have you ever read a book that had a big impact on your life? there are so many books that leave you important messages! This is just a short list of books that I think all girls should read in college because they provide inspiring messages that you can carry with you for a lifetime.
1. pride and prejudice
If you haven’t read this book, I highly suggest it! A classic Jane Austen novel that centers on Elizabeth Bennett, an outspoken character who was created in a time when women were expected to be more reserved. This novel uses themes of comedy, emotion, and romance to convey a 19th-century female perspective. This classic is still relevant today with its portrayal of smart, strong female characters and the harsh realities of what was expected of them in the early 19th century. This is a must read for any young woman as they can look at Elizabeth Bennett and her witty comments about her. I also highly recommend the 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice when you finish the book, it’s iconic!
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2. normal people
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A recent publication from Sally Rooney, Normal People focuses on two young adults from Ireland, Marienne and Connell. These characters’ stories overlap between their high school and college life, going back and forth with the memories they share. This book is both frustrating and beautiful. It portrays harsh realities and upsetting aspects of life that the main characters deal with. This novel focuses on a romantic relationship but gives enough insight to the main characters to understand their personal struggles inside and out of the relationship. It is an emotional book that might leave you with a WTF moment, but it is a well-written portrayal of life. I recommend it for being more mundane rather than plot-driven and really emphasizes the importance of treating people kindly.
3. perks of being an outcast
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another emotionally intense novel, the perks of being an outcast by stephen chbosky is an inspiring depiction of feeling outcast. one of the most famous quotes from the novel is “we accept the love we think we deserve”. This is told by our main character, Charlie, who is struggling with trauma and not sure how to fit in during his freshman year of high school. This is an important book for anyone, and the emphasis on being misunderstood or feeling like an outsider can be identified at any stage. I think the moral of knowing that you are not alone and never settling is a critical message. as we see charlie with his friends, but also leaning on his teacher to guide him. All in all, this novel is a staple on everyone’s bookshelf and makes you appreciate the little things and the importance of friendship.
4. women don’t owe you anything nice
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Written by Florence Given, a London-based artist, Women Don’t Owe You Pretty is a great book for understanding and appreciating your worth. This book focuses on body image, self-esteem, dating, and sex. Dado tackles these issues with an emphasis on female empowerment and shedding a toxic narrative of expectations for women. this is an important book to read at a young age and learn to value your time, body and mindset! it is a reminder of the power that women have and the importance of fighting against social standards. this novel is great for learning how important you are, especially when it comes to dating and relationships. you will definitely learn a lot about yourself and leave you with a more analytical and empowering point of view of past relationships (and friendships!)
5. circle
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If you’re looking for a fictional book on female empowerment, you should read Circe by Madeline Miller. This novel focuses on the Greek goddess Circe and the many challenges she faces until she becomes a powerful goddess in her own right. Circe endures emotional and physical abuse from the family as well as from the other gods/goddesses. It is a beautiful story that spans hundreds of years but that demonstrates the ability to overcome and truly find oneself. Circe’s character is strong but also complex when it comes to dealing with her emotions. develops a sense of humanity that allows the reader to empathize with Circe and understand her character. You don’t need to have a great understanding of Greek mythology for this story to resonate with you! Circe’s character is inspiring and her story is as beautiful as the character.
6. the midnight library
this matthew haig novel is the definition of “what if?” If you consider all the decisions you’ve made in your life and ask yourself if you made a different decision, what would happen? This novel takes on these questions and our main character, Nora Seed, endures the multiple outcomes of her life decisions in a state between life and death. is an emotional novel that plays with the idea of doing things differently but questioning whether the result is worth it. The novel is beautifully written as we see Nora travel to different books of her own life and reflect on this idea. I recommend this book if you wish you had done things differently, she gives a more optimistic view on the idea of not having it all and appreciating what you do have.
7. you’re a bastard
This is a very fun alternative to the typical self-help book. You Are A Badass by Jen Cantero tackles thoughts of doubt and gives you alternative methods to be your best self. No one says you need to get it all figured out in college, but this is a great novel to help you reprioritize and make sure you’re really thriving. this book emphasizes the importance of not caring what other people think and focusing on oneself! During college, it can be intimidating, but this book gives you exercises to practice truly believing in yourself. It’s definitely a motivational book that can come in very handy during college!
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