74 Best Short Stories for High School Students

Why we love it: James Joyce’s writing is always a challenge, but this short story is a great introduction to his work for high schoolers. It’s a story of unrequited love, disappointment, and the loss of innocence. Students can analyze the symbolism and themes in this story and discuss how Joyce uses language to create mood and tone.

13. The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

“It does move faster than a clock. As a matter of fact, I believe it is the pattern that confuses me.”

Why we love it: This story is a powerful exploration of mental illness and the oppression of women. It’s a great text for discussing gender roles, the treatment of mental health, and the consequences of isolation. Students can analyze the unreliable narrator and the symbolism of the yellow wallpaper.

14. A&P by John Updike

“She was a chunky kid, with a good tan and a sweet broad soft-looking can with those two crescents of white just under it, where the sun never seems to hit, at the top of the backs of her legs.”

Why we love it: This story is a coming-of-age tale about a young man’s realization about the complexities of life and human behavior. It’s a great story for discussing themes of conformity, rebellion, and the consequences of our actions. Students can analyze the character development and the use of setting to enhance the story.

15. The Sniper by Liam O’Flaherty

“The lust of battle died in him. He became bitten by remorse. The sweat stood out in beads on his forehead. Weakened by his wound and the long summer day of fasting and watching on the roof, he revolted from the sight of the shattered mass of his dead enemy.”

Why we love it: This story is a gripping tale of war, violence, and the internal struggle of the protagonist. It’s a great text for analyzing the effects of war on individuals and society, as well as the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. Students can discuss the themes of conflict, redemption, and the impact of violence on humanity.

Overall, these short stories are perfect for teaching high school students a variety of literary elements and themes. They engage students with their emotional depth, thought-provoking content, and intriguing plots. Use these stories in your classroom to spark discussion, inspire writing, and foster a love of reading in your students.

Hale’s husband, with good-natured superiority, “women are used to worrying over trifles.”

Why we love it: This story highlights the importance of paying attention to the seemingly insignificant details, as they may hold the key to solving a larger mystery.

Overall, these 30 short stories are perfect for high school students as they explore a wide range of themes, emotions, and situations that are relatable and thought-provoking. From love and loss to revenge and transformation, these stories offer a glimpse into the human experience and provide ample opportunities for discussion and analysis. So, whether you’re looking for a story to spark conversation in your English class or simply want to enjoy a captivating read, these short stories are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Hale’s Husband: A New Perspective on Trifles

As the husband of Mrs. Hale, I have often observed her worrying over what I would consider trifles. Women, as the saying goes, are used to worrying over trifles. But in the case of Mrs. Hale, I have come to see that these so-called trifles are often the key to solving larger mysteries.

Take for example the case of Mrs. Wright, a woman accused of murdering her husband. While the men in the town were busy searching for concrete evidence, it was the women who noticed the small details that ultimately led to the truth. Mrs. Hale, in particular, noticed the broken birdcage and the missing canary, seemingly insignificant details that pointed to a much larger story.

It is true that women are often underestimated and misunderstood, but it is also true that they possess a keen eye for detail and a deep intuition that should not be ignored. In the case of Mrs. Wright, it was the women who were able to piece together the puzzle and uncover the truth, while the men were left scratching their heads.

So next time you see a woman worrying over what you might consider trifles, take a moment to listen to her. You may just find that those trifles hold the key to a much larger mystery.

Some customers are easy to please, and some are difficult. Some come to us like the man in the story. Others are not so honest.”

Why we love it: This story delves into the moral dilemmas faced by the main character, Markheim, as he grapples with his past actions and the consequences of his choices. Stevenson explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the internal struggle between good and evil.

59. The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

“Although the villagers had forgotten the ritual and lost the original black box, they still remembered to use stones.”

Why we love it: This chilling tale explores the dark side of human nature and the dangers of blindly following tradition. Jackson masterfully builds suspense and tension throughout the story, leading to a shocking and thought-provoking conclusion.

60. The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

“I never saw a worse paper in my life. One of those sprawling flamboyant patterns committing every artistic sin.”

Why we love it: Gilman’s story sheds light on the oppressive nature of patriarchal society and the impact it has on women’s mental health. The protagonist’s descent into madness is haunting and serves as a powerful commentary on the stifling effects of societal norms.

These short stories offer a diverse range of themes, styles, and perspectives that are sure to engage and resonate with high school students. From futuristic dystopias to timeless moral dilemmas, each story provides a unique lens through which to explore complex ideas and spark meaningful discussions. Whether read in the classroom or on their own, these stories have the power to captivate and challenge students, encouraging them to think critically and empathetically about the world around them.

Stop at the Charing Cross Hotel, and you will hear from me by evening. S. H.’”

Why we love it: This classic Sherlock Holmes mystery is a great way to introduce students to the detective genre. It’s a story that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate readers with its clever twists and turns. 

68. The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

“True!—nervous—very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am; but why will you say that I am mad? The disease had sharpened my senses—not destroyed—not dulled them. Above all was the sense of hearing acute. I heard all things in the heaven and in the earth. I heard many things in hell. How, then, am I mad?”

Why we love it: Another classic from Edgar Allan Poe, this story is a psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a madman. It’s a great example of how short stories can pack a punch with their intensity and depth of character.

69. The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

“The morning of June 27th was clear and sunny, with the fresh warmth of a full-summer day; the flowers were blossoming profusely and the grass was richly green. The people of the village began to gather in the square, between the post office and the bank, around ten o’clock; in some towns there were so many people that the lottery took two days and had to be started on June 25th, but in this village, where there were only about three hundred people, the whole lottery took less than two hours, so it could begin at ten o’clock in the morning and still be through in time to allow the villagers to get home for noon dinner.”

