20 Adulthood Best Books to Read – The 2024 Edition

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Educated

by Tara Westover

Educated by Tara Westover is a captivating memoir that documents the author’s journey from a childhood in rural Idaho, where she was raised by survivalist parents and had no formal education, to ultimately earning a PhD from Cambridge University. The book is a powerful exploration of resilience, the pursuit of knowledge, and the complexities of family dynamics. It delves into the challenges and triumphs of breaking away from the constraints of one’s upbringing and forging a new path in the world. Westover’s story is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of education and the resilience of the human spirit. This adulthood book is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone seeking to understand the complexities of family, self-discovery, and the pursuit of knowledge.

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Normal People

by Sally Rooney

Normal People by Sally Rooney is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of growing up and navigating relationships. Set in Ireland, the story follows the intertwined lives of Connell and Marianne as they journey through their teenage years into adulthood. Rooney’s insightful exploration of the characters’ emotional and psychological development makes this book about adulthood a compelling read. The author skillfully captures the challenges and intricacies of young love, friendship, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. With its raw and honest portrayal of the human experience, Normal People is a thought-provoking and poignant reflection on the universal themes of identity, intimacy, and the pursuit of connection in the modern world.

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The Immortalists

by Chloe Benjamin

The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin is a captivating and thought-provoking book on adulthood that follows the lives of four siblings who, as children, visit a fortune teller who reveals the dates of their deaths. The novel delves into themes of destiny, choice, and the pursuit of immortality, as each sibling grapples with the knowledge of their supposed expiration date. Set against the backdrop of New York City from the 1960s to the present day, this adulthood book explores the complexities of family, love, and the passage of time. With lyrical prose and deeply human characters, Benjamin weaves a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences, inviting readers to ponder their own relationship with mortality and the choices that shape their lives. The Immortalists offers a poignant and compelling reflection on the trials and triumphs of adulthood.

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A Little Life

by Hanya Yanagihara

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara is a powerful and heartbreaking novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the enduring impact of trauma. At its core, this is a book about adulthood, following the lives of four college friends as they navigate the challenges of growing up, pursuing their careers, and forming deep connections with each other. The story primarily focuses on the enigmatic and troubled Jude, whose traumatic past continues to haunt him well into his adult life. Yanagihara’s prose is both raw and poetic, drawing readers into the characters’ innermost thoughts and emotions. Through its exploration of friendship, love, and the enduring effects of trauma, A Little Life is a poignant and unforgettable portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of adulthood.

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The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a gripping coming-of-age novel that follows the life of Theo Decker after a tragic accident changes the course of his life. The novel delves into themes of maturity, growing up, and the complexities of navigating the adult world. As Theo grapples with the aftermath of the accident, he becomes entangled in the underground art world, grappling with themes of responsibility, identity, and the search for meaning. The novel is a poignant exploration of the challenges and complexities of entering into the world of grown-ups. Tartt’s rich and evocative prose paints a vivid picture of Theo’s journey through adulthood, making The Goldfinch a compelling and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in a book about adulthood.

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The Interestings

by Meg Wolitzer

The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer is a captivating book about adulthood that follows a group of friends from their teenage years at an artsy summer camp to their adult lives in New York City. The novel explores the complexities of friendship, ambition, talent, and the passage of time. As the characters navigate the ups and downs of their careers, relationships, and personal growth, they grapple with the challenges and disappointments that come with adulthood.

Wolitzer’s compelling storytelling and keen observations make The Interestings a thought-provoking and relatable read for anyone who has experienced the complexities and uncertainties of adulthood. The novel delves into the universal themes of identity, success, and the enduring power of friendship, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a poignant and insightful exploration of the journey from youth to adulthood.

