Favorite TCA Books

By Lucy Dennis

“That is part of the beauty of all literature. You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you’re not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong.” —F. Scott Fitzgerald

Through the History/English program at TCA, students have the opportunity to study some of the finest pieces of literature. From C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia that opened young eyes to the beauty of storytelling in middle school to the Shakespearean tregedies high schoolers painstakingly analyze for smybolism and motifs, these books transport us into societies past, captivate our minds with new themes and ideas, and allow us to better understand ourselves and others in today’s world. Voted on by high school students, each of the most popular books takes place in the 20th century, but the universal truths they highlight and the lessons they impress upon our hearts differ drastically.

To Kill a Mockingbird

by Harper Lee

The Great Gatsby

by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Set in Jazz Age New York, this classic of American fiction captures the frivolity and excess in the backdrop of the roaring twenties. Narrated by Nick Carraway, the novel follows millionaire Jay Gatsby in his pursuit of love and desire through glamorous tragedy.

Not much of a surprise, the most popular book by far is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Set in the 1930’s American south, the novel addresses serious issues of racial injustice and destruction of innocence, coupled with pivotal characters and symbolism. We get to follow Scout Finch throughout this beloved novel during our 8th grade year while studying American history.

All Quiet on the Western Front

by Erich Maria Remarque

This World War I novel exposes the true experience soldiers face, breaking down the romanticized perception of fighting to reveal the brutal truth and tragedy that comes with war. The novel present the reeaders with lovable and honest soldiers who reveal to the audience the true destruction that is faced in battles.