10 Reasons to Read Holes
- Christina Sheffield
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
10 Reasons to Read Holes
(Yes, Even If Everyone Already Has)
Some books get a lot of hype and then… don’t quite live up to it.Holes by Louis Sachar is not one of those books. After years of rereading it—both on my own and with students—I can confidently say: it still absolutely holds up.
Here’s why Holes deserves a permanent spot on your classroom bookshelf (or nightstand).
1. It’s Not Overrated—It’s Just That Good
Even after all the awards, book lists, and movie adaptations, Holes still kicks butt! The story is clever, layered, funny, and deeply satisfying. It earns every bit of praise it gets.
2. The Plot Is a Brilliant Mystery
The novel weaves together multiple timelines:
Stanley’s present-day life at Camp Green Lake
His family’s so-called century-old curse
The eerie history of the town that once existed there
At first, everything feels random—but watching the puzzle pieces click together is incredibly rewarding. Readers stay hooked because they need to know how it all connects.
3. Short Chapters = Constant Momentum
Sachar’s short, fast-moving chapters make this book nearly impossible to put down. It’s accessible without feeling simplistic, and it keeps readers turning pages long past “just one more chapter.”
4. Stanley Yelnats Is Instantly Relatable
Stanley isn’t a traditional hero. He’s unlucky, awkward, and unfairly punished—but he’s also kind, resilient, and quietly brave. Readers root for him immediately.
And let’s be honest:
Stanley Yelnats and his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather is funny every single time. Bonus points for the palindrome—kids love discovering that.
5. The Side Characters Are Unforgettable
From Zero to X-Ray to the Warden, each character has a distinct personality and backstory. The boys at Camp Green Lake aren’t just “troublemakers”—they’re kids shaped by circumstances far beyond their control.
6. The Friendship Between Stanley and Zero Is Powerful
At its heart, Holes is a story about friendship and loyalty. The bond between Stanley and Zero grows slowly and naturally, showing what true support looks like in difficult situations.
It’s one of the most meaningful and authentic friendships in middle-grade literature.
7. Big Themes, Handled Beautifully
Without ever feeling preachy, Holes explores:
Fate vs. choice (Is Stanley cursed—or shaping his own future?)
Justice vs. injustice (Both modern and historical)
Redemption and transformation (People can change. Healing is possible.)
These themes spark rich conversations while remaining accessible to young readers.
8. It Tackles Serious Topics—Without Being Heavy
The book addresses systemic injustice and historical oppression, including racism, in a way that middle-grade readers can understand. It opens the door for meaningful discussion without overwhelming students.
9. It’s the Perfect Length
The book ends exactly when it should. No dragging. No filler. No unnecessary wrap-up. In a world full of novels that go on too long, Holes is refreshingly tight and purposeful.
10. Kids Absolutely Love It
This is the real proof.
After eight years of teaching Holes:
Students are silent during read-alouds
They beg for “just one more chapter”
Even kids who’ve seen the movie are completely engaged
It is one of the most foolproof books I’ve ever taught for getting kids to love reading.
Want a peaceful teaching block? Read Holes.
If you’d like, I can also:
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Check out my bestseller on Teachers Pay Teachers!
Make teaching Holes by Louis Sachar easier than ever with this zero-prep, fully digital and printable novel study! Designed for a complete 5-week unit, this resource includes daily comprehension practice, vocabulary development, weekly assessments, and fully self-grading Google Forms—perfect for whole-class instruction, small groups, independent work, or distance learning.
All materials are carefully aligned and thoughtfully structured, so you can focus on teaching while students build meaningful reading skills.
Check out more Holes products!
Holes-Themed Bulletin Board Display
Bring your Holes novel study to life with this engaging and easy-to-use bulletin board set! This display is the perfect way to decorate your classroom while building excitement and connection as your students read Holes by Louis Sachar. Designed with simplicity and style in mind, this bulletin board can be set up in minutes and enjoyed all unit long.
"Holes"-Inspired Printable Bookmarks – Color
Get your kids excited to read Holes by Louis Sachar! Each bookmark has a thoughtful quote or fun saying inspired by the novel Holes! Perfect for reading time, book clubs, or as motivational takeaways while studying Holes. Includes color bookmarks for easy, budget-friendly printing.
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