When someone you know graduates it's custom to get them a gift. The size and quality usually depends on how well you know them; a lot of people just go with cash because it's easiest and, let's face it, what most young people want anyway.
For those who choose to branch out, though, Dr. Seuss' book "Oh, The Place You'll Go!" seems to be a popular option. Having graduated last month, I received this book as a gift from several different people.
Reasons why it was the worst gift I received:
1. It didn't look like a new book... probably something they had laying around their house.
2. They had gotten the same thing for someone else.
3. There was no note or card attached.
4. It was just obviously last minute and not heart-felt.
Reasons why it was the best gift I received:
1. The people that gave it to me actually cared and wanted to show it; there was a very thoughtful note inside.
2. The thoughtful note made me want to read the book and, in turn, I appreciated it more.
3. All of the lessons and messages are true, and applicable to the college transition.
4. They made it feel like they had me in mind when picking out this book (whether that's true or not).
As a whole, if this is all you can think of to get or you really have your heart set on it, I think "Oh The Places You'll Go" can be a good graduation gift, as long as it's done right. If you're thinking of getting it for someone that you know, just make sure you try to avoid any of the things on the first list...
Additionally, if you're feeling extra caring and want to do a little bit more, annotating a few (or every) page with personal anecdotes (stories about the person, specific hopes you have for them, etc.) would be an extremely thoughtful touch.
