It’s easy to overlook the value of Pulitzer Prize books within the classroom, because many consider them appropriate for adults only, both in reading level and content. Consequently, Pulitzer Prize books tend to be overlooked by teachers, and few of these books are regularly used within the classroom. There are a few exceptions. To Kill a Mockingbird and a few select books are commonly used, but the vast majority of Pulitzer books are entirely overlooked. This is truly unfortunate, because Pulitzer books are among the best and most appropriate for the classroom.

Before selecting Pulitzer books for any class, one needs to remember that most books, including Pulitzer books, are written between a 5th and 10th grade level. Few books go above or below these grade levels. To Kill a Mockingbird, for example, is rated at 5th grade, and Gone with the Wind is rated at 7th grade. This doesn’t mean, however, that these are appropriate for these grade levels. Further, it doesn’t mean that students will actually understand what they are reading. It only means that students will be able to fluently read the material. The concepts may be too advanced, as is the case with both To Kill a Mockingbird and Gone with the Wind. Consequently, one has to consider content too. Basically, as a general rule, every Pulitzer book is appropriate for the following:

7th grade gifted

8th grade gifted

9th grade

10th grade

11th grade

12th grade

Some of the books, such as The Old Man and the Sea, are fine for lower grades, often as low as fourth grade, but care must be taken in selecting appropriate material that will interest young readers and be appropriate for them.

Ultimately, it is our hope that educators will both continue to use Pulitzer winners and begin to incorporate even more winners into their plans. If you're looking for a great American novel to read with your class, look no futher. These books won for a reason. They truly are among the greatest books of the 20th century, so enjoy!