Teachers First - Thinking Teachers Teaching Thinkers

Take a trip with these quirky characters in a sad and moving yet laugh-out-loud story. But beware-you might just get hooked on Anne Tyler's one-of-a- kind style!

Mark Twain's tale of a young boy's journey on the Mississippi, and the people he meets on the way.

Two dozen rugby players must survive in the Andes mountains when their plane crashes.

This story of World War I ranks in the same class as Crane's Red Badge of Courage in its portrayal of both the horrors and ironies of war. It's a powerful tale that forces its readers to contemplate the terrible price of conflict.

This short novella is a good place to begin investigating the works of philosopher Ayn Rand. Set in the future, Anthem explores themes of individual freedom, personal responsibility and power. It is a thought-provoking read!

Mark and his diabetic cousin must survive in the wilderness.

Anne Frank's diary of her time in hiding from the Germans is a classic of hope in a world of despair.

A classic novel chronicling the birth of the nation of Israel. Timely reading for today's world.

Tolkien was a contemporary of C. S. Lewis and a lover of Norse and Icelandic myths. In the first part of his epic novel Bilbo Baggins disappears, and young Frodo sets off on an adventure that is not entirely of his own choosing.

Explore the themes of good versus evil and fascism in this book chronicling the struggles of an architect, his rival, and a newspaper columnist.

Take a look at the Mafia and organized crime during the 1940's with this book which tells the story of the Corleone family. "The Godfather" series of movies was inspired by the book!

Steinbeck's stark novel about a family's migration from Oklahoma to California during the days of the dust bowl.

Revenge, madness, poison, ghosts, and the interaction between friends are all aspects of this classic tragedy.

A young man survives a small plane crash and must make his way through the wilderness armed only with a hatchet.

This is a classic story, first published in 1940, that chronicles life in a welsh mining town. The characters deal with life's difficulties with a courage and strength that makes them - and their story-unforgettable.

True accounting of a series of Mt. Everest expeditions that go awry in fickle weather.

A mysterious utopia high in the Himalayan Mountains is the setting for this famous story. Part mystery, part philosophy, this tale takes you to the intriguing "Shangri-La" as this adventure romance unfolds.

The riveting story of the Appollo mission that was almost lost in space.

Accounting of fatal attacks in the national parks in 1968.

This is a moving and sad book that explores human reaction to grief and death and the need to remain compassionate and connected during times of trouble.

Walk with Annie Dillard through the forests of central Virginia as she explores her own life and the world around her.

This classic "fairy tale" follows a poor farm boy named Westley, who will do anything for the woman he loves. The story includes fighting, poison, true love, hate, revenge, fantastical beasts, death, miracles, and much more!

Crane's classic war novel examines important issues with the creation of his young hero, Henry Fleming.

The classic shipwreck story, told in great detail.

This classic story of friendship and emotion is set in a boarding school during WW II.

This great book is about baseball, fulfilling your dreams, and believing in those you love. Based on the story of legendary ball player "Shoeless Joe" Jackson, the story is a home run hit! The popular movie "Field of Dreams" was based on this work.

A young man's memories of what growing up is really like.

Australian high school students return from a wilderness trip and find that everything at home has changed.

If you liked the movie, you'll love the book. Variety magazine called the book "Bittersweet- A tragic yet spiritual love story."

This fascinating fable takes you into an organized community of rabbits! There's a whole world under the earth-discover it in this symbolic and intriguing tale.