At the end of the evening, after a long day of classes, the last thing you want to do is read more. However, it is important to read for leisure, not only for your enjoyment, but for mental stimulation and to give your brain a rest from the technology of day-to-day life. The last thing you should do is read about more schoolwork. Instead, try and find something that gives you joy and piques your interest. Here are some book suggestions for college-minds who just need to debrief after a long day.
“The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and John D. Mann
My first suggestion is actually a book I was required to read for a class during my first semester of college. However, reflecting back on the book now, I realize that I am more than glad that I read it and would recommend it to any college student. The book is called “The Go-Giver” by Bob Burg and John D. Mann is a parable about a burnt out man and his journey to better himself. The book does a fantastic job of displaying ideas in leadership and engagement that any college student can take into their academic career. Overall, it is an easy read with big ideas.
Poetry books
My next recommendation would be to read poetry books. Poems are artful expressions of stories that can provide deep insight without hurting your brain after a long day. Of course, there are more “adult” poetry books, like “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur, but I am thinking more along the lines of Shel Silverstein. My personal favorite collection is “Where the Sidewalk Ends.” These poems are great for all ages and can provide a great outlet to destress in troubling times.
Classics
I am unsure if anyone else had the same experience as me, but throughout high school, depending on the classes I was taking, I missed out on reading staple classic books that everyone has heard of. For instance, it was not until this past semester that I read “Frankenstein” by Mary Shelly while a large majority of my friends read it in high school. This is a recommendation to catch up on those classics you may have missed. Maybe it was some Edgar Allen Poe, one of Shakespeare’s prestigious stories or anything in between, but this is a great time to read those classics without having to worry about an impending exam.
Books that fit your hobbies
My final suggestion is to find a book that fits your hobbies. As a busy student, hobbies are often put aside in order to make room for academics. Reading a book about your favorite hobby before bed is a great way to keep up with things that interest you without taking too much time out of your day. These books can range from a variety of topics. Recently, I read “Eats, Shoots & Leaves” by Lynne Truss to work on my punctuation off the clock. A quick Google search of your own personal hobbies and the books related to them will yield some results that are sure to take your mind off of your busy schedule.
