S.E. Hinton's novel, “The Outsiders”, explores the themes of social class, identity, and belonging through the life of its protagonist, Ponyboy Curtis. Ponyboy is a "Greaser," part of a group often judged for their lower socioeconomic status and rough appearance. Their rivals, the "Socs," come from wealth and privilege, creating a stark divide between the two groups. Despite the conflict, Ponyboy has a unique perspective, seeing the struggles and humanity on both sides, though he remains entrenched in the Greaser community.

I revisited this book as an adult, having first read it as a required text in my high school English class. Nearly two decades later, the story felt somewhat simplistic and less engaging than I remembered. While it may not have captivated me as much this time around, I understand why it remains a staple for young adult readers. The novel introduces important discussions about empathy and social inequality. However, I hope that modern curriculums also include other powerful works that convey similar messages with greater depth and contemporary relevance.

Did you read “The Outsiders” in school? What are your thoughts on it?