20 Best Books to Read for Students

Books are one such thing that every person should read especially students. People have stopped reading books, thanks to 24/7 distractions, i.e., mobile, internet, social media, etc. 

But if you are a student who wants to read books, then here are the best books for students to read. Check the full list below.

20 Best Books to Read for Students

Here are the 20 best books to read for students:

1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee:

• Genre: Fiction, Coming-of-Age
• Summary: Set in the 1930s in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, this novel follows the Finch family. Scout Finch, the young protagonist, narrates the story as her father, Atticus Finch, defends a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. The book explores themes of racial injustice, empathy, and moral growth.
• Author: Harper Lee

2. “1984” by George Orwell:
   • Genre: Dystopian Fiction
   • Summary: In a totalitarian society controlled by the Party, Winston Smith rebels against oppressive surveillance and thought control. The novel paints a grim picture of a future where individuality is suppressed, and truth is manipulated.
   • Author: George Orwell
3. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald:
   • Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance
   • Summary: Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire, throws extravagant parties in the hope of winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The novel explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream.
   • Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
4. “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley:
   • Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopia
   • Summary: In a future world where genetic engineering and mind-altering drugs maintain social stability, Bernard Marx questions the cost of conformity. The novel critiques consumerism, pleasure-seeking, and loss of individuality.
   • Author: Aldous Huxley
5. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen:
   • Genre: Classic Literature, Romance
   • Summary: Elizabeth Bennet navigates societal norms, family dynamics, and her own prejudices as she encounters the enigmatic Mr. Darcy. Austen’s wit and keen observations make this a timeless romance.
   • Author: Jane Austen
6. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger:
   • Genre: Coming-of-Age Fiction
   • Summary: Holden Caulfield, a disenchanted teenager, narrates his experiences in New York City. The novel explores themes of alienation, identity, and growing up.
   • Author: J.D. Salinger
7. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho:
   • Genre: Inspirational Fiction
   • Summary: Santiago, a shepherd boy, embarks on a journey to find a hidden treasure. Along the way, he learns about destiny, dreams, and self-discovery.
   • Author: Paulo Coelho
8. “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding:
   • Genre: Allegorical Fiction
   • Summary: A group of boys stranded on a deserted island descends into chaos and brutality. The novel explores human nature, civilization, and power dynamics.
   • Author: William Golding
9. “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy:
   • Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Fiction
   • Summary: A father and son journey through a bleak, post-apocalyptic landscape. Their bond and survival instincts are tested as they face hardships.
   • Author: Cormac McCarthy
10. “The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde:
    • Genre: Gothic Fiction
    • Summary: Dorian Gray remains eternally youthful while a portrait of him ages and reflects his moral decay. The novel delves into vanity, hedonism, and consequences.
    • Author: Oscar Wilde
11. “The Road Less Traveled” by M. Scott Peck:
    • Genre: Self-Help, Psychology
    • Summary: Dr. Peck explores personal growth, love, and spiritual fulfillment. He emphasizes discipline, responsibility, and the importance of facing life’s challenges.
    • Author: M. Scott Peck
12. “Siddhartha” by Hermann Hesse:
    • Genre: Philosophical Fiction
    • Summary: Siddhartha’s spiritual journey in ancient India leads him to seek enlightenment. The novel reflects on individuality, wisdom, and inner peace.
    • Author: Hermann Hesse
13. “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand:
    • Genre: Philosophical Fiction
    • Summary: Architect Howard Roark battles against conformity and mediocrity. The novel champions individualism, creativity, and integrity.
    • Author: Ayn Rand
14. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath:
    • Genre: Semi-Autobiographical Fiction
    • Summary: Esther Greenwood, a talented young woman, struggles with mental illness. The novel explores identity, societal expectations, and depression.
    • Author: Sylvia Plath
15. “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini:
    • Genre: Historical Fiction
    • Summary: Amir, an Afghan immigrant, grapples with guilt and redemption. The novel spans decades and portrays friendship, betrayal, and love.
    • Author: Khaled Hosseini
16. “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak:
    • Genre: Historical Fiction
    • Summary: Set in Nazi Germany, Liesel Meminger steals books and shares them with others. The novel celebrates the power of words and resilience.
    • Author: Markus Zusak
17. “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood:
    • Genre: Dystopian Fiction
    • Summary: In a theocratic society, Offred serves as a Handmaid, valued only for her fertility. The novel critiques gender oppression and control.
    • Author: Margaret Atwood
18. “Freakonomics” by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner:
    • Genre: Non-Fiction, Economics
    • Summary: The authors explore unconventional economic insights, from cheating in sumo wrestling to parenting decisions.
    • Authors: Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner
19. “The Martian” by Andy Weir:
    • Genre: Science Fiction
    • Summary: Astronaut Mark Watney is stranded on Mars and must use his ingenuity to survive. The novel combines humor, science, and suspense.
    • Author: Andy Weir
20. “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan:
    • Genre: Contemporary Fiction
    • Summary: Four Chinese-American women and their daughters share stories of cultural identity, family, and resilience.
    • Author: Amy Tan