Top 20 Best Books on High School:2024 Edition

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Eleanor & Park

by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park, a book about high school, follows the story of two misfit teenagers who form an unlikely bond on the school bus. Set in the 1980s, this high school book delves into the complexities of first love, family dynamics, and the struggles of being an outsider. Eleanor, with her wild red hair and eclectic style, doesn’t quite fit in at school, while Park, a half-Korean boy, grapples with his own sense of belonging. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, their connection deepens, offering a poignant exploration of the power of young love and the resilience of the human spirit. Rainbow Rowell’s rich and authentic storytelling captures the raw emotions and experiences of growing up, making Eleanor & Park a captivating and heart-wrenching read for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in.

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The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful and timely high school book that tackles issues of race, identity, and police brutality. The story follows Starr Carter, a 16-year-old who navigates between two worlds – the poor neighborhood where she lives and the prestigious prep school she attends. When Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend by a police officer, her world is turned upside down. As she grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, Starr finds her voice and becomes an outspoken advocate for justice. The novel delves into the complexities of high school life, friendship, and the struggles of being a person of color in America. The Hate U Give is a poignant and thought-provoking book about high school that sheds light on important social issues.

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Speak

by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson is a compelling young adult novel that delves into the complexities of high school life. The story follows Melinda, a freshman who becomes an outcast after calling the police on a summer party. As she navigates the challenges of high school, Melinda struggles with finding her voice and overcoming the trauma of the incident. Through Melinda’s journey, the book explores themes of identity, communication, and resilience. Anderson’s poignant writing and authentic portrayal of adolescence make this book a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking high school story. With its raw emotion and powerful message, Speak is a timeless high school book that resonates with readers of all ages.

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The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of Charlie, a shy and introverted freshman in high school. The story is told through a series of letters that Charlie writes to an anonymous friend, chronicling his experiences with friendship, love, and loss. Set in the early 1990s, the book captures the complexities of adolescence, dealing with issues such as mental health, substance abuse, and sexual identity. Through its raw and honest portrayal of high school life, The Perks of Being a Wallflower has resonated with readers as a poignant and relatable ‘high school book’ that explores the universal struggles of growing up.

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Looking for Alaska

by John Green

Looking for Alaska is a captivating coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Miles “Pudge” Halter as he navigates the ups and downs of his first year at Culver Creek Preparatory High School. This high school book is filled with love, friendship, and self-discovery as Pudge befriends the enigmatic and unpredictable Alaska Young, who leads him on a thrilling journey of self-discovery. As Pudge and his friends grapple with the complexities of adolescence, the story explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the search for meaning in life. John Green‘s poignant and beautifully written narrative captures the essence of the high school experience, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally stirring book about high school.

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Thirteen Reasons Why

by Jay Asher

Thirteen Reasons Why is a captivating book about high school life, written by Jay Asher. The story revolves around the aftermath of a tragic event involving a high school student, Hannah Baker, who leaves behind a series of cassette tapes explaining the thirteen reasons why she decided to take her own life. The protagonist, Clay Jensen, receives the tapes and embarks on an emotional journey as he listens to Hannah’s haunting revelations. The book delves deep into the complexities of high school relationships, bullying, and the impact of one’s actions on others. With its raw, honest storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Thirteen Reasons Why offers a powerful exploration of the struggles faced by teenagers in a high school setting. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling and poignant portrayal of the challenges of adolescence.

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Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

by Becky Albertalli

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda is a heartwarming and witty book about high school life, friendship, and romance. The story follows Simon, a sixteen-year-old boy who is not ready to come out as gay to his friends and family. When his secret emails with another closeted student, who goes by the pseudonym Blue, are discovered by a classmate, Simon finds himself being blackmailed. As he navigates this challenging situation, Simon also embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns the true meaning of love and acceptance. This high school book is filled with relatable characters, genuine emotions, and laugh-out-loud moments that will resonate with readers of all ages.

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The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a poignant and heart-wrenching high school book that follows the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a 16-year-old girl diagnosed with cancer. The novel explores Hazel’s life and her relationship with Augustus Waters, a charming and witty fellow cancer patient whom she meets at a support group. As they navigate the complexities of life, love, and mortality, the book delves into the universal themes of hope, love, and the human experience. John Green’s masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this book about high school a must-read for teenagers and adults alike. The Fault in Our Stars is a moving and unforgettable tale that will leave readers both heartbroken and inspired.

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To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before

by Jenny Han

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han is a charming book about high school life, secrets, and first love. The story follows Lara Jean, a high school junior who writes secret love letters to all her crushes but never intends to send them. However, her world is turned upside down when the letters are mysteriously mailed out, and her past loves confront her. As Lara Jean navigates the aftermath, she enters into a fake relationship with one of the recipients, leading to unexpected feelings and discoveries about herself. Set in the backdrop of high school, the novel beautifully captures the complexities of teenage emotions, friendships, and family dynamics. With its relatable characters and heartwarming moments, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is a delightful book on high school romance and self-discovery that will resonate with readers of all ages.

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The Catcher in the Rye

by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who struggles with the phoniness and hypocrisy of the adult world. The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of adolescence, as Holden navigates through the challenges of growing up, identity, and loss. Set in the backdrop of New York City, the novel captures the angst and alienation that many teenagers experience as they transition into adulthood. It’s a timeless high school book that continues to resonate with readers of all ages, exploring themes of rebellion, alienation, and the search for authenticity. Salinger’s masterful storytelling and Holden’s unique voice make this a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in.

