The 12 Best Books to Read Before You Turn 30

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The 20s can be a transformative decade, filled with important milestones and personal growth. Reading can be a great way to learn, reflect, and gain perspective on life. With that in mind, here are the 12 best books to read before you turn 30.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

“To Kill a Mockingbird” is a literary masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Harper Lee’s portrayal of racial inequality and the struggle for justice in the American South is powerful and thought-provoking. Through the eyes of a young girl named Scout Finch, the reader is able to experience the complexities of the adult world and the realities of racial prejudice. Lee’s vivid characters, including Scout’s father Atticus, a lawyer defending a black man wrongly accused of a crime, are unforgettable. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of racism and the importance of compassion and empathy in our society. Its message is as relevant today as it was when it was first published in 1960.

“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a beautifully written book that inspires readers to pursue their dreams and find their true purpose in life. The novel follows the journey of a shepherd boy named Santiago as he travels from his homeland in Andalusia to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure he has dreamt about. Along the way, he meets a series of intriguing characters who teach him valuable life lessons about love, sacrifice, and the importance of following one’s heart. Coelho’s writing is poetic and profound, and his message is universal. “The Alchemist” is a book that encourages readers to listen to their inner voice and follow their passions, no matter how difficult the journey may be. It’s a must-read for anyone who needs a little inspiration and direction in their lives.

“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger

“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that has captivated readers for generations. The story follows Holden Caulfield, a young man who has been expelled from his prep school and is spending a few days wandering around New York City before returning home. Through Holden’s eyes, we see the world as a confusing and disillusioning place, full of phonies and fakes. As he struggles to make sense of his own identity and place in the world, we see his angst and confusion mirrored in the world around him. Salinger’s prose is raw and honest, capturing the voice of a disaffected youth in a way that few authors have been able to do. “The Catcher in the Rye” is a novel that speaks to anyone who has ever felt lost or uncertain in their own journey through life, and it remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.

“1984” by George Orwell

George Orwell’s “1984” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that depicts a bleak future in which the government controls every aspect of citizens’ lives. Through the story of Winston Smith, a man who rebels against the oppressive regime, Orwell highlights the dangers of a society in which free thought and individuality are suppressed. The novel’s themes of propaganda, censorship, and government surveillance are particularly relevant in today’s world, where technology has made it easier than ever for governments and corporations to monitor our every move. “1984” is a chilling reminder of the importance of fighting for our freedom and protecting our rights as individuals.

“The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath

“The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath is a classic novel that offers a deeply personal and vivid depiction of mental illness. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Esther Greenwood, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery and struggle as Esther navigates her own descent into depression and suicidal ideation. Plath’s writing is both beautiful and haunting, and her portrayal of mental illness is raw and unflinching. The novel also explores themes of identity and feminism, as Esther grapples with societal expectations of women and her own desires for independence and self-expression. “The Bell Jar” is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of mental health and the challenges of navigating a patriarchal society.

“The Great Gatsby” F. Scott Fitzgerald

“The Great Gatsby” is a quintessential American novel that captures the glamour, wealth, and recklessness of the Jazz Age. Through the eyes of narrator Nick Carraway, readers are drawn into the glittering world of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire who throws extravagant parties in the hopes of winning back his lost love. But as the novel unfolds, it becomes clear that Gatsby’s lavish lifestyle is built on corruption and deception, and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan is ultimately doomed. Fitzgerald’s prose is lyrical and evocative, painting a vivid portrait of a time and a place that is both alluring and destructive. “The Great Gatsby” remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.

“The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway

“The Sun Also Rises” by Ernest Hemingway is a masterpiece of modernist literature that captures the essence of the Lost Generation, a term Hemingway himself coined. The novel tells the story of a group of American and British expatriates who travel from Paris to Pamplona, Spain, to watch the bullfights and experience the local culture. Along the way, they drink heavily, engage in extramarital affairs, and struggle to find meaning in their lives. Hemingway’s spare prose style and his portrayal of the characters’ emotional detachment from each other and from the world around them make the novel a powerful exploration of the human condition.

“The Picture of Dorian Gray” by Oscar Wilde

“The Picture of Dorian Gray” is a Gothic novel that explores the theme of morality and the dangers of living a life of hedonism. The protagonist, Dorian Gray, is a handsome young man who becomes obsessed with his own beauty and youth. He wishes that his portrait would age instead of him, and as a result, he becomes increasingly narcissistic and corrupt. The novel is a commentary on the shallow values of the upper class and the corrupting influence of pleasure-seeking. It’s a cautionary tale that warns against the pursuit of pleasure at the expense of one’s soul, and the tragic consequences of living a life without moral restraint.

“One Hundred Years of Solitude” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

“One Hundred Years of Solitude” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez is a sweeping multi-generational saga that tells the story of the Buendia family and the town of Macondo over the course of a century. The novel blends myth, magic, and history to create a unique and mesmerizing world that captures the essence of Latin America. It’s a work that explores the themes of love, family, and the human condition, as well as the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of change. The novel has been praised for its poetic language, rich imagery, and unforgettable characters, and it continues to be a beloved and influential work of literature.

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is a cult classic that has garnered a dedicated following since its publication in 1979. The book follows the misadventures of an ordinary man named Arthur Dent, who is whisked away from Earth just before it’s destroyed to make way for an interstellar bypass. With the help of his friend Ford Prefect, an alien journalist, Arthur embarks on a series of absurd and comical adventures across the universe. The novel is known for its witty humor, satirical take on contemporary society, and its exploration of philosophical themes such as the meaning of life and the nature of existence. It’s a book that invites readers to embrace the chaos and absurdity of life, and to find joy and humor in even the most trying circumstances.

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen is a timeless novel that explores the intricacies of love and relationships in the context of social status and class. It is a novel that examines the roles and expectations of women in 19th century England, as well as the pressure on men to provide for their families. The novel’s central characters, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, navigate their way through societal conventions and misunderstandings, as they slowly come to understand each other and their own true feelings. Austen’s sharp wit and social commentary are evident throughout the novel, making it not only a romantic classic, but also a work of great literary significance.

“The Tao of Pooh” by Benjamin Hoff

“The Tao of Pooh” by Benjamin Hoff is a delightful and engaging book that uses the beloved characters from A.A. Milne’s “Winnie the Pooh” to explore the principles of Taoism. Hoff presents Winnie the Pooh as the perfect embodiment of the Taoist ideal, living in harmony with nature and the world around him. Through Winnie the Pooh’s adventures, Hoff demonstrates the importance of simplicity, patience, and humility in leading a fulfilling life. The book is not only a delightful read but also a valuable resource for those looking for a new perspective on life and spirituality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 12 best books are essential reading for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of life, the world, and themselves. They offer wisdom, insight, and inspiration that can be invaluable in navigating the challenges and opportunities of the 20s and beyond.