GiveTeens20®’s Social Media Intern, Brittany, here. Reading can be good for the body, mind and soul. It has been scientifically proven that reading is therapeutic, enhances your memory, reduces stress, and many more. It gives you an outlet to let your imagination roam and a chance to exercise your brain. It also helps develop your writing and vocabulary skills–skills that are crucial and beneficial to your future. Knowing sufficient vocabulary is one factor that can make or break an opportunity for young adults.
Dr. Seuss got it right when he said, “the more that you read, the more things you know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go.” Reading can take you places. By the end of the day, it is a necessity to your growth. So choose to read, and choose to continue to grow and learn.
Here are eight book recommendations. Happy reading!
1. Perks of Being A Wallflower- Stephen Chbosky
“We accept the love we think we deserve.”
A coming-of-age story about an introverted high school freshman named Charlie. Through a series of letters, he details his experiences with love, lost, and the temptations of drugs.
My two cents: An honest story that captures of the essence of adolescence. You often find yourself getting emotionally attached to these characters and by the end of the book, you aren’t ready to say goodbye to them just yet.
2. Notes to Myself: My Struggle to Become a Person- Hugh Prather
“Perfectionism is a slow death….If everything were to turn out just as I would want it, just as I would plan, I would never experience anything new. My life would be an endless repetition of stale successes. When I make a mistake I experience something unexpected.”
In a journal/diary-esque style, Prather writes a series of notes about everyday observations and musings.
My two cents: Prather offers insight on life that can often resonate to how you are feeling at the moment. It encourages self-reflection and motivates you to start a journal similar to Prather’s.
3. The Great Gatsby- F. Scott Fitzgerald
“I wish I’d done everything on Earth with you.”
Through the narration of Nick Carraway, the story focuses on the mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby, and his adoration and obsession with the beautiful Daisy Buchanan.
My two cents: A heartbreaking story about love and the American Dream during the roaring twenties. It may be a little slow in the beginning, but do not be discouraged. Once the book picks up, you will not be able to put it down.