10+ Best Interesting Books for 20-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for your next great read? If you’re in your twenties, finding the right book can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to dive into new experiences or gain different perspectives, we’ve curated a list of interesting books for 20-year-olds that you won’t want to miss. Keep reading to discover a variety of picks that are perfect for this exciting chapter of your life!

Fun Interesting Books for 20-Year-Olds

• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance
  • Synopsis: This poignant novel tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group and embark on a journey of love, life, and loss.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching and thought-provoking story that deals with heavy themes in a light-hearted manner, making it a great read for young adults exploring the complexities of life and love.
  • Perfect for: Young adults looking for a heartfelt, emotional story that speaks to the challenges of growing up.

• Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Romance
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Toru Watanabe, who recalls his days as a college student in Tokyo. Through his memories, we see his relationships with two very different women—one who is spirited and outgoing, and another who is troubled and emotionally scarred.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of youth and the intense world of emotional turmoil and love, making it relatable for those in their twenties.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy deep, introspective narratives and exploring complex relationships.

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This allegorical novel follows Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd in his journey to Egypt, after having a recurring dream of finding treasure there.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale that encourages following one’s dreams and listening to one's heart, ideal for young adults at crossroads in their lives.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone in search of inspiration and self-discovery.

• Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance
  • Synopsis: Set over the course of one school year in 1986, this is the story of two star-crossed misfits—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written novel about young love and the struggles of teenage life that resonates well with young adults.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy realistic young adult novels that aren't afraid to tackle tough issues.

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book offers a compelling overview of the history of our species, from the emergence of archaic human species in the Stone Age up to the twenty-first century.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a broad, insightful look into how humans have shaped the world and society through the ages, perfect for young adults eager to understand the past to better navigate the future.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history, science, and philosophy, and those who enjoy exploring ideas about humanity and our society.

Educational Interesting Books for 20-Year-Olds

• Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book delves into the two systems of thought that drive the way we make choices: System 1, fast, intuitive, and emotional; System 2, slower, more deliberative, and more logical.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, decision-making, psychology
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers deep insights into how our minds work, backed by rigorous scientific research, making complex psychological concepts accessible to general readers.
  • Perfect for: Anyone interested in psychology or understanding the cognitive processes behind decision-making.

• Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
  • Genre(s): Economics, Sociology
  • Synopsis: This book uses economic theory to explore real-world phenomena, from cheating and crime to sports and parenting, showing how economic principles apply to everyday life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Economic theory, critical thinking, application of statistics
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges conventional wisdom and offers new, thought-provoking perspectives on various aspects of modern life.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy exploring the surprising and often hidden side of things.

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Business
  • Synopsis: Originally published in 1936, this book provides timeless strategies for interacting positively and persuasively with others, offering practical advice and techniques for influencing people while winning their respect.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Interpersonal skills, communication, leadership
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a classic that remains extremely relevant today, providing essential advice for personal and professional success.
  • Perfect for: Anyone looking to improve their social skills and ability to influence others positively.

• Educated by Tara Westover
  • Genre(s): Memoir
  • Synopsis: This memoir recounts the struggle of a woman who grows up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho but eventually escapes through education, earning a PhD from Cambridge University.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, self-reliance, understanding of educational disparities
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a testament to the transformative power of education and the pursuit of knowledge against all odds.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in inspirational stories of overcoming adversity through learning and self-determination.

• The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Psychology, Business
  • Synopsis: This book explores the science behind why habits exist and how they can be changed to create positive outcomes in personal lives, businesses, and societies.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of behavioral psychology, self-improvement strategies
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides insightful analysis and real-world applications of psychological research, offering practical steps to harness the power of habits.
  • Perfect for: Individuals looking to transform their habits in ways that will lead to personal and professional success.

