Books for Mature Teens and Adults

Theme: Troublemakers

Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela - (ISBN: 978-0316548182)

by Nelson Mandela

Working as a thorn in the side of apartheid, Nelson Mandela’s long period of imprisonment did nothing to weaken his rebellious spirit. After his release from prison, he assisted South Africa away from its racially damaging policies and became the president of the African National Congress. His life is a testament to those who cause trouble everywhere for the cause of freedom.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest - (ISBN: 978-0451163967)

by Ken Kesey

Randle Patrick McMurphy’s goal of riling the totalitarian nurse after he is placed in a mental ward includes his starting gambling, smuggling of alcohol and babes, and encouraging other patients to join him. Each action he takes result in the nurse-Nazi clamping down harder on him in this unequal battle. McMurphy’s fierce spirit almost outlasts her determination, but this tale celebrates his drive!

The Goldfinch - (ISBN: 978-0316055437)

by Donna Tartt

After Theo’s mother dies in an explosion in a NY City museum, he eventually goes to live with his father in the Las Vegas area. There he meets his Russian best friend and nemesis Boris, a classmate who introduces him to the world of drugs and thievery. Although Theo eventually goes back to New York to work and start a new life, Boris keeps turning up, and each time he does, Theo’s life veers more and more off course. Read the book to find out what Boris does to force Theo to keep dealing with him.

Troublemaker - (ISBN: 978-1595824882)

by Janet Evanovich

Alex and Sam are crime fighters in this graphic novel, but their methods include explosive techniques and violence that often get them into trouble. They persevere in delving into the Miami crime scene in this action packed thriller. Do not try this book if you are faint of heart!

Troublemaker - (ISBN: 978-1555837105)

by Joseph Hansen

Dave Brandstetter appears in several books of this series as a crime-fighting detective. This time, his only suspect in a murder investigation has good reasons to claim his innocence. As an investigator for a life insurance company, Dave has to look into all sides of the mystery.

More Tales of Uncle Remus: Further Adventures of Brer Rabbit, His Friends, Enemies, and Others - (ISBN: 978-0803704190)

by Julius Lester

The Trickster, Magician & Grieving Man - (ISBN: 978-1879181113)

by Glen Mazis

Activities for this Theme

Read more about Nelson Mandela’s life


Compare the tricksters in Brer Rabbit with some of the deceiving characters in Aesop’s Fables.


Did you have any favorite lines from One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest? Compare what you underlined with these citations.