What is the value of being "made" to read certain books in high school?

Question

What books have you been required to read? Have any impacted you, or do you read because you have to? Have you read anything that moved you, changed you, impacted you? Or has it all been dull and empty? What has your experience been?

Answer 1

One book that I had to read in high school was "Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury. Although this story was science fiction and dystopian, it foreshadowed the real scenario of increased book banning (1,586 book bans in 2022, according to Pen America). Fahrenheit 451 made me aware of book bans and encouraged me to learn about the perpetrators and their motives.

Another book I read was "The Great Gatsby" however this story did not leave an impact on me. It could be because it was not possible to connect with the characters. For example, Gatsby was more than well-off and splurged his money on extravagant parties but still was unhappy. This character is revealed to not be able to reach a dream. But with all his wealth, what's keeping him from doing what he wants? Overall, the book tries to make you sympathize with a character with no real problems.

Answer 2

That is such a wonderful, positive response to the value of reading within the parameters of the classroom! I definitely feel that way about James Joyce's "Ulysses". I would not have made it through without the guidance of a teacher and the support of the class.

Answer 3

I had many required readings in college and high school. I think that a lot of the pleasure that comes from reading a good book depends somewhat on the presentation of the material and the instruction. I find that the benefit of reading required books is that I expose myself to literature that I would not have otherwise read. The adage, "Don't judge a book by its cover" is definitely true. I have often loved the books I was required to read because I had misjudged it and because of good instruction.