Students in 8th-grade ELA classes are excited to be reading the cult classic The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. This year there is even an extra air of excitement as the Broadway play explores the story as a musical, and classes have been listening to some of the musical tracks that are helping to make the play a hit. Written when Hinton was only 16, the book has resonated with readers of all ages since its publication in 1967. The protagonist, Ponyboy Curtis, navigates life within this tension-filled divide, reflecting on the challenges of fitting in, dealing with violence, and searching for meaning in a world that often feels unfair.
In the classroom, The Outsiders is an excellent tool for discussions about empathy, perspective, and social inequality. It challenges students to think critically about stereotypes, prejudice, and how society often pits individuals against each other based on their economic and social status. As we read and sing through the novel, we will follow Ponyboy's personal growth and explore the themes of loyalty and friendship.
By: John Tornquist