Looking for your next read? From timeless classics to modern page turners, this list features heartfelt memoirs, thought provoking novels and everything in between. Whether you want to laugh, cry or reflect, this list has something for you!

Grace Asness, Staff Writer

“Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life’s Greatest Lessons” by Mitch Albom

When I received this book from a generous teacher after graduating from middle school, I didn’t think much of it. However, when I finally picked it up later that summer, I quickly understood why it had been given to me. “Tuesdays with Morrie” is a memoir that recounts Mitch Albom’s visits with his former sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz, as Schwartz battles amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The book delivers thought-provoking and heartwarming lessons about life, love and death through emotional moments between a student and his aging mentor. This memoir’s messages about friendship, love and life’s purpose were invaluable to me. At under 200 pages, it’s short but powerful, making its lessons accessible to even the casual reader.

“Daisy Jones & the Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid

“Daisy Jones & The Six” is an engaging novel that follows the rise to fame of a fictional 1970s rock band, The Six, and its lead singer, Daisy Jones. Written as a mock documentary, the novel gives readers an insider’s view of the relationships and creative turmoil within the ultra-famous band. For those who finish the book and want more, Amazon Prime released a TV adaptation in 2023. (This novel mentions substance abuse.)

Scarlett Chen, Staff Writer 

“Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee 

I’ve reread this 500-page book three times in one year and have recommended it to everyone I know. “Pachinko” explores the unbreakable bond of familial love and sacrifice, following a Korean family through four generations as they navigate the challenges of immigrating to Japan during World War II. Even if you’re not a historical fiction fan, it’s impossible not to become attached to these characters and their heartbreaking story. Prepare yourself for a beautifully written novel that takes you on an emotional roller coaster. For fans of adaptations, Apple TV has also turned the book into a limited series.

“If Beale Street Could Talk” by James Baldwin 

This book was assigned to me in a high school English class. Little did 15-year-old me know that this would be the catalyst for my love of James Baldwin’s work. “If Beale Street Could Talk” follows a teenage Black couple as they face very adult challenges: Tish is pregnant while the father of her baby, Fonny, is in prison, falsely accused of rape. The two characters learn about love and growing up together in a society that clearly opposes them. Baldwin conveys the injustices of the prison system, teenage pregnancy and racism in America skillfully through the plot. This is a book that has stayed with me for years and is one that I revisit often. (This novel mentions sexual assault.)

Maci Cohen, Staff Writer 

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen 

The last thing most people need is yet another person pushing classic novels in their faces. That said, if you haven’t read this masterpiece by Jane Austen, I highly recommend adding it to your list. Set in the early 19th century, “Pride and Prejudice” follows Elizabeth Bennet and her complicated relationship with the wealthy yet prideful Mr. Darcy. Although their first impressions lead to mutual dislike, they find themselves inexplicably drawn to each other. Over time, their opinions evolve as they confront their own flaws. Austen’s sharp wit and vivid scene-setting contribute to the novel’s enduring charm. With its complex characters and engaging romance, this book has something for everyone and is worth revisiting time and time again. Plus, there are several screen adaptations to enjoy.

“The Guest List” by Lucy Foley 

As someone always on the hunt for a thrilling, hard-to-put-down mystery novel, I can confidently say “The Guest List” fits the bill. This classic whodunit will keep you captivated until the very end. The story centers on a wedding party gathered on a secluded island to celebrate the nuptials of Jules and Will. However, the celebration takes a dark turn when the murder of a guest uncovers long-buried lies and grudges. Told from multiple perspectives, the mystery keeps readers guessing at every turn. It’s the kind of book you’ll devour in one sitting.

Kayleigh Flaks, Staff Writer

“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins 

“The Hunger Games” is the book that made me love reading. I first read the dystopian novel in sixth grade and have read it 10 times since. Set in a disturbing future version of America, The Capitol selects a boy and girl from each district to compete in an annual fight-to-the-death event. The story follows Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take her sister’s place in the Games and must fight to survive. 

“Atonement” by Ian McEwan

If you ever need a good cry, “Atonement” is the book to read. Told through multiple perspectives within the Tallis family and their friends, the story begins with Briony Tallis, the novel’s central storyteller. The book is much more than a war story set during World War II — it depicts a heartbreaking love story, the destruction of a family and major twists you won’t expect. Its exploration of how individual perspectives shape not only our own lives but also those around us will leave you thinking long after you’ve finished.

Eliana Gonzalez, Staff Writer

“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt

Don’t be intimidated by the 500+ pages this book offers — when you finish it, you’ll wish there were more. “The Secret History” follows a close-knit group of college students at an elite liberal arts college in Vermont who are entirely driven by aesthetic desires. When they murder one of their friends, their decision to cover up the act threatens their relationships, academics and their safety. Following an almost absurd chain of events, this novel is full of classical allusions and complex characters that will leave you somewhat conflicted and entirely entertained.

