educational books to read in your 20s

The 22 best books to read in your 20s, from captivating memoirs to personal finance guides

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• Your 20s are probably spent answering some fundamental questions and gaining basic skills.
• I asked my coworkers to share the books that were most important to them in their "defining decade."
• You'll find everything from essay collections and memoirs to money guides and cookbooks .

As for many others, my 20s have been a decade of nonstop growth. From learning how to budget and cook to discovering my  broader career goals , going to therapy , and slowly figuring out what makes me happy , I've leaned on friends and family to help me grapple with the big questions. 

But just as often, my colleagues and I have found books to be our best teachers. In what psychologist Dr. Meg Jay has nicknamed a " defining decade, " we've grown from culture essay collections , no-nonsense investing guides , and cookbooks that are so accessible, they could teach a martian how to fry a salmon filet. 

Below, you'll find the books the Insider team relied on the most in our 20s.

22 books to read in your 20s:

General advice, relatable memoirs, essays, and poetry, career and money, relationships, "the defining decade: why your twenties matter — and how to make the most of them now" by meg jay.

Available at Audible , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , and Twelve Books  

This is the first book I read after graduating college at 22 and it helped me think critically about what lay ahead — in relationships, work, and mental wellness. The author is a clinical psychologist who weaves together anecdotes from her 20-something clients and her own observations and research to encourage readers to be proactive and not reactive in all areas of life.

Your 20s are a "developmental sweet spot," Jay says, and not the throwaway years they were once assumed to be. The book was updated in 2021 and includes even more tools and practical insights for the digital generation. — Tanza Loudenback, personal finance correspondent

"F*ck! I'm in My Twenties" by Emma Koenig

Available at Amazon

A friend gifted me this book when I, like many, was struggling with the many question marks that come with the transition out of undergrad. This quick, hilarious read mostly consists of hand-drawn graphics and notes — all of which are a bit too honest in a way that's incredibly refreshing.

Not much can quell the anxiety of feeling like you have absolutely no idea what you're doing at all times (sigh), but commiserating with Koenig's incredibly true sentiments did ease the uncertainty a bit. — Emily Hein, senior story producer

“How to Be a Person in the World: Ask Polly's Guide Through the Paradoxes of Modern Life” by Heather Havrilesky

Available at Audible , Amazon , and Bookshop

After reading every single Ask Polly column in The Cut , I went back to The Awl's archives — that's how good Heather's writing is. If you're the type of 20something who feels too complicated and messy for the world or like your emotions are always a massive inconvenience to other people, Heather is an expert in honoring your feelings and moving past shame (while also finding tangible solutions to your problems). — Julia Pugachevsky, education and personal development editor

"Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" by Lori Gottlieb

Available at Audible , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , and Bookshop.org

In "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone," psychotherapist Lori Gottlieb talks about her own experience in therapy as well as the sessions she conducts with diverse patients — a self-involved Hollywood producer, a young newlywed with a terminal illness, a twenty-something with dissatisfying relationships, and an isolated senior citizen.

As we weave through these intimate vignettes, we're able to see A.) what therapy is like and learn some lessons that apply to everyone , and B.) Find solace in how similar most people's desires are, making us feel less alone. This book gave me a newer, deeper perspective on myself and other people — and helped me to prioritize going to therapy myself. — Mara Leighton, senior education and personal development reporter

"I Might Regret This" by Abbi Jacobson

Available at Audible and Amazon

"I Might Regret This" is a must-read for anyone in their 20s who's grappling with self-discovery, coming into their own queerness, or learning how to embrace their own vulnerability. Abbi's authenticity and openness when discussing her journey into comedy (both before and beyond "Broad City"), her recent breakup, and her solo cross country road trip reads with a level of humanity that's not often seen in celebrity memoirs or essay collections.

There is no better feeling than another person's vulnerability allowing you to feel comfortable with your own insecurities, and "I Might Regret This" accomplishes exactly that. The stream-of-consciousness-like recounts of anxious thoughts — particularly those about struggling to fall asleep or potential ways in which Abbi and her ex could run into each other — were the highlight for me, but this relatable and poignant essay collection is likely to have something for everyone. — Emily Hein, senior story producer

“The Year of Magical Thinking” by Joan Didion

This is probably the book I gift the most. It's written in the aftermath of Didion's partner of 40 years, John Dunne, unexpectedly passing away one evening at dinner. Didion writes about the strange and bottomless experience of grief and, relatedly, love, with the wisdom of a person who has lived many years intentionally. It's the kind of birds-eye-view — the missive from that dreaded island of "this is what it's like to lose what really matters" — that helps put life into perspective. Like Didion, it's intimate, secular, unfussy, and shrewdly perceptive.

Whenever I think of it, I feel a rush of gratitude for the people in my life — and a renewed peace in putting them first whenever possible. Or, as John Leonard from New York Review of Books put it , "I can't imagine dying without this book." — Mara Leighton, senior education and personal development reporter

“Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” by Cheryl Strayed

Cheryl was 22 when her mother died — an event that left her feeling wholly untethered and ultimately led to her divorce. At 26, Cheryl decided to hike the Pacific Crest Trail by herself, walking over a thousand miles completely on her own. While Cheryl's experience is extraordinary and perhaps not directly relatable to most readers, her storytelling makes this book transcend beyond the simple retelling of a hiking adventure. It's a highly inspiring, spiritual read, mandatory for anyone who feels stuck or limited in their own power to transform their life. — Julia Pugachevsky, education and personal development editor

"Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion" by Jia Tolentino

Available at Audible , Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Divided into nine different essays, "Trick Mirror," critiques the way we engage and perceive modern life. Jia Tolentino writes in such a way that challenges the reader to examine how the internet, pop culture, politics, and so much more, shapes us, especially in a time where everything centers around the self. This collection of essays is powerful, witty, and a conversation starter. — Alexa Bleustein, e-commerce analyst

“Devotions” by Mary Oliver

Available at Amazon , Barnes & Noble , and Bookshop.org

This is one more book I love to gift . Mary Oliver may have won a Pulitzer for poetry, but her writing is far from stuffy or overly intellectualized — even people I know who don't like poetry count her as an exception.

Oliver's poems — mainly about experiencing joy or wonder in nature — feel more like practicing meditation to me. You make a lot of important mistakes and decisions in your 20s, and this helps ground me in things I value — like joy, simplicity, and my own happy insignificance in the grand scheme of things — when I need the reminder. — Mara Leighton, senior education and personal development reporter

"Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear" by Elizabeth Gilbert

Available at Audible , Amazon and Bookshop

While she's best known for her bestseller "Eat, Pray, Love," Elizabeth Gilbert's "Big Magic" is filled with useful gems. As someone who considers herself a creative, I took away so many insights from this book that touches everything from imposter syndrome, writer's block, and putting your creative projects into the world.

Throughout the book, Gilbert challenges readers to consider that they may very well fail but should still do the things that scare them anyways —Maliah West, home & kitchen reviews fellow

"The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies for New Leaders at All Levels" by Michael D. Watkins

Available at Audible , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , and Walmart

I read this book in one sitting and had a wild amount of notes once the last page was turned. It's a great read offering practical advice for promotions and job transitions alike. I read it during my last month of college to prepare for a new role for the following month, and I feel more prepared than ever to confidently start my first day. — Victoria Giardina, buying guides fellow

"Get Good with Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Financially Whole" By Tiffany Aliche (The Budgetnista)

Tiffany Aliche lost her job as a pre-K teacher during the 2008 recession and was in huge debt after being scammed by a shady advisor. She moved back in with her parents as she slowly worked her way out of her financial hole, developing budgeting tips and building her financial education brand, The Budgetnista , along the way.

With the expertise and realness of someone who actually knows what it's like to be in debt, Aliche addresses all the money-related questions you might have. — Julia Pugachevsky, education and personal development editor 

"The Total Money Makeover" by Dave Ramsey

Available at Amazon and Bookshop

"The Total Money Makeover" gives you a game plan for how to use your money to serve yourself, serve others, and save for retirement. The backbone of the book is the "Baby Steps." They are, in order: Save $1,000 fast for an emergency fund, pay off debts smallest to largest, build a larger emergency fund, maximize retirement investing, work on kids' college fund, pay off a mortgage, and build wealth like crazy.

The book has strong Christian themes, but I'm not religious and still found it incredibly useful. — James Brains, home & kitchen reporter

"The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need" by Andrew Tobias

"The Only Investment Guide You'll Ever Need" is one of those books that I wish I had been introduced to much sooner. Andrew Tobias offers up a lot of advice, big and small, on how to live in a financially responsible way. In this guide, he'll walk you through the often-confusing world of the stock market, how to deal with and avoid debt, and he'll even try to convince you to cut your own hair. Better still, this book is written in a funny, approachable way that even those with limited attention spans can appreciate. — Tercius Bufete, deals editor

"It's About Damn Time: How to Turn Being Underestimated into Your Greatest Advantage" by Arlan Hamilton

As someone still in my 20s, I think about this book a lot. I loved reading about Arlan Hamilton and her story of becoming a self-taught venture capitalist. Her vulnerability and honesty is beyond inspirational as I navigate the early years of my career. Additionally, Hamilton provides anecdotes throughout the entire book about being a queer, Black woman in a predominantly white, male-dominated industry. I cannot recommend this book more. — Anna Popp, home and kitchen fellow

“How to Cook Everything” by Mark Bittman

Historically, I love to eat but hate to cook. Mark Bittman's no-knead recipe got me into baking bread (like everyone else) this year, and I eventually bought his cookbook .

If you're learning to cook from scratch, I highly recommend buying this book. Bittman's tone is descriptive and conversational, and his recipes are diverse and pragmatic. Even the construction of the cookbook, which Bittman writes he wanted to be "as much reference as recipe collection" is designed for newcomers.

Since most people who don't like cooking cite their inability to be spontaneous, he's created a comprehensive index so you can search by ingredient (e.g. tofu) or recipe (e.g. brownies) quickly. In other words, this book was completely designed for newbies — and if even I can feel comfortable cooking because of it , so can you. — Mara Leighton, senior education and personal development reporter

“Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking” by Samin Nosrat

For someone who loves learning about food and the science of cooking just as much as eating, "Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat" is one of my most revisited books on my shelf. Whether you love, hate, or know nothing about the kitchen, Nosrat's book gives you everything you need to make good food, with or without a recipe.

The first part is all about the four elements of cooking: salt, fat, acid, heat. From the different types of fats and salts to the pH levels of foods, you'll learn everything from how to make mayonnaise with just oil and an egg to how to work the four elements together to create the perfect meal. You'll find recipes and more explainers in the second half of the book, along with a list of pantry and kitchen essentials inside the book cover.

Beautifully illustrated, this modern-day Betty Crocker will transform your relationship with cooking for years to come. You can also check out the Netflix series based on the book. — Allison Arnold, story production fellow

"Appetites: A Cookbook" by Anthony Bourdain and Laurie Woolever

A bare-bones crash course in kitchen basics filled with flippant (if agreeable) proclamations on how anything and everything should and shouldn't be done, I wish this book were around when I was in my twenties. This guide grazes just about any kitchen technique you'd want to learn without getting too technical or dragging you too far into the weeds, from a basic omelet to Portuguese stew and mapo tofu. You get a taste of the cuisines of the world, along with the occasional history lesson. (For example, I had no clue that the classic Caesar salad was of Mexican origin.)

Moreover, though, you can really get a feel for basic flavor profiles and food pairings and run wild with them. Use the recipes in this book as anything from a vague sketch to a meticulous set of blueprints. Either way, your home cooking will be all the better for it. I only wish my twenty-something, straight-out-of-school self had something as colorful, evocative, and inspiring as this sitting next to the hot plate and toaster oven in my efficiency studio back then.

This book just makes you want to cook and have fun in the kitchen. The classics, like Julia Child's "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" , are great and all, but not exactly page-turners, and certainly not at whatever bleary-eyed state I would have been in when turning to their expertise. — Owen Burke, senior home and kitchen reporter 

“Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar” by Cheryl Strayed

Adding another Cheryl Strayed to this list! I read this book when I was in my mid-20s and I really loved so much of the advice from Cheryl, particularly around love and dating.

If you're someone who's afraid of commitment or terrified of breaking up, Cheryl's advice in these letters is firm but kind — she doesn't sugarcoat that things will be peachy when you first leave your long-term partner, but she also reassures you that living your authentic truth is the only real path forward, using experiences from her own life as examples that things still turn out ok. — Julia Pugachevsky, education and personal development editor

"How to Hug a Porcupine: Easy Ways to Love Difficult People in Your Life" by June Eding

I got this book to navigate my relationships with family members and I found it incredibly helpful. It gave me an alternative perspective on people I struggle to get along with and I learned effective tips on communication, patience, and showing grace. I also learned how I can sometimes be difficult as well, so it's an all-around insightful and reflective book. — Anna Popp, home and kitchen fellow

"The Art of Showing Up: How to Be There for Yourself and Your People" by Rachel Wilkerson Miller

Friendships in your 20s can be hard — especially when your college friends move away and you have to more actively stay in touch, or when your respective jobs get more involved and it's hard to keep up.

This book is cleverly laid out into two big sections — showing up for yourself, and showing up for other people — because you can't really show up for your relationships if you're spreading yourself too thin or overcommitting to plans you hate. — Julia Pugachevsky, education and personal development editor

“Single, Dating, Engaged, Married: Navigating Life and Love in the Modern Age” by Ben Stuart

Whether it's the enneagram, love languages, or listening to podcasts, I love learning about new perspectives on relationship dynamics. Stuart's book is a faith-based overview of each major relational life stage, chock full of research and how to enjoy the season of life you're currently in. It's one of the best books I've read, by far — especially if you're in college or in your early 20s. — Victoria Giardina, buying guides fellow

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20 Fantastic Books to Read in Your 20s

What to read for some valuable lessons on life, love, money, friendship, and more.

Lindsay is a freelance travel and lifestyle journalist covering topics from love, marriage, fitness, wellness, psychology, and entrepreneurism.

Highlights: * Has worked as a fact checker for Real Simple since 2022 * Worked as a staff writer for Mochi Magazine * Currently runs and operates the United States blog for Student Beans

Your 20s are a pivotal decade. You leave the comfort of childhood and school schedule, and suddenly, you're supposed to be an adult. As you navigate your new world , you'll make mistakes and changes, celebrate milestones, learn lessons in love, and mourn missed opportunities. It's an important, fundamental time to explore who you are, who you want to be, and what matters most to your happiness.

Though 10 years might not seem like a long time, 20-somethings shape every generation, have buying power, and ultimately, will become leaders as their careers—and lives—grow. During this unique, transformational period, reading the works of great writers can inspire your journey. From harrowing nonfiction tales to cheeky self-help reads and page-turning fiction, here are some fantastic books to read in your 20s (and want to return to again and again).

'Imposter Syndrome' by Kathy Wang

The term ' imposter syndrome ' has been trending for a while now. While it can impact anyone at any age, it often begins or gets worse in our 20s. That feeling of not being good enough in your career or confident in your abilities is terrible, you feel like you're posing as a phony—and anyone could find out at any time. In a digital age, imposter syndrome can be intensified. Social media, for instance, can paint a perfect image of someone else's life, making it feel impossible to live up to those expectations. This fictional bestseller weaves together the lives of two successful women in tech, and their struggle with feeling like imposters as they work toward the so-called American dream.

'Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies' by Tara Schuster

Feeling envy toward successful influencers, entrepreneurs, and celebrities is entirely normal; but it's also important to remember that not everything is as it appears. This is the story of Tara Schuster, who writes about her experience as a television executive rising to stardom in her late 20s. While her life looked glamorous, in reality, she was suffering from intense anxiety and depression . Her rock-bottom moment came when she called her therapist while drunk, begging for help. Her quick-witted, straight-talking book is about accepting who you are, dealing with your baggage, owning your emotions, treating yourself with love, and building confidence .

'Revolution From Within' by Gloria Steinem

Every woman (and everyone) should keep handy a copy of this 1993 book from feminist icon Gloria Steinem. As one of the pioneers of the women's movement, Steinem's guidebook discusses sexuality, age, race , gender, and ability. In addition to sharing her own stories, she draws on the journeys of other women, all sending the message that it's vital for all people to fight for equality. It was once heralded as 'the ultimate self-help book' by the Los Angeles Times .

'Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail' by Cheryl Strayed

There's a moment in your 20s when you look around, take inventory of your life, and wonder: What would happen if I changed everything? Many resist the urge. Others dive head-first into it, like author Cheryl Strayed did. In her captivating memoir, she explains how and why she decided to hike the Pacific Crest Trail alone at age 26. As she walks thousands of miles by herself, she heals the grief of losing her mother , the pain of her divorce, and discovers she has all she needs to change her life . Before you watch the movie (and even if you already have), add this book to your must-read pile.

'The Year of Magical Thinking' by Joan Didion

Joan Didion is considered one of the greatest writers of the past 50 years. Her captivating prose draws in readers with true vulnerability and realism. For any 20-something who is sadly forced to process the grief after losing a loved one , this book is an absolute must-read. Right before Christmas, Didion's only child, a daughter, was induced into a coma due to septic shock. A few days later, her husband suffered a fatal coronary right in front of her at the dinner table. While her daughter recovered, she was left to grapple with the grief of losing the love of her life. Then, four months later, she had a hematoma that required six hours of brain surgery. Her writing takes readers through her journey with a beautiful ability to connect life, death, mental health, pain, and joy, as only Didion can do.

'The Book of Moods: How I Turned My Worst Emotions Into My Best Life' by Lauren Martin

One of the reasons older generations tend to roll their eyes at those in their 20s is due to a difference in the way these age groups process emotions. With age and experience comes the ability to manage how you feel and deal with it effectively. Or do we simply better understand the social standards of what's accessible? These are the questions The Book of Moods seeks to uncover. Martin investigates how we can better accept and honor feelings, rather than shying away from emotional triggers and controlling our responses. More importantly, she shares how to prioritize our mental health habits. In addition to personal anecdotes, Martin includes thoughts from Mariska Hargitay, Bobbi Brown, Emma Robert, Brie Larson, and more.

