Books
8 Books for Recent Grads to Read
School is back in session, and new grads may feel a bit lost without a classroom to step into. We hear you — and so do the friends and family who are coming out of the woodwork to give “valuable” tidbits of life advice. Sure, they mean well, but there are only so many times you can be told to read Lean In or The Tipping Point. Instead of sticking to the new classics of adult life initiation, try these eight works of nonfiction to help you navigate the waters of your post-graduation existence.
School is back in session, and new grads may feel a bit lost without a classroom to step into. We hear you — and so do the friends and family who are coming out of the woodwork to give “valuable” tidbits of life advice. Sure, they mean well, but there are only so many times you can be told to read Lean In or The Tipping Point. Instead of sticking to the new classics of adult life initiation, try these eight works of nonfiction to help you navigate the waters of your post-graduation existence.
'F*ck I'm In My Twenties' by Emma Koenig
This book, based on the tumblr of the same name, is perfect to read when you feel like your life is falling apart. It’ll make you laugh when you feel like crying. And it’s always nice to know you’re not the only one whose life is a mess.
'My Horizontal Life' by Chelsea Handler
According to Handler, most of her 20s was spent in one bad one-night stand after another — but even she was able to get it together eventually. More than anything, this book will show you that it’s okay to not always choose the “right” guy or path. You’ll work it out eventually.
'The Journey is the Destination: The Journals of Dan Eldon' by Dan Eldon
Not exactly a “read,” this book is more of a visual feast. Eldon’s journals capture feelings of youth and exploration, something we shouldn’t take for granted.
'How to Be a Woman' by Caitlin Moran
Moran’s essays shed light on topics ranging from getting your period to getting an abortion. No matter how serious the subject, Moran writes with humor that's a breath of fresh air, and easy to identify with.
'I Totally Meant To Do That' by Jane Borden
Borden’s memoir is the classic story of small-town girl trying to make it in New York City. Her writing makes the story feel new, and it’s an easy book for readers to connect to upon moving away from their hometowns.
'MWF Seeking BFF: My Yearlong Search for a New Best Friend' by Rachel Bertsche
After graduation, the truth suddenly hits you — your friends won’t be around everyday any longer. It’s hard to make lasting friends in the adult world, and this book explores the factors that go into making and maintaining adult friendships, as Berstche tries to find some for herself.
'Adulting: How to Become a Grown-up in 468 Easy (ish) Steps' by Kelly Williams Brown
If you’ve ever wanted a how-to on living your life, this book is for you. Brown gives readers all the steps needed to become a fully functioning adult.
'What I Know Now: Letters to My Younger Self' by Ellyn Spragins
This book offers so much wisdom from amazing women like Anne Curry, Maya Angelou, and Nora Roberts. The overall message is that it’s okay to make mistakes, since you’ll only learn and benefit from the experiences later in life. You can become a great woman, even if you weren’t in your 20s.
