22 Books that made up my childhood – elementary school through high school via their book format or film/TV format.
- Mikayla Young
- May 31, 2024
- 12 min read
Books or Book Adaptations – Elementary School
One of the first book series I had read to me by someone and then read on my own. I recall the school librarian reading several of the novels in this series to us during reading time. She would read a chapter or two and then ask us questions or discuss the proper or incorrect ways to approach certain themes in the book, such as bullying, mistakes, and how we should remain true to ourselves while respecting others. The comedy of Junie B. Jones, as well as the colorful and occasionally strange costumes she chose to wear to school, are what I remember most. Overall, an enjoyable series full of memories of laughter, teaching, and open-book discussions.
From third to fifth grade, our school librarian read this series to us frequently during reading time. When we were reading this series, the librarian assigned us to participate in weekly discussions and activities. Some of the activities included:
- Draw your own character for the story
- Draw or create your own magic treehouse
- What place or places would you like to go or travel to if you were a character in the books?
- Coloring sheets
I don't remember much about the stories save that they were full of fantasy and mystical themes. I think the novels are appropriate for elementary and middle school readers, particularly those who read or enjoy fantasy, magic, and travel.
Good old green eggs and ham. My apologies to my parents and the librarian, who had to see and hear me read this several times as a child. It was quick, easy to read and grasp, and had drawings, which I enjoyed, as well as occasional rhymes. Even now, when I think of Dr. Seuss or rhyming novels, this is the first book that comes to mind. Furthermore, it is difficult to forget that green eggs and ham are merely dyed foods. However, this is an excellent idea for celebrating St. Patrick's Day!
a. 1959 film version directed by Robert Stevenson and produced by Walt Disney
I did not read this book, but I did see the film adaptation in the library while I was in third through fifth grade. This was one of the first movies that made me weep, and I still want to cry when I think about it. It is an incredibly lovely and poignant story of a boy's love for and friendship with his dog. The film is highly recommended; however, it may not be appropriate for primary school children due to the crying and feelings it provokes. Kudos, however, to the elementary school librarian for getting a class of 10-15 young kids to be so calm and interested in a movie that the principal came to check on us because, in her perspective, we were too quiet.
Ah, another childhood classic for which I must apologize to my parents and everyone else because the book's rhyme pattern and words were frequently stuck in my mind as a child. It was a cute book with monkeys jumping on a bed and an excellent lesson for parents to teach us not to jump on the bed unless we want to end up hurt like the monkeys in the book. My childhood memories include this book, its rhyme, and, of course, jumping on the bed with my brother and cousins during sleepovers at our aunt's house.
a. Show that ran from 1985-2004 – watched on PBS Kids
Another one I read but watched as a kid. PBS Kids was one of several channels that my brother and I watched on a regular basis, particularly on weekends. This show came on one day, and I was immediately drawn in by the fact that it featured a family of bears behaving and doing things that humans do on a regular basis. The show was entertaining, funny, and maintained my attention for long enough that my parents didn't have to worry about me doing something crazy.
Books or Book Adaptations – Middle School
I received this book as a gift from my mother in a box of books she purchased online. I saw the movie first, then attempted to read the book. The movie was another one that made me cry, and it still does to this day. The film was one of the first I saw that piqued my interest while also making me consider serious issues like death. The film was amazing, tragic, and unforgettable.
8. Pretty Tough Series books 1-3 by Nicole Leigh Shepherd
a. Pretty Tough, my rating: 4 stars
b. Playing with the Boys, my rating: 3 stars
c. Head Games, my rating: 3 stars
I read this series between 8th and 9th grade since it was unique, had sports, and was a present from my mother. I went through a large soccer phase around this time and watched and read a lot of soccer-related material, which is why these books were given to me. The first book was good, and I enjoyed it since it taught me more about soccer and teamwork. The second book was okay and was about football, which I discovered after reading the book that I did not enjoy except when I helped my parents cheer on our home team during the playoffs. I enjoyed the third book, which reminded me of my time on the 5th grade basketball team, but the drama was not for me. The books were crucial during my middle school and high school years because they taught me what sports I loved and disliked, that I was not a fan of drama or miscommunication as well as collaboration and respect for one another are important when on any type of team.
