10 Books Every Graduate Should Read

It’s college graduation season – that wonderful time of the year when we celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of college graduates, and look forward with eager anticipation to the futures they will create. 

Graduates of the Class of 2021 will take with them the unique experience of the past year – a year unlike any other in recent history, in so many ways.

Although no one could have predicted the impact COVID would have on the education of these graduates, I pray that their experience will make them more compassionate, more adaptable, and more resilient.

If we’ve been friends – or if you’ve followed me – for any length of time, then you know I always recommend money and a book for graduates. Money, because graduates can always use extra cash. And a book, because it just might change the graduate’s life.

You probably have some great book ideas. The world is filled with great books, and graduates would do well to continue reading, learning and growing. The two specific areas I recommend are personal development and personal finance. 

I believe these, along with relationship books, are the most important areas for young people to study. Strangely enough, these vitally important “life skills” are still largely absent from traditional education.

So, here’s my list. In addition to the books on success and money, I’ve added a few others that I believe should be read by everyone. Let me know what you think, and please suggest other books that should be added to the list.

Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill

The Magic of Thinking Big, by David J. Schwartz

Life Lessons: A Guide to Creating and Living Your Best Life, by Brian E. Bartes

(Yes, I am recommending my own book. I believe Life Lessons should be required reading for every graduate.)

How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Stephen R. Covey

The Cashflow Quadrant, by Robert Kiyosaki

The Millionaire Next Door, by Thomas J. Stanley

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, by Robert B. Cialdini  

Organizing Genius: The Secrets of Creative Collaboration, by Warren Bennis

Man’s Search for Meaning, by Viktor E. Frankl

Consider picking up a book this year for every graduate you know. Who knows, it might have a more profound impact on their lives than the traditional education they just completed!