Coming of Age: Literature about Youth and Adolescence

This book is a wonderful anthology of short stories that connect well to any student, including those labeled "at-risk." I use these books in grades 6-10 because the assignments can be easily modified and the questions at the end of each of the stories are higher order. Students can relate to the characters and situations. "Teenage Wasteland" is great for the older students, while the story "Eleven" makes my middle schoolers evaluate their actions. My favorite story is "The Scarlet Ibis," as it is a wonderful say to teach symbolism and consequences. I recommend this collection for any teacher who wants students to think in more complex ways and accelerate reading skills.