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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Penn chapter.

From a classic dystopian novel to an enthralling memoir about dating, sex, and friendship, this list has something for everyone. 

Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton

Dolly Alderton’s memoir spans from her childhood into her wild 20’s. Her writing is so engaging you’ll feel like you’re on every amazing, horrifying date with her. You’ll fall for her love interests. You’ll feel her breakups. And last but not least, you’ll mourn her longest friendship that she believes is destined to be ruined by her friend’s impending nuptials.

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

You can’t go wrong with a Colleen Hoover book — especially if you want a page–turner that’ll undoubtedly make you fall in love. Are you hooked yet? 

This #booktok famous novel went viral for featuring a whirlwind romance that takes a dark turn. It features a strong female protagonist who still gets to fall in love, revisit memories with her first love, and so much more I don’t want to spoil. Just trust me; this heartbreaker will hold on to you long after you put it down.

High Risk: Stories of Pregnancy, Birth, and the Unexpected by Dr. Chavi Eve Karkowsky

Alright, this one’s for you pre–med and nursing students or anyone interested in women’s health. Dr. Chavi Eve Karkowsky, a New York City MD who specializes in high–risk pregnancies, tells all — the good, the unexpected, and the sometimes devastating stories behind pregnancy and “everything we lose when we don’t speak honestly about women’s health.” 

Karkowsky’s writing encapsulates medicine, women’s health, politics, and the feelings experienced in some of the happiest and saddest moments of a woman’s life.

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

I’m sure you’ve heard of this novel about a patriarchal, totalitarian government that has overthrown the United States. Written back in 1985 about a fictional near–future New England, The Handmaid’s Tale was inspired by Margaret Atwood’s experience living in West Berlin, behind the Iron Curtain. 

The book explores themes of politics, gender, and religion, all while keeping you reeled into protagonist Offred’s life. It’s thought–provoking, it’s feminist, and it’ll grip you cover to cover. 

Bonus: it’s a banned book, which always intrigues me so much more. 

Bonus bonus: it has been adapted into a Hulu Original series, if you’re the type that likes to watch your books play out on screen ;)

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Eat, Pray, Love is another heartfelt memoir, known for its on–screen adaptation featuring the beloved Julia Roberts. This novel is about a recently–divorced Elizabeth Gilbert, who shares her journey around the globe and how she heals from an unexpected life shift at age 33. 

As she eats in Italy, prays in India, and finally, loves (again) in Bali, she’ll teach you about the things that really matter in the world and how to pursue true happiness, even when it seems like you have it all. It’s grounding, refreshing, and wildly inspiring. 

Alanna is a sophomore studying Nursing at the University of Pennsylvania. She is also pursuing a minor in Nursing & Health Services Management. Her guiltiest pleasures include bingeing dystopian movie series, reading anything by Colleen Hoover, and making brownies at least once a week.