Summer Reading Instructions for Returning Upper Level Students in Grades 10–12

PLEASE NOTE: This information is for RETURNING students who are entering grades 10–12 for the 2026–2027 school year. If you are a new Upper Level student, please reference the Summer Reading Instructions for New Upper Level Students announcement.

All returning students in grades 10–12 will read either THREE or FOUR books total:

 
  1. You have already selected ONE BOOK from the list of choices provided by the Library. You are expected to acquire a copy of the book and read it in its entirety. If you prefer not to purchase the book, using your local public library is another option. You may feel free to engage the text in any form—print, eBook, or audiobook.

    All book discussions will take place in the first week of school during Blazer Block. You must participate in the book discussion to the satisfaction of the teacher moderator. Students who do not participate will fulfill their requirements during an alternative session scheduled with the librarian. In the weeks before the start of school a writing activity will be sent electronically. This must be completed prior to the discussion day. 

    *If you did not make note of your book choice you can contact the Library


  2. You will also read TWO/THREE BOOKS listed below, based on your grade level, course, or phase. You are expected to acquire a print copy of each book and read them in their entirety. You will be assessed on these books during the related classes at the beginning of the school year.

    • 12th Grade:
      1. Theology – The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot 

      2. English 12 – Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier                                              
        or
        AP Lit – Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier and A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini 

    • 11th Grade:
      1. Social Studies – Medici Heist by Caitlin Schneiderhan 

      2. English 11 and HUM 11 – The Poppy and The Rose by Ashlee Cowles
        or
        AP Lang – Circe by Madeline Miller and The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls

    • 10th Grade:
      1. Science – The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict 

      2. English Phase 2/3/4 – The Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley
        or
        English Phase 5 – The Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley and The Awakening (Norton Critical Edition) by Kate Chopin and Margo Culley
        or
        HUM 10 (all phases) – Suggested Reading by Dave Connis

Notre Dame Preparatory School

A Catholic, independent college preparatory school for girls in grades 6–12, sponsored by the School Sisters of Notre Dame