20 best books on school – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to dive into the world of school books? Whether you’re a student, teacher, or just a bookworm with a passion for education, these 20 best books about school are sure to captivate you. From classic tales of friendship and adventure to thought-provoking examinations of the education system, these books offer a unique perspective on the world of academia. So grab your backpack and get ready to embark on a literary journey through the halls of learning!


Educated

by Tara Westover

Educated is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a remarkable journey through the transformative power of education. This eye-opening book on school tells the extraordinary story of Tara Westover, who grew up in a strict and isolated household in rural Idaho.

With no formal education and a family that distrusted the outside world, Westover’s upbringing was far from ordinary. However, her curiosity and thirst for knowledge led her to seek an education, which ultimately changed the trajectory of her life.

Through her determination and resilience, Westover managed to escape her oppressive surroundings and pursue higher education. This book about school paints a vivid picture of her experiences as she navigates the unfamiliar terrain of classrooms, textbooks, and academic pursuits.

As Westover’s understanding of the world expands, so does her sense of self. The power of education not only liberates her from the constraints of her upbringing but also empowers her to challenge the beliefs and norms that were ingrained in her from a young age.

Educated is not just a school book; it is a profound exploration of the human spirit and the transformative nature of knowledge. Westover’s compelling storytelling and introspection make this memoir an inspiring and thought-provoking read.

The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History by Donna Tartt is an extraordinary and captivating book about academia. Set in a prestigious New England college, this mesmerizing novel takes readers on a journey through the dark underbelly of education.

The Catcher in the Rye

by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a captivating coming-of-age novel that takes readers on a wild journey through the mind of a rebellious teenager named Holden Caulfield. This iconic book on school explores themes of innocence, identity, and the challenges of growing up.

Wonder

by R.J. Palacio

Wonder by R.J. Palacio is an extraordinary book on school that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. This heartwarming tale is not your typical book about school; it is an inspiring story that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on the power of kindness.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

by Stephen Chbosky

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a mesmerizing coming-of-age school book that delves deep into the turbulent journey of adolescence. Set in the early 1990s, this book on school takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the life of Charlie, a socially awkward and introverted teenager navigating the complexities of high school.

The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a remarkable book that delves into the world of adolescence, providing readers with a compelling narrative about the challenges faced by young people.

Set in a high school environment, this captivating story tackles important issues such as racism, police brutality, and social justice. It follows the journey of sixteen-year-old Starr Carter, who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed friend Khalil by a police officer.

As Starr grapples with the trauma of the event, she must navigate the complexities of her dual identity: the poor, predominantly black neighborhood where she lives and the predominantly white prep school she attends. The book explores the conflicts that arise as Starr finds the courage to speak up against injustice and fight for the truth.

The Hate U Give is not just another school book; it’s an emotionally charged and thought-provoking exploration of identity, friendship, and the power of using one’s voice to make a difference. Through Angie Thomas’s compelling storytelling, readers are compelled to reflect on the impact of systemic racism and the importance of standing up for what is right.

The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief, a captivating novel by Markus Zusak, is a remarkable book about school that offers a unique perspective on the power of words and the resilience of the human spirit. Set during World War II, this school book takes readers on a captivating journey through the eyes of Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany.

Liesel, a spirited and curious young girl, finds solace in books and words. As she struggles to adapt to her new life, she befriends her foster parents, Hans and Rosa Hubermann, who teach her the importance of kindness and compassion.

Amidst the chaos and destruction of war, Liesel discovers the transformative power of literature. She begins stealing books, hence earning the title “The Book Thief,” and shares her stolen treasures with others, providing a temporary escape from the horrors of reality.

Through her stolen books, Liesel not only finds solace, but also forms unexpected friendships. She befriends a young Jewish man named Max Vandenburg, who seeks refuge in her basement. Their shared love for books and storytelling helps them forge a deep bond that transcends the confines of their war-torn world.

