With the rise of smartphones, movie and TV streaming, social media, (and a good, old-fashioned trip to the cinemas), many people have expressed concerns that people are missing out on reading books. Not to mention, once you graduate and reading is no longer motivated by the desire for good grades, it can be easy to lose the habit of getting lost in a good book.
The truth is, Americans do read less than they did even a few years ago (only 73% of adults say they’ve read at least one book in the past 12 months, compared to 79% in 2011) [1]. But the good news is, the younger generation is still pretty committed to the habit- in fact, they read more than seniors! 80% of 18-29-year-olds read in the past 12 months, compared to only 67% of adults over 65.
Well, whether you’re a certified bookworm or want to get (back) into the habit of hibernating with a good book, why not make the most of every page by picking a read that could very well impact your life for many years to come? As Francis Bacon was quoted saying, “Some books should be tasted, some devoured, but only a few should be chewed and digested thoroughly.” If you’re only going to read one book this year, consider choosing one of these.
Top 14 Books That Will Change Your Perspective
1. Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
What really makes successful people different? Malcolm Gladwell tackles this big-picture question in a unique and engaging style that really makes you think. This is a fascinating read for anyone with big dreams- and Gladwell’s perspective is completely unexpected to say the least. (Bonus: you’ll find out what made The Beatles the best rock group ever).
2. 1984 by George Orwell
Yes, the same one you were forced to read in high school. Yes, you probably missed so much the first time you read it. A literary classic, George Orwell’s 1984 is a chilling dystopian perspective on government and society, and it stays ever relevant through the years.
3. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Malala Yousafzai recounts her remarkable story of being shot in the head for standing up for her right to an education. This is an inspiring reminder that one person really can change the world.
4. The 4 Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss
Timothy Ferriss is a life-hack genius. He pens a practical guide to making the most of your efforts so you don’t have to wait for retirement to actually enjoy your life. He shares how he went from working 80 hours a week for a $40k salary to 4 hours a week for twelve times the salary, how to cut your work time in half without reducing productivity, and more. It’s quite the ride, if you’re willing to keep an open mind.
5. A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose by Eckhart Tolle
This book made it into Oprah’s book club, and for good reason. Bestselling author, Eckhart Tolle dives into why breaking away from an ego-centric consciousness is crucial for both your own personal happiness and the betterment of humanity as a whole, and how to actually get to that enlightened state of mind.
6. The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
Relatable and entertaining, Gretchen Rubin’s take on the pursuit of happiness is refreshing to read, and chock full of practical wisdom that makes you really stop and think about your own life.
7. I Know How She Does It by Laura Vanderkam
Tackling the complicated myth of the-woman-who-has-it-all, Laura Vanderkam will make you completely rethink life’s possibilities. If you’re ready to lift the limitations of having to choose between a career, your passion, and your family, pick up this book.
8. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Drawing from old Toltec wisdom, Don Miguel Ruiz tackles the major limitations that people put on themselves without realizing. By awakening yourself to these invisible walls, you open up completely new opportunities for experiencing happiness and fulfillment.
9. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Even if you watched the film, this bestseller is worth reading! Elizabeth Gilbert shares her own experiences to help readers tap into their own best selves.
10. Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Dr. Brené Brown completely tears down the myth of vulnerability as a negative thing. This will read will challenge the way you think about criticism, grief, creativity, happiness and more and will make you fall in love with being human.
11. The Art Of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli
Tired of making choices you regret later? Rolf Dobelli brings essential reading for re-thinking thinking, and it will revolutionize the way you make everyday decisions and really weighty choices, too.
12. Spark by John Ratey
John Ratey, M.D. explores the mind-body connection like never before. Fair warning, it might be hard to finish this book completely before you’re inspired to jump off the couch and go for a run.
13. Quiet by Susan Cain
As much as it is an eye-opening study on how introverts go through life (as coworkers, children, parents, and more), this insightful perspective can be appreciated by introverts and extroverts alike! Susan Cain offers such clear and thoughtful advice for handling the challenge of differing personalities in all walks of life.
14. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Psychiatrist, Viktor Frankl writes a memoir of his time in Auschwitz and other concentration camps between 1942 and 1945. This work is both a powerful reminder of the pain humanity is capable of, but also of the hope found in learning how to cope and find meaning in whatever life brings.
