8 Books People Hated Reading in High School

Explore classic high school reads that sparked dislike but still shaped literature and our perspective on reading. 

Some hated the idealism and tragic characters, but this timeless tale still sparks deep reflections on wealth and class. 

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald 

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A savage story about boys gone wild. Most students struggled with its heavy themes of human nature and morality. 

Lord of the Flies by William Golding 

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With its psychological depth and philosophical questions, this dense novel often left high schoolers feeling confused and overwhelmed. 

Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky 

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While powerful, its heavy themes of loneliness and loss hit hard—making it a tough read for many.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck 

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An absurd, yet profound anti-war novel. High schoolers often found its non-linear narrative frustrating rather than funny. 

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller 

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A tale of sin and shame, the complex themes and outdated societal norms made this a hard read for teens. 

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne 

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Dark, dramatic, and often hard to follow. Many high schoolers couldn’t connect with its tragic love story.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë

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Though a classic, its social commentary and intricate language made it difficult for many to truly enjoy.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen 

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