Finding the best short stories for high school English classes can feel like a challenge, but it’s one well worth taking on. Short stories bring so much value to the classroom, and I wholeheartedly believe they deserve a bigger spotlight in high school curricula. For reluctant readers, short stories are often the perfect middle ground—they’re approachable, engaging, and still packed with literary depth. From exploring complex themes to mastering literary analysis, short stories align seamlessly with every ELA standard I’ve encountered.
These versatile gems are ideal when you’re pressed for time but still want to cover a variety of topics, or when you’re aiming to dive deeply into a single theme or concept. Whether you’re looking to reinforce skills, introduce new genres, or spark rich classroom discussions, short stories can do it all. Keep reading to discover some of the best short stories for high school and learn how to incorporate them into your own ELA lessons for maximum impact.
#1: “The Veldt” by Ray Bradbury
I almost always begin any short story unit with Ray Bradbury’s “The Veldt”, a timeless classic that never fails to captivate my students. This thought-provoking story delves into the dangers of allowing technology to take over parenting—a topic that sparks strong opinions in today’s tech-driven world. In the story, George and Lydia Hadley live in an automated home equipped with a virtual entertainment nursery where their children, Peter and Wendy, spend most of their time. As their children’s fantasies take a dark turn, the parents decide to abandon the house and move to the country, leading to a chilling and unforgettable ending that leaves students stunned every time. The twisted conclusion cements this piece as one of the best short stories for high school students, consistently sparking engagement and thoughtful discussions.
This story is also my go-to for a literary element review. It’s packed with vivid examples of symbolism, foreshadowing, and irony, making it the perfect tool to show students that short stories can be both accessible and deeply complex. Beginning with “The Veldt” sets the tone for the entire unit, demonstrating that short stories have the power to intrigue, provoke thought, and challenge perspectives. If you’re looking to make this story a highlight of your own classroom, I have a ready-to-use resource here that breaks down the literary elements and guides students through meaningful analysis. This story will not only engage your students but also show them the incredible depth short stories can offer.
#2: “The Pedestrian” by Ray Bradbury
This story takes us through a single, quiet evening in 2053 with Leonard Mead, a man walking alone in a world consumed by technology. Bradbury’s chilling vision of the future feels eerily relevant today, sparking thoughtful conversations about society’s dependence on technology and its dehumanizing effects. It’s an excellent example of a man vs. technology conflict, and it opens the door to discussions about conformity and how authority or the majority view those who dare to stand out. These themes resonate deeply with students, making it a powerful piece for analysis. If you’re ready to dive into this story with your students, you can find engaging activities and resources for it here.
Ray Bradbury’s works are timeless because they tackle enduring questions about technology, individuality, and society. His writing blends intriguing plots with compelling science fiction and themes that still spark meaningful classroom discussions. If you’re wondering why Bradbury remains a must-read in secondary ELA classrooms, I share my thoughts and teaching strategies here. As one of my favorite “classic” authors, Bradbury’s work remained a staple in my curriculum year after year, and I’m certain your students will find his stories just as thought-provoking.
#3: “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry
O. Henry’s “The Gift of the Magi” tells the heartwarming story of a young couple, Della and Jim, as they each sacrifice their most prized possession to buy a meaningful gift for the other. This timeless classic is a favorite of mine to teach, especially during the holiday season or right before a break when starting a new unit isn’t ideal. Its strong theme of selfless love and sacrifice is not only relatable but also a touching reminder of what truly matters—a lesson that resonates with students and teachers alike.
I’ve created a comprehensive bundle of activities for this story that’s perfect for a variety of classroom needs. It includes before, during, and after reading activities, ensuring students are engaged every step of the way. There’s also a quiz to assess comprehension and a creative children’s book activity that’s an ideal project for the day before a holiday break. Students can reimagine the story as a children’s book using the provided template, allowing them to connect with the text in a fun and meaningful way. As an added bonus, they can even share their creations as a thoughtful gift for family members. Whether you’re pressed for time or looking for something impactful and festive, this story and the accompanying resources are a perfect addition to your classroom.
#4: “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier
“Marigolds” is a powerful coming-of-age story about those pivotal moments when we lose our innocence or realize we’re transitioning out of childhood. Through the narrator’s reflective voice, readers are taken back to her childhood during the Great Depression, a time of hardship and self-discovery. This deeply emotional story resonates with high school students, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences of growing up—moments when they faced “grown-up” issues for the first time or felt the weight of leaving behind the innocence of childhood. It’s a relatable and thought-provoking text that sparks meaningful discussions and personal connections.
A variety of activities designed to engage students and deepen their understanding of this story is available in my shop. From reflective writing prompts to thematic discussions, these resources make it easy to explore the layers of this classic. “Marigolds” is undeniably one of the best short stories for high school classrooms, offering rich opportunities to analyze themes, characters, and the universal experiences of growth and loss. If you’re looking for a text that will leave a lasting impression, this is it.
#5: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
The Lottery by Shirley Jackson is a classic short story that has been read by high school students for generations. The story is set in a small town where the residents hold an annual lottery to determine who will be sacrificed to ensure a good harvest. Although the story is fiction, it contains many elements that are relevant to real life. For example, the theme of mob mentality is something that everyone can relate to. Additionally, the story highlights the dangers of blindly following tradition. As a result, The Lottery is a thought-provoking story that can encourage high school students to question the status quo and think for themselves.
This is the type of short story that stays with you long after you’ve read. Students love this one and it creates great discussions. The ending is both morbid and insightful. Your students will love digging into this one and deem it one of the best short stories for high school.
