7. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
This classic revolves around the societal norms and romantic entanglements of the Bennet family, particularly focusing on the spirited Elizabeth and the enigmatic Mr. Darcy as they navigate misunderstandings and societal expectations on the path to love and understanding in early 19th-century England. The novel explores themes of class, marriage, and individual character while delivering a timeless story of love and self-discovery.
What students are saying:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged that Pride and Prejudice is the perfect romantic summer getaway." — Adriana R., Texas
"It taught me that a sense of self-worth is a powerful tool." — Emma M., Ohio
"It's fun to read and a great way to start reading classics." — Lindsey B., Ohio
8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
This epistolary novel follows the experiences of Charlie, a socially awkward teenager who navigates high school life by observing and writing letters to an anonymous friend. Through these letters, Charlie explores themes of friendship, mental health, and self-discovery as he becomes a part of a close-knit group of misfit friends and confronts his troubled past.
What students are saying:
"This book had me smiling and sobbing...but in a good way." — Giovanna M., Texas
"A heartbreakingly beautiful portrayal of the vulnerability of youth." — Kate F., Massachusetts
"It may seem simplistic but the book has great values." — Mya B.M., Texas
Author's education: Film Writing and Screenwriting: University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)
9. The Giver by Lois Lowry
In this dystopian novel about a seemingly perfect but highly controlled society, a young man is chosen to inherit the memories of the past from the Giver. As 12-year-old Jonas discovers the dark truths behind his community's facade of sameness and conformity, he embarks on a journey to escape its constraints and bring about change.
What students are saying:
"The book is insightful on the importance of freedom and choice." — Jiyi L., Texas
"It changed my genre preference and has unexpected plot twists!" — Carly K., Minnesota
"I am not much of a reader, so if I like it, it must be good." — Emma W., Tennessee
Author's education: English Literature: University of Southern Maine (Gorham, ME)
10. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
Follow the story of a disenchanted and jaded teenager who embarks on a journey of self-discovery in New York City. Grappling with the phoniness of the adult world and his own sense of alienation, Holden Caulfield's narrative voice provides an intimate and poignant exploration of teenage angst and the search for authenticity.
What students are saying:
"It illustrates the questions of identity among youth." — Nina B., Michigan
"Nothing says summer quite like the boredom, depression, and teenage angst of this book." — Grace Y., Pennsylvania
"This resonates with many teens who grow up and see the harsh reality of society." — Edgar C., Illinois
Author's education: Non-graduate: New York University (New York, NY)
Source:
CX Student Users
About This List
We asked the CollegeXpress student community what book they’d recommend to a friend to read in 2023, and we were blown away by the number of responses we received. We couldn’t keep these amazing books just between us, bestie. We had to share them with you! Out of 15,500+ entries, these are the top 10 best classic and modern classic fiction books recommended by students like you (or maybe even you, yourself). Check out which titles made the cut, where their authors went to college, who achieved success without a formal education, and why students are raving about these stories to help you decide what you’re adding to your reading list.
Classics not your genre? Don’t worry! We also have lists of the Top 10 Best Non-Fiction Reads and the Top 15 Most Popular Fiction Books Recommended by Real Students if those are more your literary style. And keep an eye out for more one-question scholarships and surveys from CX for a chance to get a recommendation of yours added to a future list!
List produced by the Users . Want more information on how this list was compiled? Find out more about where our Lists & Rankings come from.
