Every phase in one’s life is defined by their experiences. Some experiences leap off the page and influence our lives in unimaginable ways. During our college days, there have been a few impactful books that spoke to us. In this list, we will be sharing the top ten most essential books for a meaningful college experience.
- This Side of Paradise – F. Scott Fitzgerald
First published in 1920, this novel is surprisingly fitting for modern-day college students. Some might even say it is a college student staple. This book tells the story of Amory Blaine, a handsome spoiled Princeton student who engages in some literary pursuits, failed romances, and a difficult realization of life after graduation.
This novel is key to preparation for life after graduation as it encourages students to look beyond their college campus and brace for real life. It is also an interesting read since it offers glimpses into the psyche of American youth post World War I.
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- To Kill A Mockingbird – Harper Lee
If you have not already read and loved this book, you are in for a treat. To Kill A Mockingbird is one of the most influential American books of all time. It tackles themes of racism, family, and politics in an engaging and personal way which has earned it a Pulitzer Prize. Although we have come a long way, battles against racial inequality are unfortunately still ongoing in recent times. This book reminds us of what these battles stand for and why they are important.
- 1984 – George Orwell
This dystopian science fiction novel is one of the most essential reads of one’s life. The book is a hallmark for political fiction with an impact that you can see in many recent successful book franchises. Orwell’s masterpiece takes place in Airstrip One which is a province of the superstate Oceania. Its government is a corrupt war machine that follows ‘Ingsoc’ or English Socialism. Through surveilling the people and persecuting free thought, the ruling party controls everything and everyone.
With themes of nationalism, censorship, and free speech, 1984 has created a profound cultural impact that can be seen everywhere. Words like ‘Thought Police’ and ‘Big Brother’ were originally coined in the book and are still used by professional news outlets today.
- Lolita – Vladimir Nabokov
Lolita is a disturbing controversial work of art that draws thought and empathy towards one of the most heinous crimes ever. It follows the story of Humbert, a romantic and intelligent scholar, who becomes obsessed with a 12-year-old girl named Dolores. His attachment towards ‘Lolita’ -his nickname for her- grows until it forces him to commit strange and unreasonable acts including becoming her stepfather.
Vladimir Nabokov was widely praised for his use of language and portrayal of lust and obsession but also heavily criticized for promoting pedophilia. This book urges you to peel the layers of its story and make up your own mind about its nature.
- Into the Wild – Jon Krakauer
This incredible book is an inspirational biography written by Jon Krakauer of the life, adventure, and death of college graduate Chris McCandless. It recounts his journey from impressive education and family life to hitchhiking across the western states. McCandless changed his name and disappeared completely to immerse himself in a gypsy lifestyle amongst new people and raw nature. While he started his trip in 1990, he ended up in Alaska by 1992 surviving for 113 days mostly on squirrels, birds, roots, and seeds before dying in an abandoned bus.
- The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho
This book was written by best-selling Brazilian author Paulo Coelho. It mixes elements of folklore, realism, and spirituality all in simple and magical storytelling. Many have called it life-changing, inspirational, and soul-stirring.
The Alchemist tells the story of a shepherd named Santiago who has recurring dreams of an incredible treasure. The young Andalusian boy travels to Egypt to find this treasure with faith in his destiny. This powerful story is said to re-spark a love for spirituality and destiny in a world of hyperrealism and cynicism.
- Of Mice and Men – John Steinbeck
Of Mice and Men is a novella written by influential American writer John Steinbeck whose works also include The Grapes of Wrath, East of Eden, The Pearl, and many more.
Published in 1937, this novella is a powerful tale of friendship, fate, and tragedy in the Great Depression era. It follows the story of George and Lennie, two ranch workers who migrate all over California looking for opportunities with a dream of owning their own ranch.
- The Giver – Lois Lowry
In this book, Lois Lowry paints a seemingly utopian society that appears idyllic to its protagonist Jonas. After meeting The Giver who is the ‘Receiver of Memory’ for all the town’s history, Jonas is more and more sure that the society in which he lives is a dystopian illusion. Refusing to be controlled and submitted, Jonas attempts to escape to save himself and his loved ones.
- Lord Of The Flies – William Golding
Lord Of The Flies is a frightening cautionary tale of a society without laws, rules, or morality. This book is a classic that follows 30 British schoolboys who are left stranded on a deserted island without governance. As the story progresses, we see the horror and pain of human nature as conspiracy, dominance, and violence unfolds. With the boys turning against each other, we see the savagery of man when left to his own devices. This remarkable tale by Nobel prize-winning author William Golding is a must-read for any student.
- Catcher in The Rye – J.D. Salinger
This book is a perfect portrayal of teen angst since it deals with themes like innocence, identity, belonging, sex, and depression. Author J.D. Salinger tells the story of a teenage rebel named Holden Caulfield who gets expelled from school at the age of 16. Feeling alienated and confused, Holden travels around New York in search of himself and his truth.
There are so many good books out there and though it may seem hard to make time for reading in between the overwhelming workload of academic life, it is definitely worth it. We recommend using some online writing services to help out with your college work, so you can make time for doing the things that you really love. Professional essay writing companies available online offer you some high-quality work and extra free time to catch up on your reading.
