Mensa's recommended reading list for high school students offers a diverse range of classic and contemporary literature spanning various genres and cultures. The list emphasizes challenging texts that encourage critical thinking and expose students to different perspectives. Included are works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama, from authors like Shakespeare, Austen, Orwell, and Angelou, aiming to broaden literary horizons and foster a lifelong love of reading. The list is not exhaustive, but rather a starting point for exploring the rich world of literature.
This Substack post, entitled "The Mensa Reading List for Grades 9-12," presents a meticulously curated collection of literary works recommended by the high-IQ society Mensa for high school students. The author prefaces the list with an acknowledgement that such compilations are inherently subjective and can spark debate, particularly regarding the inclusion or exclusion of specific titles. They emphasize that the list should not be perceived as prescriptive but rather as a potential springboard for intellectual exploration and the discovery of new literary landscapes. Furthermore, the author explicitly states that the list's organization into grade levels shouldn't be construed as a rigid framework; students are encouraged to engage with the material at their own pace and according to their individual interests and maturity levels.
The list itself is subdivided into four sections, corresponding to grades 9 through 12. Each grade level features a diverse assortment of genres, encompassing fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, and classic literature. Within each grade category, titles are arranged alphabetically by the author's last name, providing a structured, yet easily navigable presentation. The list encompasses a wide range of literary movements and historical periods, from ancient epics like Homer's The Odyssey to more contemporary works like The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan. This breadth of selection aims to expose students to a variety of writing styles, themes, and perspectives, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the literary world.
The author refrains from providing detailed summaries or critical analyses of the included works, focusing instead on presenting a concise and accessible list. This minimalist approach allows the titles to speak for themselves, inviting students to embark on their own literary journeys and form their individual interpretations. The overall impression is one of encouraging independent learning and a love of reading, offering a rich tapestry of literary possibilities for high school students seeking intellectual stimulation and enrichment. The implicit message is that this list serves not as a definitive guide but as a starting point for a lifelong exploration of the boundless world of literature.
Summary of Comments ( 52 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43601190
HN commenters generally found the Mensa reading list unimpressive, criticizing it as uninspired, Eurocentric, and lacking diversity in both authors and genres. Several suggested alternative lists or resources, such as the Harold Bloom canon, "1001 Children’s Books You Must Read Before You Grow Up," and local library recommendations. Some commenters questioned the value of prescribed reading lists altogether, advocating instead for allowing students to explore their own interests. The lack of sci-fi/fantasy and more contemporary works was also a common complaint. A few defended the list, arguing that it provides a solid foundation in classic literature.
The Hacker News post titled "The Mensa Reading List for Grades 9-12" linking to a Substack article about the same topic, generated a moderate amount of discussion with several commenters expressing skepticism and criticism of Mensa and the suggested reading list.
One of the most compelling comments questioned the value and purpose of Mensa itself, suggesting it primarily serves as a way for members to validate their intelligence rather than fostering intellectual curiosity or engagement. This comment sparked a thread discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of belonging to such organizations.
Several commenters criticized the suggested reading list, finding it lacking in diversity and overly focused on Western literature. They argued for a more inclusive and representative selection of books that would expose students to a broader range of perspectives and cultural experiences. Specific examples of books that were deemed missing or better alternatives were offered, showcasing a desire for a more thoughtfully curated list.
Another line of discussion centered on the relevance of standardized reading lists in general. Some commenters argued that personalized reading journeys are more effective than following a prescribed list, emphasizing the importance of individual interests and learning styles. They suggested that encouraging students to explore books they find genuinely engaging is more likely to cultivate a love of reading.
There were also comments expressing concern over the lack of specific criteria used to compile the Mensa list. The absence of a clear rationale for the inclusion or exclusion of certain books left some commenters wondering about the underlying methodology and objectives of the list.
Finally, a few commenters shared their personal experiences with Mensa and offered anecdotes about the organization's activities and culture. These comments provided some insight into the community aspect of Mensa, while also acknowledging its potential shortcomings.