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The Great Believers

by Rebecca Makkai

The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai is a poignant and powerful novel that delves into the lives of a group of friends affected by the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, and how their experiences shape their adulthood. The story is divided into two timelines, following the characters as they navigate the devastation of the epidemic and its aftermath, as well as the impact it has on their lives years later. Makkai expertly weaves together themes of loss, resilience, and the enduring bonds of friendship, creating a deeply moving portrayal of the human experience. This adulthood book explores the complexities of growing up and facing the challenges that life throws our way, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in stories of resilience and the human spirit.

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The Signature of All Things

by Elizabeth Gilbert

The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert is a captivating novel that delves into the journey of self-discovery and growth. It follows the life of Alma Whittaker, a brilliant botanist whose passion for the natural world leads her on a path of exploration and enlightenment. As Alma navigates the complexities of love, family, and ambition, the novel beautifully captures the essence of maturity and self-realization. Gilbert’s rich and vivid storytelling immerses readers in Alma’s world, as she grapples with the challenges and joys of adulthood. The book on adulthood is a profound and thought-provoking exploration of human nature, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge. With its lush prose and compelling characters, The Signature of All Things is a must-read for anyone seeking a poignant and insightful adulthood book.

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The Marriage Plot

by Jeffrey Eugenides

The Marriage Plot by Jeffrey Eugenides is a captivating book about adulthood that follows the lives of three college graduates as they navigate love, literature, and the complexities of growing up. Set in the 1980s, the novel delves into the intricate dynamics of relationships, self-discovery, and the pursuit of purpose. Madeleine, Leonard, and Mitchell each grapple with their own personal challenges and desires, making the story a rich exploration of the complexities of adulthood. With elegant prose and keen insight, Eugenides crafts a compelling narrative that delves into the universal themes of identity, ambition, and the search for meaning. The Marriage Plot is a thought-provoking and poignant portrayal of the tumultuous journey from youth to adulthood.

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The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a poignant and gripping book about adulthood. Set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, it follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they navigate the challenges of love, loss, and survival. The sisters’ contrasting personalities and choices in the face of adversity make for a compelling and emotional read. Through their experiences, the novel delves into the complexities of maturity, resilience, and the sacrifices made during wartime. Hannah’s evocative storytelling and rich historical detail immerse readers in the sisters’ struggles and triumphs, making The Nightingale a powerful exploration of adulthood and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

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The Light We Lost

by Jill Santopolo

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo is a captivating and emotional adulthood book that follows the lives of Lucy and Gabe, two college students who meet on September 11, 2001, and are instantly drawn to each other. Over the years, their lives take different paths, but they can’t seem to forget each other. The novel explores the complexities of love, timing, and the choices we make as we navigate through the challenges and triumphs of adulthood. Santopolo’s poignant storytelling and vivid characters will keep readers hooked from the first page to the last, making this a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and evocative book about adulthood.

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The Nest

by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney is a compelling book about adulthood that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, financial struggles, and the pursuit of individual dreams. The story revolves around the Plumb siblings who are eagerly awaiting their inheritance, known as “The Nest,” to solve their respective problems. However, when their reckless brother jeopardizes the fund, they are forced to confront their own insecurities and reevaluate their relationships with each other. Through her vivid storytelling, Sweeney offers a poignant exploration of sibling rivalry, personal growth, and the inherent messiness of adulthood. The novel skillfully captures the universal experiences of navigating family expectations and the challenges of finding one’s own path in life. With its relatable characters and insightful narrative, The Nest is a captivating read that resonates with anyone grappling with the complexities of adulthood.

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The Girls

by Emma Cline

The Girls by Emma Cline is a compelling coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of growing up and the allure of adulthood. Set in the late 1960s, the story follows Evie Boyd, a young girl who becomes entangled in a cult reminiscent of the Manson Family. Through Evie’s eyes, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, desire, and the search for identity. Cline’s lyrical prose and vivid imagery capture the tumultuous emotions and experiences of adolescence, making this a captivating read for anyone interested in a poignant exploration of the transition to maturity. This book about adulthood offers a profound reflection on the trials and tribulations of youth, and the universal longing for belonging and purpose.

