large?
College
Paul Takes the Form of a Mortal Girl by Andrea Lawlor
In 1993, Paul Polydoris navigated the vibrant scene of a university town steeped in politics and revelry. As a bartender at the only gay club in town, he immersed himself in the world of queer theory, surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared his passion for zines, Women’s Studies, and alternative lifestyles. Amidst this backdrop of camaraderie and self-expression, Paul harbored a hidden truth: he possessed the extraordinary ability to transform his body at will.
This remarkable gift led him on a thrilling odyssey that took him from Iowa City to Boystown, Provincetown, and ultimately, San Francisco—a journey marked by both struggle and pleasure as he explored the rich queer archives of the time.
Level Up by Gene Luen Yang, Illustrated by Thien Pham
Dennis Ouyang’s life had always been scripted by his parents’ expectations. A predetermined route was laid out for him: excel in high school, pursue a career as a gastroenterologist. The journey seemed straightforward enough – until it took an unexpected turn. Following his father’s passing, Dennis felt overwhelmed by academic pressure and the all-consuming distraction of video games. His college life came to a abrupt halt when he got kicked out. And then, the surreal began.
Four endearing yet overbearing angels materialized, reminiscent of saccharine greeting card scenes, taking charge of Dennis’s existence. As they herded him back onto the path his family envisioned – one leading to gastroenterology – Dennis discovered that nothing was as it seemed when reality, magic, and the world of video games converged.
The Art of Fielding by Chad Harbach
Henry Skrimshander, the star baseball player at Westish College, seemed poised for greatness on the shores of Lake Michigan. However, when a routine throw goes awry, the lives of five individuals are forever changed. Henry’s battle with self-doubt threatens to derail his future in the major leagues. Meanwhile, college president Guert Affenlight finds himself smitten and helpless in love, sparking a chain reaction that affects everyone around him.
Owen Dunne, Henry’s roommate and teammate, becomes entangled in a perilous romance, while Mike Schwartz, the team captain and Henry’s best friend, begins to question his role in guiding Henry’s career at the expense of his own aspirations. As Pella Affenlight returns to Westish after escaping an unhappy marriage, she sets out to forge a new path for herself.
The Groves of Academe by Mary McCarthy
Henry Mulcahy, a literature instructor at Jocelyn College, received disheartening news: his appointment would not be renewed. Perceiving the decision as a personal vendetta fueled by his exceptional teaching abilities and independence of thought, Mulcahy felt targeted in a witch-hunt orchestrated by the college president. With a sense of injustice driving him, Mulcahy embarked on a quest for vindication, ultimately exposing the true depths of his ethical character in the process.
American Panda by Gloria Chao
At seventeen, Mei’s life was meticulously crafted by her parents, who had deliberately skipped fourth grade for her. Now, as a freshman at MIT, she’s poised to fulfill the rest of their predetermined plan: become a doctor, marry a pre-approved Taiwanese Ivy Leaguer, and produce a family.
With everything her parents have sacrificed to make her life comfortable, Mei struggles to reveal the truth – that she despises germs, dozes off in biology classes, and harbors a crush for classmate Darren Takahashi, who is not Taiwanese by any stretch of the imagination. Mei’s connection with her estranged brother Xing, who defied family expectations by dating outside their cultural norms, prompts her to question the true value of secrets.
Can she find a way to be authentic, whoever that may be, before her web of deception crumbles?
Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up to Me by Richard Fariña
As he navigates the vibrant tapestry of the Sixties, Gnossus Pappadopoulis’s journey is marked by encounters with a diverse array of experiences that shape his perspective. From the transformative power of mescaline to the complexities of human relationships, artistic expressions, and personal struggles, Pappadopoulis’s odyssey is a rich tapestry woven from threads of art, science, spirituality, and the quest for truth.
Emergency Contact by Mary H.K. Choi
Penny Lee’s high school experience was uneventful, with average grades, tolerable friends, and a boyfriend who remained oblivious to her inner world. College beckoned, offering a fresh start in Austin, Texas, where she would pursue her passion for writing. The 79-mile distance from her hometown seemed a universe away from the stagnation she sought to escape. Meanwhile, Sam was stuck – literally, figuratively, and emotionally – in a rut.
He worked at a café, slept on its floor, and struggled to make ends meet. His dying laptop and dwindling bank account ($17) were constant reminders that this was the low point he’d later draw inspiration from as a famous movie director. When Penny and Sam’s paths crossed, it wasn’t a charming encounter; instead, they stumbled into an awkwardness-filled collision.
