You don't have to major in rocket science to know that a pre-college reading program will boost your vocabulary, prepare you for entrance test, and help you succeed in college level courses. The trick is knowing which books are the most important to your long-term academic success. ARCO's Reading Lists for College Bound Students also includes guidance for setting up your own personal reading program and a tear-out checklist to help guide your reading selection.
I had no clue which classics I should start with, so this book helped me out. I started highlighting it in 9th grade and I really should get the new edition.
Preparing for college by reading many schools prep lists also improves vocabulary, makes you a better writer, helps prepare you to interact with diverse people, and gives you an edge on the tests you must take to get you there. This book has school specific lists and more general lists to prepare your own reading list.