Since it’s the beginning of a new school year, I thought I would share some of my favorite school stories. Make sure to keep reading to see if any of yours made the list!
The movies, books, and audio dramas on this list vary a lot in genre and style, but all of them take place at least partially in or at a school. These are just my personal favorites, so feel free to add your own thoughts in the comments!
- Christy
This book is a slower read, and is based on a true story. I love how real the characters and setting feels, as if you’re really there in the book. With a Christian viewpoint that makes the readers stop and think, I would definitely recommend this book, especially to other young women.
Nineteen-year-old Christy Huddleson leaves the life she’s always known to teach at a school in the rural Appalachian Mountains. At first, it seems like she will never be able to reach the people of Cutter Gap. But as time goes on, Christy begins to realize that they’re not as different from “civilized” people as she first thought.
- Monsters University
This movie is great for families, especially those with younger kids. Even though it’s based in a very fictional world, it’s both hilarious and heartwarming at the same time. It was made as a prequel to another well-known Pixar movie, “Monsters, Inc.,” and further expands on the pasts of many of the characters.
One-eyed monster Mike Wazowski wants nothing more than to be a scarer—a monster who works to supply the screams that keep the monster world alive. But to do that, he has to first survive Monsters University. When Mike and his rival, James P. “Sulley” Sullivan, get in trouble with the dean of the school, they must work together in order to keep their dreams alive.
- Woodlawn
While it could technically be classified as a sports movie, the story of “Woodlawn” definitely extends to the rest of the school. I love the plot, the characters, and the message of this movie… and, even better, it’s based on a true story.
When young Tony Nathans joined the Woodlawn High School football team, he never dreamed what would happen as a result. The desegregated school is full of controversy, anger, and hatred that seems to never end. But all of that changes when Hank, a traveling sports chaplain, asks Coach Tandy Gerelds if he can give a message to the team. In a world full of turmoil and confusion, could this message be the answer they’ve all been looking for?
- Anne of Green Gables
This movie and its sequels are some of my all-time favorites. Again, it’s not just about school, but the classroom does play a big part in the story. The characters are memorable, the setting is gorgeous, and the story is heartwarming.
When Marilla Cuthbert and her brother, Matthew, end up with an orphan girl instead of the boy they asked the orphanage for, it turns out to be the best mistake that could have been made. Anne Shirley and her brilliant imagination, daring spirit, and fiery temper make an impression on the town of Avonlea—and on the hearts of those she meets—that will last for a lifetime.
- Overcomer
This movie is also about sports, but, again, it extends beyond that. I love the message it presents, as well as the realistic and relatable characters. The story will inspire Christians to recognize and embrace their identity in Christ, and to live it out in their lives.
Coach John Harrison wants nothing more than to lead his high school basketball team to victory in the next school year. But when a large manufacturing plant is moved to another city, he ends up with not much of a team. Even worse, he’s recruited by the school’s principal to coach the cross-country program—which consists of one player named Hannah Scott. With the help of an invalid blind man, John begins to take on the challenge… and to embrace his identity in his Savior.
- Inside Out
Based on a very interesting concept, this movie is very enjoyable to watch. It explores the inner workings of the mind, offering unusual—and often hilarious—theories. This could also be a great family movie, though some parts might be difficult for younger viewers to understand.
The actions and mind of a young girl named Riley are controlled by five basic emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust. With Joy at the lead, life is going great for everyone… until Riley’s parents decide to move their family to San Francisco. Joy then finds herself trying to keep everyone happy, while also attempting to keep Sadness from ruining things. But when Riley’s core memories get sucked into a vacuum tube, sending them far away from Headquarters, Joy and Sadness must learn to work together in order to save Riley.
- Remember the Goal
While the quality of this movie isn’t the best at times, it’s a great story with an even greater message. I love the allegory it portrays, and the characters and their struggles are realistic and relatable.
When Coach Courtney Smith-Donnelly takes over the cross country team at an all-girls Christian school, she is instantly met with opposition. Coach Donnelly believes that she can lead their team to victory… but only if she can gain the full cooperation of the top 5 runners. Using 1 Corinthians 10:31 as their motto, the unlikely team rises to the challenge of giving God the glory in everything they do.
- Big Hero 6
This movie is another one that isn’t necessarily all about school. However, seeing as getting into the university was the main character’s goal in the beginning—and characters from that school play a huge role in the movie—I thought I would include it.
I love this movie for many reasons… the setting is amazing, the characters are all well-rounded, and the story is powerful. It will have you laughing, thinking, and, yes, perhaps even crying. I would definitely recommend it for all ages, and it would make a great family movie.
Fourteen-year-old Hiro Hamada is a robotics prodigy who doesn’t quite know what to do with his life. His brother, Tadashi, urges him to get into the San Fransokyo Institute of Technology, headed by Professor Robert Callaghan. But when tragedy strikes, Hiro must join forces with Baymax—an inflatable healthcare robot of his brother’s invention—as well as Tadashi’s eccentric friends in order to combat a masked villain.
- Teddy’s Button
While I’ve never read the original book, I do love the audio drama version of this story, as told by Lamplighter Theatre. The story is filled with humor, heart, and a thought-provoking message that will entertain and enlighten its listeners.
Young Teddy Platt loves to tell the story of how his father died bravely in battle, defending their nation’s flag. But when he meets Nancy, a sailor’s daughter, they become instant enemies. In his effort to behave himself, Teddy discovers that there is a Heavenly Captain who will help him to defend a banner of love instead of hate.
- The Face You See
And, of course, I can’t forget my own novella, which is available here on this blog for a free download. I had a ton of fun creating this story, with the help of my sister, so make sure to give it a read and let me know what you think!
Willow Grant wants nothing more than to blend in at her new school. But when she stands up for Jaquelyn, the strange girl who just moved to town, she makes enemies—and friends—that she never wanted.
While walking her dog one day, Willow meets a reclusive old man who seems to be harboring a deep secret. At first, she wants nothing to do with him and his broken-down house, but she little knows that the story behind one closed door could change her life forever.
Friendship and hatred… compassion and prejudice… an untold tale of tragedy and bitterness. These force Willow to confront the secrets she’s kept for so long. But will she ever be able to see a person behind a face? Or will she continue to let her faith be hidden by her biggest fears?
Comment below your favorite school story!