10+ Best Must Read Books for 22-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Hey there! Navigating your early twenties can be a thrilling and transformative journey. To enrich this exciting phase, diving into some must-read books for 22-year-olds can be truly enlightening. Whether you're looking to find yourself, explore new worlds, or gain wisdom, we’ve curated a selection of books that resonate with your experiences and aspirations. Keep reading to discover our various lists of must-read books tailored just for you at this stage of life!

Fun Must Read Books for 22-Year-Olds

• The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is about 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 mesmerizing and imaginative read that blends magic with a touching love story, ideal for escaping into another world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy and romance with rich, atmospheric settings.

• Normal People by Sally Rooney
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction, Romance
  • Synopsis: The book follows Marianne and Connell, two teenagers from a small town in Ireland, as they navigate the complexities of social dynamics, love, and personal growth both in high school and at university.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of modern relationships and the social pressures young adults face, making it highly relatable for readers in their early twenties.
  • Perfect for: Those who appreciate deep character studies and real-life dynamics in their reading.

• The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: A book that uses humor and blunt honesty to convey Manson's philosophy on living a better life by caring less about more things.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers straightforward advice that's particularly resonant for young adults learning to navigate the adult world, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what truly matters.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for pragmatic life advice without the fluff.

• Educated by Tara Westover
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Biography
  • Synopsis: This memoir recounts the life of Tara Westover, who was born to survivalist parents in the mountains of Idaho and never attended school. She begins to educate herself, which leads her to discover a new world beyond her family's rigid beliefs and violent dynamics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of resilience and the transformative power of education, perfect for those at a point in their life where they're shaping their own identities.
  • Perfect for: Anyone interested in personal growth and overcoming challenges.

• Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction, Romance, Humor
  • Synopsis: This novel provides a peek into the outrageously opulent world of ultra-wealthy Asians, centering around Rachel Chu who discovers that her boyfriend, Nicholas Young, comes from one of the richest families in Singapore.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun, lavish read that offers escapism with its humor and vivid portrayal of high society, making it a delightful pick-me-up.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about love, luxury, and cultural clashes.

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This philosophical book tells the story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who travels from his homeland in Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of a treasure buried in the Pyramids.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a motivational read that explores the themes of destiny and personal dreams, encouraging readers to pursue their own paths.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone on a personal quest for self-discovery.

Educational Must Read Books for 22-Year-Olds

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book provides a compelling overview of the history of our species, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age up to the twenty-first century.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, understanding of human cultures and societies
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers insightful analyses into how humans have shaped the world and each other through culture, science, and not just biology.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in the big-picture view of human history and its impact on the present and future.

• Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Non-fiction, Economics
  • Synopsis: Kahneman introduces the dual-process theory of the mind, explaining the differences between fast, intuitive thinking, and slower, more deliberate thought.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Decision making, cognitive psychology, behavioral economics
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides profound insights into the cognitive biases that affect our everyday decision making.
  • Perfect for: Those keen on understanding the psychological processes behind their decisions and improving their critical thinking skills.

• Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Business, Feminism
  • Synopsis: This book encourages women to pursue their ambitions, and addresses the challenges they face in the workplace.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Leadership skills, gender studies, professional development
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thoughtful and practical guide for women aiming to achieve their full potential in their careers and personal lives.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring female leaders and anyone interested in gender equality in the workplace.

• 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 foster success.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of habit formation, self-improvement, organizational efficiency
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines scientific research with engaging narratives to explain how habits shape our lives and how we can control them.
  • Perfect for: Individuals looking to transform their habits in both personal and professional contexts.

• Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Psychology, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book champions the introvert's cause, explaining how the quiet and contemplative can innovate and lead in a society that often values extroversion.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-awareness, leadership skills, social dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a voice to introverts, offering valuable strategies to thrive in various facets of life.
  • Perfect for: Introverts seeking affirmation and strategies to use their strengths, and extroverts looking to understand their quieter peers.

Challenging Must Read Books for 22-Year-Olds

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Satire
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternate reality, the novel intertwines several plots, including a dysfunctional family’s struggles, a tennis academy, and a halfway house for recovering addicts, all connected by the pursuit of a mysterious film said to be so entertaining that viewers lose the will to do anything else.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its narrative complexity, length (over 1000 pages), and extensive use of endnotes demand significant commitment and attention from the reader.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a deep dive into themes of addiction, entertainment, and the meaning of achievement, offering profound insights into contemporary life.
  • Perfect for: Avid readers looking for a substantial challenge and those interested in postmodern narratives.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Postmodern Literature
  • Synopsis: Set during the final months of World War II in Europe, the novel explores the design, production, and dispatch of V-2 rockets by the German military, and features a large ensemble of characters.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its complex plot and dense style, the book incorporates advanced scientific and mathematical theories, as well as a sprawling narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an intricate look at the impact of technology on society and the chaos of war, wrapped in richly detailed prose.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate complexity and are intrigued by science and history.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel details the peripatetic appointments and encounters of Leopold Bloom in Dublin over the course of an ordinary day, 16 June 1904.
  • Why this book is challenging: Joyce’s use of stream-of-consciousness writing, a complex web of allusions, and shifting narrative styles makes it a notoriously difficult read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s considered one of the most important works of modernist literature, offering groundbreaking narrative techniques and deep human insights.
  • Perfect for: Literature enthusiasts who are up for a linguistic and intellectual challenge.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophical Novel, Crime Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the murder of a father by one of his four sons. It delves deeply into questions of God, free will, and morality.
  • Why this book is challenging: The exploration of deep philosophical issues requires contemplation and can be demanding to follow.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles profound existential questions and human emotions, providing a deep, reflective experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in psychology, philosophy, and classic Russian literature.

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Epic
  • Synopsis: This epic tale chronicles the French invasion of Russia and the impact of the Napoleonic era on Tsarist society through the eyes of five aristocratic families.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel’s massive scope, with its extensive cast of characters and intertwining plots, presents a considerable challenge.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a vast and detailed panorama of Russian society and a profound exploration of life during wartime.
  • Perfect for: Those who love historical epics and are interested in detailed narratives that blend real history with fiction.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 22 and looking to dive deeper into the world of books, developing good reading habits is key. Here are some exercises that can help you make the most out of your reading experience. Not only will these habits enhance your understanding, but they'll also make reading a more integral part of your daily life.

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books to read each month or year.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and provides a clear target to aim for.
  • Tips: Start with a manageable goal and gradually increase it.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home for reading.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and enhances your focus.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books regularly.
  • How it helps: Exposes you to diverse perspectives and encourages discussion.
  • Tips: Choose a club that reads books from various genres.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology to track and organize your reading.
  • How it helps: Helps manage your reading list and keep track of your progress.
  • Tips: Explore apps like Goodreads or Libib for their social and organizational features.

• Read Widely
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from different genres and authors.
  • How it helps: Broadens your perspective and enhances your critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Regularly switch between fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and other genres.

• Implement the 50-Page Rule
  • What it is: Commit to reading at least 50 pages before deciding whether to continue or drop a book.
  • How it helps: Ensures you give each book a fair chance without wasting time on books you don’t enjoy.
  • Tips: Keep an open mind for the first 50 pages.

• Reflect After Reading
  • What it is: Spend some time thinking about the book after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Write a brief summary or discuss the book with a friend.

So, why not give these exercises a shot? They're designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, making reading not just an activity, but a rewarding part of your everyday routine. Happy reading!