'How to Be a Person in the World' by Heather Havrilesky

If you missed reading the amazing 'Ask Polly' column in The Cut , here's your gentle nudge to start. You'll find yourself pouring over every last word, nodding along, tearing up, and wanting more. Bad news: The column was discontinued in 2021. Good news: There is more. This book from 'Polly'—aka writer Heather Havrilesky—explores how to be your own problem solver, how to process your emotions, and how to build your sense of self. It will leave you ready to tackle anything that comes your way, guaranteed.

'The Group' by Mary McCarthy

In your 20s, you'll collect friends from different aspects of your life —the college friends, work pals, the happenstance buds you meet randomly. The Group is an older book, but a timeless one that illustrates perfectly the ups and downs of adult friendships. This classic novel takes readers along on the separate, but intertwining journeys of eight friends and Vassar graduates post-university.

'Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together' by Erin Lowry

Money is a stressful topic for most people, regardless of age. And the only way to break through feelings of discomfort and anxiety around finances is to educate yourself and take control. This detailed book helps 20-somethings navigate the big money topics most on their minds— budgeting , student loans , savings and investing—and also touches on the more hush-hush struggles that don't get enough air time, like keeping up with your friends' spending habits, asking for a raise, and getting comfortable talking about money around colleagues, romantic partners, and friends.

'The Defining Decade' by Meg Jay

The name says it all: This nonfiction best-seller is focused on remaining in the present. All too often, the 20s are touted as a throw-away decade that's full of bad mistakes, too much booze, and career mishaps. In reality, these 10 years are significant ones, and it's vital to give them the attention they deserve. Based on research, Jay takes a provocative look into why our 20s matter and how they can shape our relationships, our jobs, and our identity for decades to come.

'Fear of Flying' by Erica Jong

Before we had talk shows, sitcoms, and social media, talking about sex was totally taboo. But Erica Jong changed the course of how we talk about sexuality and desire in her 1973 fictional best-seller, in which the protagonist, an erotic poet, decides to leave her second husband and travel through Europe solo. Her goal? To enjoy great sex with strangers. Her one obstacle? A fear of flying.

'Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand in the Sun and Be Your Own Person' by Shonda Rhimes

You already know the powerhouse that is Shonda Rhimes, the creator and producer of Emmy-award-winning shows Grey's Anatomy , Scandal , How to Get Away With Murder , and Bridgerton . Though she's built an impressive career, Rhimes self-identifies as an introvert and had to force herself to lean into activities that made her uncomfortable. How? By committing to one full year of saying 'yes' to anything that scared her. Yes, anything . Her powerful and heartwarming book details this 12-month challenge and how it transformed her life for the better.

'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides

A shocking thriller that takes the reader through many emotions, The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a suspenseful novel worthy of your time. Step into a psychological thriller of character Alicia Benson's life that turns upside down when her husband returns late from a fashion shoot and she shoots him five times in the face and never says another word. A therapist becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth of this mystery.

'In Five Years' by Rebecca Serle

An unpredictable novel with lots of twists, In Five Years by Rebecca Serle follows character Dannie Kohan who lives her picture perfect life in numbers. For a mind-blowing twist, Dannie wakes up and her life flashes forward five years and it's completely different. This book's unforgettable love story, is unexpected and captivating.

'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue' by V.E. Schwab

A must-read for fantasy lovers, this immersive story by V.E. Schwab is compelling and takes the reader back to France in 1714, where the main character is cursed to be forgotten by anyone she meets. This enchanting novel shares Addie LaRue's journey to live forever and leave her mark on the world.

'The Power Of Habit' by Charles Duhigg

Transform your life by learning how to nip bad habits in the bud and form new healthy habits. Author Charles Duhigg teaches readers the human nature behind habits, how to create real change, and set yourself up for success to reach your highest potential.

'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen

A timeless classic, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen encourages readers to never judge a book by it's cover. At first glance, Characters Elizabeth Bennet and eligible bachelor Fitzwilliam Darcy instantly have conflict from Bennet's first impressions. Austen teaches readers the important lesson that you cannot base someone's character on first impressions.

'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho

In need of an enchanted escape from reality? Look no further than this mystical fantasy by Paulo Coelho. This tale follows an Andalusian shepherd boy as he travels from Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of an unknown treasure. Feel inspired by the story's message of following your heart and the power of our dreams.

'Educated: A Memoir' by Tara Westover

Author Tara Westover shares her story about her upbringing in rural Idaho and how the power of education can change lives. Westover set foot in a classroom for the first time at age 17 and went on to earn a Ph.D. from Trinity College. Book reviewers have called her memoir heartbreaking and heartwarming as well as inspiring others to seek out education.

'What The Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast' by Laura Vanderkam

Tired of hitting the snooze button? Carve out time for yourself in the morning and prioritize self-care. Explore this practical guide from writer Laura Vanderkam and learn how to become a morning person. Start maximizing your day by creating the picture-perfect morning and building habits to achieve your goals.

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The 25 Best Books to Read in Your 20s

Your 20s are an interesting decade, to say the absolute least. You feel perpetually stuck between being a naïve, carefree kid and an adult with endless responsibilities . Basically, it’s a weird time, which might—just might—be made better (or at least a touch more manageable) by one of these 25 books, ranging from non-cheesy self-help books about navigating post-college, pre-30s life to novels that nail the strange in-between feelings you might be having.

13 Books We Can’t Wait to Read in April

1. The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—and How To Make The Most Of Them Now by Meg Jay

In The Defining Decade , clinical psychologist Meg Jay argues that 20-somethings have been caught in a swirl of hype and misinformation, much of which has trivialized what she sees as the most transformative time of our lives. Drawing on more than two decades of work with thousands of clients, Jay combines the latest science and studies with the stories of real 20-somethings she's worked with to explain how work, relationships, personality, identity and even the brain can change more during this decade than at any other time in adulthood and provide readers with the tools necessary to take the most of this time.

2. by Zadie Smith

In this 2005 novel, two feuding professors and their families live in a fictional college town outside Boston. The book tackles black identity, body image, infidelity and class politics, and is an absolute delight to read. (Side note: Pretty much anything Smith has written is must-read material for 20-somethings.)

3. by Lauren Groff

Lotto and Mathilde are adored, and often loathed, by their friends and classmates at Vassar College. Married at 22 after only a few weeks of dating, no one believes their union can last. Groff’s novel follows the couple’s 25 years of marriage, during which they navigate joy and sorrow, failure and success. Touching on marriage, family, art and theater, Groff dazzles with breathtaking prose, smart wit and sensuality, and a close look at the devastating consequences of little white lies.

4. By Sheila Heti

Part literary novel, part self-help manual and part vivid exploration of the artistic and sexual impulse, How Should a Person Be? is a raw, urgent depiction of female friendship and of the shape of our lives now. Heti asks, broadly, “What is the most noble way to love? What kind of person should you be?” Through a mixture of emails, transcribed conversations and prose, Heti’s protagonist travels from Toronto to New York to Atlantic City in search of clarity—a very 20-something thing to do, if you ask us.

5. by Cheryl Strayed

Reeling from the loss of her mother and the end of her marriage, then 22-year-old Strayed decided to heal by hiking the length of the Pacific Crest Trail, from the Mexican border through Oregon. Her memoir details the thrilling, scary and unforgettable journey—filled with female strength and busted hiking boots. And it just might inspire you to do something adventurous.

6. Impostor Syndrome by Kathy Wang

This 2021 novel is about something most people—not just 20-somethings—can relate to: impostor syndrome. In 2006, Julia is a recent college grad living in Moscow, when she's recruited by Russia's largest intelligence agency. Twelve years later, she's in Silicon Valley as COO one of America's most famous technology companies. Alice is a first generation Chinese American who works at the same company when she discovers that the company's privacy settings aren't as rigorous as the company claims, and the person abusing this loophole might just be Julia. As the two get closer, the book jumps from page-turning cat-and-mouse chase to a sharp satire about women in tech, Silicon Valley hubris and elusiveness of the American Dream.

7. by Rebecca Traister

Unless you’re solidly coupled up, questions that will come up time and time again in your 20s are “Are you dating anyone?” and “When are you getting married?” (Usually from a well-meaning—and probably many decades older than you—extended family member.) Traister’s book is an empowering look at the social, economic and political forces that have led to women marrying later or not at all.

8. by Toni Morrison

Inspired by a true story, this haunting novel follows a woman named Sethe and her daughter after they escape from slavery and run to Ohio. As we find out about Sethe’s deceased daughter, Beloved, we discover exactly how fiercely Sethe has had to fight to protect her children. Maternal love with a powerful message of perseverance—from one of America’s best writers. Though you probably read it in high school, pick it up again in your 20s for a clearer perspective.

9. by James Baldwin

Baldwin’s groundbreaking 1956 novel focuses on the 20-something David, an American man living in Paris, and his feelings and frustrations with his relationships with other men in his life—particularly an Italian bartender named Giovanni whom he meets at a Parisian gay bar. The book tackles social isolation, gender and sexual identity crises, as well as conflicts of masculinity.

10. by Donna Tartt

Donna Tartt won the Pulitzer for The Goldfinch , but her first novel—about a group of misfits at a New England college who fall under the spell of a charismatic, morally questionable professor—will always have our heart. The narrator, Richard, is the newest member of the group, and he finds himself suddenly burdened by some very dark secrets.

11. Luster : A Novel by Raven Leilani

This absolutely unsettling (in a good way) first novel tracks three characters: Edie, a 20-something Black assistant in a publishing house, the older white man she’s having an affair with, that older, white man’s over-achieving white wife. Eventually, Edie moves in with the couple…and things only get weirder from there.

12. by Joan Didion

Written after the death of her husband and in the midst of the serious illness of her daughter, this book is Didion’s attempt to make sense of the “weeks and then months that cut loose any fixed idea I ever had about death, about illness.” Incorporating medical and psychological research on grief and illness, she writes beautifully—if not emotionally—about what it’s like to lose someone.

13. Win Me Something by Kyle Lucia Wu

Growing up in New Jersey as a biracial Chinese American girl, Willa Chen felt hyper-visible and unseen at the same time. Now, making her way through high school and college, Willa feels lonely and adrift. But then, she starts working as a nanny for a wealthy white family in Tribeca and becomes confronted with all of the things she never had. As she grows closer to the family, Willa is forced to confront questions of who she is, and a childhood where she never felt fully at home. This poignant debut is about identity, acceptance and complicated family dynamics.

14. by Marina Keegan

When she graduated magna cum laude from Yale in May 2012, Keegan had a promising literary career ahead of her and a job waiting at The New Yorker . Tragically, five days after graduation, Marina died in a car crash. This posthumous collection of essays and stories articulates the struggle we face as we figure out what we want to be and how we can harness our talents to make an impact on the world.

15. by Jhumpa Lahiri

Lahiri’s first novel follows the Ganguli family from Calcutta to Cambridge, Massachusetts, where they attempt—with varying degrees of success—to assimilate to American culture while holding on to their roots. Lahiri examines the nuances of feeling being caught between conflicting cultures with religious, social and ideological differences. Regardless of your cultural background, you’ll see yourself in both generations of the family as the novel jumps between timelines.

16. by Jennifer Egan

Jennifer Egan’s Pulitzer Prize–winning collection of linked stories is a whirlwind tour of the 20th-century music scene, largely following aging punk rocker Bennie Salazar and his kleptomaniac assistant, Sasha. It’s rife with meditations on youth and recklessness (not to mention spectacular prose).

17. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert

You’ve already read (and adored) Eat, Pray, Love , right? This is another Elizabeth Gilbert tome to pick up. This time, rather than describing her soul-searching trip around the world, she’s delivering realness on how to live your most creative, fulfilled life. “Wow. Big Magic is one of the most honest discussions about the creative process that I’ve ever read," one reader raves. “Her no-BS attitude helps do away with the unrealistic expectations and unnecessary melodrama attached to the concept of ‘creative living.’"

18. Buy Yourself The F*cking Lilies: And Other Rituals To Fix Your Life, From Someone Who's Been There by Tara Schuster

By the time she was in her late 20s, Schuster was a rising TV executive who had worked for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and helped launch Key & Peele . But beneath the successful exterior, she was a chronically anxious, self-medicating mess. Her debut book is the story of her path towards becoming a “ninja of self-love” through simple daily rituals, from faking gratitude until you feel gratitude to shielding yourself from your inner frenemy.

19. by Shonda Rhimes

In addition to creating, writing and producing Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal and producing Bridgerton , Rhimes is the best-selling author of an incredible memoir jam-packed with life advice. While poignantly and humorously chronicling her childhood and rise to success, Rhimes dishes out tips for achieving your goals—necessary for those wholly uncertain post-college years.

20. by Dave Eggers

Eggers was in his early 20s when his parents died within a year of each other, leaving him to take care of his younger brother, Toph, as if he were his own child. This fictionalized account of being thrust into the role of parent at such a young age is a powerful story about resilience and brotherly love.

21. by Kazuo Ishiguro

Anything but your typical dystopian sci-fi, this weirdly subtle and haunting novel imagines what life would be like if you were a clone, born to have your organs harvested in early adulthood. (We repeat: weirdly subtle and haunting .) Bizarre plot aside, its themes of friendship, approaching others with an open, nonjudgmental heart, and loss (of life and of innocence) are universal.

22. by Mary McCarthy

In 1933, eight young female friends graduate from Vassar College. This book is about their lives post-graduation, beginning with the marriage of one of the friends, Kay Strong, and ending with her funeral in 1940. We might be far removed from the ’30s, but any 20-something can relate to struggling with financial turmoil, family crises, relationship issues and more.

23. by Ta-Nehisi Coates

This winner of the 2015 National Book Award for Nonfiction is written as a letter to Coates’s teen son and explores the sometimes bleak reality of what it’s like to be Black in the United States. It’s a must-read for young people as well as anyone who could use a reminder of the subtle—and not so subtle—ways people of color are discriminated against every day (read: most non-POCs).

24. by Claire Messud

Julia and Cassie have been friends since nursery school, sharing everything, including their desire to escape the stifling limitations of their Massachusetts hometown. But their paths diverge as they enter adolescence, with Cassie setting out on a journey that will put her life in danger and ruin her oldest friendship. A complex coming-of-age story, Messud’s latest is an examination of youth, friendship and the clash of childhood’s imaginary worlds with the often painful reality of adulthood.

25. by Hanya Yanagihara

This best seller makes your average tearjerker look positively sunny. Four graduates from a small college in Massachusetts move to New York to follow their dreams and escape their demons. Once there, their relationships deepen, and painful secrets (like seriously messed-up stuff) from their past emerge. While the details might not always be relatable, the feeling of navigating relationships in your 20s hits close to home.

The 25 Best Sad Books to Read When You Need a Good Ugly Cry

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By Christine Ruggeri Leaders Staff

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Christine Ruggeri is a business and personal growth writer for Leaders Media. Previously, she worked as a senior content writer...

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Dec 12, 2022

Reviewed by Hannah L. Miller

Hannah L. Miller

Senior Editor

Hannah L. Miller, MA, is the senior editor for Leaders Media. Since graduating with her Master of Arts in 2015,...

The 25 Best Books to Read Before Your 20s Are Over

“Claiming your 20s is one of the simplest, yet most transformative things you can do for work, for love, for your happiness, maybe even for the world,” says clinical psychologist and author of The Defining Decade Meg Jay.

As Jay explains in a TED Talk , your 20s aren’t a developmental downtime, they are a developmental sweet spot. During this decade, every decision you make can change the course of your life. You have the chance to find yourself and reinvent yourself as your brain concludes its last major growth spurt.

Your 20s are a time of self-discovery and exploring your goals and ambitions. It’s a decade that defines and paves the way for your future, so it’s important to have mentors and positive influences that help you along the way. Books are some of the best ways to get timeless advice. They also help guide you in exploring who you are and want to be. The best books to read in your 20s offer life advice, while also portraying failure and resilience.

This article includes a list of the best books to read as you navigate this defining decade in your life. 

25 Books That Everyone Should Read in Their 20s 

• The Defining Decade
• Fate and Furies
• “The Metamorphosis”
• For One More Day
• The Four Agreements
• How Will You Measure Your Life
• The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership
• Start With Why
• Dare to Lead
• Creativity, Inc.
• Radical Candor
• Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
• The Happiness Advantage
• In Defense of Food
• Think Like A Monk
• Man’s Search for Meaning
• The Last Lecture
• Blue Nights
• The Great Gatsby
• The Old Man and the Sea
• The Catcher in the Rye
• Nineteen Eighty-Four

Personal Growth and Relationships

1. the defining decade, meg jay.

“Our 20s are the defining decade of adulthood. 80% of life’s most defining moments take place by about age 35.”

Perhaps the most well-known book written specifically for readers in their 20s, The Defining Decade discusses this transformative decade, based on decades of research by author Meg Jay. The book highlights the importance of balance in your 20s, engaging in activities that allow for self-discovery, and finding purpose in your work and personal life. It also includes useful tips for having conversations with partners, choosing friends, and more. 

Why you should read it: Using research including 20-somethings specifically, this book will help you learn how to make the most of this transformative decade. 

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2. Fates and Furies, Lauren Groff

“Paradox of marriage: you can never know someone entirely; you do know someone entirely.” 

Fate and Furies is a portrait of a marriage, told from both perspectives over a 24-year period. The novel is a powerful portrayal of complicated relationships that change over time. It was a National Book Awards finalist in 2015 and the judges’ citation states , “Groff delivers a deeply satisfying novel about love, art, creativity, and power that is unlike anything that has come before it. Profound, surprising, propulsive, and emotionally riveting, it stirs both the mind and the heart.”

