Graduations are often a time for change and growth. A time to celebrate but also a time to prepare and make plans for the next phase.
So what do you give the recent graduate in your life? Below are 10 must-read books for any recent graduate–many of which I have personally read or have had recommended to me. Enjoy!
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
Does the grad you are buying for have grit? Angela Duckworth dives into what it means to have grit and how one can blend passion and determination to succeed at just about anything in life.
On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King
This book is excellent for anyone who is doing any type of writing, fiction, non-fiction, or otherwise. Stephen King never disappoints and his non-fiction writing is as captivating as his fiction thrillers.
Educated by Tara Westover
This New York Times bestseller brings attention to the impact an education can have on our lives. They won’t be able to put this one down!
Whatever You Are, Be a Good One
A collection of inspirational quotes hand-lettered by Lisa Congdon. A great grad gift at any age!
#AskGaryVee: One Entrepreneur’s Take on Leadership, Social Media, and Self-Awareness
An excellent choice for a recent graduate who has the desire to become an entrepreneur, manage a business, or pursue marketing. Gary Vaynerchuk is known for his “tell it like it is” style.
Getting Naked: A Business Fable About Shedding The Three Fears That Sabotage Client Loyalty
For the business graduate, this book touches on the concept of being real and vulnerable with customers to build strong, authentic relationships.
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
Learn how to uncomplicate big decisions and when to spend a little extra time making a choice. This one isn’t for the casual reader – a great pick for someone interested in psychology and understanding how our decision process works.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Former First Lady Michelle Obama shares her unfiltered life journey–overcoming many challenges and exceeding people’s expectations of her time and time again.
The Courage to be Rich: Creating a Life of Material and Spiritual Abundance
My mother purchased this book for me when I graduated high school. Author Suze Orman touches on how to manage money during the many unpredictable seasons in life–as well as how to value it when you have it. An excellent read!
Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World
With such easy access to vast amounts of information and entertainment, it’s easy to lose track of your goals. The concepts surrounding focus in Deep Work apply to nearly any profession.
And while this next one isn’t a book per se, it’s a fun add-on to any grad gift!
Graduation Mad Libs
When I was growing up, we always got a kick out of Mad Libs! Add these to your grad’s gift for a few laughs.
Need a few more graduation gift ideas? Ask the recent grad to make you a wish list using Giftster (it’s free!) to share what they need for the next season of their life.
Happy gifting!
