Reading at HGS

Our aim is for all students to develop a life-long passion for reading and we have a culture where reading is enjoyed and celebrated. 

Reading is a core skill which not only helps to improve spelling, increase vocabulary and written skills but also stimulates the imagination and challenges beliefs and perspectives. Reading for pleasure boosts brain and memory function, reduces stress, promotes relaxation and improves sleep; this is why reading regularly is so important.

All students have access to a vibrant and inspiring library, where fiction and non-fiction texts can be borrowed. Whether these texts are complementary to their wider curricular studies or are simply being read for pleasure, our library has something for every reader.

The library can be accessed by all students before and after school and during every morning break and lunch times. Students in Year 7 and 8 also experience one library lesson per fortnight, in which they are able to browse the library, listen to motivating author talks and book recommendations and participate in engaging reading activities. 

To achieve excellence in reading, we actively promote reading through form time and via home learning. We celebrate our annual Harrogate Grammar School Reading Week and participate in many national activities and competitions.

Suggested Texts

Looking for books to read to support your reading in school.  Click on the links below to access suggest texts:

Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11 - also suitable for students in Year 9)

Autumn Term 2025

Year 7 and 8 Fiction

Mystery. Legend. Friendship.

Mystery. Siblings, Christmas.

Fantasy. Family. Adventure.

Christmas. Humour. Adventure.

Family. Chess. Dementia.

Year 7 and 8 Non Fiction

Illustration. Norse Myths. Short stories.

Magic. Tricks. Entertainment.

Science. Earth. Colourful.

Cats. Fun facts. Reference.

Tudors. Medieval England. History.

Year 9, 10 and 11 Fiction

Fantasy. Revenge. Love.

Love. Forgiveness. Grief.

Perspectives. Family. Relationships.

Murder. Secrets. University.

Myths and Legends. Magic.

Year 9, 10 and 11 Non Fiction

Bravery. Resilience. Travel.

Women, Power. Intrigue.

Art and Design. History. Fashion.

History. Science. Plant Worlds.

Music. Nineties.  Culture.

Year 12 and 13

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Mystery. Thrilling. Addictive.

Memory. Healing. Enchanting.

Mystery. Obsession. Love.

Funny. Celebrity. Life-affirming.

Emotional. Love. Magical.