The holidays are fast approaching and though you might still have homework or assignments to do, reading a good book (or two) over the break can help you unwind and stay inspired. Many books nowadays talk about the various challenges a person might face during their years in school. These types of books can be helpful if you as a student want to read stories that are easy to relate to. 

The following is a list of book recommendations about school life for students of all ages. Whether you are experiencing new wonders for the first time or are preparing to enter adulthood, there is always a book to accompany you in your journey.

GRADES 1-3

“Going to the Dentist” by Stephen Cartwright

“Going to the Dentist” is a part of a series called Usborne Complete Experiences, which highlights experiences children will face for the first time. “Going to the Dentist” is a fun book for young children to read, and a helpful one too as it guides them through new and sometimes challenging experiences. This book, and the series as a whole, is perfect for children who are experiencing things for the first time.

GRADES 3-4

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web depicts the unlikely friendship between a livestock pig named Wilbur and a barn spider named Charlotte. In danger, Wilber is rescued by Charlotte, who does whatever she can to save him. This book is recommended for children who want to understand how you can be friends with anyone.

 The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Inspired by a true story of a captive gorilla named Ivan, this novel explores the hardships he faced over 27 years while being locked up in a shopping mall. Told from Ivan’s point of view, The One and Only Ivan is a great book for students who love humor and want to understand the importance of friendship.

GRADES 5-8

The Homework Strike by Greg Pincus

The Homework Strike is a story about Gregory, a boy who is overwhelmed with the amount of homework he has to do for school. So, what does he do? He goes on a strike, refusing to do any of his homework. Pincus’s book is a great read for middle-school students who think school is stressful.

 Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Wonder is inspired by a real-life event, when R.J. Palacio’s son noticed a girl with facial differences and began to cry. This novel expresses an important lesson that one’s physical appearance is not as important as one’s kindness and understanding. This book is perfect for all students who struggle through the challenges of friendship and acceptance.

 Slacker by Gordon Korman

Slacker is about a boy named Cameron Boxer, who would rather be hanging out with his friends than doing his homework. He prioritizes having fun and playing video games. As a result, he gets caught up in a game and needs to do some serious damage control. I recommend this book to anyone who tries to break the rules.

All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven

All the Bright Places is a story about two teenagers who want to escape their small town because of traumatic events that have taken place in their lives. Together, they face their emotional and physical scars. If you are a student who enjoy romance novels, this book is perfect for you.

HIGH SCHOOL

“The Walk On” by John Feinstein

“The Walk On” is the first installment in The Triple Threat series. Alex Meyers is a quarterback who wants to show his Coach and team what he’s made of; however, it’s evident that the Coach’s son, Matt, is groomed for the position. After Matt becomes injured, Alex helps win a key game. However, a drug scandal threatens to derail his life. If you’re a sports fanatic, this book is a great one to read.

 Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor & Park is a teen romance novel that showcases two high-school students who fall in love through late-night conversations and common interests. They fall in love like anyone does the first time, with nothing and everything to lose. This book is recommended for students who enjoy romance novels.

 The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower depicts the struggles of growing up as a teenager. Charles, the protagonist, takes us on a journey through his struggles, which are expressed through his letters to a “friend”. In his letters, he answers intuitive questions that come his way. I recommend this book to high school students who want to better understand trauma and healing.

UNIVERSITY

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist is a novel about a shepherd boy and his journey to find a worldly treasure. He encounters many friends, enemies, and a potential love interest along the way. I recommend this book for anyone who loves to travel and has dreams of living out an adventure. 

So, there you have it! This is not a complete list but are just some recommendations that my students and I have read in the past and enjoyed. I hope this list of books about school life can teach you how to overcome life’s daily struggles, help you manage stress, show you the beauty of a blossoming romance, or help you embrace unexpected events.