What are the top 10 books one should read in his or her early 20s?
For individuals in their early 20s, here are some highly recommended books that cover a range of themes, genres, and life experiences:
Fiction Recommendations
1. Emergency Contact by Mary H. K. Choi
- A story about transitioning from teens to early adulthood, focusing on college life, first relationships, and self-discovery1.
2. Normal People by Sally Rooney
- Explores complex relationships, intimacy, classism, mental health, and self-perception, making it highly relevant for early to mid-twenties1.
3. Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
- Follows a group of friends in the tech industry, delving into themes of creativity, grief, mental health, and personal growth1.
4. Sorrow and Bliss by Meg Mason
- A darkly humorous and poignant novel about mental illness, family dynamics, and the complexities of adult relationships1.
5. Happy Hour by Marlowe Granados
- Captures the essence of youth, focusing on friendship, feeling lost, and the pursuit of fun and identity1.
6. Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
- A quirky and relatable novel about societal expectations and finding one's own path in life1.
7. Love in The Big City by Sara Young Park
- Explores Seoul nightlife, friendships, and the challenges of transitioning into adulthood1.
8. In The Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado
- A memoir-style novel about abusive relationships, healing, and self-recognition, highly relevant for understanding and navigating complex relationships1.
Additional Recommendations
9. Bridget Jones' Diary by Helen Fielding
- A humorous and relatable novel about navigating early adulthood, relationships, and self-acceptance4.
10. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
- A classic tale of self-discovery, spiritual journey, and pursuing one's dreams, which can be particularly inspiring in one's twenties4.
Non-Fiction (though less emphasized in the fiction lists)
The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
- A non-fiction book that provides practical advice and insights on making the most of your twenties, focusing on self-discovery, career, and personal relationships3.
These books offer a mix of contemporary issues, personal growth, and relatable stories that can resonate with individuals in their early twenties.