Read these books before you start college to prepare yourself and get the most out of the experience!
Both fiction and non-fiction books are on this list, but each will help you gain admission and survive college, whether it’s furthering your education, helping you develop life skills, or giving you some what to talk about in college interviews!
You are reading: Books every high school student should read before college
to kill a mockingbird – harper lee
This is an American classic, and if you haven’t read it for a high school class, definitely read it for college. It’s an excellent book for studying SAT reading comprehension, and once you’ve read it, you’ll understand a lot more literary jokes your college professors will make. it will also provide a little perspective for your history courses.
bury my heart in my wounded knee – dee brown
This book is very helpful in truly understanding the historical relationships between Native Americans and European settlers. it’s an accurate take on the darker side often buried in history books, and the facts it contains will stay with you long after you close the cover.
naked economics: stripping back the dismal science – charles wheelan
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Economics isn’t usually at the top of the “most loved subjects” list, but especially when you’re heading off to college, a basic understanding of economics and finance can help you, both in your economics course as in managing your own financial budget. so it’s probably the first time. this book is particularly good at explaining concepts clearly and completely without putting you to sleep.
get things done – david allen
College is a whirlwind of schoolwork, social engagements, and other activities, and it can be hard to stay on top of everything while having fun. David Allen’s book has great tips for managing your time and staying productive. Read it soon and start practicing your skills in high school – with college applications in mind, there are plenty of opportunities and it could help you improve your grades!
the immortal life of henrietta is missing – rebecca skloot
If you’re planning a career in science or just taking an ethics class in college, this book is a must-read. the debate over whether or not to use the cells of mrs. the shortcomings were justified and are still all the rage today, and the insightful observations of external factors mentioned in this book will allow you to analyze the situation from all angles.
bird by bird: some instructions on writing and life – anne lamott
This book could be incredibly useful for you, not only for class essays and homework, but also for college admissions essays and even the essay part of the satellite exam. Lamott’s book looks at common problems people face when writing, how to overcome them, and how to find your own writing voice. By reading this before writing your admission essay, you are sure to have your own well-developed style that will impress the admissions officers at every school you apply to.
don quixote – miguel de cervantes
This book is popular in college English and humanities courses, so reading it early gives you a head start. Also, this particular book is an excellent story to learn about literary interpretation, themes, and metaphors. A favorite of bibliophiles, you can also use it as a talking point in admission interviews – you’re sure to empathize or sympathize with the main character at some point.
macbeth – william shakespeare
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In high school, you may have to read Romeo and Juliet or Hamlet, but don’t miss Macbeth. the Scottish play is popular with theater children and is full of quotes much loved by college professors. Having read and understood this work will help you with a series of Shakespearean references.
the prince – Niccolò Machiavelli
This treatise on gaining and keeping power is an excellent book to have in your arsenal for a number of subjects: history, literature, and even political science. this book has been a mainstay in the literary community for hundreds of years for good reason: read it now so you can use it as a parallel in college course discussions.
the republic – plato
the republic will provide you with a foundation for understanding your english, polisci, history, and philosophy courses, and reading it early can even help you clear thoughts for admissions essays. It can be a difficult read, but once you put in the effort to form your own interpretation of Plato’s thoughts, it can change your life.
the 50th freshman – carly heitlinger
This book was written by a college student and covers everything she didn’t know but wishes she knew about going to college. From academics to organization to mental health, her writings cover a number of important topics and you’ll end up with a fresh perspective on the next stage of your life.
admission matters – sally springer
This book is a great resource for applying to colleges and navigating the process, with tips and homework for the whole family. while the student is certainly at the center of the admissions process, it is important for everyone to help where they can. it is accurate and covers a number of nuances that may apply to your situation.
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