9. The One That I Want by Jennifer Echols – My rating: 5 stars
One of the first books I ever purchased using my own money. Also, this was the beginning of my romance phase, in which my mother proofread the books before allowing me to read them. I believe this was the first romance book I ever read and rated 5 stars. I recall purchasing this book primarily because of the color pattern on the cover. Thankfully, I enjoyed it and read it at least twice before giving it away. At the time, I found the book to be quick, easy, cute, amusing, and realistic. It's not for everyone, and I wouldn't read it again now, but it was a fantastic romantic novel at the time.
a. 2003 film directed by Andrew Davis
In terms of movies, this is another childhood classic for me. I'm sorry I never read the book, but I did watch the movie as a kid. I believe I first saw the movie on television, and then about a week later, we saw it in my English class. I believe my teacher even mentioned some of the contrasts between the book and the movie. It was and continues to be an excellent film to see, teaching valuable lessons about choosing family, friendship, history, and other topics. It is one of my all-time favorite childhood movies.
In 6th or 7th grade, I read this book for an English class. The teacher warned students that it contains sensitive and controversial content. She did not push us to read it, but I appreciate that she provided us the opportunity to read and discuss it as a class. She divided us into groups and we did the popcorn reading of a chapter or two each day before discussing it as a group. I believe this was the first time I had an open, honest, and genuine debate about a book, its lessons, and the history and background behind it. The Holocaust was a difficult subject to learn about, and many of us had little awareness of it. The teacher's discussion and approach to reading this book in class made it an educational and communicative reading experience, inspiring many of us to study, learn about, and discuss the Holocaust with our relatives and friends. I recall my parents and I having brutally honest conversations about the Holocaust, how it happened, and why it is necessary to treat people with kindness and respect rather than hatred and violence. A book rich with history and knowledge that I will never forget.
I read the book in middle school class during reading time. The book was complicated but thought-provoking. The librarian obtained permission for us to watch the film to better grasp the story and its lessons. On the second day of watching it, she had to seat one to two people at each table since we continued asking each other questions and discussing what was going on in the movie while it was playing. The film was both frightening and captivating. We had so many discussions and talks regarding this movie that we sought out time between courses or during free library time to discuss it with one another or our teachers to seek answers to our questions. I believe it is an informative and important book on the topic of survival, but I would not recommend showing the film to a group of middle school students unless you intend to have them discuss it openly for a few minutes at the end of library time or allow them to ask questions about it while reading the book.
I have never read the book and do not intend to in the future. When I was in sixth grade, I watched the movie with my older brother. We both thought it was cool, humorous, and wonderful. At the time, it was unique, and we both argued over who was thing one or thing two to the point that our parents threatened to nickname us after them if we didn't stop fighting. That fixed the matter, and we stopped debating over it right away. My brother and I had the opportunity to view the film as adults 2-3 years ago and were both appalled and afraid because we had liked it so deeply as kids. As an adult, I found the movie horrifying and incomprehensible. Definity will not forget it, however.
I never read the book, but I enjoyed the movie. This is my favorite Disney movie from both childhood and adulthood. I enjoyed the sibling rivalry and love between Lilo and Lani. Their bond reminded me of my own with my older brother. Stitch was endearing, humorous, and charming. After seeing this movie, both my brother and I wanted a pet Stitch, as did our parents. Certain scenes from the film evoke great childhood memories and quotes for me. My brother and I used to, and still do, act out the "Gravity is increasing on me" scene. The classic scene where Lilo shakes up the spoons in the pickle jar never fails to make us laugh. The amazing music has us bopping, moving, and singing along. This was and continues to be a fantastic film that teaches valuable lessons about family, friendship, bullying, musical inspiration, and other topics.
Books or Book Adaptations – High School
15. Geek Girl Series books 1-2 by Holly Smale
a. Geek Girl – My rating: 3 stars
b. Model Misfit – My rating: 3 stars
The book made me realize that being a geek was considered uncool to some and what people must do to become a model. This book series was not great but also not completely terrible. It made me realize that I did not care one bit if being a geek was uncool cause I was perfectly okay and happy being one. The book also made me certain that I did not wish to become a model at all in my life. The interesting aspect of this book series was that Harriet Manners, the female main character, I believe loses herself on her road to becoming and being a model, along with some friends who loved her for who she was rather than who society expected her to be. The book was a turning point in my life in terms of accepting my geek/nerdy side and appreciating those around me who loved me simply for being myself.
16. Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder – My Rating: 4 stars
This is one of my favorite books of all time. I read Chasing Brooklyn for the first time during my final year of high school. It was a birthday present from my folks. I was unsure if I would like it because it was poetry and dealt with the paranormal, but I am so glad I read it. This book was absolutely devastating and quite well-written in my opinion. It taught and reminded me of music, love, forgiveness, open communication, family, loss, guilt, and a variety of other topics. It also motivated me to compose poetry, which I now thoroughly enjoy doing for myself and others. The book is highly recommended for anyone aged 16 and over who wishes to read a verse-based novel about ghosts and the important issues of sorrow, love, and learning to move on.
17. The Sword of Summer (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #1) by Rick Riordan - My Rating: 5 stars
Ah, confession time: the first Rick Riordan novel I ever read was Sword of Summer, not Percy Jackson. In 10th grade, I recall visiting a bookstore with my father and being drawn to a book by its cover. After reading the synopsis, I was fascinated. My father bought it for me as a gift, and I read it in one day. The first book I stayed up until midnight to finish. This was also my first introduction to mythology in general. This book was incredibly humorous, amusing, and amazing. I owe a lot to this book because it not only introduced me to mythology for the first time but also sparked an interest in it within me. I currently collect mythology books of various kinds, including those about myths, legends, and other topics from around the world. It also sparked my interest in and collection of the Percy Jackson and Rick Riordan book series. Highly recommended for readers, whether they are new to mythology or already enjoy it.
For me, this French classic is unlike any other, and not simply because it is the only one I've read. I fell in love with The Little Prince after reading and watching it for French class in 11th grade (thanks to Mrs. Hendrix!). The book and film sparked so much creativity, conversation, and appreciation in me and my classmates. I even purchased a plush fox that resembled the one in the movie and book. I also drew artwork of it for class, which I have since lost. This book was a wonderful narrative of space travel, adventure, etiquette, creativity, and friendship. A lovely narrative that has left me with many unforgettable memories.
When I was in high school, movies were really popular. I never read the books, but my mother did. My mother took me to see all of the Twilight film series when they were released. It's a beautiful memory for me. I enjoyed the movies when they first came out, but I haven't watched them since. When we watched them, my mother became quite agitated, especially during Breaking Dawn Parts 1 and 2, because it differed from the books. It was interesting and unique at the time, and I will never forget the nice recollections. Such recollections include semi-heated talks among friends and family over whether you were on Team Jacob or Team Edward. I believe I was on neither team at the time and still am today. I did appreciate the wolf-pack moments, and if I had to pick a favorite from the series, it would be New Moon due to the film's combination of wolves and vampires. I also appreciated seeing a female wolf in the pack stand her ground, fight for what she believes in, and want the best for her family--shoutout to Leah Clearwater--you deserved it, and I hoped in the fictitious world you got a happy ending.
20. Beowulf by unknown – My Rating: 3 stars
I read and watched Beowulf in 12th grade. My teacher, Mr. Crockett, made the assigned reading entertaining and exciting in class. We did some popcorn reading, but most of us liked Mr. Crockett's reading because he performed different voices and played it out so beautifully that we felt like we were in the story. I believe we saw clips of the play version in class. It was informative and held our attention nicely. We had open conversations, popcorn reading, acted out parts of the scenarios, and even wrote our own short stories/papers based on Beowulf. Overall, the book is not for me, but my experience with it in high school was memorable and enjoyable.
A classic that made me ponder everything in life and left me with so many unanswered questions. This book, which I read for English class in 10th grade, was an adventure. The piece was read aloud in class and was intensely discussed for what seemed like a month. I enjoyed watching the stage production more than reading it. The theatrical production was shown in class for roughly two weeks and was a highlight of the day. Thank you to my English teacher at the time, Mrs. Webster, for allowing us to see it and being so patient with all of us when we asked questions, discussed and gossiped about the characters' conduct, and were sometimes so astonished we couldn't comprehend things properly. An adventure unlike any other, and who can forget the famous "to be or not to be" statement as we read and watched it.
A classic that made me question the sanity of others, including the author and myself. In 12th year, I initially immersed myself in William Shakespeare's mind through Macbeth. I was unprepared for what happened in this play. Mr. Crockett read the piece to the class, leaving us all astonished and fascinated as to what might happen next. The film version was engaging and interesting, leaving viewers with questions about betrayal, greed, and the chase of power. Macbeth is one of the few Shakespeare plays that continues to linger in my mind, and it will most likely do so indefinitely. It's a play that people won't forget.
Those were the 22 Books that made up my childhood – elementary school through high school via their book format or film/TV format.
- Have you read or watched any of these?
- What are some of the books or book adaptations that made your childhood?
- What are some movies or TV shows that made your childhood?
Comments