Can I let you in on my favorite end-of-semester activity: literature circles? My English course is state-tested so by the end of the semester, they have worked so hard. And, they are starting to feel burnt out. So what better way to test their reading comprehension than with literature circles? These circles give students a chance to meet as a group and talk about a book of their choice. And that’s the best part, this is all about their choice. They choose the book. And they choose the reading schedule. Plus, they lead their own discussions. But if you are going to let your students choose their own books, you might want to have a few books ready to suggest. That’s why I created this list. These are my students’ current literature circles choices. And we have a little something for everyone.
Want a way to hold your students accountable when they finish their book? Check out my Novel Study Project Ideas. In this print or digital resource, students have the option of 12 project ideas that allow students to share their understanding of the main characters, conflicts, events, and themes from the novel.
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What is Literature Circles?
Literature Circles Benefits
Literature circles are like book clubs for students, but with more structure. I group my students together, usually based on their book choice, and they each take on a specific role—like discussion leader, summarizer, or connector. They meet regularly to talk about what they’re reading, share their thoughts, and dig into the text together. It’s student-led, so they’re the ones driving the discussion, and it’s a great way to get them talking about books and thinking critically. I just guide them along and check in to make sure they stay on track. It’s super engaging, and the kids really love the ownership it gives them.
Ditch the Literature Circles Roles
By the end of the semester, I ditch the formal literature circle roles because my students have worked so hard all semester long. And they’ve grown so much through our in-class discussions that I know they don’t need the extra structure anymore. At this point, they’re fully capable of diving into meaningful conversations on their own, and I want to give them the chance to relax and just enjoy reading and discussing for the sake of it—without the pressure of assigned roles. It’s a chance for them to experience the joy of sharing ideas and connecting over a great book, purely for the love of it. This more relaxed approach not only gives them a well-deserved mental break but also helps to foster a deeper appreciation for reading as something enjoyable and communal, rather than just another classroom assignment.
If you do want to add a little accountability into your literature circles, you can incorporate my Novel Study Project Ideas. By utilizing the Novel Project Choice Board, students have the freedom to choose how they demonstrate what they have learned in their novels. Each novel project includes a Project Requirement handout that includes a place to brainstorm ideas. Each creative assessment also comes with a detailed rubric for easy grading.
My Students Literature Circle Books
Now that you know how laid back my literature circles are set up, check out my students’ top picks right now. You can allow students to choose their own groups and their own books. But these are some suggestions you can have on hand. Just as a word of advice, if you allow students to choose their own novels, I would gain permission from parents so that they are aware of their student’s choices. Plus, it helps to promote book talks at home.
Here are my students’ top 10 book picks right now. I have linked each book to Amazon. Just note that these are affiliate links. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Literature Circles Book Choice #1: Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
Genre: Memoir/Self-Help
Pages: ~364
Age Level: 16+
Summary: David Goggins shares his incredible journey from a troubled childhood and obesity to becoming a Navy SEAL and ultra-endurance athlete. Packed with mental toughness strategies, this memoir inspires readers to push beyond their limits.
Literature Circles Book Choice #2: Million Dollar Throw by Mike Lupica
Genre: Sports Fiction
Pages: ~272
Age Level: 12+
Summary: Nate Brodie, a 13-year-old quarterback, wins a contest for a chance to throw a million-dollar pass at halftime during an NFL game. As he prepares, he navigates challenges on and off the field, including his best friend’s vision loss.
Literature Circles Book Choice #3: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pages: ~336
Age Level: 17+
Summary: Alicia Berenson, a famous painter, becomes mute after being accused of murdering her husband. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, is determined to uncover the truth behind her silence, leading to shocking revelations.
Literature Circles Book Choice #4: The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Genre: Speculative Fiction
Pages: ~368
Age Level: 16+
Summary: One morning, every adult receives a box containing a string that reveals the length of their life. As society grapples with this knowledge, the novel explores love, destiny, and the choices that define us.
Literature Circles Book Choice #5: Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: ~416
Age Level: 13+
Summary: Scarlett and her sister Tella receive an invitation to Caraval, a magical game where reality blurs with illusion. As Tella goes missing, Scarlett must unravel the mystery to save her sister before the game’s end.
Literature Circles Book Choice #6: One of Us is Lying by Karen McManus
Genre: Young Adult Mystery
Pages: ~368
Age Level: 14+
Summary: Five students walk into detention, but only four come out alive. As secrets unravel, the remaining students become suspects in a thrilling “whodunit” that combines drama and suspense.
Literature Circles Book Choice #7: The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy
Genre: Military Thriller
Pages: ~656
Age Level: 16+
Summary: Soviet submarine commander Marko Ramius defects to the United States with the state-of-the-art submarine Red October. A tense chase ensues as the U.S. and Soviet navies race to intercept him.
Literature Circles Book Choice #8: Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Genre: Biography/Nonfiction
Pages: ~496
Age Level: 15+
Summary: This powerful story chronicles Louis Zamperini’s life as an Olympic runner turned World War II bombardier, his harrowing survival at sea, and his time as a prisoner of war in Japan.
Literature Circles Book Choice #9: Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Genre: Dystopian Fantasy
Pages: ~448
Age Level: 14+
Summary: In a future where death has been conquered, scythes are tasked with population control. Two teens, Citra and Rowan, are chosen as apprentices, but only one can ultimately become a scythe.
Literature Circles Book Choice #10: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: ~416
Age Level: 15+
Summary: Assassin Celaena Sardothien is freed from prison to compete in a deadly tournament for her freedom. As she battles for survival, she uncovers dark secrets that threaten her world.
More Ideas for Literature Circles Activities
Classroom Book Club Bliss: How to Survive the Holiday Season
12 Exciting Ideas For a Book Project For High School Students
Top Three Novel Unit Activities That Will Make Your Unit Exciting
How to Teach a Novel Unit That Engages High School Students
Five Ways Reader’s Notes Can Transform Your High School ELA Book Clubs
Novel Unit Planning: A How to Guide For Success
Encourage your students to give literature circles a try—you might just be surprised by how much they love the freedom to discuss books in a meaningful way! With a little structure and the right resources, literature circles can transform your classroom into a vibrant community of readers. If you’re looking for ways to spice up your literature circles or want fresh project ideas to pair with them, check out my Novel Study Project Ideas.
If you enjoyed this blog post and want even more teaching tips and strategies, visit me at www.theteacherrewrite.com and follow me on Instagram @theteacherrewrite. I share resources, tricks, and strategies to make teaching easier without rewriting your entire curriculum. Let me handle the prep so you can focus on what matters most—your students! Give yourself and your students the gift of engaging discussions with literature circles.
