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Top 10 Best Non-Fiction Reads Recommended by Real Students

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    1. Atomic Habits by James Clear
    This transformative guide delves into the science of habit formation and offers practical strategies to create positive and lasting changes. Clear's approach emphasizes the incremental power of small actions, demonstrating how tiny habits, when consistently practiced, can lead to significant personal and professional growth over time.

    What students are saying:
    "This book helped me reshape my mindset and habits." — Miracle O.

    "Master the art of small habits for big life changes." — Ehthadah H., Iowa

    "It provides great advice for pursuing and achieving goals." — Katherine H., Florida

    Author's education: Biomechanics: Denison University (Granville, OH)
  • 2. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
    This personal finance classic contrasts the financial philosophies of the author's "rich dad" and "poor dad." Through their differing approaches to money, assets, and investing, Kiyosaki imparts essential lessons about financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of building assets, passive income, and changing one's mindset to achieve greater financial independence.

    What students are saying:
    "I would recommend it to any friend who wants to gain a foundation in finance." — Ethan B., Pennsylvania

    "Literacy is the key to success not understood by most people." — Sarah L., Washington

    "It's great to help you become financially independent and pursue your actual dreams." — Arieanna N., Florida

    Author's education: United States Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, NY)
  • 3. The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
    This book explores the principles of power dynamics and manipulation throughout history. Learn concise strategies and anecdotes to navigate and understand the often complex and ruthless nature of power in various social, political, and interpersonal contexts.

    What students are saying:
    "The book focuses on laws that you can apply to your life." — Brad L., Utah

    "It's a strong tool to teach people how to be successful." — Brandon A. Jr., South Carolina

    "It teaches you how to think steps ahead in life." — Romanson S.

    Author's education: Classical Studies: University of Wisconsin—Madison (Madison, WI)
  • 4. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
    Noah's captivating memoir chronicles his upbringing in apartheid-era South Africa, where his existence as a mixed-race child of a Black mother and White father was considered illegal. He humorously and poignantly navigates his experiences of identity, resilience, and the complexities of race and culture under the backdrop of a deeply divided society.

    What students are saying:
    "It empowers people to face the challenges life throws at them." — Hannah E., Texas

    "It's a comedic yet sentimental book." — Anna R., Oregon

    "This book helps people be comfortable with themselves." — Zekel T., Florida

    Author's education: Maryvale College (Johannesburg, South Africa)
  • 5. Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom
    This heartwarming memoir recounts Albom's visits with his former college professor, Morrie Schwartz, during the last months of Morrie's life. Through their poignant conversations, Morrie imparts profound life lessons on topics like love, work, aging, and death as insights into living a meaningful and fulfilling life.

    What students are saying:
    "It reminds us to live." — Jennifer N., California

    "Wonderful book with excellent teachings and touches the heart." — Miranda L., Texas

    "It changed my life by showing me the real importance of love." — Caitlyn M., New York

    Author's education: Sociology: Brandeis University (Waltham, MA)
  • 6. Educated by Tara Westover
    This compelling memoir details Westover's childhood in a strict, isolated survivalist family in rural Idaho and her pursuit of education against tremendous odds. It explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of education and finding one's own path in the world.

    What students are saying:
    "It truly changed the way I view the world." — Bryson J., Arizona

    "A life experience complete with trauma, curiosity, and liberation." — Gabrielle K.

    "There is a valuable message that freedom is found through knowledge." — Ayisha N., Pennsylvania

    Author's education: History: Brigham Young University—Provo (Provo, UT)
  • 7. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
    This timeless self-help classic offers practical advice on effective communication, building relationships, and winning people over to your perspective. Drawing on principles of empathy, genuine interest, and positive reinforcement, it provides actionable strategies to enhance interpersonal skills and achieve personal and professional success.

    What students are saying:
    "Following practices in this book reduced my social anxiety." — Wang N., California

    "This book changed my life and can change yours too." — Aaron C., New York

    "It's a great book to read as college prep." — Aubree B., California

    Author's education: Warrensburg Teacher's College: University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg, MO)
  • 8. Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins
    In this motivational memoir, Goggins recounts his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood and obesity to becoming a Navy SEAL, ultra-endurance athlete, and motivational speaker. His story inspires readers to push past mental barriers, embrace discomfort, and cultivate a relentless mindset to achieve their fullest potential.

    What students are saying:
    "It's all about self-improvement and the effort you can truly give." — Evan S., North Carolina

    "This book is about finding your true limits in life." — Cody L., South Carolina

    "A remarkable memoir that will leave you inspired and motivated." — Mason D., Nevada

    Author's training: Navy Seals
  • 9. Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
    This powerful memoir sheds light on systemic injustices within the criminal justice system, focusing on Stevenson's experiences as a lawyer advocating for marginalized individuals, particularly those facing wrongful convictions and harsh sentences. The book poignantly highlights the urgent need for compassion, reform, and equity in the pursuit of true justice.

    What students are saying:
    "It's an exposé of our flawed justice system, inspiring compassion and calling for change." — Abena S., New York

    "It forces you to re-examine your worldview and the US justice system." — Tirza P., California

    Author's education: Philosophy: Eastern University (St. Davids, PA)
  • 10. When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
    In this poignant memoir by a neurosurgeon diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, Kalanithi grapples with his own mortality and strives to find meaning in the face of death. The book chronicles his reflections on life, mortality, and the intersection of medicine and the human experience.

    What students are saying:
    "It portrays the struggles and victories associated with the life of a doctor." — Aderinsola A.

    "Thought-provoking, sad, but forces introspection." — Elizabeth B., Georgia

    "A memoir so gripping, I finished it on a two-hour bus ride." — Maria A., Washington

    Author's education: English Literature and Human Biology: Stanford University (Stanford, CA)

Source: CX Student Users

The Best Non-Fiction Reads, Recommended by Real College Students

College students are some of the most voracious readers, constantly seeking out books that not only entertain but also offer new ways of thinking about the world. While classic literature and academic texts fill their syllabi, many students turn to non-fiction to gain practical skills, find inspiration, or simply broaden their horizons. This list of recommended reads comes directly from the students themselves, showcasing the books that have had a real and lasting impact on their lives and mindsets.

Many of the top picks focus on self-improvement and practical knowledge, offering tools for navigating life's challenges. James Clear's Atomic Habits is a recurring favorite, praised by one student for helping them "reshape my mindset and habits." This book's focus on small, incremental changes resonates deeply with students striving for success in a busy academic environment. Another popular choice is Robert Kiyosaki's Rich Dad Poor Dad, which provides a foundational look at personal finance—a topic often overlooked in high school. One student noted it was a great recommendation for anyone who "wants to gain a foundation in finance."

Students also gravitate toward memoirs and stories that offer unique perspectives on the human experience. Trevor Noah's Born a Crime is celebrated for its blend of humor and poignant commentary on race and identity, with one student calling it "a comedic yet sentimental book." Similarly, Mitch Albom's Tuesdays With Morrie is a timeless classic that resonates with readers of all ages. One student noted that the heartwarming memoir "reminds us to live," highlighting its powerful and emotional impact.

Ultimately, this student-curated list proves that non-fiction books are anything but boring. They offer a window into different worlds, provide actionable advice, and inspire a deeper understanding of ourselves and others.

List produced by the Users . Want more information on how this list was compiled? Find out more about where our Lists & Rankings come from.

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