I love to read. I have always loved reading and have spent many days curled up with a new book to read. My favorite book is falling apart because I have read it so many times. Reading has always been a big part of my life and I love finding new books to read, even though I don't really have time to read much anymore. So, in light of that, here are 5 books I highly recommend all college students read, both for educational purposes and for fun as well.
1. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
This is one of my favorite books. "To Kill a Mockingbird" tells the story of Scout Finch and the trial that rocked her town during the Great Depression. "To Kill a Mockingbird" is one of the greatest depictions of racism and the damage it caused in the Old South and the damage it continues to cause in today's society.
2. "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett
3. "Me Before You" by JoJo Moyes
When I learned they were making this book into a movie, I was so happy. I read this book the summer before college and I can honestly say, no book has ever affected me emotionally like this one did. "Me Before You" tells the story of Louisa Clark, a young English woman who takes on the role of caretaker to a disabled man, Will Traynor. During their time together, Will and Louisa grow closer and realize their feelings for each other. Will is then faced with a choice, continue on with the plans he had or stay here with Louisa. This book will be an emotional rollercoaster.
4. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
"The Great Gatsby" is my favorite classic novel. Not only is it a wonderful story, it also reveals the corruption and deceit that occured during the Roaring 20s. Nick Carraway, a man recovering from alcoholism in a sanitarium, tells his doctor the story of Jay Gatsby, a man he describes as being "the most hopeful person" he's ever met. Gatsby dedicated his life to winning back the love of his former flame, socialite Daisy Buchanan. Deceit, murder and madness; the makings of a great novel.
5. "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath
This was my favorite book that I read in high school. I have always been interested in psychology and how the mind works, so to read a book as dark and twisted as this was the best thing I could've asked my English teacher to allow. "The Bell Jar" tells the story of Esther Greenwood, a young woman struggling with depression. She spends her days contemplating losing her virginity and commiting suicide, two very different subject matters. Esther is eventually committed to a mental institution after trying to commit suicide. I enjoyed every aspect of this book and the discussions that followed.
These are just some of the many books I would recommend to people who are looking for something new and interesting to read or who just need something to pass the time. I love to read and I hope these books will make other students love reading as well.
