Ahhhh, college life. If you’re currently a college student, you’ll know it’s one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences – but it’s also mixed with crippling emotions, stress, headaches, and not to mention a whole load of debt (high schoolers, you have this to look forward to). Nevertheless, most of us would not change our college experiences, and many graduates would do anything to take them back to their college dorms, their hot plate, mini-fridge and all-nighters in the library. So, if you’re missing college, take a look at these best books about college life…
The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides
Every college student will know that the third year is the hardest – there are tighter deadlines, there’s even more stress, and by this point, you’ve completely run out of money. This is sometimes made even harder when you’re torn between two men (we can’t say this happens often). Well, this story follows the life of an English major who struggles to decide between two lovers. Thankfully, she’s able to write about her feelings as she learns even more about romantic literature.
The Idiot by Elif Batuman
Freshman year is one of the most exciting points in your life, and you’ll probably start your freshman year amped up and ready for what’s to come – just like the new Harvard undergrad, Selin. Throughout this novel, Elif Batuman approaches every single aspect of college life, following Selin in the emotionally and intellectually stimulating world of college. We learn of her struggles, her home life, her Turkish roots, and her crush on the hunky math major…
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
The Secret History is a book that perfectly balances the partying and the excess of college life with the intellectual stimulation of college classes. This book follows the life of Richard – who transfers to Hampden College. By day, he studies latin and finds himself in a circle of eccentric, intelligent and enigmatic group of friends. By night, he is shoved into the midst of crazy frat parties that go on until the early hours. But will Richard and his group of friends take their new lifestyle too far?
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
It’s no secret that Ivy League school are notoriously difficult to get into, and notoriously difficult to stay in – and Jude is feeling the pressure. The Yale student seems to have every bad vibe and every negative situation thrown at him during his time at Yale, and the pressures of life after college are getting to him. Luckily, this student has the help of his good friends, Willem, Malcolm and JB to take the pressure off.
On Beauty by Zadie Smith
Zadie Smith is an impressive writer, and On Beauty is definitely one of her best books to date. Although this novel does not follow the life of a college student, it does follow the life of a college professor. We read of his family life, his Floridian wife, his children, and the rival professor who makes his life hell. However, it doesn’t stop there. As we read through the pages, we also learn more about the rival professor and read their stories from both points of view.
If you want to relive your college years, check out these best books about college life…