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The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a classic high school book that delves into the lives of two rival gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, who are divided by their socioeconomic status. The story follows Ponyboy Curtis, a young Greaser who struggles with the pressure to conform to the expectations of his society. As tensions rise between the two groups, the novel explores themes of friendship, violence, and the struggles of adolescence. Hinton’s poignant portrayal of the challenges faced by teenagers in a high school setting has made The Outsiders a timeless coming-of-age story that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

by Sherman Alexie

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is a captivating book about high school that follows the story of Junior, a young Native American boy who decides to leave his troubled high school on the reservation to attend an all-white school in a nearby town. Through his diary entries and cartoons, Junior shares his experiences as he navigates the challenges of fitting in at his new school while still maintaining his cultural identity. Alexie’s raw and honest portrayal of high school life addresses issues of racism, poverty, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. With humor and heart, this high school book explores the universal themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams.

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Fangirl

by Rainbow Rowell

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell is a captivating high school book that follows the story of Cath, a socially anxious freshman who struggles with the transition to college. As an avid fanfiction writer, Cath finds solace in the world of Simon Snow, a popular fantasy series. However, as she navigates her way through the challenges of college life, including roommates, boys, and family issues, Cath must confront her fears and find her own voice. Rowell’s novel beautifully captures the complexities of growing up, the importance of finding one’s identity, and the power of fandom and creativity. With its relatable characters and heartfelt storytelling, Fangirl is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt a little lost in the tumultuous world of high school.

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Looking for Alaska

by Peter Jenkins

Looking for Alaska by Peter Jenkins is a captivating book about high school that follows the author’s journey as he embarks on a quest to explore the real America. With a desire to understand the country beyond the typical tourist attractions, Jenkins sets out on a road trip that takes him through the heart of America’s high school culture. Along the way, he encounters a diverse range of people and experiences, providing a unique and eye-opening perspective on the complexities of American life. From small towns to big cities, from high school football games to local diners, Jenkins immerses himself in the fabric of everyday America, offering an intimate and thought-provoking look at the country’s high school landscape. This poignant and insightful high school book is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the real America.

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The DUFF: (Designated Ugly Fat Friend)

by Kody Keplinger

The DUFF: (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by Kody Keplinger is a captivating book about high school life, friendship, and self-discovery. The story follows Bianca, a smart and outspoken high school student who finds herself labeled as the “DUFF” by the school’s popular jock Wesley. As she navigates through the complexities of teenage life, Bianca grapples with her identity, relationships, and the pressures of fitting in. The novel delves into themes of self-esteem, body image, and the dynamics of high school social circles. With its authentic portrayal of high school experiences, The DUFF is a relatable and engaging read for young adult readers. Keplinger’s compelling storytelling and memorable characters make this high school book a must-read for anyone seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking story.

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The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History is a captivating novel that delves into the dark and twisted world of a group of college students. Set in a prestigious university, this book on high school explores the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the consequences of delving too deeply into the past. The story follows a tight-knit group of students as they become entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and murder. As the narrative unfolds, the characters’ intense personalities and their shared obsession with ancient Greek philosophy and culture add a layer of intrigue and mystery to this high school book. Donna Tartt’s masterful writing draws readers into a world of privilege, academia, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, making The Secret History a compelling and unforgettable read.

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The Chocolate War

by Robert Cormier

The Chocolate War by Robert Cormier is a captivating book about high school life and the power struggles that occur within it. The story follows Jerry Renault, a freshman at an all-boys Catholic high school, as he defies the school’s corrupt student body by refusing to participate in the annual chocolate sale. What follows is a gripping tale of rebellion, peer pressure, and the consequences of standing up for what you believe in. The novel delves into the dark and complex dynamics of high school politics, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the complexities of adolescence. With its raw and unflinching portrayal of the high school experience, The Chocolate War is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling high school book.

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The Bell Jar

by Sylvia Plath

The Bell Jar, written by Sylvia Plath, is a captivating novel that delves into the life of Esther Greenwood, a young woman navigating her way through the challenges of adolescence and early adulthood. Set in the 1950s, the book explores Esther’s experiences as she struggles with the pressures of society, relationships, and her own mental health. This compelling coming-of-age story provides a raw and poignant look at the complexities of growing up and the impact of societal expectations on young women. With its vivid and evocative prose, The Bell Jar is a must-read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking and introspective book about high school and the journey to self-discovery.

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The Princess Diaries

by Meg Cabot

The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot is a delightful and humorous coming-of-age story about a teenage girl named Mia Thermopolis who discovers she is actually a princess of a small European country. The book follows Mia’s journey as she navigates the challenges of high school life while also trying to come to terms with her newfound royal identity. Readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of teenage emotions as Mia grapples with friendship, romance, and the responsibilities that come with being a princess. With its relatable characters and engaging storytelling, this book about high school has captured the hearts of readers of all ages. The Princess Diaries is a must-read for anyone looking for a lighthearted and entertaining high school book that explores the complexities of teenage life.

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The Spectacular Now

by Tim Tharp

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp is a compelling book about high school that delves into the complexities of adolescence and self-discovery. The novel follows the story of Sutter Keely, a charismatic and carefree high school senior who is navigating the challenges of growing up, relationships, and his own personal demons. As Sutter embarks on a journey of self-reflection and introspection, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster filled with poignant moments and raw honesty. Tharp’s masterful storytelling captures the essence of teenage life, portraying the highs and lows of high school with authenticity and depth. The Spectacular Now is a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and relatable book on high school that explores the complexities of youth and the transition to adulthood.