Why you should read it: It’s a beautifully written story about the complexity of relationships, marriage, and how they evolve over time. 

3. “The Metamorphosis,” Franz Kafka 

“I cannot make you understand. I cannot make anyone understand what is happening inside me. I cannot even explain it to myself.” 

A 1915 novella written in German by Franz Kafka, “The Metamorphosis” is considered a masterpiece and if you haven’t read it already, it’s worth the time. Opening with the main character turning into a gigantic insect, “The Metamorphosis” is bizarre and strangely comical, but it highlights natural human emotions such as guilt and inadequacy. It’s considered one of the most influential books of the 20th century and has many interpretations, giving it a life of its own throughout the decades. 

Why you should read it: Human isolation and feelings of inadequacy are portrayed with a startling, unique plotline. 

4. For One More Day, Mitch Albom

“Have you ever lost someone you love and wanted one more conversation, one more chance to make up for the time when you thought they would be here forever? If so, then you know you can go your whole life collecting days, and none will outweigh the one you wish you had back.”  

For One More Day is a story of guilt, self-loathing, forgiveness, and a parent’s love. The main character, Chick Benetto, reflects on his childhood and the many times he disrespected his mother, the person who was always there for him, for his absent father. Benetto seeks forgiveness from himself, his mother who has passed, and his daughter who is ashamed of him. Imagining one more day with his mother gives him the strength to make changes in his life and seek the forgiveness he needs to move on. 

Why you should read it: It’s an emotional story about a flawed character who searches for redemption, highlighting the power of forgiveness. 

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5. The Four Agreements , Don Miguel Ruiz

“Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama.” 

The Four Agreements is a self-help book that offers an ancient code of conduct that’s reached over 12 million readers from around the world. The insights offered by author Don Miguel Ruiz come from the ancient Toltec people and are meant to help people transform their lives and find true happiness. The book is based on “agreements” that people accept and share with others. The agreements are designed to offer freedom instead of self-limiting perspectives that create “needless suffering.” 

Why you should read it: The book has become well-known since its publication in 1997 and offers easy-to-understand recommendations for defining personal freedoms and ideologies. 

6. How Will You Measure Your Life , Clayton Christensen, James Allworth, and Karen Dillon

“If you defer investing your time and energy until you see that you need to, chances are it will already be too late.” 

Clayton Christensen is New York Times bestselling author and leading thinker on innovation. His previous book, The Innovator’s Dilemma focused on business, while How Will You Measure Your Life was written to inspire anyone, including those in their 20s, students, and mid-career professionals. The book uses well-researched academic theories to help adults find meaning and happiness. Christensen also warns leaders about common traps that lead to unhappiness. 

Why you should read it: Clayton Christensen puts forth meaningful questions about your personal and professional choices that allow you to think deeper about what brings you happiness and a sense of purpose. 

Leadership and Career Advice

7. the 21 irrefutable laws of leadership , john maxwell .

“I believe the bottom line in leadership isn’t how far we advance ourselves but how far we advance others. That is achieved by serving others and adding value to their lives.”

Considered one of the best leadership books of all time, Maxwell’s The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership discusses the commonalities of great leaders and offers practical advice for entrepreneurs, executives, and managers. It’s one of the best books to read in your 20s if you’re interested in enhancing your leadership qualities . 

Why you should read it: John Maxwell is a trusted voice that helps readers to become stronger, more effective leaders in any industry.

8. Start With Why , Simon Sinek

“People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe.”

To learn about leading with purpose, Start With Why is a must-read. It explains the importance of putting purpose at the center of your business so that you stay focused on what matters most. Even if you aren’t a business owner, this book will help you to think about your professional mission and how you’ll get there. 

Why you should read it: Defining your professional purpose and mission is a difficult task, especially in your 20s when you’re just getting started in your career. This book helps you to navigate that complex task. 

9. Dare to Lead , Brené Brown

“I define a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and who has the courage to develop that potential.”

Dare to Lead emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in leadership, arguing that it’s a courageous way to lead, whether it’s leading a business, circle of friends, community group, or any other initiative that you are involved with. If you’re interested in creating a supportive workplace or environment, this is an excellent book about connection, empathy, and authenticity. 

Why you should read it: Brené Brown takes a unique approach to leadership—doing it in a vulnerable, courageous, and impactful way. 

10. Creativity, Inc. , Edwin Catmull and Amy Wallace

“Don’t wait for things to be perfect before you share them with others. Show early and show often. It’ll be pretty when we get there, but it won’t be pretty along the way.” 

Written by the co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios, Creativity, Inc . is about creativity and originality in business. It’s a book about how to build a creative culture and become more comfortable with expressionism. If you’re interested in defying convention and nurturing your dreams, this is a must-read. 

Why you should read it: This book will inspire creatives to nurture their work and refine their unique perspectives. 

11. Radical Candor , Kim Scott

“Make sure that you are seeing each person on your team with fresh eyes every day. People evolve, and so your relationships must evolve with them. Care personally; don’t put people in boxes and leave them there.” 

Radical Candor is considered a cultural touchstone because of its impact on readers around the world. The book teaches you how to “care personally and challenge directly.” Scott says in a YouTube video explaining the concept that people in their early 20s, who are just starting their careers, are expected to leave their identities out of the workplace, but they are better off building real, human relationships at work. At the same time, they shouldn’t be afraid to challenge things when they can be better, which can be done in a caring way. 

Why you should read it: Kim Scott offers useful advice about building meaningful relationships in the workplace and using that trust to improve the business. 

12. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, Greg McKeown

“Essentialism is not about how to get more things done; it’s about how to get the right things done.”

If you tend to feel busy and overworked, but not necessarily productive, Essentialism will be a useful read. The book discusses a system for discerning what tasks are absolutely essential and what can be eliminated from your schedule or mental burden. Applying this selective criterion to your life will help you to reclaim your time and energy, allowing you to focus on the things that really matter. 

Why you should read it: It’s common to feel overworked and bogged down by your mental load. McKeown teaches you how to eliminate everything that isn’t meaningful. 

Mental and Physical Health

13. the happiness advantage , shawn achor.

“When our brains constantly scan for and focus on the positive, we profit from three of the most important tools available to us: happiness, gratitude, and optimism.” 

This research-based book by Shawn Achor explains how positive brains have a biological advantage over neutral or negative brains. Achor shows how happier people are more productive, motivated, creative, and energized. He uses research in psychology and neuroscience to prove his case that happiness fuels success. 

Why you should read it: We don’t often think about the value of positivity and how being happy can impact your success. 

14. In Defense of Food , Michael Pollan

“The human animal is adapted to, and apparently can thrive on, an extraordinary range of different diets, but the Western diet, however you define it, does not seem to be one of them.” 

Michael Pollan discusses the relationship between “nutritionism” and the Western diet in his 2008 book In Defense of Food . He argues that American eating habits have become overly complicated and offers a simple way of thinking about food choices: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” Pollan discusses the modern food industry and how it has become made up of “edible foodlike substances” instead of products of nature. 

Why you should read it: Getting a better understanding of today’s unhealthy food industry will make you think twice about your daily dietary choices.

15. Think Like a Monk , Jay Shetty

“When we accept the temporary nature of everything in our lives, we can feel gratitude for the good fortune of getting to borrow them for a time.”

Jay Shetty is a former monk turned social media influencer and host of the popular podcast On Purpose , which focuses on mental health. His book Think Like A Monk provides practical everyday steps for living a less anxious, more meaningful life. Shetty helps readers to clear the roadblocks to their potential, such as overcoming negative thoughts, accessing your inner calm, and finding your purpose. 

Why you should read it: This mental health book will teach you how to reduce stress in your life, overcome bad habits, and take steps to find your purpose. 

16. Big Magic, Elizabeth Gilbert

“A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life.” 

This is an empowering book that helps readers overcome their fears and embrace curiosity. If you are an untapped creative who is struggling to find your voice or vision, this book will help you to tackle your passions and ideas, while working through your anxieties about success. 

Why you should read it: It’s common for fears to get in the way of creativity, and this book helps you to embrace that struggle. 

Memoirs and Biographies 

17. educated , tara westover.

“My life was narrated for me by others. Their voices were forceful, emphatic, absolute. It had never occurred to me that my voice might be as strong as theirs.” 

Educated shows the importance of education and teaches resilience. Westover was 17 the first time she stepped foot into a classroom. Until then, her life was spent in the mountains of Idaho with her survivalist parents. Her story teaches audiences that no matter your circumstances in life, you can make it out and carve your own path. Today, Westover has a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge and is a best-selling author.

Why you should read it: This coming-of-age story highlights the power of education and learning how to think for yourself. 

18. Man’s Search for Meaning , Viktor Frankl

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” 

This memoir by Viktor Frankl teaches lessons of spiritual survival during and after experiences in Nazi death camps. It explains that all humans will face suffering, but can choose how to cope with it and find meaning in it. Frankl argues that humankind is not driven by pleasure, but by purpose—finding meaning in life, even in the most difficult times. 

Why you should read it: The experiences of Viktor Frankl show you how it’s possible to overcome suffering and fear to find renewed purpose. 

19. The Last Lecture , Randy Pausch and Jeffrey Zaslow

“Experience is what you get when you didn’t get what you wanted. And experience is often the most valuable thing you have to offer.” 

The Last Lecture offers meaningful insights about the meaning of life and how your perspective shifts when facing death. For Randy Pausch, being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer made him consider his legacy. A computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon, Pausch was asked to give his last lecture at the end of the academic year. Instead of discussing death, he focused on overcoming obstacles, enabling the dreams of others, and making the most of every moment. 

Why you should read it: This is an inspirational lecture on perseverance in the face of death. 

20. Blue Nights , Joan Didion

“We still counted happiness and health and love and luck and beautiful children as ‘ordinary blessings.’” 

In Blue Nights , Joan Didion helps people understand loss and the grieving process. Didion discusses the loss of her daughter, who died at just 39, and her own feelings about parenthood and aging. This book makes you think deeply about getting older and enjoying the days of your youth. The memoir was called “a beautiful condolence note to humanity about some of the painful realities of the human condition” by Washington Post critic Hellar McAlpin. A Year of Magical Thinking , the book written by Didion before Blue Nights , is another moving read that touches on similar themes. 

Why you should read it: Both A Year of Magical Thinking and Blue Nights are moving stories about loss, grief, and moving forward. 

21. The Great Gatsby , F. Scott Fitzgerald 

“Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive and not after he is dead.” 

The Great Gatsby is a timeless story that explores human flaws, hopeless love, and societal constructs. Although it was written in 1925, its themes and conflicts resonate today. If you read this classic as a teenager, consider giving it another go around, as the tragedy (and Fitzgerald’s exemplary writing) becomes even more impactful with age and experience.  

Why you should read it: The hopeless and flawed Jay Gatsby is a character that any adult can learn from. 

22. The Old Man and the Sea , Ernest Hemingway

“It is good that we do not have to try to kill the sun or the moon or the stars. It is enough to live on the sea and kill our true brothers.” 

The Old Man and the Sea is one of the best books to read in your 20s, if you haven’t already, because it tells a story of struggle, defeat, and pride. The main character, Santiago, is in conflict with himself and the marlin he’s attempting to catch. Santiago is motivated by pride, but he also learns to admire the marlin and his determination. This novella was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1953 and it’s one of Hemingway’s most famous works. 

Why you should read it: Ernest Hemingway’s unique writing style is done perfectly in The Old Man and the Sea , with the use of short, concise sentences to tell layered, complex stories. 

23. The Catcher in the Rye , J.D. Salinger

“The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause, while the mark of the mature man is that he wants to live humbly for one.” 

Although it’s often read by high school students, The Catcher in the Rye was originally intended for adults because of its mature themes of angst, alienation, identity, and phoniness. The main character, Holden Caulfield, has become an American icon for teenage rebellion, but the lessons learned from this novel are deeper than his rebellious thinking. It’s a coming-of-age story about searching for hope in a world he feels neglected by.  

Why you should read it: The Catcher in the Rye is an American classic that portrays a character who feels lost, isolated, and in search of purpose. 

24. Beloved , Toni Morrison

“Freeing yourself was one thing, claiming ownership of that freed self was another.” 

Beloved is a novel about a formerly enslaved family in the post-Civil War Reconstruction period. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1988 and is considered one of the best works of American fiction. It explores the psychological effects of slavery, the portrayal of manhood, and family relationships. 

Why you should read it: Beloved is a powerful novel about American history and how it has shaped families for generations. 

25. Nineteen Eighty-Four , George Orwell 

“Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.” 

Nineteen Eighty-Four is a cautionary tale set in a future dystopian society. Written in 1949, the novel highlights issues of totalitarianism, propaganda, government surveillance, and loss of identity. Its themes of nationalism and equality are prevalent in modern society. Although this novel is often read by teenagers, readers in their 20s can further understand how Orwell’s warnings can be seen in today’s society. 

Why you should read it: George Orwell warns leaders of a future society that leaves citizens with no identity other than their collective nationalism. 

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20 Best Books to Read in Your 20s

What books should you read in your 20s? From health to career, discover the best books to read in your 20s on Headway’s booklist.

Your 20s are often considered the years to experiment and go on adventures. Learning and making mistakes is a part of figuring out who you are. However, as you leave the safety net of formal education, you also step away from your comfort zone — which is both scary and exciting.

As you navigate the world as a young adult, getting caught up in the pressure of newfound responsibility is common. This is why slowing down, finding balance, and enjoying life are important.

Your 20s is an excellent time for nonfiction reading as it’ll expand your mind and equip you with habits to support daily wellness. Headway aspires to make reading and learning more accessible . So, today, we dive into the best nonfiction books to read in your 20s. This booklist will guide you through the best advice and habits that’ll encourage positive shifts at this time of your life.

Nonfiction is fantastic to read in your 20s. The right books can guide you through the ups and downs of the decade. You’ll discover tools to practice good physical and mental wellness within yourself and your communities.

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective, the best nonfiction books to read in your 20s include Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race and Thinking Fast and Slow . 

The Courage to be Disliked and Atomic Habits are the best self-help books to read in your 20s. They’ll empower and educate you on how to stay true to yourself and create the life you want.

Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies is a book about being in your 20s that everyone should read. The author shares her experiences of her 20s and provides practical advice to live a fulfilling life.

Twenty nonfiction books to read in your 20s

1. freakonomics: a rogue economist explores the hidden side of everything by steven levitt and stephen dubner.

For anyone interested in economics, criminology, or sociology, Freakonomics considers life from a fresh perspective. Readers will journey through humor and amazement as they encounter the insightful ideas in this text. The authors work together to uncover an alternative side to historical events and conventional wisdom. This book teaches you to question what you think you know and consider new viewpoints.

2. A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

If you want to expand your knowledge in your 20s, Bill Bryson’s book is an excellent place to start. When writing this text, Bryson was trying to make science accessible to the general population. Not only does he explore the history of the universe, but he questions how we know the things we do. He attempts to simplify complex ideas to make them easy to understand and interesting to read. 

3. How to Win Friends and Influence People in the Digital Age by Dale Carnegie and Associates

Anyone in their late 20s will tell you this decade is pivotal for friendships. While you may sustain connections from your childhood, you’ll likely make new friends too. This transition can be difficult for young people; thus, the following recommendation is perfect. Dale Carnegie writes about improving social skills , connecting with others, and, most importantly, listening to those around you. This book will support all your relationships, from professional to romantic.

4. Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Understanding one’s mind is sometimes the key to mastering it. In Thinking Fast and Slow , readers will learn how humans make decisions and what influences our choices. The author discusses internal biases and whether changing your thinking is possible. This book will impact decision-making throughout your life, career, and relationships. 

5. Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

If you’re looking for a book to teach you how to do everything, this might not be for you. On the surface, Four Thousand Weeks is a time management manual that aims to increase productivity. However, once you dig into its pages, readers will learn that to be successful, you cannot do everything. Burkeman encourages you to do the things that are valuable to you. He takes a realistic approach to task management and aims to reduce overwhelm along the way. 

6. Atomic Habits: Tiny Changes, Remarkable Results by James Clear

Some people aren’t looking for philosophical books during their 20s. Instead, they want practical advice that can be implemented immediately. Atomic Habits is precisely that — a helpful guide to establishing good habits. The author suggests starting with one tiny habit at a time. Once readers have mastered that, they can work on another small practice. You can read more about this manageable approach to forming habits on the Headway app.

7. The Courage to be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon that Shows You How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

It’s easy to get caught up in people-pleasing. While being empathetic towards others and making adjustments for them may be appropriate, sometimes pleasing people comes at the expense of our own happiness. The authors of this subsequent text aim to empower you to live a fulfilling and happy life, even if this means other people may dislike you. It is a great book to read in your 20s if you need the courage to put yourself first for a change. 

8. The Psychology of Money: Timeless Lessons on Wealth, Greed, and Happiness by Morgan Housel

Readers praise the author’s straightforward approach to explaining the psychology of money. In this easy-to-understand finance guide, Housel offers insight into managing personal finance, investing, and making financial decisions.

9. Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge

Award-winning journalist Reni Eddo-Lodge opens the conversation about racism and how it presents itself in today’s societies. This text acknowledges and explores the impact of racism throughout history. Consequently, Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race is one of the books you should read in your 20s to better understand how racism continues today.

10. The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life by Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson

Do you know why you make the choices you do? Why do you behave in a particular way? Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson attempt to find the answers. The authors try to help you better understand your motives and learn why humans react the way we do. This text is an excellent place to begin if you’re looking for a book to learn about humanity.

11. Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if your life depended on it by Chris Voss and Tahl Raz

Whether you run a debate club or avoid discussions at all costs, negotiating is a crucial life skill. Chris Voss, a former FBI negotiator, created the ultimate guide to bargaining in high-stakes situations. The authors put together a thorough guide to navigating valuable conversations in the office or at home.

12. The Millionaire Fastlane: Crack the Code to Wealth and Live Rich for a Lifetime by MJ DeMarco

Many people in their 20s have experienced multiple jobs, some fueled by passion, others necessary to make money. If you’re bored of saving every penny you earn and hoping to become rich one day, this book might interest you. The Millionaire Fastlane is about ditching the traditional route to success and forging your path. It is one of the best nonfiction books to read in your 20s if your goal is to increase your income .  

13. The Life-Changing Magic Of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo

Marie Kondo is known for her intuitive approach to tidying up, which she believes will simplify one’s life. For many 20-somethings, it’ll be their first time living alone and learning how to look after a home. Knowing how to declutter may sound trivial; however, Kondo turns a mundane exercise into a mindfulness activity for a better life.

14. Collaborating with the Enemy: How to Work with People You Don’t Agree With or Like or Trust by Adam Kahane

Throughout adulthood, we must put our differences aside and work with people we don’t like, particularly in a professional environment. If it’s your first time navigating these situations, this book teaches you to collaborate effectively, no matter your opponent. You’ll improve your communication skills and become a better team player. 

15. Quiet: The Power Of Introverts In A World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

Calling all introverts and extroverts: this is a must-read. Susan Cain analyzes how our society favors extroverts, but at what cost? In this nonfiction read, she uncovers introverts’ unique skills and why having a balance of personalities in your workplace is crucial. Reading this book will change the way you perceive introverts and how they value themselves.

16. Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies: And Other Rituals to Fix Your Life, From Someone Who’s Been There by Tara Schuster

If you want to read a book about your 20s, add Tara Schuster’s best-seller to your booklist. You’ll read about her journey of hitting rock bottom, re-parenting herself, and discovering self-love. Readers adore this book for its humor and practical advice for living a life you love.

17. Man Enough: Undefining My Masculinity by Justin Baldoni

Justin Baldoni writes an honest account of how toxic ideas about masculinity have affected his life. His message is for men to embrace their vulnerable, sensitive traits. Doing so will give them the strength and confidence to be their authentic self.

18. The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times by Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams

Life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes it sorts itself out, and other times, we need a helping hand. The Book of Hope is one of the best books to read in your 20s when things feel heavy and out of control. It’ll guide you through the hardships your 20s may deliver and empower you to keep going.

19. Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together by Erin Lowry

Managing money can feel impossible in your 20s, but it doesn’t have to be. Learning good financial habits as early as possible will prepare you for a stress-free life. Erin Lowry attempts to simplify your finances, so they are manageable no matter your situation. From student debts to budgeting, this practical book has it all. 

20. Hood Feminism: Notes From the Women that a Movement Forgot by Mikki Kendall

The last text on our booklist invites people in their 20s to reconsider what they know about feminism. Feminism is a popular discussion topic that stirs various emotions, good and bad. In this book, however, the author argues that the contemporary feminist movement must widen the conversation to address issues of race, class, and gender. It is one of the most important books to read in your 20s, regardless of your views on modern feminism. 

Explore the best nonfiction books on the Headway app

Reading nonfiction books is a great way to learn about relevant issues or exciting subjects. We know your 20s are busy; you’re establishing new friendships, navigating various careers, and trying to find your footing as an adult. It can be a bit overwhelming. 

Headway makes it simple to read more. On the Headway app, you can explore more titles, increase productivity, and open your mind to new ideas. No matter where you are, you’ll have access to bite-sized segments from different texts.  With just 15 minutes a day (or less!), you can dive into more books, develop your knowledge, and have fun while learning. Download the Headway app today to get started.

Final thoughts

We hope this booklist has inspired your next reading choice. When living through your 20s, life can feel busy and exciting. Understanding how to manage the highs and lows can make it easier to enjoy this fast-paced decade. These 20 books to read in your 20s are an excellent place to start. 

Nonfiction reading is a fun way to learn and explore new concepts to implement into your daily life. From building good financial habits to caring for your mind and making friends, there are numerous topics to study to enrich your 20s. 

Choose from hundreds of nonfiction titles to support your journey. Start learning on the Headway app and enjoy bite-sized snippets from your favorite nonfiction books.

Which books should I read in my 20s?

While there are many suitable books, Broke Millennial , Atomic Habits , and Collaborating with the Enemy are good books to read in your 20s. They form essential building blocks for young adults entering the world beyond school. 

Which nonfiction books are trending right now?

There are many life-changing nonfiction books to read in your 20s, from Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race and The Book of Hope . Each offers timeless wisdom that everyone should read. 

How do I find good nonfiction books?

Read nonfiction books that spark your curiosity and challenge your current thinking. Explore in-depth summaries from the top nonfiction books on the Headway app and discover which books you want to read in full. 

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12 Books to Read in Your 20s

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By The New York Times

• Oct. 25, 2016

There are far more worthy books than any of us will get to read in a lifetime. So you better get cracking in your 20s, at the latest. Below are 12 books earnestly if somewhat arbitrarily recommended. To read them all is to learn about wartime, race in America, growing up feeling like you’re different, how cities are built and lived in, grief, the power of imagination and much more.

“Catch-22,” by Joseph Heller (1961)

There’s been a surge of acclaimed fiction about war in the 21st century, but Joseph Heller’s satire “Catch-22” remains the gold standard. Heller served in World War II, and “Catch-22” reflects the horrors and absurdities of war and its attendant bureaucracies. In 1974, Heller told The Paris Review that he learned about his own books by the reaction to them. “It surprised me that things in ‘Catch-22’ turned out to be very funny,” he said. “I thought I was being humorous, but I didn’t know I would make people laugh.”

“Beloved,” by Toni Morrison (1987)

In 2006, when The New York Times Book Review asked a couple of hundred prominent writers, critics, editors and other literary types to name the best work of American fiction published in the last 25 years , Toni Morrison’s “Beloved,” a ghost story about the emotional toll of slavery in America, got the most votes. In the Book Review in 1987, Margaret Atwood said Morrison’s “versatility and technical and emotional range appear to know no bounds. If there were any doubts about her stature as a pre-eminent American novelist, of her own or any other generation, ‘Beloved’ will put them to rest.”

“His Dark Materials” Trilogy, by Philip Pullman (1995-2000)

We’ll just assume you’ve read Harry Potter. Philip Pullman wrote his trilogy (“The Golden Compass,” “The Subtle Knife” and “The Amber Spyglass”) in part to counteract the religious parables of the Narnia chronicles and other children’s stories. “War, politics, magic, science, individual lives and cosmic destinies are all here,” Margo Jefferson wrote in The Times in 2002. “They are not flung together, they are shaped and assembled into a narrative of tremendous pace by a man with a generous, precise intelligence.”

“White Teeth,” by Zadie Smith (2000)

Zadie Smith’s debut novel can serve as an inspiration to anyone in their 20s, since it was published to worldwide acclaim when Smith was just 24 years old. She has since become an established critical favorite with several books under her belt, but “White Teeth,” set in turn-of-the-millennium multicultural London and teeming with characters, slang, jokes and insights, might still be the best place to start. In her review , Michiko Kakutani wrote that Smith has an “instinctive storytelling talent and a fully fashioned voice that’s street-smart and learned, sassy and philosophical all at the same time,” and “can do comedy, drama and satire, and do them all with exceptional confidence and brio.”

“The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao,” by Junot Díaz (2007)

When Junot Díaz published his first collection of short stories, “Drown,” in 1996, readers were quickly eager for more. They had to wait 11 years before he followed his debut with this novel, but they were duly rewarded. As was Díaz: The story of the title character, an overweight geek living with his Dominican-American family in New Jersey, went on to win the Pulitzer Prize. Michiko Kakutani called it “so original it can only be described as Mario Vargas Llosa meets ‘Star Trek’ meets David Foster Wallace meets Kanye West.”

NONFICTION:

“The Fire Next Time,” by James Baldwin (1963)

James Baldwin’s “The Fire Next Time” has remained deeply relevant for more than half a century, never more so than during the current debates around policing, criminal justice, voting rights and other subjects. The book is composed of two essays about being black in America. The first, written in the form of a letter to Baldwin’s teenage nephew, was a direct inspiration for Ta-Nehisi Coates’s recent best-seller “Between the World and Me,” written as a letter to Coates’s son. Coates has called Baldwin’s essays “amazing acts of intellectual and emotional courage.”

“Slouching Towards Bethlehem,” by Joan Didion (1968)

If you’re one of the 20-somethings who currently carry tote bags emblazoned with Joan Didion’s face, you’re probably familiar with this one. But if you’re not, her first collection of nonfiction is the best place to start to understand why such tote bags exist. Didion’s essays in “Slouching” are firmly rooted in the culture of the 1960s — Haight-Ashbury, Joan Baez, political zealotry of various stripes — but their brilliance is in the way they still speak to the character (and characters) of this country today. With “Goodbye to All That,” Didion wrote the definitive account of loving and then leaving New York, which hasn’t kept hundreds of writers from trying their hand at the form.

“The Power Broker,” by Robert Caro (1975)

It might take a considerable portion of your 20s to read this book, which clocks in at about 1,300 pages, but it will be worth it. Robert Caro is best known now for his ongoing, multivolume biography of Lyndon Johnson, but “The Power Broker,” his Pulitzer Prize-winning life of Robert Moses, would have cemented his towering reputation had it been his only book. Never elected to any public office, Moses nevertheless did more to change the shape of New York City and Long Island in the 20th century (their bridges, highways, housing, public spaces) than arguably any other figure. Caro’s book works as both a sweeping epic about an oversize personality and a granular look at the mechanisms of power and influence.

“A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again,” by David Foster Wallace (1997)

Having just recommended “The Power Broker,” it would be cruel to follow it with the equally massive “Infinite Jest.” So instead of Wallace’s thousand-page, endnote-filled novel, pick up this more accessible collection of his nonfiction. It includes pieces about tennis, David Lynch and the influence of television on fiction writers. But it’s anchored by two long, hysterically funny essays that Wallace wrote for Harper’s Magazine: one about his time on a cruise ship, the other about his visit to the Illinois State Fair. In The New York Times Book Review, Laura Miller wrote that Wallace’s “distinctive and infectious style, an acrobatic cartwheeling between high intellectual discourse and vernacular insouciance, makes him tremendously entertaining to read, whatever his subject.”

“A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,” by Dave Eggers (2000)

The first sentence of Michiko Kakutani’s review in 2000 says it all: “Dave Eggers’s new book, ‘A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,’ is part autobiography, part postmodern collage, a novelistic ‘memoir-y kind of thing’ that tells the sad, awful, tragic story of how the author’s mother and father died within weeks of each other and how he became a surrogate parent to his 8-year-old brother, and tells it with such style and hyperventilated, self-conscious energy, such coy, Lettermanesque shtick and such genuine, heartfelt emotion, that the story is at once funny, tender, annoying and, yes, heartbreaking — an epic, in the end, not of woe, though there’s plenty of that too, but an epic about family and how families fracture and fragment and somehow, through all the tumult and upset, manage to endure.”

GRAPHIC MEMOIRS:

“Persepolis,” by Marjane Satrapi (2003)

In “Persepolis,” Marjane Satrapi recounts growing up in Iran in a family of leftists during the time of the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq war. The book was followed by a sequel in 2004 and a movie adaptation in 2007. Satrapi told The Believer in 2006 that she wants her books to counteract black-and-white views of the world. “I’m not a moral lesson giver,” she said. “It’s not for me to say what is right or wrong. I describe situations as honestly as possible. The way I saw it. That’s why I use my own life as material. I have seen these things myself, and now I’m telling it to you. Because the world is not about Batman and Robin fighting the Joker; things are more complicated than that.”

“Fun Home,” by Alison Bechdel (2006)

The source of the Tony Award-winning musical, “Fun Home” is Alison Bechdel’s moving graphic memoir about her relationship with her father. The story of Bechdel’s own realization that she is a lesbian is told in tandem with the story of her father, a small-town funeral director, and his repressed homosexuality. In The New York Times Book Review, Sean Wilsey wrote : “It is a pioneering work, pushing two genres (comics and memoir) in multiple new directions, with panels that combine the detail and technical proficiency of R. Crumb with a seriousness, emotional complexity and innovation completely its own.”

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10 Books to Read In Your 20s

Alison Doherty

Alison Doherty is a writing teacher and part time assistant professor living in Brooklyn, New York. She has an MFA from The New School in writing for children and teenagers. She loves writing about books on the Internet, listening to audiobooks on the subway, and reading anything with a twisty plot or a happily ever after.

View All posts by Alison Doherty

What are the best books to read in your 20s? If you asked 20 people you would probably get 20 different answers. Which would be 20 times 20…and I’m pretty sure that’s 400. But I digress. This is a book blog, not a math blog. The reason for so many different book choices is that for the first time in your 20s, everyone’s lives start to look very different from each other. Some of us are focusing on romantic relationships, perhaps marriage or starting a family. Others begin excelling in their careers or creative endeavors. And some of us (I’m going to say most of us) spend the decade bouncing around just trying to figure things out. It’s all normal. Because in your 20s, there is no normal.

Still, there are some themes and experiences that feel near universal in this decade of transition into adulthood. It is a time of deep personal discovery, relationship building, and self definition. These books are ones I learned from in my 20s or wish I had found a few years earlier. They are books I love to give to 20 year olds in my life and wish I could go back and give to my younger self.

In some way, they all have to do with the question of who do you want to be and what do you want your life to look like? Whether you are in your 20s or just still feel like you are, I hope you enjoy and find meaning in the books from this list.

The Best Books to Read In Your 20s

Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab

Of all the books to read in your 20s, I recommend this one the most. Nedra Glover Tawwab is a licensed therapist who focuses on how building boundaries can help both your relationships and yourself flourish. I’m slightly embarrassed to say, I went into this book not totally sure what the term boundaries meant. But Tawwab cleared up my confusion with real-world examples, questions for contemplation, and scripts for dialogue that might be helpful depending on your situation. A truly life-changing book that you should begin learning from early in adulthood. Seriously, I’m recommending it to everyone I know.

All About Love: New Visions by bell hooks

Whether looking for romantic relationships, deepening your friendships, shifting in your family roles, or thinking about how you relate with yourself, a lot of your 20s is related to love and loving. Like a a lot, a lot. But love isn’t always given the same intellectual priority as other human experiences. This beloved classic looks at relationships from every angle and discusses how to live a life guided by love instead of fear. It is deeply thoughtful, clearly written, and applicable to everyone.

Devotions by Mary Oliver

Your 20s might be fast-paced, confusing, overwhelming, or a whirlwind. Take a break and learn to embrace quiet contemplation with this poet . She writes a lot about lessons we can learn from nature and appreciating the small everyday moments. And don’t worry, this isn’t like the hard-to-read poems you sometimes read in high school and college classes. It is filled with beautiful moments and nubs of wisdom that will become a part of you as you keep changing and growing.

Come As You Are: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski

Sex! With yourself! With other people! It’s exciting (hence all my short sentences and exclamation points). But, as we know, sex education is severely lacking for many people. This book really gets into the science of what is happening inside our brains during sex. It also shows that there is no one way people experience sex or pleasure. It is written with women in mind, but I think people from all gender identities would benefit from reading through this book. Also, Emily Nagoski and her sister Amelia Nagoski wrote an amazing book on stress called Burnout if that’s of interest.

Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid

Amira is a broke 25-year-old, who makes her money babysitting and doesn’t really know what she wants to do with her life. The book begins when a store security guard accuses Amira, a Black woman, of kidnapping the white child she looks after. When the video goes viral, the child’s mother — a lifestyle guru named Alix — wants to capitalize on the moment. She wants to be a friend and mentor to Amira to help her achieve big things. But Amira might not want the same things that Alix wants for her. And Alix doesn’t seem to grasp the unequal and transactional nature of their relationship.

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

The premise of this novel is both whimsical and dark. Between life and death after a suicide attempt, Nora finds herself in a magical library. Each book she takes off the shelf is a view into what her life would be like if she made a different choice. What if she’d never quit her band? Or followed her dream to become a glaciologist? What if she’d said yes when the handsome stranger asked her out for coffee? These are all questions Nora gets to explore while trying to decide if any of her potential lives is worth living.

Already Enough: A Path to Self-Acceptance by Lisa Olivera

The self help or self improvement genre doesn’t really explain this book. As the title declares, readers don’t need to improve. We are…already enough. Still, this beautiful book straddles the psychology and memoir categories. The pages inside contain both stories from the author’s own life as an adopted child who was abandoned by her mother in the woods and therapeutic exercises the author has honed as a therapist. For a young person still figuring out their life and trying to make sense of their story, this book is an invaluable read.

Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khon

Ruth moves home after an unexpected breakup to help take care of her father who has advancing Alzheimer’s disease. She tries to cure him using every food and nutritional trend she can read about on the internet. But eventually, the story becomes about acceptance. Accepting her father’s disease and accepting that her life hasn’t gone the way she planned. This is a great book to read in your 20s, because it captures that oddness and grief of the shifting power dynamics with your parents when you must become a caregiver. The elements of how to rebuild your life after a disappointment or failure also feels so relevant to this decade of life.

The Roommate by Rosie Danan

Clara is an overachiever who’s spent the last 27 years doing exactly what her East coast, socialite family expects of her. To shake things up, she moves to LA to become roommates with her longtime crush, a childhood family friend. But that guy’s an ass and abandons her to travel with his band. Her replacement roommate, Josh, is handsome, sensitive, and also famous porn star. After a rocky start, things warm up between them personally and professionally. This is a book about Clara accepting her sexuality and growing out of the role her parents set for her. On a scale of 1 to 10 on the steamy scale, this romance novel is probably an 11. So it might not be safe for work. But it is sex-positive and sex worker positive, while also telling the story of two 20-year-olds making big life decisions.

Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close by Aminatou Sow and Ann Friedman

A lot of people think your 20s are all about finding a spouse or life partner. But as people are getting married later, or not at all, friendships and friend groups are becoming more and more vital in this important decade. This book is about how to value friendship and keep these relationships at the center of your life. With a real life example from the big friendship between the authors who host the podcast Call Your Girlfriend it covers becoming friends, choosing friends, and what to do when a friendship is in trouble. Vital information!

To keep the 20 theme going, if you are still looking for something to read try skimming this list of 50 Books for 20-Somethings or finding a book set in the 1920s .

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Insideout Mastery

Create a Life You Love

15 Best Books to Read in Your 20s

September 14, 2021 by Mick

Your twenties is one of the most defining times of your life.

It’s the time that you experiment and take risks. It’s a time when you experience pressure and emotional stress. And it’s also the time that you make some big decisions, like the career you want to pursue.

Most people struggle with these new challenges. 

That’s why I’ve created this list of the best books to read in your 20s. These books will help you to get unstuck and prepare you for challenges down the line.

So let’s dive in!

P.S. Read my full Audible review if you prefer to listen to books. It’s the platform I use to listen to audiobooks.

#1: Awaken the Giant Within

Your twenties are a challenging time. I remember the many struggles I had with myself and life in general throughout this period…

The problem?

My ignorance. I lacked self-knowledge and didn’t have the tools to manage myself. And I also lacked general knowledge about how life works.

Reading Awaken the Giant Within gave me my first breakthrough. 

It gave me a lot of “aha” moments and sparked a personal transformation. And I credit this book for the change of feeling frustrated to empowered.

And I believe this book can do that for you too.

The reason is that it’s packed with valuable tips and insights. And whether you are struggling or not, I recommend that you read this book at least once in your twenties. 

Get your copy here

#2: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck

We all suffer from the need to be accepted, included, and loved. And unfortunately, this human desire often causes us to live unauthentically.

So let me ask you this:

Do you do the things you truly want to do? Or are you pursuing a path because you feel like you should? That you would let other people down if you were to live your life the way you want?

To live a good life, you have to do what feels best for you.

This will not only benefits yourself but for everyone around you. When you start living authentically, you will attract the right people and opportunities.

This book helps you to do that.

#3: Mastery

A big challenge in your twenties is dealing with shiny objects.

Most people look for a secret or big-ticket to success. We fall in love with the idea of overnight results. Quick fixes sell out like hotcakes in any category you can imagine. 

The result?

We chase one promise after the other, never to achieve true success. Surely, some people get lucky in this process, though the majority certainly do not.

What to do about it?

Find something you want to get good at and then aim for mastery. This book will change your perspective on how to achieve success. 

In addition, this book tells the stories of some of the greatest individuals in history. Think about the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo.

If you only want one book about success, this is hands-down the best book to read in your 20s.

#4: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is one of the most classic life-changing books that you should read in your twenties. Though this book was written over 30 years ago, it has never been more relevant.

It reveals the secrets to success in the external world and also how you can conquer your inner world. 

The book contains many simple yet powerful ideas that are guaranteed to change your perspective on life. Even if you were only to apply one of these habits, it will have tremendous benefits.

If there’s one classic that you must read in your 20-something, make sure to pick up a copy of this book from Stephen Covey.

#5: How to Win Friends and Influence People

Though the name of this book may put you off, here me out:

As long as you have to deal with other people (hint: for your entire life), you will have to learn how to communicate effectively. And this book contains many golden nuggets to improve your relationships.

But here is the drawback:

You will want to read this book in one sitting. The only problem with this is that you will not put into practice what you read. 

Because though the principles in this book are simple, they are also easily forgotten. 

Communication is hard – but those who master it enjoy its wide spectrum of benefits. Not only that but everyone around you will appreciate you more for it.

If you want a book to better understand people, look no further.

#6: The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari

Improving yourself and seeing the success you achieve from it is fun. And maybe you even achieve some of the symbols of wealth, like a Ferrari.

But success isn’t only about the stuff you can get.

In this book, you will learn about Julian Mantle, a successful lawyer who struggles with lots of stress. In other words: though he is successful, he isn’t enjoying it.

And what is worse than achieving everything, but not feeling successful?

He decides to quit his career and live as a monk for some time. This book tells you about his lessons as a monk. These lessons prepare you for success and also to feel successful.

So if you want success without sacrificing satisfaction and joy, then you will want to read the life-changing principles in this book.

#7: Atomic Habits

Most people look for the big secret or breakthrough to achieve success. But in reality, success comes from the small things you do every day. 

You are a bundle of your habits.

So your best shot at making change and achieving success is to develop empowering habits. Because small consistent actions will add up to the big stuff.

So if you want to achieve big things, then Atomic Habits is a must-read in your 20s.

Get your copy here  

#8: Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence often stands in the shadow of IQ. You don’t learn much about it in school and it doesn’t seem too important when looking for a job.

But here is the truth:

Your emotional intelligence is one of the biggest factors that determines how much success you will achieve. Especially with the current changes in the world. 

Not only is emotional intelligence important in your relationships, but it also helps you to understand yourself. It helps you to deal with setbacks, challenges, stress, and anxiety.

Schools fail to teach you about this stuff…

Which makes this one of the best books to read in your 20s. 

#9: Think and Grow Rich

Did you know that the biggest battles for success take place in your head?

That’s exactly what this book is about.

It will help you to think about what you want and then put it into a plan of action. And though this book is over 80 years old, the information in it is still relevant today. 

I recommend this book to everyone who is just starting on their journey to success. 

#10: The 4 Disciplines of Execution

What makes the difference in life between those who succeed and those who do not?

Success is simple: those who take action achieve more than those who do not. 

But though it sounds simple, execution is hard. We all lose focus from time to time. Everyone procrastinates. And we all experience fear, doubt, and insecurity.

This book focuses on the most important aspects to help you take more action. Through the four disciplines, you will learn how to take massive action. 

And the more action you take early in life, the more experience you gain. That’s why this book is a must-read in your twenties.

#11: Goals!

Those who set goals achieve much more than those who do not. And besides achieving more, setting and achieving goals also gives personal satisfaction.

If you want a good life, then you must set some goals.

Not only in your career or business, but in every area of your life. And that’s exactly what this book focuses on.

Goals are not only important in your twenties, but for the rest of your life. It’s the force that makes you feel excited to get up in the morning. 

#12: The Power of Now

The Power of Now is more of a spiritual book, which makes it different from the others in this list. 

Even if you don’t consider yourself spiritual, you might want to read this book in your twenties.

Here’s why:

Your mind is a powerful tool – if you know how to use it. Unfortunately, many don’t know how to use the mind, and instead, it ends up using them. 

That’s when you become a slave of your mind.

In this book, Eckhart Tolle explains how you can use your mind to achieve freedom. It helps you to break free from the invisible shackles that so many people suffer from.

If you want to live your best life, you cannot afford not to read this book at least once.

#13: The 4 Agreements

Do the opinions of others weigh heavily on you?

If so, then this is a life-changing book to read in your 20s. This book will not only help you to put these opinions into perspective, but it will also help you to become more compassionate.

This book teaches you how you can let go of guilt and anxiety. It also teaches you how you can be more authentic and responsible for your own life.

So do you need a different perspective so that you can let go and live your best life?

#14: The 4-Hour Workweek

Though technology has given you the tools to be more productive, truth is that we are working harder than ever before.

And many people experience stress because of it…

So who doens’t want a 4-hour workweek?

But let’s not become confused by this title. It’s not a get-rich-quick book. It will take hard work and consistent effort to realize your dreams.

Instead, this book is all about creating a better lifestyle for yourself. And it provides insights into how you can work smarter and create systems for personal productivity. 

That said, it’s still one of the best books to read in your 20s.

#15: Rich Dad Poor Dad

Rich Dad Poor Dad is for anyone who lacks a good understanding of money but desires financial freedom.

The book tells the story about Mike’s real father (poor dad) and the father of his friend (rich dad). You learn how both fathers make decisions and how the rich dad gets richer, while the poor dad works hard but never picks the financial fruit from it.

The story tells you all the basics you need to know about money.

Throughout this article, I covered the best books to read in your 20s. 

Or at least, these are the books that have helped me the most to transform my life and achieve more success . The more you learn, the more you will benefit from it in your twenties and beyond.

Whether it’s your career, business, relationships, financials, or identity, lots of it is being shaped throughout these early years.

I hope you find some good advice in what I consider to be the best books to read in your 20-something.

Do you crave more?

Then check out the most life-changing books everyone should read at least once. Additionally, browse Audible for audiobooks and claim your 30-day free tiral .

And if you want to know what books I’m currently reading, make sure to sign up for the newsletter below!

Mick is a personal growth enthusiast and was able to use it to transform his life. He now helps others pursue their dreams, create positive change, and build better lives through self-improvement.

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21 Books to Read in Your 20s + FREE Book Tracker Download!

I was terrified. I’d just walked into the dean’s office of my university. I was about to tell her I was learning more from books that cost a few dollars, than my classes that cost a few thousand. I was hoping she’d tell me I was wrong. 

She didn’t.

She said they were working on it. 

Why reading is important

I realized that to succeed in life, you need to learn things you’ll never learn in school.

• You’re going to have to question things you’re taught to believe.
• You’re going to have to use tools like Passion Planner designed to help us excel beyond what most people think is possible.
• You’re going to have to read books.

Any problem we could ever face has been written about in a book. There are thousands of must-read books out there. How can you make sure to read all of them?

How to read more 

Here’s the problem. You want to read more, but something always gets in the way. You don’t have the time. You read too slowly. You don’t have the motivation.  I wrote an entire article on building a reading habit last summer which covers these issues, but it all boils down to this:

Develop a love for reading. How do you do that? It’s like Naval Ravikant says: “Read what you love until you love to read.”

Best books to read in your 20s

Most people finish school and stop learning. So they go through their entire lives feeling stuck. But just imagine the possibilities if you got passionate about learning again. You can excel in your career. You can have a love relationship beyond your wildest dreams. You can take control of your health. 

All you have to do is learn what you need to do. And then do it.

Here are 21 of the best books to read in your 20s to thrive in your career, relationships, happiness, and making an impact.

Books for when you feel lost

1. loving what is by byron katie .

Do you find yourself spiraling down thoughts of depression? Every thought you think is a train. You don’t have to get on every train that passes by. And you don’t have to believe every thought you think. 

If you’ve ever found yourself lost in a vortex of negative thoughts, this book is the answer.

Favorite Takeaway: Stressful feelings are alarm clocks telling you, “Warning: You’re believing an untrue thought!” 

Favorite Quote from the Book: “A thought is harmless unless we believe it. It’s not our thoughts, but the attachment to our thoughts that causes suffering.”

2. The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer 

Does it feel like you’re never able to be in the present moment? You wake up in the morning, and you’re telling yourself how bad you don’t want to get up. You’re working, and you tell yourself that you have to succeed in what you’re doing. (We’ve all been there!)  

This book will re-shape how you think about your thoughts and give you tools to come back to the present moment.

Favorite Takeaway: You are not your thoughts. There is you, sitting here, reading this article, and then there is your mind, that is always running in the background.

Favorite Quote: “There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing that you are not the voice of the mind--you are the one who hears it.”

3. Outwitting The Devil by Napoleon Hill 

Do you find yourself drifting through life? In 1938, Napoleon Hill wrote a book where he interviewed the negative side of life. If it had something to tell us, what would it say?

This book is that interview. It will get you seeing life’s challenges in an entirely new way.

Favorite Takeaway: Your mind is an empty jar. Either you consciously fill it with positivity and purpose, or life fills it with negativity and fear.

Favorite Quote: “Your only limitation is the one which you set up in your own mind.”

Books on relationships

4. the mastery of love by don miguel ruiz .

Do you want to experience deeper, more authentic relationships? The perfect relationship looks just like the relationship you have with your dog. Because you never tell yourself, “gee, I wish my dog were a cat…or a horse.” The people in your life must be perfectly okay with you, just the way they are.

This book will help you develop more love for yourself, and for the people in your life.

Favorite Takeaway: Accept people exactly as they are, and exactly as they’re not.

Favorite Quote: “You cannot change other people… To try to change them to fit what you want them to be is like trying to change a dog for a cat, or a cat for a horse…”

5. Conscious Loving by Gay and Kathlyn Hendricks 

Do relationships ever feel like a struggle? This book helps you move from having co-dependent relationships to what they call “co-committed relationships,” and is packed with wisdom.

Things like taking full responsibility for the problem , keeping your agreements, and living in a state of continuous positive energy. 

It also gives you powerful questions to ask when stuck in a conflict.

Favorite Takeaway: Take full responsibility for problems, regardless of whether the other person takes responsibility for it or not.

Favorite Quote: “You are almost never upset for the reasons you think you are.”

Books on personal finance

6. rich dad, poor dad by robert kiyosaki .

Have you ever gotten a pay raise and had even less in your bank account? If you’re broke month after month, making more money won’t solve the problem. Because most people, when they make more, they spend more.

This book will get you thinking about saving and investing your money in a way you never have before.

Favorite Takeaway: The key to wealth is knowing how to save and use your money regardless of how much you make.

Favorite Quote: “Most people, given more money, only get into more debt.”

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

Do you ever wonder how to invest your money? Ramit Sethi says that instead of worrying about getting your investing perfect, shoot for getting it just 85% right. Because 85% right is WAY better than 0%, which is what most people who try to get it completely right get.

This book will show you how to get it 85% right.

Favorite Takeaway: Most of us are incredibly lazy when it comes to managing our money. That’s why we have to make managing our money simple, and automatic.

Favorite Quote: “The 85 Percent Solution: Getting started is more important than becoming an expert.”

Books to read in college

8. so good they can’t ignore you by cal newport .

Are you looking for your passion in life? This book flips the “follow your passion” advice on its head and tells you that instead, you should focus on becoming so good at what you do, that they can’t ignore you.

Because you’ll come to love what you’re good at.

Favorite Takeaway: If Steve Jobs had followed his own “follow your passion” advice, we would have probably found him as a popular Zen teacher, and not as a tech entrepreneur! 

Favorite Quote from the Book: “The more we [focus] on loving what we do, the less we [end] up loving it.”

Inspiring stories

9. shoe dog by phil knight .

Want to feel inspired to go after your dreams? This book is the story of how a lost, 24 year old kid follows a crazy idea, flies to Japan, and over the next 18 years builds one of the biggest companies in the world: Nike. 

If you’re wanting more inspiration in your life, this is the book for you. 

Favorite Takeaway: True success in any calling, whether it’s painting or building a billion dollar brand, takes a village. It’s impossible to do it alone.

Favorite Quote: “What if there were a way, without being an athlete, to feel what athletes feel? To play all the time, instead of working? Or else to enjoy work so much that it becomes essentially the same thing.”

10. The Third Door by Alex Banayan 

Do you feel like there’s so much more for you than what you’ve got in your life? Alex Banayan was an 18 year old pre-med student who set out on a five year quest to track down and interview the most successful people of our time.

This book is the story of his journey. And it will open your eyes to what’s possible.

Favorite Takeaway: When you re-define what’s possible in your mind, you change your life.

Favorite Quote: “While you can give someone all the best knowledge and tools in the world, sometimes their life can still feel stuck. But if you can change what someone believes is possible, their life will never be the same.”

Books on happiness

11. the magic of thinking big by david schwartz .

Are you stuck in small thinking? We all limit ourselves with our thinking. And you’re exactly as big or small as the size of your thinking.

This book will show you exactly how to think Bigger. 

Favorite Takeaway: Master the habit of not letting your mind dwell on problems. Instead, direct your mind to dwell on what you want.

Favorite Quote: “The size of bank accounts, the size of happiness accounts, and the size of one’s general satisfaction account is dependent on the size of one’s thinking.”

12. Gratitude Works by Robert A. Emmons  

Do you feel unhappy? David Hume said that ingratitude is “the most horrible and unnatural crime that a person is capable of committing.” Yet, most of us find it hard to feel grateful in our day to day life. 

This book shows you how to bring a gratitude practice into your life.

Favorite Takeaway: The key to gratitude is to be specific about what you’re expressing gratitude for.

Favorite Quote: “Gratitude empowers us to take charge of our emotional lives.” 

13. The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

Are you tired of clutter in your life? Clothes you don’t wear, books you don’t read, papers you don’t look at, kitchen utensils you don’t use? 

This book will help you get over clutter once and for all. It will also change your life.

Favorite Takeaway: The key to beating clutter is to first make a mess. Then take every single thing in your hand one at a time and ask: does this spark joy?

Favorite Quote: “The lives of those who tidy thoroughly and completely in a single shot are without exception dramatically altered.”

14. How To Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie

Do you worry a lot? It’s the early 1900’s, and Dale Carnegie is at home with his family. One of his neighbors rings his doorbell and says, “You have to get the smallpox vaccine!” Dale Carnegie says that he had lived in New York for many years. And that no one had ever rung his doorbell to warn him against an illness that had caused ten thousand times the damage of smallpox…Worry.

This book will do exactly as it promises. It will teach you to stop worrying and start living. 

Favorite Takeaway: Every day is like it’s own room. Don’t let thoughts of yesterday and tomorrow enter the room of today.

Favorite Quote: “Today is our most precious possession. It is our only sure possession.”

Books on success and motivation

15. think and grow rich by napoleon hill.

This book says that the starting point of achieving anything is a burning desire.  A desire so strong that it’s an obsession that you eat with, sleep with, and have top of mind basically every second you’re alive.

It then walks you through how to develop that burning desire and what else you need to do to achieve your wildest dreams.

Favorite Takeaway: All success starts with thinking the right thoughts.

