Are you looking for guidance on navigating the complexities of adulthood? Look no further than these 20 best books about becoming an adult. Whether you’re seeking advice on relationships, career, or personal growth, these books offer valuable insights and inspiration for anyone on the journey to adulthood. From timeless classics to contemporary gems, there’s a book on becoming an adult for every reader looking to gain wisdom and perspective. Let’s dive into the top picks for becoming an adult books that will resonate with readers of all ages.
Normal People by Sally Rooney is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of young love and the challenges of growing up. Set in Ireland, the story follows the on-again, off-again relationship between Connell and Marianne as they navigate the turbulent waters of adolescence and early adulthood. The novel explores themes of love, friendship, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Rooney’s insightful and intimate writing style brings the characters to life, making their journey feel incredibly real and relatable. Normal People is a poignant and thought-provoking book about the trials and tribulations of becoming an adult, and the impact that relationships and personal growth have on shaping our lives.
Educated by Tara Westover is a compelling coming-of-age memoir that delves into the author’s journey from an isolated and abusive upbringing in rural Idaho to ultimately finding her own path to education and self-discovery. This powerful and thought-provoking book about becoming an adult is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of education. Westover’s gripping narrative provides a raw and honest portrayal of her struggles and triumphs as she navigates through the complexities of family loyalty, self-identity, and the pursuit of knowledge. With themes of resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment, Educated is a captivating and inspiring read that will resonate with anyone on their own journey to becoming an adult.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Theo Decker, who survives a tragic terrorist attack at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The book explores Theo’s journey from adolescence to adulthood as he grapples with grief, guilt, and the complexities of life. The novel delves into themes of loss, love, friendship, and the search for identity, making it a poignant and thought-provoking read. Through rich prose and vivid storytelling, Tartt captures the essence of Theo’s tumultuous experiences, making The Goldfinch a compelling book on becoming an adult. The novel has garnered critical acclaim and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, solidifying its place as a modern classic and a must-read for anyone interested in a captivating book about becoming an adult.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful and gripping coming-of-age novel that follows sixteen-year-old Starr Carter as she navigates the complexities of race, identity, and community. When Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend at the hands of a police officer, she is thrust into the spotlight and must find her voice in the midst of overwhelming grief and injustice. The book delves into the tough choices that Starr must make as she grapples with the harsh realities of systemic racism and police brutality. Through her journey, readers will witness a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the challenges and complexities of growing up in a divided society. The Hate U Give is a poignant and timely story that offers a raw and unflinching look at the struggles and triumphs of coming of age.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a captivating novel that delves into the journey of self-discovery and healing. The story follows Eleanor, a socially awkward and isolated woman who has spent her life feeling like an outsider. As she navigates through her mundane routine, a chance encounter with a coworker and an unexpected friendship begins to unravel the complexities of her past and present. Through her unique voice and quirky observations, Eleanor’s story explores themes of loneliness, trauma, and the resilience of the human spirit. This poignant and heartwarming tale is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling book about becoming an adult that delves into the challenges and triumphs of personal growth and finding one’s place in the world.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a poignant coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of adolescence. The story follows Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager, as he navigates the challenges of high school, friendship, love, and loss. Through a series of letters to an anonymous friend, Charlie grapples with his own inner turmoil and the struggles of growing up. This raw and emotionally resonant book on becoming an adult captures the universal experience of finding one’s place in the world and the profound impact of human connection. With its honest portrayal of teenage angst and the quest for identity, this becoming an adult book is a compelling and relatable read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara is a captivating and heart-wrenching novel that delves into the lives of four college friends as they navigate the challenges and complexities of adulthood. The book follows the journey of these individuals as they grapple with their past traumas, forge deep connections, and confront the harsh realities of the world. Through beautiful prose and intricate character development, Yanagihara explores themes of friendship, love, and the enduring impact of childhood experiences. A Little Life is a poignant and powerful coming-of-age story that delves into the depths of human emotion and resilience, offering a compelling exploration of the struggles and triumphs that come with transitioning into adulthood.
The Bell Jar, written by Sylvia Plath, is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness, identity, and the pressures of adulthood. The story follows Esther Greenwood, a talented young woman navigating her way through the challenges of post-college life in the 1950s. As she grapples with societal expectations, relationships, and her own internal struggles, Esther’s journey is a raw and honest portrayal of the tumultuous process of growing up. The Bell Jar is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the transition from adolescence to adulthood, a powerful and compelling narrative that resonates with readers of all ages. Plath’s lyrical prose and insightful storytelling make this novel a timeless classic, offering a unique perspective on the universal theme of ‘book about becoming an adult’.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the rebellious and introspective teenager, Holden Caulfield, as he navigates the challenges of growing up. The story takes place over a few days in New York City, where Holden experiences a series of encounters and reflects on his past, present, and uncertain future. Through Holden’s candid and often cynical narration, the reader gains insight into the complexities of adolescence and the struggles of finding one’s identity in a world that seems phony and disingenuous. This timeless book about becoming an adult delves into themes of alienation, innocence, and the loss of childhood, making it a compelling and relatable read for anyone who has grappled with the uncertainties of becoming an adult.
The Secret History by Donna Tartt is a mesmerizing and darkly compelling novel about a group of college students who are drawn into a world of privilege, obsession, and ultimately, murder. Set in a small, elite New England college, the story follows the protagonist as he becomes embroiled in the lives of his enigmatic and eccentric classmates. As they delve deeper into the study of Greek classics, their bonds become increasingly intense and dangerous. The novel is a profound exploration of the complexities of friendship, the allure of power, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It is a gripping and thought-provoking book about becoming an adult, as the characters grapple with the harsh realities of the world and the weight of their own actions. The Secret History is a haunting and unforgettable journey into the dark side of becoming an adult.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a compelling novel about the journey of a young boy from childhood to adulthood. Set in Afghanistan, the story follows Amir, the protagonist, as he navigates through his guilt, betrayal, and redemption. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of growing up. It delves into the challenges and sacrifices one must face on the path to maturity, making it a powerful and emotional book on becoming an adult. The vivid storytelling and rich cultural backdrop make this novel a captivating and thought-provoking read, filled with moments of heartache and triumph. The Kite Runner is a poignant and unforgettable book about becoming an adult, portraying the universal struggles and triumphs of growing up.
