* Great gift ideas for recent grads
* Insightful books offer a fresh look at life in the corporate world
* Choose from any classic below and get a head start on your job search
It’s graduation season, and whether you’re either celebrating your own (congrats!) or attending someone else’s ceremony, you might be looking for a gift to celebrate the start of a new chapter. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best books for recent grads—or for yourself. From insightful guides on how to navigate this new phase of your life to fan-favorite classics, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Congratulations, By The Way: Some Thoughts on Kindness
The long-awaited transcript of George Saunders’ commencement speech at Syracuse, this New York Times bestseller is warm, tender and full of poignant insights. Because now more than ever, we all need a reminder to be a little kinder.
2. The Quarter-Life Breakthrough: Invent Your Own Path, Find Meaningful Work, and Build a Life That Matters
Beautifully written by Adam “Smiley” Poswolsky, this book is sure to uplift your spirits while also helping nudge you on the right path toward financial and emotional success. A great read for new grads, you’ll be glad you picked this book up.
3. Now What?: The Young Person’s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Career
“Many of you have just spent four years and a small fortune studying something you will never use, and, if you do, you won’t like all that much. Have a nice life.” This quote pretty much sums up the ethos of Nicholas Nore’s new novel. An extremely poignant and powerful book, this one’s sure to help you see the value in being organized.
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4. Oh, The Places You’ll Go!
This classic is as relevant today as it ever was. Dr. Seuss’ quick, insightful read is the perfect pick-me-up for anyone who’s feeling a bit nervous about facing the unknown. An easy read, this is also a good one to keep on your coffee table.
5. Oh, The Meetings You’ll Go To!
A sharp parody of the Dr. Seuss classic above, this book offers a great blend of funny satire and true-to-life tips to help you get a better feel for office life. A great book for 20-somethings, you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, but most of all you’ll be happy you read it.
6. Assume the Worst: The Graduation Speech You’ll Never Hear
We hate to break it to you, but the corporate world isn’t all peaches and cream. This cynical, yet poignant novel features Carl Hiaasen at his best; sharp stories mixed with his real-world experiences, which make this book an instant classic.
7. The Moth Presents All These Wonders: True Stories About Facing the Unknown
Enjoy 45 amazing stories about adventure, excitement and facing the great unknown. Each story has been carefully selected by members of The Moth so you can rest easy knowing this is going to be one heck of a roller coaster read.