AP Recommended Reading List 2014: Overview
If you’re a high school student planning on taking AP exams, you’re probably familiar with the recommended reading list that comes with each course. The list includes a selection of books and other sources that are recommended for students to read in order to prepare for the exam and gain a better understanding of the course material. The AP recommended reading list for 2014 was no exception. It included a wide variety of books, ranging from classics to contemporary works, and covered a range of subjects including English, History, Science, and more.
Some of the most popular books on the 2014 AP recommended reading list included The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain, and The Crucible by Arthur Miller. These books are all considered classics in American literature and have been staples of high school English curricula for decades.
Other notable books on the 2014 AP recommended reading list included The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, which tells the story of a woman whose cells were used for scientific research without her knowledge or consent, and The Double Helix by James Watson, which is a memoir of the discovery of the structure of DNA. These books were recommended for students taking AP Science courses, and helped them gain a better understanding of the scientific method and the history of science.
The 2014 AP recommended reading list also included several books that were recommended for students taking AP History courses, such as A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn, which presents a less traditional view of American history from the perspective of marginalized groups, and The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, which tells the story of the Great Migration of African Americans from the South to the North during the 20th century.
Overall, the 2014 AP recommended reading list was a comprehensive selection of books that aimed to help students gain a better understanding of the course material and improve their chances of performing well on the exam. Whether you were an AP English Literature student looking to deepen your understanding of the classics, or an AP Science student looking to learn more about the history of science, there was something on the list for everyone.
Fiction Books on the AP Reading List 2014
The fiction books on the AP Reading List 2014 are an interesting mix of classic and contemporary literature. These books offer diverse themes and perspectives that can broaden the cultural and intellectual horizons of students. Here are some of the notable fiction books on the list:
1. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain- This classic novel is an American masterpiece that challenges the notion of racial stereotypes and social conventions in the antebellum South. The book is written in colloquial vernacular, which adds a realistic touch to the voice and personality of the protagonist, Huck Finn. As a coming-of-age story and an adventurous journey down the Mississippi River, the book raises important ethical questions about slavery and identity formation.
2. The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri- This novel is a poignant and insightful exploration of the immigrant experience through the lens of a Bengali family settling in the United States. The protagonist, Gogol Ganguli, struggles with his sense of identity as a first-generation American with a hybrid cultural background. The book addresses universal themes of family, love, loss, and self-discovery in a sensitive and nuanced way. The author’s prose is elegant and evocative, capturing the emotional complexity of the characters and their environments.
3. The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver- This novel is a multi-layered and ambitious work that spans three decades and four different perspectives of a missionary family living in the Congo. The book explores a range of issues such as cultural clashes, political upheavals, religious fanaticism, and ecological conservation. The author’s language is lush and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the African landscape and the characters’ inner lives. The book also raises important questions about the ethics of cultural imperialism and colonialism.
4. Beloved by Toni Morrison- This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a haunting and powerful meditation on the legacy of slavery and its psychological toll on African American communities. The book is set in Ohio in the aftermath of the Civil War and centers on the story of Sethe, a former slave who escaped to freedom but is haunted by the memory of her dead daughter, Beloved. The book combines elements of magical realism, historical realism, and psychological realism to create a complex and layered narrative that challenges conventional notions of history and identity.
5. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini- This novel is a compelling and heartbreaking account of a friendship between two boys in Afghanistan before and after the Soviet invasion and the rise of the Taliban. The book explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and cultural conflict in a vivid and visceral way. The author’s use of imagery and symbolism adds depth and resonance to the story, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.
These books are just a few examples of the richness and diversity of the fiction books on the AP Reading List 2014. By reading these books, students can enhance their critical thinking skills, expand their literary knowledge, and develop their empathy and appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.
Non-Fiction Books on the AP Reading List 2014
Reading is a fundamental skill that opens doors to new worlds and perspectives. No one can deny the importance of reading in education, and there’s one list that carries a lot of weight in terms of reading materials – the AP recommended reading list. The list provides a range of options for students seeking high-quality non-fiction pieces. The 2014 edition of the AP recommended reading list has a healthy selection of non-fiction works that inspire, inform and enlighten students of different academic disciplines and abilities. Here are the top three non-fiction books on the AP reading list 2014.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
The book tells a compelling story of a woman, Henrietta Lacks, whose cancer cells were used without her knowledge for scientific research that has been groundbreaking. This book delves into the ethical aspects of medical research and its impact on individuals, families, and society. The author portrays the Lacks family’s struggle for compensation, acknowledgement, and understanding. This book is an excellent read for students interested in science, ethics, or history. It presents a fascinating perspective and engrossing reading that makes it hard to put down.
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
This book is an epic masterpiece that depicts the lives of three black Americans who fled their South homes for a better life in the North and West between 1915 and the 1970s. The book spans six decades, and it’s a dramatic portrayal of the fierce determination, courage, and resilience of African Americans in the face of racial and social injustices. This book resonates with students interested in American history, race relations, and migration. The author has put into words the often-untold and harrowing stories of segregation, oppression, and discrimination that shaped America.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley
This book tells the life story of Malcolm X – a civil rights activist who spoke out against racism, oppression, and discrimination. The autobiography is an insightful and honest reflection of Malcolm X’s life, work, and beliefs. The book covers Malcolm X’s early life, his journey to Islam, and his activism work in the Nation of Islam and beyond. This book is a must-read for students interested in civil rights, black history, politics, and religion. The book is also an excellent resource for debates, essays, and research papers on racism and social justice issues.
