Reading lists

7 books for surviving school

For as long as there’s been school, there’ve been students who have a tough time with it. But whether your back-to-schooler is nervous, bored, or just feels like no one really gets them, these books can help

19 August 2017

WonderR J Palacio

Buy the book

Wonder

RJ Palacio

Not everyone stands out by choice, and school can be seriously hard for those that desperately want to blend in, but can’t. Eleven year-old Auggie is one such kid; he was born looking different to most of his classmates. In fact, he looks so different that he’s been home-schooled all of his life. But now the time has come to join the crowd; the same crowd that stares and mocks him in the street. Unsurprisingly, he’s dreading it. But Auggie is determined to get on with his life. And with a huge dollop of courage and the support of his family, he manages to do just that - although not without a few dramas along the way. An incredibly uplifting story about learning to love what makes you, and others – stand out, this book will be a hit with readers of all ages.

7 books for surviving school

Beasts of Prey by Ayana Gray

The best literary quotes about Christmas

‘My biggest fear is serving Judy Blume the wrong dinner’: 21 Questions with David Levithan and Jennifer Niven

Sign up to the Penguin Newsletter