“Everything I Know About Love” by Dolly Alderton

The transitional nature of one’s 20’s can make it a tumultuous time. From high school crushes to long-term relationships and college studies to the job hunt, Dolly Alderton’s memoir captures her journey from teenage years to adulthood. Seeking fulfillment and validation through men and experiences, Alderton ultimately discovers that her friendships have had the most profound and lasting impact on her life. Stories of relationships and carefree partying are interwoven with larger themes of familial struggles and issues with self-worth, creating a poignant narrative of friendship, love and self-discovery. This quick yet meaningful read offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the challenges of young adulthood. (This novel mentions substance abuse.)

Amy Grill, Staff Writer

“Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman 

“Anxious People” follows an eclectic group of prospective buyers at an open house who unexpectedly find themselves stuck together during a failed hostage situation carried out by an equally unsuccessful bank robber. In their time together, Fredrik Backman delves into the backgrounds of both the hostages and the robber, uncovering their deepest hopes, dreams and anxieties. This fast-paced read explores the highs and lows that make us human, all tied together with a third-person narrator’s witty observations. With humor, heart and a poignant twist, Backman offers a compelling story about life’s complexities and opportunities for growth that is hard to put down.

“This Is How It Always Is” by Laurie Frankel 

I’m not often one to cry while reading, but “This Is How It Always Is” is one of the few exceptions. My eyes welled up as Laurie Frankel explores the complexities of family through the lens of the Walsh-Adams family, who navigate their youngest child’s gender nonconformity. The story follows their move halfway across the country in search of a supportive environment and their struggles with how and when to share their child’s identity with the world. Frankel’s evocative writing introduces readers to the forever-loving and always-learning Walsh-Adams family, delivering a deeply emotional and unforgettable story.

TaMyra Johnson, Staff Writer

“Better Than the Movies” by Lynn Painter 

After seeing “Better Than the Movies” all over TikTok, I finally caved and read it — and I have zero regrets. If you’re looking for a romantic comedy to pull you out of a reading slump, this book is the answer. The story follows Liz Buxbaum, a high school senior and hopeless romantic, as she tries to rekindle a romance with her childhood crush, Michael, while also coping with the loss of her mother. With help from her childhood frenemy, Wesley, Liz embarks on a journey of love, loss and friendship. This heartfelt and witty novel is the perfect escape.

“Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” by Phillip K. Dick 

When I was assigned a 1968 sci-fi novel in my junior year of high school, I never imagined it would become one of my favorite books. “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” is set in post-apocalyptic San Francisco and follows Rick Deckard’s mission to “retire” six escaped androids. In a world where both humans and androids crave a better life, the story explores the surprising power of empathy. I was captivated by the novel’s profound question: What does it truly mean to be human?

Shayna Ka, Staff Writer

“Unaccustomed Earth” by Jhumpa Lahiri

“Unaccustomed Earth” is a collection of eight short stories about the experiences of Bengali immigrants and their children in the United States. Each story focuses on themes of family relationships, cultural traditions and the search for identity. Jhumpa Lahiri’s exquisite prose, emotional wisdom and detailed storytelling truly bring this book to life. As a child of immigrants, these stories deeply resonated with my own journey. However, I would recommend this book to anyone for the depth and beautiful prose that Jhumpa Lahiri crafts.

“When Breath Becomes Air” by Paul Kalanithi

I first picked up this book because, as a pre-med student, I wanted to gain a lens into the medical world. This poignant memoir, written by neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi, discusses themes of life, death and how we perceive our existence. At the age of 36, Kalanithi was at the end of completing a decade of training as a neurosurgeon when he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. The book follows Paul Kalanithi’s journey from a naive medical student to a neurosurgeon at Stanford and, ultimately, to a patient confronting his own mortality. This memoir offers a thought-provoking, life-affirming reflection on the challenges of facing death and the complex relationship between doctor and patient, written by a brilliant mind who experienced both.

Elena Parisi, Staff Writer

“The God of Small Things” by Arundhati Roy

I’m lucky I had an English class to guide me through the symbolism in this book because it is confusing in the best way possible. Told from the perspective of a seven-year-old, Arundhati Roy’s writing is one of a kind. The story delves into the generational impact of India’s caste system on one family as they navigate tragic loss, forbidden love and the lasting effects of British colonialism. It’s a heartbreaking tale that lingers long after you’ve finished reading. (This book mentions sexual assault of a minor and police brutality.)

“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This thrilling beach read explores the reality of fame and queerness during Hollywood’s golden age. The book follows fictional Old-Hollywood actress Evelyn Hugo as she gives a final interview about her love life and her experiences as a Cuban immigrant-turned-movie star. The novel is truly a page-turner, with compelling characters, foreshadowing and plot twists that keep you hooked. The morally gray Evelyn character does both great and terrible things to become a star. Netflix currently has a movie adaptation of this novel in production.