Zusak’s masterful storytelling and poetic prose create a vivid and heart-wrenching portrayal of a young girl’s resilience in the face of adversity. The book on school is a testament to the power of literature in providing comfort, hope, and a means of resistance against oppression.

With its poignant exploration of the human capacity for love, loss, and redemption, The Book Thief is a school book that will leave readers spellbound and deeply moved.

The Bell Jar

by Sylvia Plath

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a captivating book about school that takes readers on a tumultuous journey into the mind of its protagonist, Esther Greenwood. Set in the 1950s, this semiautobiographical novel explores the dark underbelly of the academic world and the pressures that come with it.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

by Sherman Alexie

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a book about school that takes you on an unforgettable journey through the eyes of a teenage boy named Junior. Set in the heart of the Spokane Indian Reservation, this school book provides a raw and honest portrayal of life on the reservation and the challenges that come with it.

Junior is a budding artist and a hopeful basketball player, but he knows that if he wants to break free from the cycle of poverty and alcoholism that plagues his community, he needs to make a change. Despite the many obstacles he faces, Junior decides to transfer to a predominantly white school outside the reservation.

This decision sets off a series of events that force Junior to confront the complexities of identity, friendship, and the harsh realities of growing up. As he navigates the treacherous waters of his new school, Junior grapples with racism, bullying, and the feeling of being caught between two worlds.

With a unique blend of humor and heartbreak, Sherman Alexie masterfully captures the universal struggles of adolescence while shedding light on the specific challenges faced by Native American youth. Through Junior’s diary entries, readers are given a window into the daily triumphs and tribulations of a teenager trying to find his place in the world.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is more than just a book on school; it is a powerful coming-of-age story that explores themes of resilience, cultural identity, and the pursuit of dreams. Alexie’s captivating storytelling and authentic voice make this book about school a must-read for readers of all ages.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars is an extraordinary book on school that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. It is a heart-wrenching tale about two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet and fall in love at a school support group for cancer patients.

The Giver

by Lois Lowry

The Giver, a captivating book on academia, takes readers on an extraordinary journey into a meticulously crafted dystopian society. Lois Lowry’s iconic work, often hailed as a classic, delves into the intricacies of a world where education and knowledge are meticulously controlled to maintain uniformity.

To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

Are you ready to dive into a captivating book on education? Look no further than Harper Lee’s timeless masterpiece, To Kill a Mockingbird. This incredible book about school takes you on a thought-provoking journey through the eyes of young Scout Finch, as she navigates the complexities of life in a small Southern town.

Set in the 1930s, To Kill a Mockingbird explores themes of racial injustice, prejudice, and the power of empathy. The story unfolds as Scout’s father, Atticus Finch, defends Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of raping a white woman. Through Scout’s innocent observations, we witness the harsh realities of a deeply divided society, where justice often takes a backseat to prejudice.

But this school book is not just about the courtroom drama. It is a coming-of-age tale that beautifully captures the essence of childhood, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right. As Scout, her brother Jem, and their friend Dill spend their summers together, they embark on thrilling adventures, discovering the true nature of courage and the existence of both good and evil.

Harper Lee’s exquisite storytelling and vivid characters make To Kill a Mockingbird a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the human condition. This powerful book on school will challenge your beliefs, stir your emotions, and leave an indelible mark on your soul. So, grab a copy of this literary gem and prepare to be transported to a world that will captivate your mind and heart.

Lord of the Flies

by William Golding

Lord of the Flies is a captivating book about school that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the depths of human nature. This timeless masterpiece, written by William Golding, explores the dark side of humanity through the story of a group of schoolboys stranded on a deserted island.

When a plane carrying a group of British schoolboys crashes on a remote island, they are left to fend for themselves without any adult supervision. At first, the boys attempt to establish order and create a mini-society resembling their school, complete with rules and leaders.

However, as time passes and their situation becomes more desperate, the boys’ true nature begins to emerge. The book on school delves into the depths of human savagery, as the boys gradually descend into chaos and violence.

