Ah, winter break—two of the sweetest sounding words to a college student. For them, this means no school for at least a month. This also means reuniting with friends, sleeping in until noon and binge watching Netflix until their eyes start to twitch. But maybe, if the sight of a book doesn't make you nauseous, you can substitute Netflix for a bit of reading. Here are seven books that you should read over break that won’t bore you into your third nap of the day.
1. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Why you should read it: This book is for the fangirl, Directioners and Potterheads alike. It follows Cath, the main character, as she learns to adjust to college life, being on her own and finding the balance between fan fiction and classwork.
2. Before I Go To Sleep by S.J. Watson
Why you should read it: It's un-putdownable and will make you wish you kept the nightlight you had when you were eight. The book follows a woman, Christine, who wakes up every morning with no memory of who she is. No, it's not like 50 First Dates. Great movie, though.
3. Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
Why you should read it: A book for introverts and those weary to step out of their comfort zones. The protagonist, Madeline Whittier, is literally allergic to going outside. Through her window, she falls for the boy next door and so the tangled web weaves.
4. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Why you should read it: Elizabeth Gilbert wrote this book with the sole purpose to inspire those who read it to live a creative life. It's more than just DIY projects.
5. The Martian by Andy Weir
Why you should read it: An astronaut's story of survival after he accidentally gets stranded on Mars. How can you resist?
6. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Why you should read it: The type of book that will make you stare absently at a wall for 3 hours after you finish it because you don't know what to do with yourself.
7. Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling
Why you should read it: Hello, it's Mindy Kaling...that's a reason in itself.
As a bonus, you must read Wait, How Do I Write This Email?: Game-Changing Templates for Networking and the Job Search by Danny Rubin.
A how-to guide on what to do to make sure employers give your résumé a second look and say, "WOW, did you see that cover letter?" It's a perfect read for college students about to take the nerve-wracking leap into the grown-up world. Cue the tears.
Happy reading!
