Books - BBT Academy Copy

'The Watsons Go to Birmingham' by Christopher Paul Curtis

'1984' by George Orwell

This classic dystopian novel, written in 1948 (Orwell reversed the 4 &amp; 8 to decide his &#39;future&#39; year), has regained popularity in recent years, due to concerns about authoritarianism in our modern, technological society. Reading the book today, whilst keeping in mind what 1948 looked like, I wonder how much you will consider Orwell got right in his predictions of society&#39;s progress. This book is a warning for the future, and, alongside demonstrating a refined English, will get young readers thinking about social progress, government and security. Read on below for our study guide!

'I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings' by Maya Angelou

HS Debate/ Essay Competition - Prep Team (9-12th graders)

'The Girl Who Drank the Moon' by Kelly Barnhill

This award-winning fantasy novel tells a beautifully-spun story of witchcraft in an English which is poetic and enchanting. The story is original and interweaves complex plot lines and dystopian motifs. Fantasy literature offers a fresh lens to look at problems faced in the real world, and Barnhill&#39;s stunning language will encourage readers to stretch their vocabularies and fall in love with worlds of words. Read on to explore our study guide!

'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald

This modern classic is a must-read for students across the globe. Written in 1925, it exposes readers to 1920s&#39; New York society and the problems and crises&#39; of that time. However, Fitzgerald&#39;s beautiful prose, profound philosophies and masterly characterization is as enjoyable and relevant today as ever. With its rich vocabulary and dramatic plot, this text is sure to get young readers excited about literature and to enhance their own language, whilst also expose them to an important moment in modern history. Read on for a guide to context, themes, symbols, and more.

'The House on Mango Street' by Sandra Cisneros

This book shares the experiences of Esperanza, a Mexican-American girl growing up in an impoverished Latino neighborhood in Chicago. The child&#39;s narrative provides an intimate account of what is is like to grow up in a place like Mango Street. Although the vocabulary of the text is not too demanding, Cisneros uses figurative and poetical language which can challenge young readers. The text is great to expose students to new literary techniques, rich imagery and get them thinking about socio-political issues in contemporary society. Keep reading for an exploration of this novel!