The story is a powerful allegory for the darkness that can lurk within each of us, even in the most civilized of environments. Golding brilliantly explores the themes of power, control, and the loss of innocence, making this school book a thought-provoking read for students of all ages.

Lord of the Flies is a haunting and unforgettable tale that challenges the reader to question their own morality and the nature of society. It serves as a stark reminder that even in the structured world of a school, the darkness within us can easily take over if left unchecked.

The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders, a riveting book about school life, captures the intense drama and emotional turmoil of teenage boys growing up in a tough neighborhood.

The Harry Potter series

by J.K. Rowling

The Harry Potter series, written by the incredible J.K. Rowling, is far more than just a book on school. It takes us on a magical journey through the enchanting world of Hogwarts, a place where young witches and wizards learn and grow. This mesmerizing series is not just a book about school; it is a thrilling adventure filled with friendship, bravery, and the power of love.

Within the pages of these remarkable books, we are introduced to the young Harry Potter, a boy who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. His journey begins when he receives his acceptance letter to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. From that moment on, readers are transported into an extraordinary universe where spells, potions, and mythical creatures come to life.

But this is not your ordinary school book. Rowling’s vivid storytelling and intricate plotlines captivate readers of all ages, as Harry and his friends face numerous challenges, including unraveling the mystery behind the Dark Lord, Lord Voldemort. Alongside his loyal friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, Harry learns valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and the power of unity.

As we delve deeper into the series, we witness the characters grow from wide-eyed students into formidable young wizards, facing the trials and tribulations that come with teenage life. Rowling’s brilliant storytelling intertwines themes of friendship, love, and sacrifice, making the Harry Potter series an unforgettable literary masterpiece.

So, if you’re looking for more than just a book on school, if you seek a tale that will transport you to a world of magic and wonder, then grab a copy of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, and discover the true power of friendship and the magic that lies within.

The Hunger Games

by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a thrilling and captivating book that takes readers on an extraordinary journey set in a dystopian world. This mesmerizing tale is far from your ordinary book about school – it is a heart-pounding adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

Welcome to the thrilling world of The Maze Runner! Strap in for an adrenaline-fueled ride through the pages of this heart-pounding book on school that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The Perks of Being a Student

by Asher Wolf

The Perks of Being a Student is a captivating novel by Asher Wolf that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the ups and downs of the educational experience. This remarkable book about school sheds light on the triumphs and tribulations of students as they navigate the labyrinth of academia.

The Secret Lives of Students

by Dori Ostermiller

Are you ready to uncover the hidden world of adolescents? Look no further than The Secret Lives of Students by Dori Ostermiller, a captivating book that delves into the fascinating lives of teenagers. This brilliant book on school goes beyond textbooks and classrooms, offering a fresh perspective on the complex and often misunderstood lives of students.

The School for Good and Evil

by Soman Chainani

The School for Good and Evil is not your ordinary book about school. It’s a captivating and enchanting tale that takes you on a thrilling journey into a world where fairy tales come to life.

In this book on school, author Soman Chainani weaves a spellbinding story about two best friends, Sophie and Agatha, who find themselves unexpectedly whisked away to the School for Good and Evil. But this is no ordinary school. Here, students are trained to become either heroes or villains in fairy tales.

As Sophie and Agatha navigate through the treacherous trials and challenges of the school, they soon discover that appearances can be deceiving. With magic, adventure, and unexpected twists at every turn, this school book will keep you hooked from start to finish.

But beneath the magic and excitement lies a deeper message about friendship, self-discovery, and the true nature of good and evil. The School for Good and Evil is a thought-provoking and heartwarming tale that will make you question what it truly means to be a hero or a villain.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through a fantastical book about school, then dive into the pages of The School for Good and Evil. Prepare to be spellbound!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about school offer a fascinating glimpse into the diverse and complex world of education. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or simply curious about the school experience, these books will captivate and inspire you. From classic novels to modern memoirs, there’s something for everyone on this list. So, grab a book and embark on a literary journey through the hallowed halls of academia. Happy reading!