Catholic Novels for Middle + High School Students
As Catholic parents and homeschoolers, we want our children to read delightful and engaging books that form the heart and mind. From explicitly Catholic novels to classics imbued with moral and spiritual themes, these stories encourage virtue, inspire courage, and can help foster a love of God.
We have curated a list of middle and high school-friendly books, with short explanations for each selection.
Catholic Novels for Middle School
7 Riddles to Nowhere by A.J. Cattapan
A fun mystery-adventure series set in a Catholic school, blending friendship, problem-solving, and moral lessons in a way middle schoolers can enjoy.
The Adventures of Nick & Sam by Paul McCusker
This series follows relatable Catholic family life and teen experiences, highlighting the everyday application of faith and virtue.
Crusader King by Susan Peek
Historical fiction that brings the lives of Saints and medieval Catholic culture to life!
The King’s Prey by Susan Peek
Centers on a saintly figure’s journey with themes of loyalty, faith, and heroism, suitable for young readers ready to explore historical faith narratives.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
While not explicitly Catholic, Tolkien’s beloved story celebrates courage, providence, and self-sacrifice, all central to Catholic morality.
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Tolkien's saga highlights heroism, sacrifice, and goodness in a way that reflects a well-formed moral imagination.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
It's a favorite for a reason! Classic allegorical fantasy where good triumphs over evil and faith, courage, and redemption are central themes.
The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge
A gentle fantasy emphasizing moral goodness, forgiveness, and the triumph of virtue over misfortune.
Freckles by Gene Stratton-Porter
Offers wholesome stories with appreciation for nature and personal growth, reflecting a growing interior and moral life.
A Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton-Porter
An enthralling story of personal growth, virtue, and perseverance. Celebrates moral integrity!
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Themes of healing, restoration, and the transformative power of love mirror the spiritual renewal that comes with the Christian life.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
This classic includes the development of conscience, kindness, and moral growth in a young girl’s journey.
Robin Hood by Howard Pyle
Adventure story highlighting justice, helping the poor, and loyalty, rooted in a medieval Christian worldview.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
An evergreen tale of repentance and redemption, demonstrating the power of moral conversion.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
Blends science fiction with themes of love, courage, and resisting evil, aligning with Christian moral values.
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Explores sacrifice, redemption, and the power of love and conscience amidst societal upheaval.
Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott
Adventure set in a medieval Catholic context, highlighting chivalry, loyalty, and moral integrity.
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
Gentle tales of friendship, temptation, and forgiveness, offering allegorical moral lessons.
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
Themes of providence, justice, and mercy, showing the moral consequences of vengeance versus forgiveness.
Catholic Novels for Upper High School
Island of the World by Michael O’Brien
A rich, heart-wrenching, complex story exploring faith, suffering, and redemption. Suited for older teens ready for profound spiritual themes.
Historical fiction bringing Saints’ lives to life, inspiring readers to virtue and faith through compelling storytelling.
Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis
Explores love, sacrifice, and faith through an imaginative retelling of a classical myth, rich with moral reflection.
The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
Allegorical tale of Heaven, hell, and moral choice, encouraging deep reflection on the soul.
The Man Who Was Thursday by G.K. Chesterton
Surreal adventure that examines good versus evil, providence, and faith. Appealing to older teens.
Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
A long one for your voracious readers! Epic exploration of mercy, justice, and redemption, showing the transformative power of love and grace.
Quo Vadis by Henryk Sienkiewicz
Historical novel about early Christians in Rome, martyrdom, and clinging to the Faith under persecution.
Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh
Mature tale focusing on sin, grace, and redemption within an aristocratic English family.
Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset
Sweeping medieval narrative with rich depictions of Catholic life, moral decision-making, and virtue.
What Would You Add?
I hope this gives you and your readers a great place to begin with both explicitly-Catholic novels and classic novels that reflect Catholic morality.
What books would you add to this list?!
Ready to dive deeper?
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