Favorite Quote from the Book: “Weak desires bring weak results, just as a small amount of fire makes a small amount of heat.”

16. Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Do you want to become a more inspirational leader? On August 28, 1963, 250,000 people from across the country stormed into Washington D.C. to hear Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. give a speech. Martin Luther King, Jr. didn’t lead. He inspired.

This book is all about how to inspire others to action by getting clear on what you believe and communicating it to others.

Favorite Takeaway: Get good at communicating what you believe.

Favorite Quote: “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.”

Books on productivity

17. deep work by cal newport.

Does it ever feel like you don’t get much done? The superpower of the 21st century is being able to work with distraction-free concentration. In a world where most people don’t do this, those who master this superpower will thrive.

This book will help you develop this skill.

Favorite Takeaway: Your ability to thrive in today’s world depends on your ability to master the Deep Work Superpower.

Favorite Quote: “The ability to perform deep work is becoming increasingly rare at exactly the same time it is becoming increasingly valuable in our economy.” 

18. The One Thing by Gary Keller

Do you feel overwhelmed by everything you have to do? William of Occam said in the 1300’s, “the simplest solution is almost always the best.”

This book takes simplicity to the next level by helping you focus on the ONE THING that matters most instead of getting lost in the many things that don’t.

Favorite Takeaway: Ask yourself: What’s the ONE thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary? 

Favorite Quote: “Extraordinary results happen only when you give the best you have to become the best you can be at your most important work.”

Personal development books

19. atomic habits by james clear.

Do you want to build better habits? James Clear was the only junior cut from the varsity baseball team. But then something changed when he started college.

• He built good sleep habits.
• He made it a point to keep his room clean and uncluttered.
• He built good study habits. 
• He started lifting weights multiple times a week and gained 30 pounds of muscle.

By his senior year, he was named top male athlete at his school and named to the ESPN Academic All-America Team.  

That’s the power of habits. This book will show you how to develop those habits.

Favorite Takeaway: All that’s standing between you and your dream life is a collection of habits.

Favorite Quote: “Changes that seem small and unimportant at first will compound into remarkable results if you’re willing to stick with them for years.”

20. Why We Sleep? by Matthew Walker

Do you wake up every morning tired? Sleep is one of the most misunderstood concepts,  especially among young people. This book will blow your mind with what you’ll learn about sleep. And it will make you think twice before you have an urge to sleep too late, or wake up too early.

Favorite Takeaway: Most of your dream sleep happens in the second half of the night. If you wake up too early, you’re robbing yourself of crucial dream sleep.

Favorite Quote: “Sleep is the single most effective thing we can do to reset our brain and body health each day.”

21. Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It by Kamal Ravikant

Are you excessively hard on yourself? What if you could feel the same love for yourself, as lovers do for each other?

That’s what this book is about. Why loving yourself is so important — and exactly how to do it.

Favorite Takeaway: When you start to love yourself like your life depends on it, your life will start to feel magical.

Favorite Quote: “As you love yourself, life loves you back.”

Download the FREE Book Tracker

Ready to kickstart your reading habit? Check out the FREE Book Tracker PDF  from our free downloads library!  

Brandon Hakim is on a mission to help you get unstuck. He was so frustrated by what he was learning in college, that he went to the dean of his university to say he felt like students were getting an outdated education. He’s since read over 1,000 books, and helped over 200K students online get “unstuck” through his online courses. Connect with him at Insider School or Instagram . 

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24 Most Important Books To Read In Your 20s

Life-changing books for your most transformative years..

By Emily Francos — Written on Jan 04, 2023

During this time of protest and strife, we have to remember where we came from. It's important to remember our past so we can shape our future and avoid repeating mistakes. 

Over hundreds of years, there have been many writers who have discussed the social and historical situations of the time, and many of them have become invaluable books to read in your 20s, the decade that everything really starts changing as your set the foundation for your future.

And in order to create a strong foundation, sometimes you need to just curl up with a book to get a real perspective on the past. 

RELATED:  4 Books That Bill Gates Read Twice

Reading is a wonderful part of life and if you take the time to try and understand what you are reading, then you may just gain a new perspective on life. 

And sometimes we need to be exposed to other people's lives so that we can be grateful for all that we have. 

Never forget your history because you wouldn't be here right now without it. So, here are some of the best books to read and learn from. Our society needs a bit more understanding to really realize how far we have come to get to where we are today, and what we can do for a better future.

Here are the 24 most important books to read in your 20s:

Relationship books, 1 . pride and prejudice  by jane austen.

Jane Austen describes the Bennet family, which has five daughters, where the parents are hoping at least one of the children marry wealthily. This novel explores the struggle between the societal constructs of marrying for love or marrying for wealth or social status. 

2. Anna Karenina  by Leo Tolstoy

This romantic novel, published in 1878, is about a housewife that runs off with her lover and a lusting landowner who struggles with his philosophy and faith. This novel is revolutionary in how women are treated by showing their hardships and prejudices in Russian society. 

3. Jane Eyre  by Charlotte Bronte

In this novel, Jane Eyre becomes the inspiration for women to become independent. As an orphan, Jane Eyre gains sensibility and learns more about herself.

4. Wuthering Heights  by Emily Bronte

This novel is another one that tries to work through the idea of marrying for love or marrying for social status. 

5. The Fault In Our Stars  by John Green

When Hazel finds out she is in the last stage of her terminal cancer, she meets Augustus at a support group for children with cancer. They fall in love, and her life is turned upside down.

RELATED:  9 Books To Read If You Loved Binge-Watching ‘Bridgerton’

Historical Fiction

6. gone with the wind   by margaret mitchell.

During the Civil War, this tale tells a story of loss and love while a nation is divided. 

7. The Book Thief  by Markus Zusak

In Nazi Germany, Liesel is a foster girl who keeps herself alive by stealing what she cannot have: books. She learns to read and shares her books with others that are in hiding as well.

8. Girl with a Pearl Earring   by Tracy Chevalier

Young Griet meets someone who immortalizes her in a painting and tells her story.

9. The Only Woman in the Room  by Marie Benedict

Even though she possessed so much beauty, she was also intelligent. She married an Austrian arms dealer during the rise of the Nazi party. She heard the Third Reich's plans and she set a plan to fight the Nazis. The problem was getting someone to listen to the only woman in the room.

10. The Book of Night Women by Marlon James

Lilith, a Jamaican slave on a sugar plantation, was feared since birth. The Night Women, a group of slaves, plotted a slave revolt and Lilith becomes the key to their plan. 

Dystopian Novels

11. The Handmaid's Tale  by Margaret Atwood

In this dystopian novel, declining birthrates and environmental problems lead to a second American Civil War, which resulted in the Republic of Gilead being created. It's a totalitarian regime that enslaves the few fertile women and they are used to produce children with the commanders. In this society, she does not have her freedom, her husband, her child, or a name. She is named to be the property of her commander. 

12. Fahrenheit 451  by Ray Bradbury

Guy is a fireman who has a job to destroy all books and the houses they have been found in. But when he meets Clarisse, he starts to see a past where they did not live in fear and he starts to see that the mindless control given through the television may not be as perfect as previously thought. 

13. The Giver  by Lois Lowry

In a colorless society, Jonas is picked to be the one to receive the memories and see color. He must try and understand the secrets and the dark history of society. 

14.   Divergent  by Veronica Roth

In dystopian Chicago, society is separated into factions. Follow Beatrice Prior through her placement and her place in overthrowing the current government control. 

15. A Clockwork Orange  by Anthony Burgess

This novel explores the idea of good and evil regarding human freedom and what it means to ask "at what cost?" is doing something. 

RELATED:  10 Marriage & Relationship Books That Are Way Better Than Therapy

World Novels

16. island of a thousand mirrors  by nayomi munaweera .

In Sri Lanka, there were two families of different cultures. The families work to survive during the Sri Lankan civil war and avoid the conflict that has tragedy after tragedy.

17. All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Marie-Laure, a Parisian who lived during the Nazi occupation of France, and her father flee to her uncle's by the sea. They carry with them a valuable jewel from the museum where her father works. 

Meanwhile, in a town in Germany, Werner, an orphan, is enlisted to track down French resistance, causing a run-in between the two. Their relationship shows how people try to be as nice to each other as possible.

18. War and Peace  by Leo Tolstoy

Tolstoy wrote about Napoleon's invasion of Russia in 1812. The Characters, Pierre, Prince Andrei, and Natasha bring three different points of view on the struggles that occurred during Napoleon's invasion. 

19. One Hundred Years of Solitude  by Garcia Márquez

This novel explains the rise, fall, birth, and death of the town of Macondo through the life of the Bendia family. 

20. The Diary of a Young Girl  by Anne Frank

Anne Frank was a 13-year-old Jewish girl hiding in Nazi-occupied Holland in 1942. For two years she hid in a hidden room cut off from the outside world until she was discovered and taken to the concentration camps.

Other Must-Reads

21. mrs. dalloway   by virginia woolf.

Mrs. Dalloway is written in a stream-of-consciousness style that expresses to the audience the anxiety the narrator is feeling. It is personal and revealing of the character's needs. This novel explores how mental illness and PTSD from World War I impacted people's lives. 

22. The Yellow Wallpaper  by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

This story tells the tale of a woman suffering from post-partum depression and a nervous disorder. She abandons her life and avoids company while staying alone in the yellow-wallpapered room. In this room, she descends into madness and insanity.

23. Beloved  by Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison wrote this novel about an escaped slave, Sethe, who fled from her owner. This novel explores the horrific hardships and pain slaves faced, and the psychological effects of slavery, and reminds the audience how much family impacts healing. 

24. Invisible Man  by Ralph Ellison

This novel brings attention to how African American men had to express their identities. The narrator believes he is invisible in social settings. Moreover, this novel discusses discrimination and adversity, while also depicting how hard it was for African American men to maintain work, relationships, and the symbolism of African American culture and identity.

RELATED:  5 Thought-Provoking Books That Will Instantly Make You Smarter

Emily Francos is a writer who covers astrology, pop culture, and relationship topics. Her work has also been featured in Unwritten.

YourTango may earn an affiliate commission if you buy something through links featured in this article.

65 Books to Read In Your 20s

1. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

2. Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah

3. Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas Kristof & Sheryl WuDun

4. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

5. A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess

6. The Mastery of Love by Don Miguel Ruiz

7. She’s Come Undone by Wally Lamb

8. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

9. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

10. What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami

The benefits of reading are endless. These books will make your 20s your best years yet.

Swipe up for 55 more books to  read in your 20s!

Must-reads in your 20s

Signposts for your future self..

For many of us our twenties are full of change – some of life’s defining years. Careers begin, passions are discovered, relationships forged, and grown-up you emerges from the muddle of adolescence. Here are some titles to read in during this formative decade. Books to help you explore where you’ve been, who you are and, ultimately, where you’re going. With contributions from our Facebook community and our colleagues, here are some books to read in your 20s.

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Book Scrolling

Best Book Lists, Award Aggregation, & Book Data

The Best Books to Read in Your 20’s

The getting-your-shit-together years, or as some might call them, your 20’s, is a great time to pick up a reading habit. For those of you that somehow made it to this article without reading the title a few inches above this text, it may surprise you to learn that we happen to gather over 440 books you can read to start that new habit.  For everyone else, a list like this is probably exactly what you expected when clicking on whatever it was that brought you here. Well, we tried to make it worth your time. 33 different sources were consulted with 124 books mentioned more than once. You can find the top 55 mentioned books with pictures and links below and the full list of books at the bottom of the page.

Happy Scrolling!

The Top 55 Books You Should Read In Your 20’s

1) the bell jar by sylvia plath.

Appears On: 9 Lists Learn More About Title

2) How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Appears On: 7 Lists Learn More About Title

3) The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz

4) The Secret History by Donna Tartt

5) Bossypants by Tina Fey

Appears On: 5 Lists Learn More About Title

6) On the Road by Jack Kerouac

7) White Teeth by Zadie Smith

8) A Visit From the Goon Squad by Jennifer Egan

Appears On: 4 Lists Learn More About Title

9) Girls in White Dresses by Jennifer Close

10) Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

11) Just Kids by Patti Smith

12) Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg

13) The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey

14) The Alchemist by Paolo Coehlo

15) The Defining Decade by Meg Jay

16) The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand

17) The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

18) The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

19) The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko

20) Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

21) What She Saw… by Lucinda Rosenfeld

22) Bad Behavior by Mary Gaitskill

Appears On: 3 Lists Learn More About Title

23) Beloved by Toni Morrison

24) Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

25) Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

26) Freakonomics by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner

27) Generation X by Douglas Coupland

28) Giovanni’s Room by James Baldwin

29) Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

30) How to Lose Friends and Alienate People by Toby Young

31) I Don’t Care About Your Band by Julie Klausner

32) I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi

33) Life After College: The Complete Guide to Getting What You Want by Jenny Blake

34) Lucy by Jamaica Kincaid

35) Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

36) Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

37) Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts

38) She’s Come Undone by Wally Lamb

39) Siddhartha by Herman Hesse

40) Slouching Towards Bethlehem by Joan Didion

41) The Art Of War by Sun Tzu

42) The Catcher in the Rye by JD Salinger

43) The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch

44) The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

45) The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides

46) The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

47) The Opposite of Loneliness: Essays and Stories by Marina Keegan

48) The Rachel Papers by Martin Amis

49) The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway

50) The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera

51) The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

52) Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

53) Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

54) Wild by Cheryl Strayed

55) Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

Books 56-124

All Appear On 2 Lists Each

• 20 Something Manifesto: Quarter-Lifers Speak Out About Who They Are, What They Want, and How to Get It by Christine Hassler
• A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O’Connor
• A Home at the End of the World, by Michael Cunningham
• A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
• Another Bullshit Night in Suck City, by Nick Flynn
• Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
• Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex by Mary Roach
• Brave New World – Aldous Huxley
• Bright Lights, Big City, by Jay McInerney
• Call Me by Your Name, by André Aciman
• Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
• Even Cowgirls Get the Blues, by Tom Robbins
• Everything is Perfect When You’re a Liar” by Kelly Oxford
• Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel
• Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell (1936)
• Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide by Nicholas Kristof & Sheryl WuDun
• Harry Potter” by J.K. Rowling
• He’s Just Not That Into You by Greg Behrendt
• His Dark Materials trilogy, by Philip Pullman
• How to Be a Woman, by Caitlin Moran
• How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman
• Howl by Allen Ginsberg
• Infinite Jest, by David Foster Wallace
• Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
• It’s Called a Breakup because it’s Broken — Greg Behrendt & Amiira Ruotola-Behrendt
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
• Lunar Park, by Bret Easton Ellis
• Main Street, by Sinclair Lewis
• Man’s Search for Meaning – Victor Frankl
• meditations’ by Marcus Aurelius
• Mindset – Carol Dweck
• MWF Seeking BFF,” Rachel Bertsche
• My Misspent Youth, by Meghan Daum
• Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America by Barbara Ehrenreich
• Night by Elie Wiesel
• Norwegian Wood – Haruki Murakami
• Oh, the Places You’ll Go! – Dr. Seuss
• Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain
• Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
• Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle
• Class Do Not! by Robert Kiyosaki
• Self-Help by Lorrie Moore
• Song of Solomon, by Toni Morrison
• The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, by Michael Chabon
• The Automatic Millionaire: A Powerful One-Step Plan to Live and Finish Rich,’ by David Bach
• The Deptford Trilogy, by Robertson Davies
• The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
• The Edible Woman, Margaret Atwood
• The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr and E.B. White
• The Emperor’s Children, by Claire Messud
• The Fall by Albert Camus
• The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
• The Fortress of Solitude, by Jonathan Lethem
• The Giver by Lois Lowr
• The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
• The Golden Notebook – Doris Lessing
• The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald
• The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom
• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
• The Intelligent Investor’ by Benjamin Graham
• The Moviegoer, by Walker Percy
• The Outsider by Albert Camus
• The Portable Dorothy Parker, Dorothy Parker
• The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg
• Tiny Beautiful Things’ by Cheryl Strayed
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
• Transitions: Making Sense of Life’s Changes – William Bridges
• What We Talk About When We Talk About Love by Raymond Carver
• Yes Please by Amy Poehler