The three non-fiction books highlighted in this article offer compelling perspectives on science, history, race relations, migration, and social justice. They’re excellent resources for AP students looking to expand their knowledge base, improve their reading skills, and prepare for AP exams. These books can also inspire students to pursue careers in science, politics, history, civil rights, and social justice.
Classic Literature on the AP Reading List 2014
The AP Reading List 2014 includes some of the most significant works of English literature of all time. These books have shaped the literary culture of the world through their powerful themes, unique writing style, and unforgettable characters. Here are the top 4 classic literature books on the AP Reading List 2014:
1. Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Great Expectations is a classic novel that has been on the AP Reading List for many years. The book tells the story of Pip, an orphan who lives with his sister and her husband in the English countryside. Pip’s life changes when he meets a wealthy spinster called Miss Havisham, who asks him to visit her home and play with her adopted daughter, Estella. Pip falls in love with Estella and dreams of becoming a gentleman to win her heart. However, his life takes unexpected turns, and he learns valuable life lessons about love, friendship, and fortune. This book is an excellent choice for students who enjoy reading classic literature that explores themes of social class, identity, and personal growth.
2. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
Wuthering Heights is a romantic novel that has captivated generations of readers with its Gothic setting, passionate characters, and intense storyline. The book revolves around the love story of Heathcliff and Catherine, two childhood friends who grow up on the moors of Yorkshire, England. Their love is thwarted by social barriers and personal conflicts, and they both end up marrying other people. However, their love continues to haunt them even after death, and their spirits are said to roam the moors. This book is an excellent choice for students who enjoy reading classic literature that explores themes of love, revenge, and supernatural elements.
3. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Pride and Prejudice is a romantic novel that has become an iconic masterpiece of English literature. The book tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet, a witty and independent-minded young woman who lives in rural England in the late 18th century. Elizabeth’s life changes when she meets Mr. Darcy, a wealthy and proud gentleman who has certain prejudices about her family. However, as Elizabeth gets to know Mr. Darcy better, she realizes that he is not as arrogant as she thought, and they fall in love. This book is an excellent choice for students who enjoy reading classic literature that explores themes of love, marriage, social status, and personal growth.
4. The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Scarlet Letter is a historical novel that explores the themes of sin, guilt, and redemption in Puritan New England. The book tells the story of Hester Prynne, a young woman who is forced to wear a scarlet letter “A” on her breast as punishment for committing adultery. Hester struggles to raise her daughter alone in a society that condemns her, while the identity of the father of her child remains a mystery. This book is an excellent choice for students who enjoy reading classic literature that explores themes of morality, justice, and individual freedom.
In conclusion, the AP Reading List 2014 offers a diverse selection of classic literature that students can enjoy and learn from. Whether you prefer romantic novels, Gothic tales, or historical fiction, there is something for everyone on this list. So, grab a book, a cozy blanket, and delve into the world of classic literature!
Contemporary Literature on the AP Reading List 2014
If you’re preparing for the AP English Literature and Composition exam, you would need to read a wide range of contemporary literature written by American authors. These books were selected based on their literary merit, cultural significance, and theme. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at five books on the AP Reading List 2014 that will engage your mind and challenge your beliefs.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye is a timeless classic that explores themes such as innocence, alienation, and identity. The novel is about Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy who is expelled from school and goes on a journey of self-discovery. Through his experiences with various people, Holden comes to realize that growing up means losing one’s innocence and that the world is full of phonies. Written in simple and engaging prose, The Catcher in the Rye is a must-read book for anyone who’s ever felt lost and confused.
Bright Lights, Big City by Jay McInerney
Bright Lights, Big City is a postmodern novel that takes place in New York City in the 1980s. The book is about the life of a young writer who is trying to find his way in the world. He spends his nights partying at clubs and his days working at a magazine. The novel is written in the second person, which gives it a unique and immersive feel. Through the protagonist’s struggles with drugs, relationships, and creativity, the novel offers a commentary on the excesses and shallowness of modern society. A must-read book for anyone who’s ever felt lost and disillusioned.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
The Kite Runner is a powerful and moving novel about friendship, redemption, and betrayal. Set against the backdrop of war-torn Afghanistan, the novel tells the story of Amir, a young boy from a privileged family, and his servant, Hassan. The two boys grow up together and form a deep bond, but their relationship is tested when Amir fails to stand up for Hassan in a critical moment. The novel is a meditation on guilt and forgiveness and a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of human relationships. A masterpiece of contemporary literature that is both heartbreaking and uplifting.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
The Road is a haunting and beautiful novel about a father and his son who are traveling through a post-apocalyptic world. The world is barren, and the few people who remain are struggling to survive. The novel is a meditation on the power of love and the human spirit in the face of incredible adversity. Written in spare and lyrical prose, The Road is a masterpiece of contemporary literature that will leave you both shaken and moved.
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
The Things They Carried is a powerful and moving collection of stories about the Vietnam War. Written by a Vietnam veteran, the stories explore the experiences of soldiers who are fighting a war that has no clear purpose or end. The stories are filled with vivid and unforgettable characters who are struggling to make sense of their lives and their world. The collection is a meditation on the power of storytelling and the way that stories can help us understand the world around us. A must-read book for anyone who’s interested in the Vietnam War or the human experience of war in general.
