Looking for Alaska, by John Green, is about one boy’s search for meaning. Miles “Pudge” Halter lived a relatively boring and normal life until his arrival at Culver Creek’s Boarding School. It is there that he first meets the brilliant, lovely, and undoubtedly complicated Alaska Young, who sets off a chain of events that will irrevocably change him and his perspective on life.
Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin is thought to be semi-autobiographical, being based on Baldwin's own life. James Baldwin, in case anyone doesn’t know, is a renowned author (and my favorite author) best known for his works, Giovanni's Room and If Beale Street Could Talk.
Lucy Albright is very nervous to see her ex-boyfriend, Stephen, at her friend’s wedding. They have a very intense and complex past. In 2010, they got together after seeing each other at a party. While Lucy gets very attached to Stephen, he doesn’t reciprocate the feelings. As their relationship gets more complicated, feelings are hurt, secrets are spilled and people are torn apart.
Lord of The Flies is a very interesting and popular book depicting the concept of human nature, society, and morality. This book takes place during World War II when a group of British boys get stuck on an island from their plane. There were older boys on the island like Ralph, Piggy, Simon, Jack, and the choir boys who were about the ages of twelve to fourteen. The younger boys included Jonny, Henry, and Jack are about the age of six. The boys came together after Ralph blew the conch which Piggy gave him the idea to.
Stargirl is a fascinating novel that explores themes of individuality, nonconformity and the challenges of fitting in. The story is about Leo Borlock, an ordinary high school student in Mica, Arizona, whose world is completely changed when Stargirl Caraway, a quirky and free-spirited new girl, arrives at school. She is not like anyone Leo—or the rest of the school—has ever met. She wears strange clothing, plays the ukulele and sings to people on their birthdays. Initially, her personality made her very popular.
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo is a coming-of-age novel about finding your voice. It follows Xiomara, a Dominican teen in Harlem who feels unheard and misunderstood, especially by her strict and religious mother. Xiomara pours her feelings into poetry, expressing her struggles with faith, family and her first love. When she joins a slam poetry club, she starts to embrace her voice and identity, even when it means standing up to those she loves.
Lord of the Flies is an exploration of human nature and the mask of civilization that keeps our instincts in check. The novel is set on a deserted island after a plane crash and highlights the boys' decline from order into chaos as they try to govern themselves. However, it slowly turns into savagery. Golding uses characters like Ralph, Piggy, Jack, and Simon to represent different parts of society, morality, and human behavior. The conch shell becomes a powerful symbol of order and democracy.
Growing up in New England during the Civil War, the women of the March family learn to navigate their individuality. Each sister is adorned with a distinct attitude that provides a balanced yet complex sibling dynamic. Jo is an independent writer while Meg is amicable and responsible. Amy adores painting and extravagance, but Beth is a quiet musician.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton will forever remain as one of my favorite novels. Hinton’s exploration of tough themes, including social hierarchies and the emotions involved with growing up and friendship, made the book an emotional, yet important read. The book takes the reader back to the 1960s, and Hinton did a wonderful job displaying that era in contrast to today’s world. Also, it was such an experience learning about each of the Greasers and how unique their personalities were.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a classic novel set in North Carolina during the mid to late 1900s. It follows Kya, a young girl who lives in a marsh with her poor family. Abandoned by her mom and eventually her siblings at the tender age of six, leaving her alone with her abusive and alcoholic father. He too eventually abandoned her at the age of seven.