Challenging Interesting Books for 20-Year-Olds

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Satire
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternate reality, this complex novel intertwines the lives of residents at a tennis academy and a nearby substance-abuse recovery center, exploring themes of addiction, entertainment, and the meaning of life.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its nonlinear narrative, extensive footnotes, and dense prose demand significant intellectual engagement and perseverance from the reader.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deep, multifaceted exploration of modern American life and challenges readers to think critically about their own relationships with entertainment and pleasure.
  • Perfect for: Avid readers looking for a challenging, thought-provoking book that pushes the boundaries of traditional narrative structures.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this complex novel follows an extensive cast of characters, including soldiers, spies, and scientists, as they attempt to uncover the secrets of a mysterious rocket-propelled weapon.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its complex plot, myriad of characters, and a wide range of cultural and scientific references, it requires considerable concentration and intellectual curiosity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful blend of historical data, scientific theory, and cultural analysis, offering a unique lens on the impact of technology and war on humanity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy dense, intricate narratives that challenge their understanding of history and science.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel details the peripatetic events in the lives of Leopold Bloom and Stephen Dedalus in Dublin on a single day, June 16, 1904.
  • Why this book is challenging: Characterized by its stream-of-consciousness technique, extensive allusions to classical literature, and deep exploration of themes like identity and existentialism.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's considered one of the most important works of modernist literature, offering readers a profound psychological and philosophical journey through its complex narrative structure.
  • Perfect for: Literature enthusiasts who appreciate deep philosophical questions and are up for the challenge of deciphering complex texts.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophical Novel, Crime Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the tumultuous lives of the Karamazov family, focusing on their moral struggles, spiritual restlessness, and the parricide that disrupts their lives.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves deeply into existential philosophy, theology, and ethical debates, requiring a reflective and patient reading approach.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides profound insights into human nature, morality, and faith, making it a timeless piece that resonates with philosophical readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in deep philosophical and theological discussions woven into a narrative of familial and societal conflicts.

• Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy
  • Genre(s): Western, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the 1850s on the Texas-Mexico border, the novel follows a teenage runaway known as "the Kid" and his experiences with a brutal, scalp-hunting gang.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its stark, violent depiction of the American frontier and McCarthy's dense, poetic prose.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a raw, unromanticized view of the American West, challenging readers to confront the complexities of violence and morality.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate gritty historical narratives and are looking for a profound, albeit harrowing, literary experience.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're in your twenties and looking to dive into some great books, it's also a fantastic time to develop strong reading habits that can enhance your enjoyment and comprehension of what you read. Below are some exercises designed specifically for you to get the most out of your reading adventures.

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books to read each month or year.
  • How it helps: Gives you a clear target and motivates you to read regularly.
  • Tips: Start with a manageable goal and adjust as you become more comfortable with your reading pace.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books regularly.
  • How it helps: Encourages you to read more often and exposes you to different perspectives.
  • Tips: Choose a club that reads books in genres you enjoy or want to explore more.

• Read Broadly
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from various genres and authors.
  • How it helps: Expands your understanding and appreciation of different literary styles and cultures.
  • Tips: Every month, pick a book that falls outside your usual preferences.

• Use Technology to Your Advantage
  • What it is: Utilize e-readers, audiobooks, and literary apps to enhance your reading experience.
  • How it helps: Makes reading more accessible and convenient, especially on the go.
  • Tips: Explore different apps that can help you annotate, highlight, and even find summaries of books.

• Reflect on What You Read
  • What it is: Spend some time thinking about the book after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Improves memory retention and helps you understand the deeper meanings of texts.
  • Tips: Write a brief summary or discuss the book with a friend to solidify your thoughts and insights.

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Allocate specific times of the day or week for reading.
  • How it helps: Ensures that you make time for reading despite a busy schedule.
  • Tips: Treat these time blocks as fixed appointments, similar to a class or meeting.

By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you'll not only enhance your reading skills but also make reading a more integral and enjoyable part of your life. So grab that book you've been meaning to read, and let's get started! Happy reading!