Advice on books to focus on for AP literature?

Hey guys, I've got AP literature coming up next semester. I'm a huge reader and want to get a jump-start over the summer. What books typically feature in the AP literature syllabus? Any recommendations welcomed!

Hey there, you're doing the right thing by getting started early! While AP Literature curricula can vary depending on the high school and teacher, there are a number of classic works that are commonly studied. Here are a few:

1. "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens

2. "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen

3. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald

4. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee

5. "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky

6. "Beloved" by Toni Morrison

7. "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger

8. "Hamlet" or "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare

All these works are rich in themes, character development, and literary techniques that are sure to give you extensive material to analyze. It’s also essential to practice your critical reading and writing skills. Focus on character symbolism, themes, and various writing styles. Take notes on what you read, make connections, and ask yourself questions about the text.

You might also want to familiarize yourself with 'How to Read Literature Like a Professor' by Thomas C. Foster. This resource compliments your reading of actual literary texts and provides valuable tools for analysis.

Remember, the AP Literature exam doesn't require knowledge of specific books, but it does require the ability to write critically about whatever text is put in front of you. This preparation should go a long way in helping you do just that. Happy reading!