Yet, they exchanged numbers and maintained a digital connection, sharing their deepest fears and secret aspirations through text messages. As the days passed, they became inseparable online acquaintances, trading secrets without the humiliation of face-to-face interactions.
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Cath’s relationship with fandom has become an integral part of her identity, a coping mechanism that allows her to connect with her sister Wren, who is now drifting away from their shared passion. As they prepare to start college, Wren announces she no longer wants to room with Cath, leaving her feeling isolated and out of her element. Her new roommate, a self-assured individual with a charismatic boyfriend always by their side, only adds to Cath’s discomfort.
To make matters worse, her fiction-writing professor views fan fiction as an abomination, further solidifying Cath’s sense of disconnection. Amidst this turmoil, Cath also worries about her father’s well-being, a loving and vulnerable individual who has never truly been alone. As she navigates the uncertainties of college life, Cath must confront the question: Can she find a way to adapt and thrive in this new environment?
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
In Tokyo’s bustling streets, college student Toru’s reserved nature belies his deep emotional investment in Naoko, a striking and contemplative young woman. The weight of their shared grief – the tragic loss of their closest friend years prior – hangs like an unspoken understanding between them. As Toru navigates campus life, he grapples with the harsh realities of loneliness and isolation.
Meanwhile, Naoko’s struggles to cope with the demands and responsibilities of adulthood become increasingly overwhelming, causing her to retreat further into her own world. In this void, Toru finds himself reaching out to others, drawn to the enigmatic charm of a fiercely independent and sexually liberated young woman.
Wonder Boys by Michael Chabon
Michael Chabon weaves a captivating narrative that balances humor and poignancy. At its core lies the poignant tale of an unlikely friendship between two men: Grady, a once-promising writer now struggling to find his creative spark, and Crabtree, whose self-destructive tendencies are threatening to derail his professional trajectory.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
As students of an elite New England college, this group of exceptional individuals was profoundly impacted by their charismatic professor of classics. This intellectual and artistic mentor inspired them to think and live in ways that diverged significantly from the mundane routines of their peers. Initially, they became increasingly consumed by a passion for learning and a desire to push boundaries.
However, as they continued down this path, they began to cross into morally ambiguous territory, gradually succumbing to the corrupting influences of obsession, betrayal, and ultimately, evil.
On Beauty by Zadie Smith
Howard Belsey, a Rembrandt scholar who harbors an unexpected distaste for the artist’s work, is an Englishman navigating unfamiliar terrain as a professor at Wellington, a liberal arts college in New England. Married to Kiki, an American woman whose youthful spark has mellowed with time, Howard has spent three decades trying to make sense of his life.
His children, meanwhile, are forging their own paths: Levi chases authenticity, Zora believes intellectuals can heal the world, and Jerome wrestles with faith in a family where atheism is deeply ingrained. As he confronts the unwavering passions of his offspring, Howard feels as though the first two acts of his life have concluded without a clear script for the finale or encore.
Moo by Jane Smiley
In the heartland of America, Moo University is a renowned agricultural institution set amidst rolling hills of cornfields and grazing pastures. The campus hums with intrigue, as departmental chairmen, provosts, and professors navigate complex webs of relationships, rivalries, and hidden agendas. Chairman X of the Horticulture Department harbors a secret desire to eliminate Dean Walker, while Mrs. Walker, the provost’s confidant, is well-versed in the art of manipulation.
In another corner, Associate Professor Timothy Nonahan believes that eavesdropping can be an effective tool for creative writing exercises. Meanwhile, Bob Carlson, a sophomore, finds solace and companionship with his beloved hog, Earl Butz.
Gaudy Night by Dorothy L. Sayers
In Gaudy Night, Harriet and her partner, Lord Peter, embark on a trip to Oxford University, where Harriet studied, with the intention of reconnecting with their past. However, their reunion takes an unexpected turn as they become entangled in a web of mysterious threats and harassment that leaves them questioning their safety.
This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald’s This Side of Paradise is a poignant coming-of-age tale that chronicles Amory Blaine’s journey from prep school to Princeton, and eventually, the uncertain beginnings of his career in New York City. The novel masterfully captures Amory’s inner turmoil as he navigates between ambition and idleness, driven by a desire to be part of the elite crowd at Princeton. His romantic escapades with beautiful young ‘flappers’ serve as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of life’s pleasures.
Through intensely lyrical prose, Fitzgerald conveys the longing that permeates Amory’s experiences, highlighting the bittersweet realization that the sweetest moments in life are ephemeral and susceptible to being lost in memory. If you’re ready to embark on new literary adventures, consider exploring the realm of works set in schools or perhaps venturing into the vast expanse of space.