3. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Few novels are as impactful and beloved in US schools as To Kill a Mockingbird. It was published in 1960 and became an immediate success and best seller. Widely regarded as a literary classic along with its popularity, To Kill a Mockingbird is required reading for many middle and high schoolers.
It was adapted into a film that was released in 1962 and was, like the book, an instant hit. Gregory Peck, who starred as Atticus Finch, had a close friendship with the author of the book Harper Lee. Lee even gave him her father’s watch to help Peck get into the role of Atticus, as her father had inspired that character.