10+ Best Books for 24-Year-Old Woman w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you a 24-year-old woman on the hunt for your next great read? You're in the right place! Our curated selection of books for 24-year-old women is tailored to inspire, challenge, and entertain you, no matter where you are in life. Whether you're navigating career changes, personal development, or just looking for an escape into another world, we've got you covered. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are perfect for adding to your reading list!

Fun Books for 24-Year-Old Woman

• The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around a magical competition between two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who unknowingly fall in love with each other in an enchanted circus that only appears at night.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical, enchanting read that perfectly blends romance and fantasy, ideal for escaping into a beautifully detailed world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love rich, atmospheric settings and a touch of romance in their fantasy novels.

• Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
  • Genre(s): Humor, Contemporary Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: This novel follows 15-year-old Bee as she tries to track down her agoraphobic mother, Bernadette, who disappears before a family trip to Antarctica.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's quirky, fast-paced, and full of sharp wit, perfect for young adults looking to enjoy contemporary life's complexities through a humorous lens.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys a good laugh with their mystery and appreciates well-drawn, eccentric characters.

• Normal People by Sally Rooney
  • Genre(s): Romance, Contemporary Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel explores the complex relationship between Connell and Marianne as they navigate the trials of personal and social life from their high school years through college.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a raw and realistic look at relationships and social dynamics, resonating well with the modern-day dilemmas faced by young adults.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate deep, psychological insights into characters and relationships in their contemporary reads.

• Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Creativity, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: Gilbert shares her wisdom and perspective about creativity, encouraging readers to embrace curiosity and tackle what they love without fear.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires creativity and courage, providing practical advice and motivational insights that are particularly relevant to young adults carving out their life paths.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring creatives and anyone looking to inject a little more inspiration and bravery into their everyday life.

• Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Eleanor Oliphant, a socially awkward woman who starts to break out of her structured routine and confront her painful past when she develops a crush on a local musician.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming, uplifting story that tackles themes of loneliness and the importance of human connection, perfect for readers looking to feel inspired and hopeful.
  • Perfect for: Individuals who enjoy character-driven stories with themes of personal growth and resilience.

Educational Books for 24-Year-Old Woman

• Educated by Tara Westover
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Biography
  • Synopsis: This memoir recounts Tara Westover's journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho with no formal education to earning a PhD from Cambridge University.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of educational disparities, self-awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound testament to the power of education and the strength required to change one's life trajectory despite overwhelming odds.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in inspirational stories of personal triumph and those fascinated by the impact of education on personal development.

• Becoming by Michelle Obama
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This memoir offers a deeply personal look at the life of Michelle Obama, tracing her roots, her time in the White House, her public health campaign, and her role as a mother.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Leadership skills, cultural awareness, empowerment
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an inspiring, insightful look at one of the most iconic figures of our time, encouraging readers to become the best version of themselves.
  • Perfect for: Fans of influential personalities and anyone looking to be inspired by a story of becoming.

• The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—And How to Make the Most of Them Now by Meg Jay
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Psychology
  • Synopsis: This book emphasizes the importance of a person's twenties and offers advice on how to navigate this critical decade successfully.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Career planning, psychological development, personal growth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling guide that combines scientific research with real-life examples to help young adults capitalize on this transformative period.
  • Perfect for: Twenty-somethings seeking direction and motivation to shape their future actively.

• Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book explores the advantages and strengths of being an introvert in a society that often seems biased towards extroverts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, leadership skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fresh perspective on the power of quietness and solitude, encouraging readers to embrace their introverted traits.
  • Perfect for: Introverts looking for validation and strategies to thrive, and extroverts aiming to understand their quieter peers better.

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were taken without her knowledge in 1951 and led to significant scientific breakthroughs, touching on ethical issues in scientific research.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ethical judgment, scientific literacy, historical context
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling narrative that combines science, ethics, and the impact of racism, sparking important discussions about consent and recognition.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in science and medical ethics, and those who appreciate stories that highlight lesser-known historical figures.