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz is a captivating novel about the struggles of coming of age. Set in the Dominican Republic and the United States, the story follows the life of Oscar, a nerdy and overweight young man with a passion for science fiction and fantasy. As he navigates the complexities of love, identity, and family, the novel delves into the challenges of becoming an adult. Díaz weaves together history, myth, and pop culture to create a rich and immersive narrative that explores the impact of societal expectations and personal desires on the journey to adulthood. With vibrant prose and a unique blend of genres, this book about becoming an adult is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the universal quest for self-discovery and acceptance.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a heart-wrenching yet beautiful story about two teenagers, Hazel and Augustus, who meet and fall in love at a cancer support group. Their journey together takes them through the highs and lows of their illness, leading them to confront their mortality and learn important life lessons. This poignant and emotional novel explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of life, making it a powerful read for anyone on the cusp of adulthood. The book on becoming an adult tugs at the heartstrings as it delves into the struggles and triumphs of the characters, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on readers. Green’s writing is both humorous and profound, making this becoming an adult book a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and unforgettable story.
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of coming of age. Set in Tokyo during the late 1960s, the story follows Toru Watanabe as he navigates the challenges of love, loss, and self-discovery. The novel explores themes of maturity, identity, and the tumultuous journey from adolescence to adulthood. Murakami’s evocative prose and poignant storytelling offer a profound and introspective look at the universal experience of growing up. Through its rich character development and emotionally charged narrative, Norwegian Wood is a compelling exploration of the tumultuous journey into adulthood, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and thought-provoking book about becoming an adult.
On the Road by Jack Kerouac is a classic novel that follows the journey of Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty as they crisscross the United States in search of meaning, freedom, and adventure. This iconic novel captures the essence of the Beat Generation, portraying the restlessness and yearning for authenticity that defined the post-World War II era. As Sal and Dean embark on a series of road trips, they encounter a diverse cast of characters and experience a whirlwind of emotions, from euphoria to despair. Through their exhilarating and tumultuous travels, the novel explores themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and the search for identity. On the Road is a powerful coming-of-age story that resonates with readers who are on the cusp of adulthood, capturing the essence of the journey towards maturity and self-realization.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating and inspiring story about a young shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a journey to fulfill his personal legend. This timeless tale is more than just a simple adventure; it’s a profound book about becoming an adult and discovering one’s true purpose in life. Santiago’s quest for treasure takes him on a transformative journey across the desert, where he encounters various challenges and learns valuable lessons about perseverance, faith, and the power of following one’s dreams. Coelho’s storytelling is rich with wisdom and spiritual insights, making The Alchemist a thought-provoking and empowering read for anyone on their own journey of self-discovery and becoming an adult.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a captivating novel about the journey of a young man into adulthood. Dorian Gray, the protagonist, is a handsome and charming young man who becomes obsessed with the idea of eternal youth and beauty. As he indulges in a life of pleasure and excess, his portrait ages and reflects the moral decay of his soul, while he remains untouched by time. The novel delves into themes of vanity, morality, and the consequences of one’s actions. Through Dorian’s transformation, Wilde explores the complexities of self-discovery and the challenges of maturing into adulthood. This thought-provoking and haunting story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of superficiality and the pursuit of eternal youth. The Picture of Dorian Gray is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers as they navigate the journey of growing up.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is a powerful and moving novel that follows the life of Celie, a young African American girl growing up in the South in the early 20th century. The story is told through a series of letters written by Celie, as she navigates through a life filled with abuse, oppression, and heartache. As Celie grows older, she begins to find her own voice and strength, ultimately breaking free from the chains of her past and finding her own path to self-discovery and empowerment. This poignant and inspiring book about becoming an adult explores themes of resilience, identity, and the power of female relationships. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and transformative literary experience.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a classic novel about the coming of age of a group of teenagers in the 1960s. It follows the story of Ponyboy Curtis, a young greaser who is trying to find his place in the world while dealing with the challenges of growing up. The novel explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the struggle to find one’s own path in life. Set against the backdrop of gang rivalry and social class, The Outsiders is a timeless book about becoming an adult that resonates with readers of all ages. Hinton’s powerful storytelling and vivid characters make this a must-read for anyone navigating the complexities of adolescence and the journey toward independence and self-discovery.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the journey of Scout Finch as she navigates the complexities of growing up in the racially charged American South. The story is narrated through the eyes of Scout, who learns about empathy, morality, and the harsh realities of the world. The novel addresses themes of innocence, morality, and the loss of childhood as Scout and her brother Jem confront the harsh truths of the adult world. Through the character of their father, Atticus Finch, the novel also explores the idea of integrity and standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless tale of innocence lost and the complexities of becoming an adult.
Conclusion
Exploring the transition into adulthood through literature can be both enlightening and comforting. The 20 best books about Becoming An Adult offer valuable insights and diverse perspectives on this universal experience. Whether you’re navigating your own journey or seeking to understand others, these books provide a rich tapestry of wisdom and inspiration for the road ahead.
Which Becoming An Adult book is best?
The best book on Becoming An Adult can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Becoming An Adult?
For those looking to learn about Becoming An Adult, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Becoming An Adult are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Becoming An Adult books of all time?
Choosing the best Becoming An Adult books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