The Additional 325 Titles Appearing on a Single List

• #GirlBoss” by Sophia Amoruso
• 1984 – George Orwell
• A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
• A Field Guide to Getting Lost
• A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, by Dave Eggers
• A History of the Middle East by Peter Mansfield
• A Million Miles in a Thousand Years – Donald Miller
• A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose (Oprah’s Book Club, Selection 61) by Eckhart Tolle
• A People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn
• A Portrait of an Artist as a Young Man” by James Joyce
• A Room of One’s Own” by Virginia Woolf
• A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood
• A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle
• Abundance: The Future Is Better Than You Think by Peter Diamandis
• Actual Air, by David Berman
• Against Interpretation, Susan Sontag
• Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Lewis Carroll
• Alien vs. Predator, by Michael Robbins
• American Gods by Neil Gaiman
• Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
• Amusing Ourselves to Death – Neil Postman
• And the Heart Says Whatever
• Anna Karenina’ by Leo Tolstoy
• Anthropology of an American Girl
• At the Bottom of Everything
• Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
• Atonement by Ian McEwan
• Autobiography of Red by Anne Carson
• Automatic Wealth for Grads,’ by Michael Masterson
• Awaken the Giant Within : How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical and Financial Destiny! by Tony Robbins
• Bad Feminist” by Roxane Gay
• Bartending: The Fine Art Of Mixing Drinks
• Bastard Out of Carolina, Dorothy Allison
• Beauty” by Robin McKinley
• Birds of America by Lorrie Moore
• Blue Ocean Strategy – W. Chan Kim
• Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding
• Career: The 48 Laws of Power
• Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
• Cherry by Mary Karr
• Choose Yourself!: Be Happy, Make Millions, Live the Dream by James Altucher
• Consider the Lobster & Other Essays by the David Foster Wallace
• Contagious, How Things Catch On
• Cooking: The Joy of Cooking
• Crazy Love by Francis Chan
• Crossing the Unknown Sea’ by David Whyte
• Crown Duel” by Sherwood Smith
• Daughters of the North/ The Carhullan Army by Sarah Hall (2007)
• Dear Diary, by Lesley Arfin
• Debt Free U
• Debt-Free By 30: Practical Advice For The Young, Broke, And Upwardly Mobile,’ by Jason Anthony and Karl Cluck
• Defining Decade – Meg Jay
• Delores Claiborne
• Delta of Venus, Anaïs Nin
• Demian by Hermann Hesse
• Discourse: How To Tell A Story
• Distant View of a Minaret and Other Stories by Alifa Rifaat (1984)
• Do-Over – Jon Acuff
• Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, by Betty Edwards
• Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink
• East of Eden by John Steinbeck
• Eat to Live: The Amazing Nutrient-Rich Program for Fast and Sustained Weight Loss Joel Fuhrman
• EAT, PRAY, LOVE BY ELIZABETH GILBERT
• Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman
• Exit Here by Jason Myers
• Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
• Fear & Loathing In Las Vegas – Hunters S. Thompson
• Feel the Fear . . . and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
• Fierce Invalids Home from Hot Climates
• Fifty Shades Of Grey
• Financial success: Rich Dad Poor Dad
• Financially Fearless: The LearnVest Program For Taking Control Of Your Money,’ by Alexa Von Tobel
• Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
• First They Killed My Father’ by Loung Ung
• Franny and Zooey
• Free Food for Millionaires by Min Jin Lee
• Garden of Eden by Ernest Hemingway (1986)
• Gerald’s Game by Stephen King
• Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your Twenties and Thirties,’ by Beth Kobliner
• Get a Life, Not a Job: Do What You Love and Let Your Talents Work For You by Paula Caligiuri PhD
• Getting to Yes
• Give and Take’ by Adam Grant
• Go Kiss the World by Subroto Bagchi
• Graduates in Wonderland: The International Misadventures of Two (Almost) Adults
• Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls
• Hard To Get: Twentysomething Women and the Paradox of Sexual Freedom by Leslie C. Bell
• Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World, by Haruki Murakami
• Hateship, Friendship, Courtship, Loveship, Marriage by Alice Munro
• Have Him At Hello,” Rachel Greenwald
• Heat by George Monbiot
• Hell’s Angels: The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs
• Henry and June: The Unexpurgated Diary of Anaïs Nin by Anaïs Nin
• High Windows – Philip Larkin
• House of Leaves
• Housekeeping, by Marilynne Robinson
• How to Build a Girl
• How To Raise A Boyfriend,” Rebecca Eckler
• How Will You Measure Your Life?’ by Clayton Christensen
• How’s Your Drink?, by Eric Felten
• Hyperbole and a Half by Allie Brosh
• Hypocrite in a Pouffy White Dress: Tales of Growing up Groovy and Clueless by Susan Jane Gilman
• I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron
• I Love Dick, by Chris Kraus
• I’ve Got Your Number,” Sophie Kinsella
• I’m with the Band, by Pamela Des Barres
• If You Can: How Millennials Can Get Rich Slowly,’ by William Bernstein
• Ignore Everybody: and 39 Other Keys to Creativity by Hugh MacLeod
• In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifestoby Michael Pollan
• In Search of Excellence: Lessons from America’s Best-Run Companies by Tom Peters
• In the Hand of Dante
• Into the Wild – Jon Krakauer
• iWant: My Journey from Addiction and Overconsumption to a Simpler, Honest Life by Jane Velez-Mitchell
• Jab Jab Jab, Right Hook
• Kim by Rudyard Kipling
• Kitchen Confidential, by Anthony Bourdain
• Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life by Martin E. Seligman
• Less Than Zero – Bret Easton Ellis
• Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation – Parker Palmer
• Letters to a Young Contrarian, by Christopher Hitchens
• Life After Life
• Life philosophy: Man’s Search For Meaning
• Linchpin – Seth Godin
• Lines Written A Few Miles Above Tintern Abbey” by William Wordsworth
• Lit, by Mary Karr
• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
• Live Young Forever: 12 Steps to Optimum Health, Fitness and Longevity by Jack Lalanne
• Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov
• Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
• Love Is Letting Go of Fear, Third Edition by Gerald G. Jampolsky
• Magic for Beginners, Kelly Link
• Magnified World,” Grace O’Connell
• Maine,” J. Courtney Sullivan
• Men Without Women – Ernest Hemingway Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
• Mindless Eating Brian Wansink Miracles Now
• My Ántonia by Willa Cather
• My Uncle Oswald – Roald Dahl
• My Year with Eleanor by Noelle Hancock
• Native Son by Richard Wright
• Naturally Thin — Bethenny Frankel
• Never Eat Alone.
• Nightwood, Djuna Barnes
• No Man is an Island – Thomas Merton
• No One Belongs Here More Than You by Miranda July
• Not Quite Adults: Why 20-Somethings Are Choosing a Slower Path to Adulthood, and Why It’s Good for Everyone by Richard Settersten
• Not That Kind of Girl by Lena Dunham
• Nutrition: In Defense of Food
• Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham
• Oh the Glory of it All, by Sean Wilsey
• On The Outside Looking Indian,” Rupinder Gill
• One Day,” David Nicholls
• One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest – Ken Kessey
• One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
• OVERQUALIFIED BY JOEY COMEAU
• Paint it Black
• Pastoralia, by George Saunders
• Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi
• Pitch Perfect: How to Say It Right the First Time, Every Time by Bill McGowan
• Please Send Money: A Financial Survival Guide for Young Adults on Their Own,’ by Dara Duguay
• Pour Your Heart Into It.
• Predictably Irrational
• Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld
• Pride & Prejudice,” Jane Austen
• Quarterlife Crisis: The Unique Challenges of Life in Your Twenties by Alexandra Robbins
• Quick Shots of False Hope, Laura Kightlinger
• Quicksand and Passing, by Nella Larsen
• Quiet Strength by Tony Dungy
• Quitter by Jon Acuff.
• Random Family: Love, Drugs, Trouble, and Coming of Age in the Bronx by Adrian Nicole LeBlanc
• Revenge of the Mooncake Vixen by Marilyn Chin
• Rich Habits: The Daily Success Habits Of Wealthy Individuals,’ by Thomas Corley
• Same Kind of Different As Me by Ron Hall and Denver Moore
• Satanic Verses – Salman Rushdie
• Savage Beauty: The Life of Edna St. Vincent Millay by Nancy Milford
• Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Ecker
• Seductive Delusions by Jill Grimes (2008)
• Sex: She Comes First
• Sisterhood Everlasting,” Ann Brashares Slaughterhouse Five – Kurt Vonnegut
• Smart Women Finish Rich
• SOMEDAY, SOMEDAY, MAYBE BY LAUREN GRAHAM
• Sports: The Game
• Start with Why – Simon Sinek
• Style: Build The Ultimate Watch Collection
• Sula, Toni Morrison
• Summer Sisters
• Telling the Truth: The Gospel as Tragedy, Comedy and Fairy Tale – Frederick Buechner
• The 4 Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss
• The 4-Hour Body Tim Ferris
• The 48 Laws of Power Robert Greene
• The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman
• The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
• The Answer to the Riddle Is Me: A Memoir of Amnesia by David Stuart MacLean
• The Art of Asking by Amanda Palmer
• The Attention Revolution: Unlocking the Power of the Focused Mind by Allan Wallace The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin
• The Awakening by Kate Chopin (1899)
• The Bedwetter: Stories of Courage, Redemption, and Pee by Sarah Silverman
• The Beggar Maid’ by Alice Munro
• The Best of Everything
• The Bhagavad Gita’ — author unknown
• The Black Swan’ by Nassim Taleb
• The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison (1970)
• The Book of Awesome – Neil Pasricha
• The Book Thief
• The Boys in the Boat – Daniel James Brown
• The Breakout Principle: How to Activate the Natural Trigger That Maximizes Creativity, Athletic Performance, Productivity, and Personal Well-Being by Herbert Benson
• The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted and the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss and Long-term Health by Thomas Campbell and Colin Campbell
• The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis
• The Collected Poems of Audre Lord, by Audre Lord
• The Collected Poems of Kenneth Koch, by Kenneth Koch
• The Complete Claudine, Colette
• The Complete Poems of Anne Sexton, by Anne Sexton
• The Complete Stories, Flannery O’Connor
• The Compound Effect
• The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen
• The Country Girls
• The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan
• The Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson
• THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA BY LAUREN WEISBERGER
• The Dirt, by Mötley Crüe and Neil Strauss
• The Dragonriders of Pern: Dragonflight,” “Dragonquest,” and “The White Dragon,” by Anne McCaffrey
• The Drunkard’s Walk: How Randomness Rules Our Lives by Leonard Mlodinow
• The Dvil Wears Prada” by Lauren Weisberger
• The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test
• The Essential Rumi’ by Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi
• The Forks Over Knives Plan: How to Transition to the Life-Saving, Whole-Food, Plant- Based Diet Alona Pulde M.D. and Matthew Lederman M.D.
• The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) by Don Miguel Ruiz The Four Hour Workweek
• The Girl’s Guide to Hunting and Fishingby Melissa Bank
• The Girls,” Lori Lansens
• The Girls’ Guide to Hunting and Fishing The God of Small Things’ by Arundhati Roy
• The Golden Sayings by Epictus
• The Goose Girl” by Shannon Hale
• The Great Indian Novel by Shashi Tharoor
• The Greatest Salesman in the World Og Mandino
• The Group, by Mary McCarthy
• The Hero and the Crown” / “The Blue Sword” by Robin McKinley
• The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
• The Inferno” by Dante Alighieri
• The Investment Answer,’ by Daniel Goldie and Gordon Murray
• The Joy Luck Club,” Amy Tan
• The Language of Flowers
• The Liars’ Club, Mary Karr
• The Line Of Beauty – Alan Hollinghurst
• The Little Book of Common Sense Investing,’ by John C. Bogle
• The Little Bride by Anna Solomon
• The Love Affairs of Nathaniel P.
• The Love Song Of Alfred J. Pruflock – T. S. Eliot
• The Mastery of Love by Don Miguel Ruiz
• The Miracle of Mindfulness’ by Thich Nhat Hanh
• The Money Book For The Young, Fabulous & Broke,’ by Suze Orman The Myth of Sisyphus: And Other Essays’ by Albert Camus
• The Myths of Happiness by Sonja Lyubomirsky
• The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan
• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
• The Picture Of Dorian Grey – Oscar Wilde
• The Power Broker’ by Robert Caro
• The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz
• The Power of Myth’ by Joseph Campbell
• The Power of Your Subconscious Mind by Joseph Murphy
• The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli
• The Psychopath Test
• The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves Matt Ridley
• The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism by Timothy Keller
• The Rise of Superman by Steven Kotler
• The Rise of the Trust Fall by Mindy Nettifee
• The Road – Cormac McCarthy
• The Road Less Traveled, Timeless Edition: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth by M. Scott Peck
• The Robber Bride by Margaret Atwood
• The Robert Collier Letter Book Robert Collier
• The Sandman Series, by Neil Gaiman
• The Scarlet Letter,” Nathaniel Hawthorne
• The Silent Woman, Janet Malcolm
• the Six Pillars of Self-Esteem: The Definitive Work on Self-Esteem by the Leading Pioneer in the Field by Nathaniel Branden
• The Solitude of Prime Numbers by Paolo Giordano
• The Story of Philosophy by Will Durant
• The Tipping Point’ by Malcolm Gladwell
• The Touchstone by Edith Wharton
• The Undercover Economist Tim Harford
• The War of Art – Steven Pressfied
• The Wasp Factory
• The Watchmen – Alan Moore
• The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle
• The World According to Garp’ by John Irving
• The World is Flat – Thomas Friedman
• The Wounded Heart: Hope for Adult Victims of Childhood Sexual Abuse by Dan B. Allender
• There Are No Children Here’ by Alex Kotlowitz
• Think: A Compelling Introduction to Philosophy by Simon Blackburn This One is Mine by Maria Semple
• Thoughts of Marcus Aurelius
• To the Lighthouse, Virginia Woolf
• TwentySomeone: Finding Yourself in a Decade of Transition by Craig Dunham and Doug Serven
• Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri Unlimited Power: The New Science of Personal Achievement by Anthony Robbins
• Up in the Old Hotel, by Joseph Mitchell
• Use Your Body to Heal Your Mind: Revolutionary Methods to Release All Barriers to Health, Healing and Happiness by Ph.D Henry Grayson
• Vagabonding
• Veronica by Mary Gaitskill
• Wait, How Do I Write This Email? – Danny Rubin
• Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine
• Walden by Henry David Thoreau War and Peace
• Weetzie Bat by Francesca Lia Block
• What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami
• What the Heck Am I Going to Do with My Life? (Twentys) by Margaret Feinberg When Things Falls Apart
• Who Moved My Cheese?
• Why Men Love Bitches: From Doormat to Dreamgirl – A Woman’s Guide to Holding Her Own in a Relationshipby Sherry Argov
• Wild From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
• Wild Iris by Louise Glück
• Willful Creatures by Aimee Bender
• Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength by Roy F Baumeister and John Tierney
• Wings of fire by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Arun Tiwari
• Wonder You Can’t Keep a Good Woman Down, Alice Walker
• You Majored in What?: Mapping Your Path from Chaos to Career by Katharine Brooks
• You’re So Money: Live Rich, Even When You’re Not,’ by Farnoosh Torabi
• Zen and the Art of Happiness by Chris Prentiss
• Zero Limits: The Secret Hawaiian System for Wealth, Health, Peace, and More by Joe Vitale
• Zero to One’ by Peter Thiel

The 33 Top “Books to Read in your 20’s” Listicles Consulted

• 8/3/2012: Thought Catalog – 11 Books You Should Read If You’re A Woman In Your 20s 
• 8/15/2012: Huffington Post – Books For Your 20s: Books To Read For Twentysomething Women 
• 1/3/2013: Flavorwire – 20 Books Every Woman Should Read in Her 20s 
• 5/13/2013: Buzzfeed – 65 Books You Need To Read In Your 20s 
• 6/21/2013: Gen Twenty – 10 Books to Read in Your 20s 
• 9/19/2013: Levo – Bookshelf: 5 Books You Need to Read in Your 20s 
• 10/28/2013: Cosmopolitan – 20 Books Every Twentysomething Woman Must Read 
• 3/10/2014: Marie Claire – 10 Books Every 20-Something Should Read 
• 3/15/2014: Books and Beverages – 8 Books to Read in Your Early 20s 
• 6/5/2014: Thought Catalog – 5 Books You Should Read In Your 20s 
• 6/9/2014: Bustle – 25 Books to Help You Survive Your Mid-20s 
• 8/12/2014: Literally Darling – 20 BOOKS TO RE-READ IN YOUR 20S 
• 10/19/2014: Grassroots Success – 5 Books Everyone Should Read In Their 20s 
• 11/10/2014: Superhero You – 30 Non-Fiction Books to Read in Your 20s 
• 1/8/2015: Bustle – 22 Books Every Woman Should Read at 22, Because You’re Going to Need a Little Bit of Help As Everything Is Changing 
• 3/21/2015: Whitney Hansen – 20 Books To Read In Your 20’s 
• 3/22/2015: Do College Better – 5 BOOKS TO READ IN YOUR 20’S 
• 3/28/2015: Buzzfeed – 35 Books You Need To Read In Your Twenties 
• 3/31/2015: Business Insider – 30 books everyone should read before turning 30 
• 5/28/2015: Why To Read – 8 Best Books to Read in Your 20s 
• 7/16/2015: Michael Gregory – 25 Best Self Development Books to read in your 20s 
• 8/8/2015: Business Insider – 15 books to read in your 20s if you want to get rich 
• 10/10/2015: Story Pick – 12 Non-Fiction Books You Need To Read In Your 20s 
• 12/7/2015: The Odyssey Online – 10 Books You Should Read In Your 20’s
• 12/15/2015: Pop Sugar – A Book to Read Each Year of Your 20s 
• 12/15/2015: Esquire – 30 Books Every Man Should Read By 30 
• All Groan Up – [NEW] Top 27 Books For Twentysomethings 
• All Women Talk – 21Absolutely Amazing Books to Read in Your 20s 
• Ask Men – Top 10: Books To Read By Age 30 
• Dose – 25 Books That You Need To Read In Your 20’s. How Many Have You Read?
• Glo – 30 books every woman should read by 30 
• Quora – What are some must read books for people in their 20s? 
• Ranker – 20 Books to Read in Your 20s 

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Best Books To Read In Your 20s: Top 7 Titles Most Recommended By Experts

There are some books that everyone should pick up at pivotal points in life — like your 20s. These are titles that have been lauded as having the ability to impact a person’s outlook on life. Why? These authors explore common themes of self-discovery that usually plague young minds. That is why our list of the seven best books to read in your 20s collects some sage advice from authors on the subject of emerging adulthood.

Regardless of your path, we all seem to go through similar phases as we navigate our 20s. This may mean figuring out your career path, moving out of your parents’ house, or steering through the dating scene. Hopefully, these books can help to sort out some of those universal doubts that tend to stream through our minds at this age.

Common Stages of Your 20s:

• Early Twenties (20-23): This period is often marked by exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery . Young adults are often navigating the transition from college to the workforce , establishing their independence, and forming new relationships.
• Mid-Twenties (24-27): During this phase, the focus shifts towards career development, financial stability , and personal growth. Individuals are often seeking clarity on their career paths, building professional networks, and making choices that shape their future.
• Late Twenties (28-29): As the decade draws to a close, the focus expands to encompass long-term goals, relationships, and life purpose . Individuals may be considering marriage, starting families, and contemplating their place in the world.