#6: “The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst
The Scarlet Ibis is a novel by James Hurst that tells the story of two brothers who are very different from each other. One brother, Doodle, is born with a heart condition and is not expected to live very long. The other brother, no larger than Doodle and just as frail, strives to make his brother stronger. This heart-warming story not only teaches the importance of family, but also highlights the power of determination and perseverance. High school students can relate to the challenges that the brothers face, and they will be inspired by the lengths to which the older brother goes to ensure Doodle’s survival. The Scarlet Ibis is a novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished it and is certainly one of the best short stories for high school.
#7: “The Black Cat” by Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Black Cat” is a perfect choice for high school students. For one thing, it’s a quick read—perfect for when you’re short on time. But don’t let its brevity fool you; “The Black Cat” is a complex and intricately crafted tale of guilt, madness, and revenge. Poe masterfully builds suspense throughout the story, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. What’s more, the story provides valuable insights into the dark side of human nature. Through the narrator’s downward spiral into madness, Poe shows how easily good people can be driven to horrific acts by their own demons. In today’s world, where mass shootings and hate crimes seem to be all too common, “The Black Cat” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remaining aware of our darkest impulses. For all these reasons, high school students would be wise to give this classic story a try.
Any of Poe’s short stories rank under the best short stories for high school. If you’re studying Edgar Allan Poe, I have a great research organizer to help your students learn more about him, plus an entire blog post with more activity ideas. Your students will love this as one of the best short stories for high school.
#8: “The Most Dangerous Game” by Richard Connell
The most dangerous game is a thrilling tale of survival and suspense. Set on a remote island, the story follows the hunt for a human prey by a ruthless hunter. While the novel may seem like a simple tale of good versus evil, it is actually much more complex. The most dangerous game raises important questions about morality, justice, and the nature of violence. As such, it is an excellent choice for high school students who are looking for something more than just entertainment value. In addition to being a great story, the most dangerous game can help to foster critical thinking and discussion among students.
I can clearly remember the first time I read this story myself. It was one of the stories that intrigued me enough to consider that maybe there were books out there worth reading. It’s such a formative memory in my reading history that I can remember it clearly. Short stories can be so powerful in that way. I truly believe your students will love this one and will agree that it is one of the best short stories for high school.
#9: “Thank You, Ma’am” by Langston Hughes
High school students should read “Thank You, Ma’am” because it is a relatable story with an important message. The story is about a young boy who tries to steal a woman’s purse, but she ends up teaching him a lesson about respect and compassion. Although the story is set in the past, the themes are still relevant today. Students can learn a lot from the characters in the story, and they will be able to relate to the challenges that they face. In addition, the story is beautifully written and it has a powerful ending that will stay with readers long after they finish reading it. This is truly one of the best short stories for high school English class.
#10: “The Sniper” by Liam O’Flaherty
The Sniper is a classic war story that has been thrilling readers for generations and is definitely one of the best short stories for high school. The story follows a sniper as he tries to survive during the Irish Civil War. It is an excellent example of the human capacity for endurance and courage in the face of impossible odds. As such, it is an inspiring read for high school students who may be facing their own challenges. The story also highlights the importance of quick thinking and resourcefulness, both of which are valuable skills for students to develop. In addition, the Sniper provides a realistic and harrowing look at the horrors of war, making it an important read for any student who is interested in history or current events. Overall, The Sniper is a timeless tale that is well worth reading for high school students.
Grab my full unit!
I absolutely love teaching short stories as their own dedicated unit, and I know your students will too. Short stories offer the perfect opportunity to introduce a mix of timeless classics and fresh, contemporary voices that spark curiosity and foster deep thinking. If you’re looking for a seamless, ready-to-go solution, my Short Story Unit is exactly what you need. It’s a flexible, comprehensive resource designed to bring engaging and meaningful short story lessons into your classroom.
This unit includes some of the best short stories for grades 7-10, like “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier, “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry, and “The Pedestrian” by Ray Bradbury. Plus, you’ll get bonus activities for Bradbury’s “The Veldt”—a fantastic way to kick off the unit with a focus on key literary elements that will carry through the rest of the readings. These stories come paired with before, during, and after reading activities that encourage critical thinking, literary analysis, and personal reflection, all while keeping students engaged with visually appealing designs and thoughtful questioning.
The unit includes a pacing guide to help you easily plan for approximately 15 days of instruction across four stories, but it’s flexible enough to adapt to your unique schedule or differentiate for your students’ needs. Whether you’re teaching in a traditional classroom or a blended learning environment, this unit provides everything you need to create an engaging, 21st-century learning experience.
If you want to elevate your short story lessons and save hours of planning, download my Short Story Unit today. Your students will love the blend of classic and contemporary tales, and you’ll love the convenience and quality of these ready-to-use resources for the best short stories for high school!
Short stories are an incredible way to engage students, teach important literary concepts, and spark meaningful discussions in your classroom. Whether you’re focusing on timeless classics, introducing contemporary voices, or blending the two, the versatility of short stories makes them a must-have in any ELA curriculum. With the right approach and resources, you can create a unit that captivates your students and helps them develop essential reading and analytical skills.
If you’re searching for the best short stories for high school to include in your lessons, I hope these ideas and resources have inspired you. From heartwarming tales like “The Gift of the Magi” to thought-provoking stories like “Marigolds”, short stories offer endless opportunities to engage your students in powerful ways.
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Happy teaching!
