Good Books for Tenth Graders

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  Ella Enchanted

  by Gail Carson Levine

  Ella's curse of obedience sparks a spirited quest for freedom in a charming fairy-tale retelling. Teens adore this blend of humor, romance, and empowerment.

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  The Princess Diaries

  by Meg Cabot

  Mia Thermopolis learns she's a princess, navigating royalty and teenage life with humor and heart. A fun, relatable read for teens dreaming of transformation.

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  Flowers for Algernon

  by Daniel Keyes

  Charlie's intelligence experiment transforms his life, raising ethical questions in a poignant narrative. Teens connect with this emotional exploration of identity and humanity.

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  The Chocolate War

  by Robert Cormier

  Jerry Renault's defiance of a school's secret society exposes the cost of standing up to power. This intense novel grips teens with its moral complexity and tension.

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  The Golden Compass

  by Philip Pullman

  Lyra's quest in a fantastical world with daemons and dust unravels cosmic mysteries and danger. This gripping fantasy captivates teens with its bold imagination.

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  The Fault in Our Stars

  by John Green

  Hazel and Augustus, two teens with cancer, find love and meaning in a heart-wrenching yet hopeful journey. This tender novel resonates with teens exploring life's fragility and beauty.

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  A Great and Terrible Beauty

  by Libba Bray

  Gemma Doyle discovers mystical powers at a Victorian boarding school, uncovering dark secrets. This lush, gothic fantasy captivates teens with its mystery and magic.

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  The Diary of a Young Girl

  by Anne Frank

  Anne's candid diary from hiding during the Holocaust reveals hope and humanity amid unimaginable hardship. A moving read for teens exploring history and resilience.

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  Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

  by J.K. Rowling

  Harry's discovery of his wizarding destiny unfolds in a magical world of friendship and bravery at Hogwarts. This enchanting start to a beloved series hooks teens with its wonder and heart.

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  The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

  by C.S. Lewis

  The Pevensie siblings discover Narnia, a magical land where courage and destiny unfold against evil. This enchanting classic captivates teens with its adventure and heart.