As you go through these stages of self-discovery, it may be helpful to have a hand to hold along the way. Perhaps nothing mythic, but the authors of these titles do have useful opinions that many young adults find helpful. Our sources helped us sift through volumes of books to discover the best books to read in your 20s. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

The List: Best Books to Read in Your 20s, According to Experts

1. “the defining decade” by meg jay (2012).

This book falls somewhere between self-help and strategic planning . This well-known book is lauded by our sources. Leaders raves, “Perhaps the most well-known book written specifically for readers in their 20s, ‘The Defining Decade’ discusses this transformative decade, based on … research by author Meg Jay. The book highlights the importance of balance in your 20s, engaging in activities that allow for self-discovery, and finding purpose in your work and personal life.”

Pure Wow praises, “In ‘The Defining Decade,’ clinical psychologist Meg Jay argues that 20-somethings have been caught in a swirl of hype and misinformation, much of which has trivialized what she sees as the most transformative time of our lives. Drawing on more than two decades of work with thousands of clients, Jay combines the latest science and studies with the stories of real 20-somethings she’s worked with.”

TCK Publishing.com exclaims, “To anyone who says that your 20s don’t really matter: Dr. Meg Jay begs to differ. In ‘The Defining Decade,’ the clinical psychologist uses science and real-life stories to argue that our personalities, relationships, and identities can change more in this decade than any other time in our lives.”

2. “Giovanni’s Room” by James Baldwin (1956)

“Giovanni’s Room” is about sexual identity and self-discovery. It is an historically important title for representation. Penguin says, “‘You don’t have a home until you leave it and then, when you have left it, you never can go back.’ So goes some advice to protagonist David in this soaring classic of gay literature, about a young American man coming to terms with his sexuality through a tortured love affair with an Italian barman in Paris.”

BuzzFeed describes, “The books that will move you, inspire you, make you cry, make you think, make you laugh… [‘Giovanni’s Room’ is] A timeless story of masculinity, desire, and heartbreak that has become particularly resonant for young gay men.”

The Confused Millennial elaborates, “We need fiction books inspired by true stories or real-life events that let us into the heart and soul or allow us to reimagine worlds we think we knew… Originally published in 1956, [‘Giovanni’s Room’] has become one of the iconic LGBTQ+ classic fiction books to read in your 20s. Taking us through love, controversy, fear, alienation, and so much more.”

3. “Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies: And Other Rituals to Fix Your Life, From Someone Who’s Been There” by Tara Schuster (2020)

This book has an eye-catching title that lures readers into a witty and insightful look at self-care. Part memoir and part advice narrative Schuster deigns to share personal experiences and the lessons that were learned. Headway Blog comments, “If you want to read a book about your 20s, add Tara Schuster’s best-seller to your booklist. You’ll read about her journey of hitting rock bottom, re-parenting herself, and discovering self-love. Readers adore this book for its humor and practical advice for living a life you love.”

Real Simple adds, “While [Tara Schuster’s] life looked glamorous, in reality, she was suffering from intense anxiety and depression. Her rock-bottom moment came when she called her therapist while drunk, begging for help. Her quick-witted, straight-talking book is about accepting who you are, dealing with your baggage, owning your emotions, treating yourself with love, and building confidence .”

Penguin Random House details that this book is, “Brutally honest, often hilarious, hard-won lessons in learning to love and care for yourself from a former vice president at Comedy Central who was called ‘ahead of her time’ by Jordan Peele.”

4. “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Victor Frankl (1946)

This book was an important publication in the aftermath of WWII. It remains a powerful account that has a lot to offer in terms of life lessons. All Groan Up explains, “Writing about his survival of concentration camps, Vicktor Frankl’s powerful book shows twentysomethings the power of hope and belief to get us through any situation. This book was an extremely powerful read in my twenties when going through the really hard seasons of my [life].”

Penguin Random House offers, “‘Man’s Search for Meaning’… is the story of psychiatrist Viktor Frankl’s struggle for survival during his three years in Auschwitz and other Nazi concentration camps . Yet rather than a ‘tale concerned with the great horrors,’ Frankl’s seminal work offers us all an avenue to greater meaning and purpose in our own lives — a way to transcend suffering and find significance in the act of living.”

The Confused Millennial states, “Written by Viktor Frankl, a psychologist recounting portions of his experiencing surviving the concentration camps during the Holocaust, and then the second half of his book is about his revolutionary approach to psychotherapy … Which he derived from his experience.”

This book is also recommended by StudyFinds’ Associate Editor, Sophia Naughton: “This book is riddled with mind-boggling advice that flips how you see the world on its head,” says Naughton. “At one point, Frankl compares the meaning of life to making moves in chess . Every move you make is the best for that specific moment and opponent, and the same goes for human existence. He explains that life’s meaning is different from person to person, time, and place. ‘What matters, therefore, is not the meaning of life in general, but rather the specific meaning of a person’s life at a given moment.'”

5. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho (1988)

“The Alchemist” is a work of fiction. This entertaining read is praised for its engrossing character exploration. Real Simple claims, “In need of an enchanted escape from reality ? Look no further than this mystical fantasy by Paulo Coelho. This tale follows an Andalusian shepherd boy as he travels from Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of an unknown treasure. Feel inspired by the story’s message of following your heart and the power of our dreams.”

TCK Publishing.com relates, “Through the mystical story of Santiago and his adventurous travels, Coelho offers readers important lessons about listening to their hearts, following their dreams, and recognizing opportunity—making this a perfect read for young adults still feeling insecure about their life’s path.”

Penguin reviews, “It follows a Spanish shepherd boy who leaves home for Egypt in search of buried treasure. Along the way he encounters a string of colorful characters, and no shortage of roadblocks. But he soon discovers that, as well as the real treasure in the desert, there is another he must find – the one inside his soul.”

6. “Transitions” by William Bridges (1980)

“Transitions” is a book about taking your first true steps as an independent adult. This is another advice by way of memoir title that hits the sweet spot for many readers. “Whether we choose them or not, our 20s are definitely filled with transitions—some easier than others. In this bestseller , William Bridges offers advice on navigating some of life’s biggest changes,” according to TCK Publishing .

The Confused Millennial asserts, “We need nonfiction books to offer us tips, advice, and experiences that can only be shared by an inspirational messenger who lived it and practices what they preach… I get SO many emails from young college students looking for advice on the transition after graduation. Bridges provides an awesome framework for navigating the true constant in life: change.”

All Groan Up evaluates, “Life after college is one of the most significant transitions we will ever go through. William Bridges provides a stellar framework for how to handle transitions and not freak out! (well at least not too much).”

7. “Start With Why” by Simon Sinek (2009)

This management book grew in popularity thanks to Sinek’s public speaking presentations. Advice is cheap, but our sources claim that Sinek’s publication is worth a read. All Groan Up compliments, “Simon Sinek blew up with this Ted Talk and re-enforces in this book the power of starting with your ‘Why?’ A great book for anyone looking to uncover their Signature Sauce.”

Penguin Random House assures, “Discover the book that is captivating millions on TikTok and that served as the basis for one of the most popular TED Talks of all time. ‘Start with Why’ shows that leaders who have the greatest influence in the world all think, act, and communicate the same way.”

Leaders articulates, “To learn about leading with purpose , ‘Start With Why’ is a must-read. It explains the importance of putting purpose at the center of your business so that you stay focused on what matters most. Even if you aren’t a business owner, this book will help you to think about your professional mission and how you’ll get there.”

You might also be interested in:

• Best Philosophy Books
• Best Spirituality Books
• Best Psychology Books
• Best Autobiographies
• TCK Publishing.com
• The Confused Millennial
• Headway Blog
• Real Simple
• Penguin Random House
• All Groan Up

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.

10 Books Men Must Read in their 20s

Reading is one of the most essential habits a person can develop, and it’s especially crucial during your 20s. It’s a time of change and growth, and the books you read during this period can shape your worldview, expand your horizons, and guide you through the ups and downs of life. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten books that every man in his 20s should read.

Whether you’re a recent college graduate, a working professional, or just trying to figure out your next steps in life, these books will provide you with invaluable insights, inspiration, and guidance. They cover a range of genres, from classic literature to contemporary memoirs, and touch on themes like identity, purpose, relationships, and societal expectations.

Reading is not only a great way to escape the stresses of daily life, but it can also help you become a more well-rounded and empathetic person. By exposing yourself to different perspectives, cultures, and experiences, you can develop a deeper understanding of the world around you and your place in it.

In the following sections, we’ll discuss the importance of reading in your 20s and explore the ten books that every man in her 20s should read. So, whether you’re an avid reader or just starting to dip your toes into the world of literature, we encourage you to keep an open mind and embrace the transformative power of reading.

Reading is an excellent hobby regardless of age. If you are a men in your 20s looking for hobbies read our ultimate guide by clicking the link.

The Importance of Reading in Your 20s

The 20s are a formative time in a person’s life, marked by new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. At this stage, you may be transitioning from college to your first job, navigating new relationships, or figuring out your purpose in life. Reading can be an excellent tool for navigating these changes and setting yourself up for long-term success.

Advantages of reading at a young age

One of the primary advantages of reading in your 20s is the development of critical thinking skills. By engaging with complex narratives, characters, and ideas, you can sharpen your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Reading also enhances your vocabulary and communication skills, which can be valuable in both personal and professional settings.

How reading can help men in their 20s

Reading can help men in their 20s by offering a wide range of benefits, including personal growth and development, improved cognitive and communication skills, inspiration and motivation, and stress relief. Through reading books on various topics, men in their 20s can expand their knowledge, gain new insights and perspectives, and learn practical skills that can help them in their personal and professional lives. Additionally, reading can provide a mental escape and a way to relax and unwind, improving overall well-being and mental health. By establishing a regular reading habit, men in their 20s can invest in their personal growth and development, leading to a more fulfilling and successful life.

Impact of reading on personal and professional growth

Reading can also have a significant impact on your personal and professional growth. By exposing yourself to new ideas and perspectives, you can develop a broader worldview and a deeper understanding of the world around you. This can be particularly valuable in the workplace, where employers often seek out employees with diverse perspectives and experiences.

Moreover, reading can be a great way to de-stress and recharge after a long day or week. It’s a healthy way to take a break from technology and social media, which can be overwhelming and stressful. Reading can help you develop a healthier work-life balance and maintain a sense of well-being.

In the next section, we’ll dive into the ten books that every man in his 20s should read. These books cover a range of genres and themes, but they all offer valuable insights and perspectives that can help you navigate the challenges of your 20s and beyond.

*Please note that this article contains Amazon affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Ten Books Men Must Read in Their 20s

Reading is an essential aspect of personal growth and development. Books can offer valuable insights, perspectives, and inspiration to help us navigate the complexities of life. In our 20s, we are still figuring out who we are, what we want to do, and where we want to go. This is why reading books can be particularly helpful during this time. In this article, we will explore ten books that men in their 20s should read. Each book has a unique message that can help young men in their personal and professional lives.

1. “Green Lights” by Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey’s Green Lights   is a memoir about his journey through life and the lessons he learned along the way. The book emphasizes the importance of taking risks and finding joy in life. McConaughey encourages readers to embrace life’s challenges and to make the most of every opportunity. His approach to life can inspire men in their 20s to take chances, explore their interests, and pursue their passions.

5 Reasons to Read Greenlights by Matthew Mcconaughey.

2. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist   by Paulo Coelho is a timeless classic that tells the story of a young shepherd named Santiago who goes on a journey to follow his dreams. The book emphasizes the importance of chasing your dreams and never giving up on them. Coelho’s message can inspire men in their 20s to pursue their passions and to have faith in their abilities to achieve their goals.

5 Reasons to Read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

3. “The Motivation Manifesto” by Brendon Burchard

The Motivation Manifesto by Brendon Burchard is a powerful book that emphasizes the importance of self-motivation and personal growth. Burchard encourages readers to take control of their lives and to make the most of every opportunity. The book offers practical advice on how to stay motivated, set goals, and overcome obstacles. The Motivation Manifesto can inspire men in their 20s to take charge of their lives and to create a vision for their future.

5 Reasons to Read The Motivation Manifesto: 9 Declarations to Claim Your Personal Power

4. “Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink is a book about leadership and personal responsibility. Willink, a former Navy SEAL, emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of your actions and leading with humility. The book offers practical advice on how to be a better leader, both in personal and professional life. “Extreme Ownership” can inspire men in their 20s to take responsibility for their actions and to lead by example.

5 Reasons to Read Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

5. “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins

Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins is a memoir about his journey to becoming a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and ultra-endurance athlete. Goggins emphasizes the importance of resilience and mental toughness. He encourages readers to push themselves beyond their limits and to overcome their fears. “Can’t Hurt Me” can inspire men in their 20s to develop mental toughness and to overcome obstacles in their personal and professional lives.

6. “Will” by Will Smith

Will by Will Smith is a memoir that tells the story of his rise to fame and success. The book emphasizes the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience. Smith encourages readers to pursue their dreams and to work hard to achieve them. His approach to life can inspire men in their 20s to set goals, work hard, and never give up on their dreams.

7. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson is a self-help book that challenges conventional wisdom about happiness and encourages readers to embrace discomfort and uncertainty. The book offers practical advice on how to prioritize what is truly important in life and how to let go of things that do not matter. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” can inspire men in their 20s to live a more authentic and meaningful life.

8. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey is a classic self-help book that emphasizes the importance of personal and interpersonal effectiveness. Covey offers practical advice on how to develop habits that can lead to success in personal and professional life. The book can inspire men in their 20s to take control of their lives and to develop habits that can help them achieve their goals.

9. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear

Atomic Habits by James Clear is a book about the power of small habits and how they can lead to big changes in life. Clear offers practical advice on how to develop habits that can help you achieve your goals. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and how small changes can lead to big results over time. “Atomic Habits” can inspire men in their 20s to develop habits that can lead to success in all areas of life.

10. “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a book about personal freedom and transformation. The book emphasizes the importance of living a life based on honesty, respect, and kindness. Ruiz offers practical advice on how to break free from limiting beliefs and to live a more authentic and meaningful life. “The Four Agreements” can inspire men in their 20s to let go of negative beliefs and to live a more fulfilling life.

Reading books can be an excellent way to gain new perspectives, learn new skills, and find inspiration. In our 20s, we are still figuring out who we are, what we want to do, and where we want to go. The ten books listed above offer valuable lessons that can help young men navigate the complexities of life. By reading these books, men in their 20s can gain insights and inspiration to help them achieve their goals and live a more fulfilling life.

Why is reading in your 20s a good habit?

• Expands your knowledge: Reading can broaden your horizons and expose you to new ideas, cultures, and perspectives. By reading a variety of books, you can expand your knowledge and gain insights into topics that you may not have encountered otherwise.
• Improves your cognitive skills: Reading is a cognitive activity that can improve your memory, concentration, and analytical thinking skills. Reading requires you to process information, make connections between ideas, and draw conclusions based on evidence.
• Enhances your communication skills: Reading can also improve your communication skills. By reading different styles of writing, you can learn how to communicate your ideas more effectively, whether it’s in written or verbal form.
• Provides inspiration: Reading can be a source of inspiration and motivation. By reading about the experiences and successes of others, you can gain inspiration and motivation to pursue your own goals and dreams.
• Helps reduce stress: Reading can also be a great way to reduce stress and unwind after a long day. It provides a mental escape and can help you relax and recharge.

Reading is a great habit to cultivate in your 20s as it can expand your knowledge, improve your cognitive and communication skills, provide inspiration, and help reduce stress. It is an excellent way to invest in yourself and your personal growth.

What genre of books are popular for men in their 20s?

The genre of books that are popular for men in their 20s can vary widely depending on personal interests and preferences. However, here are some genres that tend to be popular:

• Self-improvement and personal development: Many men in their 20s are interested in improving themselves and developing new skills. Books on self-improvement and personal development can offer practical advice on how to do this.
• Business and entrepreneurship: Many men in their 20s are starting their careers or are interested in entrepreneurship. Books on business and entrepreneurship can provide valuable insights into starting and growing a successful business.
• Fiction: Fiction can be a great way to escape and unwind after a long day. Many men in their 20s enjoy reading novels that explore different worlds, characters, and themes.
• Non-fiction: Non-fiction books can offer insights into specific topics that interest men in their 20s, such as politics, history, or science. They can be a great way to learn more about a particular subject and gain new perspectives.
• Biographies and memoirs: Many men in their 20s are interested in reading about the lives and experiences of successful people. Biographies and memoirs can offer valuable lessons and inspiration from real-life stories.

The genre of books that are popular for men in their 20s can vary widely. However, books on self-improvement and personal development, business and entrepreneurship, fiction, non-fiction, and biographies and memoirs tend to be popular choices.

How often should someone in their 20s read?

There is no set rule for how often someone in their 20s should read. The frequency of reading can depend on personal preferences, schedules, and other commitments. However, establishing a regular reading habit can be beneficial.

Some people may choose to set a specific reading goal, such as reading a certain number of books per month or per year. Others may prefer to read whenever they have free time or during a designated time each day.

A good starting point for someone in their 20s who is looking to establish a reading habit is to aim for at least 30 minutes of reading per day. This can be done during a morning or evening routine, during lunch breaks, or before bed. Starting with a manageable goal can help make reading a habit and a regular part of daily life.

Ultimately, the frequency of reading should be determined by individual preferences and circumstances. However, making reading a priority and establishing a regular reading habit can offer numerous benefits for personal growth and development.

If you are unable to get your hand on a physical book, you can read books online for free can be a convenient and cost-effective way to access a wide range of literature.

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10 Self-Help Books You Should Read In Your 20s

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