BOOKS

Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko

Think “historical” means “boring”? Then you haven’t read this award-winning story. When Moose Flanagan’s family moves to Alcatraz, a prison island housing the most infamous criminals, Moose immediately looks for ways to fit in. But as soon as he meets Piper, the prison warden’s daughter, he’s quickly lured into a scheme that brings him closer than ever to the most iconic criminal of all time.

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Your English teacher assigned Huck Finn as outside reading last year…but you just didn’t get around to it. Well, now’s the time! It may have been originally written in 1885, but it’s a totally timeless must-read. A great adventure story never goes out of style, and this one’s filled with that—plus friendship and love. As teen boy Huck and his unexpected friend journey down the Mississippi River, they discover themselves and the importance of acceptance.  

All the Lovely Bad Ones by Mary Downing Hahn

We know horror doesn’t always sound so fun, but when a story has just the right amount of creepy to send a chill up your spine, it’s worth a little bit of fright. Check out this tale about a brother and sister who love to play pranks, but run into trouble when they awaken spirits at their grandmother’s haunted inn.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery

For a classical read, dust off your mom’s copy of Anne of Green Gables and give it a try. It’s more than just your average orphan story—its addicting plot and lovable characters made it a legend. Not convinced yet? Well, what if we told you it’s sold a whopping 50 million copies! Continue the tradition and get lost in the adventures of the fun-loving, imaginative Anne.

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Please, don’t let those 464 pages intimidate you. Go inside the lives of African American housemaids in the early ’60s, and the lives of those who mistreat them. This one may seem like a book you’ll never finish, but the irresistible combo of love, friends, fashion, history and heartbreak will make you never want to put The Help down.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Yes, we know you’ve read this. But, hey, re-reading one of your old faves can renew your love for the story. Or, even better, you could discover something you didn’t catch the first time around. We suggest going back (all the way back) to those ancient times when Harry saw himself as just an average muggle.