40 of the Worst Books We Read in High School Ranked From Bad to Terrible
Diving into high school English class means getting to know a bunch of classic books inside and out. But not all these reads get rave reviews from students. This article looks at those famous novels that end up being the ones students love to hate. From the long-winded adventures in “The Deerslayer” to the complex friendships in “A Separate Peace,” we’re taking a closer look at why some books just don’t click with everyone. So, let’s get into the stories that have sparked debates, eye rolls, and, sometimes, a strong dislike among high schoolers across the board.
40. “Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen
Gary Paulsen’s “Hatchet” is a survival story that aims to grip readers with its tale of a boy alone in the wilderness. However, its impact is not universally felt, with some readers finding the narrative as dull as a blunt axe.
The protagonist’s struggle against nature, while intended to be a testament to human resilience and ingenuity, can feel overly repetitive and mundane, failing to engage or excite. For students who look to literature for escape or deeper meaning, “Hatchet” can feel like an endless loop of survival tasks, devoid of the emotional or philosophical depth that makes a story resonate long after the last page is turned.
39. “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is a foundational text in science fiction and horror literature, exploring the consequences of unchecked ambition through the tragic story of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. The novel’s rich thematic concerns, including the nature of humanity, ethical responsibility in scientific endeavor, and the agony of isolation, are intellectually stimulating.
Yet, the complex language, slow narrative pace, and philosophical depth can be daunting for high school readers. While the ethical dilemmas and the creature’s emotional journey might offer profound insights, the novel’s stylistic and thematic complexity often makes it difficult for students to fully engage with and appreciate the story, leading to mixed reactions among younger readers.
38. “East of Eden” by John Steinbeck
“East of Eden” might aim to retell the biblical story of Cain and Abel on the grand stage of the Salinas Valley. Still, for some, it stretches the thin line of narrative to its breaking point. Steinbeck’s attempt to explore the depths of human nature across generations can come across as an overlong journey through a landscape barren of momentum or meaning.
The sprawling saga, filled with Steinbeck’s philosophical musings and allegorical intentions, sometimes misses the mark, leaving readers wondering where the plot has wandered off to over its “700 unnecessary pages.”
37. “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe
“Things Fall Apart” offers a rich tapestry of pre-colonial African life and the tumultuous changes brought by European colonialism. Yet, for some, this tapestry seems less like a vibrant cultural artifact and more like an inscrutable code.
Achebe’s narrative, celebrated for its complexity and depth, sometimes leaves readers adrift in a sea of confusion, struggling to piece together the plot and significance of the events unfolding. Despite its critical acclaim for addressing themes of cultural clash, identity, and disintegration, the story’s delivery can be as clear as mud, with its significance shrouded in a mist of narrative intricacies that some find too convoluted to navigate.