What Are Must-Read Classic Books for Middle Schoolers?

Published on March 14, 2023 by Angie J

Parents of middle schoolers! Are you looking for ways to help your child improve their reading skills and engage with complex themes and ideas? Well, look no further than classic books!

Reading classic books can be particularly important for middle schoolers. It's a crucial time for them to develop their reading skills and learn about the world around them. Classic books are often written in a more sophisticated language than contemporary books, which can help your child improve their vocabulary and comprehension skills. Plus, classic books deal with timeless themes such as love, betrayal, and power that are relevant and relatable to young readers.

Reading classic books can also help your child develop a sense of empathy and understanding for people from different cultures, backgrounds, and time periods. This can broaden their perspectives and foster their sense of empathy, making them more informed and compassionate individuals. Additionally, classic books can spark your child's imagination and creativity, encouraging them to think critically and engage with the world in new and exciting ways.

So, if you are a parent of a middle schooler, why not encourage your child to read a classic book? It's a great way to improve their reading skills, engage with complex themes and ideas, and foster a sense of empathy and understanding for the world around them. Who knows, they might just discover a new favorite book and become lifelong readers in the process!

What are some classic book recommendations for middle schoolers?

Are you wondering what classic books you can recommend to your child? Well, here are some awesome options that are sure to keep your middle schooler engaged and inspired!

"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

Set in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, during the Great Depression, this coming-of-age story is narrated by a young girl named Scout Finch. Through her eyes, readers witness her father, attorney Atticus Finch, defend a black man, Tom Robinson, falsely accused of raping a white woman. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and empathy, providing valuable lessons for young readers.

"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain

This classic tale follows the escapades of Huck and Jim as they travel down the Mississippi River in search of freedom and adventure. With its themes of friendship, morality, and the search for self-identity, this book is a great choice for any middle schooler.

"The Giver" by Lois Lowry

This futuristic novel takes place in a society where everything is controlled, from emotions to careers. Your middle schooler will love following the journey of Jonas as he discovers the truth behind his seemingly perfect world and fights for freedom and individuality.

"The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett

This classic tale tells the story of a young girl named Mary who discovers a secret garden and, in the process, learns about the power of friendship, nature, and positive thinking. Your middle schooler will love the magical realism and positive messages of this timeless story.

"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald

This classic novel takes place during the Roaring Twenties and explores themes of love, wealth, and the American Dream. Your middle schooler will be drawn in by the glamorous world of Gatsby and his friends, while also gaining insights into the complexities of human relationships.

"Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

This beloved novel chronicles the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up during the American Civil War. Their story focuses on themes of family, love, and the pursuit of dreams, providing an insightful glimpse into the lives of 19th-century women.

"The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" by Mark Twain

Set in the American Midwest during the 19th century, this classic story revolves around the clever and mischievous Tom Sawyer. The novel highlights the value of friendship and adventure, as Tom and his friends navigate their small-town life, which is filled with treasure hunts, mysterious caves, and childhood mischief.

"Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery

This beloved novel follows the story of a young orphan girl named Anne Shirley who is taken in by a brother and sister on Prince Edward Island. Your middle schooler will love the charm and wit of Anne as she navigates her way through life with her imagination and spirit.

"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien

This classic fantasy novel tells the story of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is whisked away on an adventure with a group of dwarves and a wizard. Your middle schooler will love the adventure and excitement of this epic tale.

"A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle

In this science fiction/fantasy novel, Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe embark on a thrilling journey through space and time to rescue Meg's father from an evil force. Along the way, the characters confront their fears and insecurities, learning valuable lessons about love, friendship, and courage.

"The Secret Garden" by Frances Hodgson Burnett

A story about friendship, growth, and the healing power of nature, centered around a lonely girl who discovers a hidden garden on a mysterious estate.

"The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" by C.S. Lewis

As the first book in the Chronicles of Narnia series, this enchanting fantasy novel follows four siblings who discover a magical world called Narnia through a wardrobe. Together, they must help the noble lion Aslan defeat the evil White Witch and bring an end to her eternal winter.

Hope you found these classic book recommendations helpful! There are so many great options out there to keep your child engaged and inspired. Whether they're into fantasy, adventure, or stories of coming-of-age, there's a classic book out there for every reader. By encouraging your child to read these timeless tales, you can help them expand their horizons, improve their reading skills, and discover the joy of literature. So why not make reading a classic book a part of your family's routine? You might just be surprised at the amazing stories and themes that you discover together!

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