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The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a powerful and gripping novel that follows the journey of a young woman named Cora as she escapes from a life of slavery on a Georgia plantation. The novel reimagines the historical underground railroad as a literal network of underground tracks and tunnels, adding a surreal and magical element to the story. As Cora travels through different states, she encounters various characters and experiences both hope and despair. This poignant and thought-provoking book about adulthood delves into themes of freedom, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. Whitehead’s vivid and evocative writing brings Cora’s story to life, making it a compelling and unforgettable read that will stay with you long after you finish the last page.

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The Rosie Project

by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion is a humorous and heartwarming book about adulthood. The story follows Don Tillman, a brilliant but socially awkward genetics professor who decides it’s time to find a wife. He creates a detailed questionnaire to find the perfect partner, but his methodical approach to love leads to unexpected and comical results. When Rosie, a spontaneous and unpredictable woman, enters his life, Don’s carefully planned existence is turned upside down. As they embark on the “Wife Project” together, Don begins to learn about the complexities of relationships and the unpredictability of love. The novel is a delightful exploration of love, acceptance, and the challenges of navigating adulthood. With its endearing characters and charming narrative, The Rosie Project is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and entertaining story about the complexities of relationships and the journey through adulthood.

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The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is a poignant and heart-wrenching novel about two teenagers, Hazel and Gus, who meet at a cancer support group. As they navigate the complexities of living with illness, they form a deep and meaningful connection that transcends their circumstances. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the struggles of coming of age in the face of adversity. It’s a deeply moving and thought-provoking book about adulthood, as the characters grapple with the realities of mortality and the complexities of growing up. John Green’s exquisite prose and authentic portrayal of the teenage experience make this a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and emotionally resonant story.

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The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of life in 1960s Mississippi. Through the eyes of three women – two African American maids and a young white woman – the book explores the challenges, injustices, and triumphs of adulthood in a deeply segregated society. As the women come together to challenge the status quo, they form an unlikely bond that transcends societal norms. The novel highlights the themes of resilience, empowerment, and the struggle for equality, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in a thought-provoking book about adulthood. Stockett’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make The Help an unforgettable journey into the lives of these women and the tumultuous era in which they lived.

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The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a powerful and moving novel that delves into the complexities of growing up and coming of age. Set in Afghanistan, the story follows the protagonist, Amir, as he navigates the challenges of his childhood and adolescence, grappling with feelings of guilt, betrayal, and redemption.

Hosseini’s poignant narrative explores themes of maturation, self-discovery, and the impact of one’s choices on the trajectory of their life. The novel vividly captures the tumultuous political and social landscape of Afghanistan, providing a rich backdrop for the characters’ personal journeys.

With its evocative storytelling and deeply human characters, The Kite Runner is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant book about the passage into adulthood, offering profound insights into the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of forgiveness.

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The Secret Life of Bees

by Sue Monk Kidd

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a poignant coming-of-age novel that delves into the complexities of growing up. Set in the 1960s, the story follows a young girl named Lily Owens as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and understanding. After escaping her troubled home life, Lily finds solace in the company of three beekeeping sisters who take her under their wing. As she immerses herself in their world, she learns valuable lessons about love, forgiveness, and the power of female friendship. Through the backdrop of the civil rights movement, the novel explores themes of maturity, independence, and the search for identity. The Secret Life of Bees is a heartwarming and insightful portrayal of the trials and tribulations of adulthood.

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The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist is a captivating and philosophical book about the journey of self-discovery and personal legend. Written by Paulo Coelho, it tells the story of Santiago, a young shepherd who embarks on a quest to find a hidden treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. Throughout his journey, Santiago learns valuable life lessons about following his dreams, overcoming obstacles, and embracing the unknown. The book is a timeless and thought-provoking tale that delves into themes of destiny, fulfillment, and the pursuit of one’s true purpose. It is a compelling and inspiring read that resonates with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their own personal journey through life.