12 Great Books to Read Before College for the College-Aged Kids in Your Life

 

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1. 1001 Things Every College Student Needs to Know

Going to college is an entirely new experience. And, even if you remember how things worked during your college days, not everything about the experience will be the same for your child. With that in mind, 1001 Things Every College Student Needs to Know helps cover the basics about enrolling in classes, joining your first class, meeting new classmates, on-campus living, studying effectively, and much more. Think of it as a crash course in being a kid in college.

If you want to check it out, you can find it here.

2. How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman

If you don’t want your child living off of Hot Pockets and instant noodles, How to Cook Everything provides instructions for over 2,000 simple recipes. No topic is too simple to cover as far as this book is concerned. Advice is designed to help new cooks pick the right gadgets and gear, while techniques for doing everything from measuring dry ingredients to how to scramble eggs are covered in detail.

So, if your greatest fear for your soon-to-be college student revolves around them surviving solely on pizza delivery, then this book is a great addition to their personal college library.

Want to take a look? Find the book here.

3. The Defining Decade by Meg Jay

Many people underestimate how critical a person’s twenties are for shaping their futures as adults—this age is a formative period that greatly influences development. A combination of scientific research and carefully collected anecdotes, The Defining Decade helps your child understand how valuable this time is and how it shapes their identity during these pivotal years. This time in one’s life is precious, help make sure they use the time wisely to become the person they aspire to be.

To check it out, find it here.

4. Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez with Monique Tilford

The memory of the Great Recession is still fresh in everyone’s mind. And, regretfully, many high school educations only touch on the fundamentals of personal finance, often skipping the important stuff about managing money that students really need to know. Your Money or Your Life helps readers learn how to manage and get out of debt, develop a system for savings, manage priorities, address imbalances in values and lifestyle, and work toward a financially independent life. By introducing these principles early in your child’s adult life, they have the opportunity to take control of their financial destiny to help live a better quality of life from that day forward.

If you want a copy for yourself (it’s great for parents too!) or your college-aged student, you can get it here.

5. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

This is one of our favorite books to read before college—a novel that offers profound insights into personal growth (or at anytime in life for that matter.) For those who like to learn life lessons through captivating storytelling and inspiring stories, The Alchemist is an ideal choice. The tale follows Santiago as he journeys in search of worldly treasure and a new life, embracing transformation and starting over. Along the way, he meets memorable characters and learns lessons that are far more valuable than any amount of silver and gold.

Even though the book celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2024, this simple fable still provides a wealth of knowledge that is just as applicable today as it was when it was first written.

To order your own copy, you can find it here.

6. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero

Designed as a how-to guide with a sense of humor, You Are a Badass gives advice to those looking to improve their lives without the traditional self-help jargon. The book aims to help readers discover why they are the way they are, and what changes are or are not realistic. Ultimately, the hope is that the reader will feel ready to “kick some serious ass” when it comes to their financial and personal lives, while learning to love themselves for who they are now and who they can become. Readers will be glad they took the time to read and apply the lessons from this book.

If you want to help your student become a badass, you can get the book here.

7. I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi

Ramit Sethi’s I Will Teach You To Be Rich targets 20 to 35-year-olds with a personal finance program that helps the financially ambitious, yet currently clueless, get a grip on their situation. Unlike many other personal finance authors, Sethi’s approach doesn’t involve cutting out every luxury from one’s life. Instead, it stresses the importance of wealth building, investments, and personal entrepreneurship. The presentation is highly accessible and works on the idea that you don’t have to give up your daily latte is you decide to make more money instead.

If you want to invest in your child’s future, you can get this book here.

8. The Art of Asking by Amanda Palmer

Everyone needs help from time to time, but so many people are too afraid to ask for it even when they need it desperately. The Art of Asking explores the barriers that keep us from asking for the help we need. The author’s understanding approach to advice is evident throughout, offering empathy and insight to readers facing new challenges. The content does more than make people more comfortable with the asking part of the equation but helps them see the benefits of giving as well. While the story is from the perspective of a musician and artist, it also shares stories that resonate with women, highlighting experiences and challenges faced by women in society. It is also told from the viewpoint of being a friend, spouse, and family member walking through the world, just like everyone else, with a focus on the truth and authenticity of the author’s experiences, and it thoughtfully explores the dynamics of friends and the importance of friendship in personal growth.

Are you wondering where to find this book? You can get it right here.

9. The Myths of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky

We are raised to believe that certain things should make us happy, and that other things should not. However, happiness isn’t as simple as the promise we received while growing up. The Myths of Happiness takes a look at the milestones we believe are supposed to make us happy and asks us to consider the ideas with a more open mind. It also highlights the importance of living in the moment and appreciating our current experiences. Sometimes, it isn’t what we accomplish (or don’t accomplish) that makes us happy; it’s our mindset, especially when we reach a crucial point in life.

Ready to dispel some myths? Get the book here. This is an essential read for students entering college.

10. Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh

Sometimes life is absurd. Situations go awry, randomness ensues, and our coping mechanisms fail. What is important to remember is that it happens to everyone. Hyperbole and a Half chronicles some of the misadventures of the author, in a way that is relatable, and often hilarious. A touch of laughter with a dose of reality helps make our own struggles feel more manageable, or even mundane by comparison, and the book stands out in contemporary literature. This is one of those examples of how being introduced to a little new perspective can go a long way. Like many books that explore personal growth and self-reflection, it offers valuable insights into accepting life’s unpredictability.

If you’re looking for some laughs with your lessons, you can get this one here.

11. How to Win at College: Surprising Secrets for Success from the Country’s Top Students by Cal Newport

As one of the essential books to read before college, How to Win at College explores themes of academic excellence and personal growth, providing wisdom that helps young people build a strong foundation for their college years. Importantly, this non fiction work offers practical answers to common questions students face, making it a valuable resource for anyone curious about how to deal with the demands of university life. Newport shares strategies gathered from interviews with top-performing students across the country, revealing surprising secrets that go beyond just studying hard. From managing time effectively and building meaningful connections with professors and peers, to developing habits that foster focus and resilience, this book prepares students to navigate the challenges of higher education with confidence and purpose. Whether your child is aiming to excel academically, maintain a healthy social life, or simply adapt to the new environment, How to Win at College provides helpful, actionable advice that can make a real difference in their college journey.

If you’re looking for some great insights, you can get this one here.

Bonus Book

The Scholarship System: 6 Simple Steps on How to Win Scholarships and Financial Aid by Jocelyn Paonita Pearson

The book 6 Simple Steps on How to Win Scholarships and Financial Aid is a practical guide that teaches students how to find, apply for, and win scholarships. Based on her own success paying for college debt-free, Jocelyn shares proven strategies for discovering hidden scholarships, writing strong applications, and staying organized. It’s packed with actionable tips and tools to help students make college more affordable.

Pearson emphasizes a “money-making mindset,” asserting that devoting just two hours per week can set students on the path to a debt-free college experience

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Books to Read Before College

What are the best books to read before college?

Some of the best books to read before college include a mix of personal growth, financial literacy, and inspiring fiction. Titles like 1001 Things Every College Student Needs to Know, The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho are highly recommended for preparing students for college life and personal development.

Why is it important to read books before starting college?

Reading books before college helps students build essential skills, gain new perspectives, and prepare mentally and emotionally for the challenges ahead. It also fosters a love for learning and can provide valuable advice on managing finances, relationships, and academic responsibilities in the new world of higher education.

How can reading help with mental health during college?

Books that address mental health, personal growth, and self-reflection can offer comfort and guidance to students facing the stresses of college life. Reading about others’ experiences and learning coping strategies can create a supportive foundation for maintaining mental well-being throughout the school year.

Are there books specifically for freshmen or senior year students?

Yes, many books are tailored to different stages of college life. For example, How to Win at College offers practical advice for freshmen to navigate their first year, while other titles focus on preparing students for the transition to senior year or life after graduation, helping them create new connections and plan for their future.

How do I create a reading list for college preparation?

Start by selecting a diverse collection of books that cover essential topics such as academic skills, personal finance, mental health, and inspiring fiction. Include classics and contemporary works to enrich your understanding of history, culture, and science. To gain a broader perspective, consider adding books set in different cities and towns, as these can offer valuable insights into various communities and local cultures. Additionally, include books that address issues relevant to the twenty first century, such as technology, social justice, and modern identity. A well-rounded reading list helps build a strong foundation for success in college and beyond.

Can reading books improve my college experience?

Absolutely! Reading broadens your knowledge, improves critical thinking, and enhances your ability to engage in meaningful conversations. It also helps develop language skills and cultural awareness, which are valuable assets in both academic settings and social communities on campus.

Where can I find books to read before college?

You can find recommended books at local libraries, bookstores, or online retailers such as Random House. Many colleges also provide reading lists or resources to help incoming students prepare for their studies and personal growth during their college journey.

How do books about American history and culture help in college?

Reading books about American history and culture helps college students better understand how the past connects to the world we live in today. These books explain why certain social issues, political debates, and cultural movements exist and how they developed over time. Works like The 1619 Project encourage students to think critically about traditional history lessons by highlighting perspectives that are often overlooked. Learning about different experiences and viewpoints helps students build a deeper understanding of American society, making class discussions, writing assignments, and coursework more meaningful.

What role do short stories and classics play in college reading?

Short stories and classics offer timeless insights into human nature, society, and language. They are often included in college curricula to teach students about literary traditions, critical analysis, and the power of storytelling, all of which enhance academic success and personal enrichment.

How can I enjoy reading if I find it challenging?

Choose books that are fun and engaging, and don’t hesitate to explore different genres or authors until you find what resonates with you. Joining a reading group or community can also create motivation and enjoyment, turning reading into a social and rewarding experience during your college preparation.

There you have it! Our favorite books to read before college. Enjoy! Happy reading!

Have another book you recommend? Comment below with the title!