Challenging Books for 24-Year-Old Woman

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Postmodernism
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternate reality where years are subsidized by corporate sponsors, the novel intertwines the lives of residents at a tennis academy and a nearby substance-abuse recovery center, exploring themes of addiction and the pursuit of happiness.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its complex narrative structure, extensive endnotes, and deep philosophical inquiries make it a demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It pushes the boundaries of traditional narrative forms and deeply examines modern life's complexities and challenges.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a dense, intellectual challenge and those interested in postmodern literature.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during the final months of World War II in Europe, the novel follows an extensive cast of characters, including Tyrone Slothrop, who is psychically conditioned to predict the landing sites of V-2 rockets.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its narrative complexity and the depth of historical and scientific references require significant intellectual engagement.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a richly textured and intellectually stimulating exploration of history, psychology, and technology.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate deeply complex narratives and are intrigued by history and science.

• The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Satire
  • Synopsis: In Soviet Russia, the devil visits as a mysterious gentleman, wreaking havoc, questioning societal norms, and interacting with literary figures and historical personalities in a narrative that blends reality with the fantastical.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its blending of different genres and layers of allegory addressing complex themes of good and evil, freedom, and fate.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful satire of Soviet society that remains profoundly relevant, offering a unique blend of humor, philosophy, and drama.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy novels that combine historical, philosophical, and fantastical elements.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel details the peripatetic events in the lives of Leopold Bloom and Stephen Dedalus through the streets of Dublin on a single day, June 16, 1904.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its stream-of-consciousness technique, dense allusions, and non-linear narrative structure make it one of the most challenging reads in English literature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's considered a masterpiece of modernist literature, offering groundbreaking narrative techniques and deep, timeless insights into the human condition.
  • Perfect for: Literary enthusiasts who are up for a substantial reading challenge and interested in exploring new narrative forms.

• Middlemarch by George Eliot
  • Genre(s): Victorian Literature, Social Novel
  • Synopsis: This novel examines the lives of several residents in the fictitious town of Middlemarch, focusing on themes such as marriage, idealism, self-interest, and reform during the 1830s.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its detailed exploration of social and political life in 19th-century England through a vast array of characters and interlinked stories demands close attention and reflection.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides insightful commentary on societal changes and personal morality, offering readers a profound understanding of human motivations and societal constraints.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in detailed character development and those fascinated by the intersection of personal and societal issues.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're a 24-year-old woman looking to cultivate better reading habits, you've come to the right place. Whether you're diving into self-help books, thrilling mysteries, or expansive fantasies, developing a structured reading routine can greatly enhance your enjoyment and comprehension. Here are some exercises designed just for you to help make reading a more integral and rewarding part of your life:

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books or pages to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Setting goals can provide motivation and a sense of achievement.
  • Tips: Be realistic with your goals to maintain enthusiasm and avoid burnout.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home for reading.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and enhances focus on your reading material.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and well-lit to encourage longer reading sessions.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books regularly.
  • How it helps: Stimulates deeper understanding and gives social incentives to read.
  • Tips: Choose a club that aligns with your interests to keep engagement high.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize an app that tracks reading habits and recommends books.
  • How it helps: Keeps you organized and introduces you to books you might not have found on your own.
  • Tips: Explore apps like Goodreads or Libby for community reviews and easy access to ebooks.

• Implement a Reading Routine
  • What it is: Dedicate a specific time each day or week exclusively for reading.
  • How it helps: Helps form a habit and ensures regular reading.
  • Tips: Start with as little as 15 minutes a day and gradually increase as you get comfortable.

• Read Broadly
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from various genres and authors.
  • How it helps: Expands perspective and prevents reading slumps by varying content.
  • Tips: Every month, try to pick a book that is outside of your usual preferences.

• Reflect on Your Reading
  • What it is: Take time to think or write about what you’ve read after each session.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Consider discussing the book with a friend or blogging about your thoughts.

These exercises are not just tasks; they're stepping stones to a richer reading life. By integrating these practices, you'll not only enhance your reading skills but also discover more about yourself and the world through the diverse realms of literature. So, grab your favorite book, find a cozy corner, and start building those habits one page at a time. Happy reading!