This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Clemson chapter.
Sometimes in college we feel too busy to take the time to read an extra book, but it can
actually be an enjoyable and relaxing activity if you can find the right book! Here are
5 of my suggestions for books you need to check out!
1. If you like Mysteries…. In the Woods by Tana French
This was one of those books that my mom suggested that I read for years, and
I would always just roll my eyes. But once I picked it up, I realized how dumb
I was for ignoring her (real lesson here: your mom knows best.) The story
follows Detective Adam Ryan who is investigating the mysterious death of a
young ballerina in rural Ireland. The story goes much deeper than the case. It
explores the fickle nature of the truth in detective work, ways that we cope
with trauma, abnormal psychology, and many other interesting topics. In the
words of Tom Haverford, “it’s dope.”
2. If you like Music/Art… Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
This is one of my all-time favorite books. With music, art, history, travel, and
romance, it’s perfect for those of us who’ve considered moving to Paris and
falling in love with a cute musician. The protagonist, Andi, moves with her
dad to Paris so that she and him can mend their distant relationship. The book
dives into some pretty heavy topics that are faced by many young women and
really encapsulates that struggles that go along with growing up. It’s a great
coming-of-age novel that will make you consider picking up and moving to
Paris (or at least studying abroad.)
3. If you like Epic Tales… Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follet
This book is definitely one that you’ll want to read over Christmas break
because it is long. Even though it’s about 1000 pages, it reads so quickly that
you’ll find yourself tearing through 200 pages in a day. The book is
technically about a monk building a cathedral in 10th century England, but it’s
way less boring than that. Think Gossip Girl… but, you know, medieval.
4. If you support Feminism… Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
Again, this is another seemingly challenging novel that’s actually very
enjoyable. The main character, Bathsheba Everdeen, is a total badass female
in the late 19th century. She has her own thriving business, a fiercely
independent attitude, and no desire to get married anytime soon. She basically
spends the whole book putting boys in their place, so, really, what’s better
than that?
5. If you like Young Adult… Fallen by Lauren Kate
Who doesn’t love a good, easy-breezy read? This is one that I read a long,
long time ago, but I still consider it one of the better young adult novels. Like
any good YA novel, there’s a love triangle between the protagonist, the good
guy, and the bad boy. I rest my case.