High School Students
Suggested Reading List

(Ages 15-18)

1. "The Dressmaker" by Kate Alcott
   A novel set against the backdrop of the Titanic disaster, focusing on a young seamstress and the fashion industry of the early 20th century.
2. "The Time in Between" by María Dueñas
   The story of a Spanish seamstress who becomes a spy during the Spanish Civil War and WWII, highlighting the intersection of textiles and history.
3. "Fashionopolis: The Price of Fast Fashion and the Future of Clothes" by Dana Thomas
   An exploration of the global fashion industry, addressing issues of sustainability, labor practices, and the future of textiles.
4. "Threads of Life: A History of the World Through the Eye of a Needle" by Clare Hunter
   A history of sewing and textiles, showing their impact on culture, politics, and society throughout history.
5. "Overdressed: The Shockingly High Cost of Cheap Fashion" by Elizabeth L. Cline
   An investigative look at the consequences of fast fashion, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and ethical textile practices.
6. "The Sewing Machine" by Natalie Fergie
   A novel that traces the history of a sewing machine and its impact on multiple generations, highlighting the personal and cultural significance of textiles.
7. "Silk" by Alessandro Baricco
   A historical novel about a French silkworm merchant's travels to Japan, exploring the luxurious and intricate world of silk production.
8. "The Golden Thread: How Fabric Changed History" by Kassia St. Clair
   A comprehensive look at the history of fabric and its role in shaping human civilization, from ancient Egypt to modern space suits.
9. "The Fleece & Fiber Sourcebook" by Deborah Robson and Carol Ekarius
   An extensive guide to wool and other animal fibers, detailing their properties, uses, and the processes involved in turning raw fleece into finished textiles.
10. "Where Am I Wearing?: A Global Tour to the Countries, Factories, and People That Make Our Clothes" by Kelsey Timmerman
    A travelogue that explores the origins of everyday clothing items, offering insights into the lives of textile workers around the world.

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