STUDENT CHOICE

When assigned a free choice, you should choose a novel that you have not previously read. The book may be recommended by an Episcopal English teacher or librarian. It may not be a book assigned in a previous or upcoming class, however it MUST be appropriate to your grade and reading level. There is a Word list of suggested reading available, and on this page are several other recommendation lists. Sites like Goodreads and What Should I Read Next? can also be helpful. Students should begin the search for their selection in the library and lists of honored books such as:

American Library Association awards 

1. American Library Association ALEX award: “Given annually to ten books written for adults that have special appeal to young adults, ages 12 through 18.”
2. Margaret A. Edwards Award: “Honors an author as well as a specific body of their work for lifetime contribution in writing books of enduring popularity with teenagers.”
3. Michael L. Printz Award: “Honors excellence in literature written for young adults.”
4. Outstanding Books for the College Bound: “Updated every five years, this comprehensive list provides reading recommendations to students who plan to continue their education beyond high school.”

Louisiana Teen Readers Choice Awards 

Literary Awards (These are a good place to start for any reader, but Seniors, in particular, are required to consult these lists for their free choice book. If you have an award winning book in mind that's not on these lists, check with an English teacher.)– 
1. National Book Award for Fiction
2. Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and for General Non-Fiction
3. New York Public Library’s Books of the Century
4. The Modern Library 100 Best Novels 
5. Pen-Faulkner Award for Fiction- - current and past
6. Edgar Award for Best Mystery Novel
7. Hugo Award for Best Science Fiction Novel
8. The Man Booker Prize
9. The Baillie Gifford Prize (non-fiction)
10. National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction