Best Books To Read In Your 20S [Professional Insight]

Introduction

As you enter your twenties, you may be feeling a mix of emotions. You may be excited to start a new chapter in your life, while also feeling a bit overwhelmed. You may be wondering what your future holds, or what kind of person you want to become. One of the best ways to explore these questions is through reading. Books can provide you with a window into different perspectives and experiences, and can help you to develop your own ideas and values.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best books to read in your twenties. These books explore themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of life. Whether you’re looking for a classic novel or a modern masterpiece, this list has something for everyone. From J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye to Hanya Yanagihara’s A Little Life, these books will provide you with plenty of food for thought. So grab a cup of tea, snuggle up with a blanket, and get ready to explore the world of literature.

1. 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 been beloved by readers for decades. The story follows Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy who is struggling to find his place in the world. The novel is set in the 1950s and follows Holden’s journey through New York City as he searches for meaning in his life.

At its core, The Catcher in the Rye is a story about identity. Holden is struggling to find his place in the world and is constantly questioning who he is and what he wants to be. He is struggling to find his own identity and is often critical of the world around him. He is a complex and nuanced character who is often misunderstood by those around him, but ultimately he is trying to find his own way and make sense of the world.

The Catcher in the Rye is also a story about growing up. Holden is on the brink of adulthood and is trying to figure out what it means to be an adult. He is struggling with the idea of growing up and is often conflicted between wanting to stay a child and wanting to be an adult. As he navigates his way through New York City, he is forced to confront his own fears and insecurities, as well as the expectations of society.

The Catcher in the Rye is also a story about loneliness. Holden is often alone and is struggling to find companionship and connection. He is often critical of those around him, but ultimately he is searching for someone to understand him and to connect with.

The Catcher in the Rye is a timeless classic that has resonated with readers for decades. It is a story about identity, growing up, and loneliness that is still relevant today. Holden Caulfield is a complex and nuanced character who is struggling to find his place in the world. The novel is an exploration of the human experience and is a powerful reminder of the importance of finding our own identity and making sense of the world around us.

2. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho has become an international bestseller and a classic of modern literature. Published in 1988, the book has sold over 65 million copies and has been translated into 80 languages. The story follows Santiago, a young shepherd from Andalusia, Spain, who embarks on a journey to find his personal legend—a great purpose that he believes is written in the stars. Along the way, he meets a variety of people, including a mysterious alchemist, who help him to understand the importance of following his dreams and to appreciate the beauty of the world around him.

The Alchemist is a timeless story of self-discovery and personal growth. The book encourages readers to take risks, to follow their hearts, and to never give up on their dreams. It is filled with wisdom and insight, and its themes of courage, faith, and determination are as relevant today as when it was first published. The novel is also a celebration of the power of nature and the beauty of the world around us.

The Alchemist is an inspiring and uplifting story that has touched the lives of millions of readers around the world. It is an inspiring tale of adventure and self-discovery that encourages us to take risks and to never give up on our dreams. It is a book that is filled with wisdom and insight, and its themes of courage, faith, and determination are as relevant today as when it was first published. The Alchemist is a timeless classic that will continue to inspire generations of readers for years to come.

3. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

3. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar is a classic coming-of-age novel that captures the essence of life as a young adult in the 1950s. The novel follows the main character, Esther Greenwood, as she navigates the pressures of the world around her. Esther is a bright, ambitious woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. As she navigates the pressures of college, her career, and her relationships, Esther slowly begins to unravel.

The Bell Jar is a powerful exploration of mental illness, and a look at the struggles of a young woman trying to find her place in a world that often doesn’t understand her. Plath’s writing is vivid and evocative, and her characters are complex and nuanced. Esther’s struggles are both heartbreaking and relatable, and her story is one that will stay with readers long after they’ve finished the novel.

The Bell Jar is a timeless classic that speaks to the struggles of young adulthood. It is a heartbreaking and honest look at a young woman’s struggles with depression and mental illness, and a powerful reminder that we all need to take care of ourselves and our mental health. Plath’s writing is beautiful and powerful, and her characters are complex and layered. The Bell Jar is an important book that should be read by everyone, especially those in their twenties.

4. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a classic novel that has captivated readers for decades. Set in the 1920s, the novel follows the story of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy, mysterious man living in the fictional town of West Egg, Long Island. Gatsby is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan, a woman from an affluent family, and he is determined to win her back. The Great Gatsby is a timeless story of love, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

The novel is known for its vivid portrayal of the Roaring Twenties, a time of decadence and excess. Fitzgerald paints a vivid picture of the lavish parties thrown by Gatsby and his wealthy friends, and the glitz and glamour of the era. Along with its vivid descriptions, The Great Gatsby also explores themes of class, ambition, and the power of illusion. Gatsby’s obsession with Daisy and his pursuit of the American Dream are classic examples of the power of illusion, and Fitzgerald’s exploration of these themes makes the novel particularly relevant to readers in their twenties.

The Great Gatsby is a perfect novel for readers in their twenties. It offers a glimpse into the life of the wealthy, and the power of ambition and illusion. Fitzgerald’s writing style is captivating and his characters are complex and interesting. The novel is full of memorable quotes and is a great read for anyone looking to explore the themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The Great Gatsby is a timeless classic that will remain relevant for generations to come, and is a must-read for readers in their twenties.

5. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood is a classic novel that is a must-read for anyone in their 20s. Set in a dystopian future where a totalitarian regime has taken control of the United States, the novel follows the story of Offred, a handmaid assigned to bear children for a powerful couple in the new society. Through her journey, Offred discovers the harsh realities of the regime and the strength of her own will to survive.

The Handmaid’s Tale is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will have readers questioning their own beliefs and values. Atwood’s writing is vivid and powerful, exploring themes of power, oppression, and freedom. Offred’s story is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in her journey.

The novel is also an important commentary on the current state of the world. Atwood’s themes of power, oppression, and freedom are still relevant today, and her writing serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right. The Handmaid’s Tale is a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and freedom, and it is an essential read for anyone in their 20s.

The Handmaid’s Tale is an unforgettable novel that will stay with readers long after they finish the last page. Atwood’s writing is brilliant and engaging, and her story is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The novel is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, and it is an essential read for anyone in their 20s.

6. A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara is a poignant and powerful coming-of-age novel that explores the lives of four friends in New York City. The novel follows the characters through their twenties, as they try to make sense of their lives and relationships.

The novel centers around Jude, a young man who is haunted by a traumatic past. He has a difficult time forming relationships and is constantly searching for a sense of belonging. His friends, Willem, Malcolm, and JB, are all trying to find their way in the world, and they rely on each other for strength and support.

The novel is a heartbreaking and intense exploration of friendship, identity, and love. It follows the characters as they make mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately grow into themselves. The story is told in a beautiful, lyrical prose that captures the struggles and triumphs of the characters.

The novel is not just an exploration of the characters’ lives, but also of the social and economic issues that plague New York City. The characters are all from different backgrounds and their experiences with poverty, homelessness, and racism are explored in depth.

The novel is a powerful look at the struggles and triumphs of growing up in a world that is often unfair and unjust. It is a story of friendship, resilience, and hope. A Little Life is a must-read for anyone in their twenties, as it is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult life can be, there is always hope.

Conclusion

Reading books in your 20s is a great way to gain insight into the world around you, develop new perspectives, and be entertained. The books listed above are some of the best books to read in your 20s, as they offer a unique perspective on life and relationships. From J.D. Salinger’s classic novel The Catcher in the Rye to Hanya Yanagihara’s heartbreaking A Little Life, these books will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and entertainment.

Whether you’re looking for a book to help you make sense of the world or just looking for a good read, these books are sure to provide you with something to think about. Each book has its own unique style and message, and they all offer something different to the reader. They are all well-written and thought-provoking, and they will help you gain a deeper understanding of life and relationships in your 20s.

Reading books in your 20s is an important part of self-discovery and growth. These books can help you discover new things about yourself and the world around you. They can also provide you with an escape from reality and an opportunity to explore different topics and ideas. So, if you’re looking for something to read in your 20s, these books are a great place to start.

About Richardson

Book reviewer with a passion for reading and exploring new books. I'm always looking for new authors and stories to discover. I have a degree in English Literature and I've been writing book reviews for over five years. I'm constantly striving to find a unique perspective in my reviews, and I'm always looking for a deeper understanding of the stories I'm reading. I'm often found in libraries, bookstores and online book clubs, sharing my opinions and thoughts on a variety of books. I'm also an avid traveler and I love to explore new cultures and ideas through literature.

Leave a Comment