Why we love it: This haunting and thought-provoking story by Shirley Jackson explores themes of tradition, conformity, and the darker side of human nature. It’s a story that will stick with readers long after they finish it, sparking discussions about society and the power of collective action.

70. The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

“One dollar and eighty-seven cents. That was all. And sixty cents of it was in pennies. Pennies saved one and two at a time by bulldozing the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until one’s cheeks burned with the silent imputation of parsimony that such close dealing implied.”

Why we love it: This heartwarming story by O. Henry is a classic tale of love and sacrifice. It’s a reminder that sometimes the greatest gifts come not from material wealth, but from the selfless acts of kindness we show to others. It’s a story that will touch your heart and leave you with a warm feeling inside.

If you’re looking for some great short stories to introduce to your high school students, look no further! Here are some classic tales that will engage and entertain your students:

1. “Leave Paddington by the 11:15” by Arthur Conan Doyle
In this Sherlock Holmes adventure, a man is murdered and his estranged son becomes the prime suspect. It’s a great way to introduce students to the world of detective stories and the master of mysteries, Conan Doyle.

2. “Bartleby the Scrivener” by Herman Melville
This story follows a clerk who, after being hired for a job, refuses to do any work. It’s a unique perspective on Melville’s writing and a great way to explore his lesser-known works.

3. “A Warrior’s Daughter” by Zitkala-Sa
This Native American story tells the tale of Tusee, a woman who takes action against an enemy tribe when her love is captured. Written by an author from the Dakota tribe, it offers a different perspective on love and bravery.

4. “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” by Arthur Conan Doyle
Another Sherlock Holmes story, this one follows the main character as she fears for her life after her twin sister’s mysterious death. Suspenseful and engaging, it’s a great read for high school students.

5. “The One Thousand Dozen” by Jack London
In this humorous tale, a man tries to make money by transporting eggs from San Francisco to Dawson. It’s a lighthearted take on westward expansion and offers a fun look at London’s writing style.

6. “Hansel and Grethel” by the Grimm Brothers
This classic fairy tale follows two children, Hansel and Grethel, as they navigate a dangerous forest and encounter a wicked witch. It’s a great story to discuss themes of bravery and survival with your students.

7. “The Box of Robbers” by L. Frank Baum
Known for “The Wizard of Oz,” Baum also wrote many short stories, including this lesser-known tale. It follows a young girl named Martha who finds herself alone and must outwit a group of robbers.

8. “The Willows” by Algernon Blackwood
A supernatural ghost story set along the Danube River, this tale explores themes of loneliness and desolation. It’s a haunting read that has influenced many other writers in the genre.

These short stories are sure to captivate your high school students and spark interesting discussions in your classroom. For more great resources and ideas, be sure to subscribe to our newsletters and stay updated on all things education. The recent surge in remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic has revolutionized the way we work and communicate. As companies continue to adapt to this new normal, many are considering making remote work a permanent option for their employees. This shift towards remote work has sparked a debate on whether this model is beneficial or detrimental for businesses and their employees.

One of the main benefits of remote work is the flexibility it offers. Employees no longer have to commute to the office, saving time and money on transportation. This flexibility allows employees to better balance work and personal life, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity. Additionally, remote work can also attract a wider pool of talent, as companies are not limited to hiring employees who are located near their office.

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However, remote work does come with its challenges. One of the main concerns for employers is the lack of face-to-face interaction among employees. This can lead to feelings of isolation and hinder collaboration and teamwork. Additionally, some employees may struggle with work-life balance and find it difficult to disconnect from work when they are constantly working from home.

Another challenge of remote work is the potential for decreased productivity. Some employees may find it difficult to stay focused and motivated when working from home, leading to a decline in productivity. Additionally, communication can also be a challenge in a remote work environment, as employees may not have the same opportunities for impromptu conversations or brainstorming sessions.

Overall, remote work has its pros and cons, and whether it is beneficial or detrimental for businesses and employees depends on various factors such as the nature of the work, the company culture, and the individual preferences of employees. As companies continue to navigate this new way of working, it is important to find a balance that meets the needs of both employees and the business. Title: The Importance of Mental Health in Overall Well-Being

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of mental health in overall well-being. While physical health has long been a focus of healthcare systems, mental health has often been overlooked or stigmatized. However, research has shown that mental health is just as important as physical health when it comes to leading a fulfilling and healthy life.

One of the key reasons why mental health is so important is its impact on overall well-being. Mental health is closely linked to emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and can affect how we think, feel, and act. When our mental health is poor, it can have a negative impact on our relationships, work, and daily activities. On the other hand, good mental health can help us cope with stress, build resilience, and lead a fulfilling life.

Additionally, mental health is closely connected to physical health. Research has shown that mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can increase the risk of developing chronic physical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Conversely, physical health problems can also have a negative impact on mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression.

Another reason why mental health is important is its impact on productivity and success. Poor mental health can lead to decreased productivity at work, school, or in other areas of life. It can also affect decision-making, problem-solving, and creativity. On the other hand, good mental health can improve focus, concentration, and motivation, leading to greater success and achievement.

Furthermore, mental health is crucial for maintaining relationships and social connections. Good mental health can help us build and maintain healthy relationships with others, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts. It can also help us feel connected to our community and society, leading to a sense of belonging and purpose.

Overall, mental health plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. It is important to prioritize mental health and seek help if needed. Taking care of our mental health can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. It is essential to break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote open conversations about it. By doing so, we can create a society that values and supports mental health for all.