Everyone has a book they read in college or simply a book they wish they could read during their college years. They might be either a classic or a New York Times Bestseller. Some are even Pulitzer Prize winners. They can be part of your curriculum or something you want to read for fun.
However, which ones should you choose with so many books out there? What should students read when they have other homework, projects, and exams to study for?
Here are eight books that every college-bound student — and every college student — should experience during their time at school.
Frankenstein
Frankenstein, Mary Shelley’s classic novel about the dangers of science, has become a book that students love to hate. Hated for its use of language perceived as archaic or overly formal, a 19-year-0ld woman wrote Frankenstein in an age where female authors were few and far between. Frankenstein gets credit as one of the first examples of Science Fiction literature.
While the prose may be difficult for some to get through, the powerful ideas and themes are accessible to all students. In particular, the novel explores what it means to be human and our responsibilities regarding the scientific advances we make. It also asks readers to consider how we define good and evil and whether you can apply these concepts universally across all species.
As an essay writer, this book best fits many college students. This challenges them to think critically about their role in society, both citizens and consumers.
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Scarlet Letter is a must-read for college students. To explain why it deserves this distinction, we start by saying that it is nothing like its films. Most people often dismiss the novel as dated and archaic. However, it is a fascinating story and an excellent introduction to how people thought during that time. There’s also a lot of meat here for anyone who wants to engage with it deeper.
The Scarlet Letter is set in 17th century Boston, where a woman named Hester Prynne has been accused of adultery. Later, she gets sentenced to wear the scarlet letter “A” on her breast for the rest of her life. In addition, she deals with the scorn from her community. Moreover, she struggles with her daughter’s refusal to identify her father. Also, she battles the decision of whether or not she should reveal his identity.
Hawthorne uses these circumstances as a frame for exploring issues of morality, femininity, guilt, and sin. It’s fascinating stuff for anyone who wants to learn more about American history or explore ideas about social justice.
Lord of the Flies
William Golding’s classic novel about a group of young boys stranded on an island is a great read for anyone, especially college students.
The story follows a group of school-aged boys evacuated from a British city during World War II. The plane gets shot down, and the boys are on an uninhabited island with no adults present. As they struggle to survive, they attempt to create their society.
The themes in the book make it a perfect read for college-age students. Lord of The Flies deals with issues such as survival and how people act under pressure. It also looks at how our personalities can change when facing adversity.
This book is great for students interested in social or political science and literature.
Self-Reliance and Other Essays By Ralph Waldo Emerson
Published in 1841, Self-Reliance and Other Essays is a collection of Emerson’s reflections on his philosophy of self-reliance, nonconformity, and individualism. It remains one of the best-known works by America’s most famous 19th-century essayist and poet.
It is hard to overstate just how influential Emerson’s writings have been in American culture. I think it’s important that we understand his ideas because they have survived generations of Americans unafraid to challenge the status quo and question so many of our basic assumptions about life today.
In “Self-Reliance,” Emerson challenges readers to reject conformity to the standards set by others, arguing that each person must follow their instincts to find their path in life.
Final Takeaway
College is a time to explore new ideas and learn more about yourself. Sometimes, it is hard to find the right words to help you through the experience. Books are great resources for finding your voice and understanding others’ experiences. These books will help in growing your reading habits in college. Furthermore, it helps break the monotony of attending classes and maintaining a social life.