14 Books Every ’80s Kid Was Forced to Read in School
Growing up in the 1980s meant being handed certain books in school, whether you liked them or not. These titles showed up in every classroom and became part of the shared experience of being a student during that time. Looking back, some became beloved favorites, while others were just a struggle to finish before the test.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
School reading lists in the 1980s had a strong grip on what kids read, and many of those books stuck around for years. From deep themes to coming-of-age lessons, the stories often left a mark, even if not every kid appreciated them at the time. Some sparked imagination, others sparked groans, but all of them helped shape the minds of a generation. Here’s a trip down memory lane with 14 books every ’80s kid was practically required to read in school.
1. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
Pixabay on Pexels
This emotional story about a boy and his two dogs brought more than a few tears. Teachers loved assigning it for its themes of loyalty, love, and loss. Most kids just hoped they could get through it without crying in front of the class.
2. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
RDNE Stock project on Pexels
Every kid had to read about the Greasers and the Socs, whether they related to them or not. It was one of the first books that made teens feel seen. Saying “Stay gold, Ponyboy” became a rite of passage.
3. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
A talking pig and a kind spider taught kids about friendship and the circle of life. While younger students loved the animal characters, older ones secretly got emotional, too. It was often the first book that made death feel real.
4. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
This story hit hard with its mix of fantasy and tragedy. Kids went in expecting magic and ended up learning about grief. It stuck with readers long after they finished the last page.
5. Old Yeller by Fred Gipson
Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels
Another dog story that ended in heartbreak, this one focused on survival in frontier life. Teachers liked it for its historical value and moral lessons. Kids just tried not to get too attached to the dog.
6. Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell
Yan Krukau on Pexels
Set on a deserted island, this tale of independence showed how strong a young girl could be. Karana’s survival inspired kids, even if the slower parts tested their patience. The descriptions painted a vivid picture of life in solitude.
7. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels
Boys were handed this book and told to admire the main character’s toughness. After a plane crash, Brian learns to survive in the wilderness alone. It made camping seem either exciting or terrifying.
8. The Giver by Lois Lowry
Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
Although it came later in the decade, this dystopian novel sparked serious class debates. Students grappled with profound ideas such as freedom, memory, and control. It felt mature and made kids think in new ways.
9. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
RDNE Stock project on Pexels
This World War II story showed kids the power of bravery and friendship during dangerous times. Told from a young girl’s point of view, it made history feel personal. Many students remember it as their first introduction to the Holocaust.
10. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels
This book explored racism and family strength in 1930s Mississippi. It opened kids’ eyes to injustice, and some discussions got intense. It remains a powerful story with lessons that still matter today.
11. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
RDNE Stock project on Pexels
The idea of living forever fascinated and scared kids at the same time. This quiet, thoughtful book made them wonder what it really means to live. The ending sparked lots of classroom “what would you choose?” debates.
12. Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
A favorite among history teachers, this novel offers kids a glimpse into life before the American Revolution. The main character’s injury and growth made it more than just a history lesson. It was hard to pronounce “Tremain,” but easy to remember his journey.
13. My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George
RDNE Stock project on Pexels
Like Hatchet, this was another survival tale that appealed to adventurous spirits. A boy runs away to live in the wild with a falcon and his wits. Some kids dreamed of doing the same, while others just enjoyed reading about it from the couch.
14. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
Many girls were handed this one and told to admire Anne’s imagination and determination. Her big words, red hair, and endless curiosity made her unforgettable. Even reluctant readers ended up cheering for her by the final chapter.