All students in Grade 9: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Where does the path of self-discovery begin?
In the novel, Santiago sets out to learn many things, most importantly about himself. On his journey of self-discovery, there are significant moments and experiences that are important. These moments might include people Santiago meets, moments of doubt or courage, or times he learns something about himself. Citing three or more events from the text, articulate why you think the events are important to Santiago’s journey of self-discovery.

In response to reading the assigned literature, students will write a 500-word essay addressing the prompt. This essay is due on September 18 and must be submitted to Google Classroom. Students will join this Google Classroom using their QPS Google profile and using Class Code: 3l6ntyej

Further information about grading for this assignment will be available on Google Classroom once you have joined.

Grade 9 - Choose your title(s) according to your level

An assessment on the following reading assignments will be administered in English class at the beginning of the school year.

Advanced: Madeline Miller, Circe and one additional title from the list below

Honors: Two titles from the list below

CCP: One title from the list below

Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express
James Dashner, The Maze Runner
John Green, An Abundance of Katherines
Ji-li Jiang, Red Scarf Girl
Ben Mikaelsen, Touching Spirit Bear
Adeline Yen Mah, Chinese Cinderella
Ransom Riggs, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
Robert Louis Stevenson, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

North QuincyHigh School

Summer Reading & Coursework

NQHS 2026 Summer Reading Lists, Grades 9-12

North QuincyHigh School