7 Books To Help Navigate Your 20’s
Your 20s can feel like a whirlwind—trying to figure out careers, relationships, and your own sense of self, all while navigating the chaos of adulthood. It's a decade full of excitement, mistakes, and endless lessons, and what better way to find guidance (or a bit of solidarity) than through books? From heartfelt advice to relatable stories, there are some absolute gems out there that can offer just the right kind of comfort or inspiration. So, grab a cuppa and settle in—we've rounded up seven brilliant books to read in your 20s that will help you make sense of it all.
This book is an absolute game-changer and a life-changing book to read in your 20s.
This decade often comes with juggling friendships, work, family, and personal goals, and it can be all too easy to let boundaries slip. Nedra’s no-nonsense yet compassionate approach to setting healthy limits is like having a wise friend guide you through the art of saying “no” without guilt and “yes” to what truly matters.
Packed with practical tips and real-life examples, this book will empower you to prioritise your own needs, build stronger relationships, and find the peace you didn’t even realise you were missing. Trust me, it’s a must-read for anyone trying to create a balanced, fulfilling life.
This novel is a profound, emotionally charged novel that will completely envelop you in its world.
It follows the lives of four college friends—Jude, Willem, Malcolm, and JB—as they navigate the twists and turns of adulthood in New York City. While the story begins with a focus on their collective bond, it gradually hones in on Jude, whose mysterious past and quiet suffering become the emotional core of the narrative. This is not just a story of friendship; it’s a deep dive into trauma, love, resilience, and the impact our relationships have on our lives.
This is truly a life changing book to read in your 20s because it challenges you to confront the raw, messy, and often painful realities of life while appreciating the immense capacity for hope and resilience. Yanagihara’s beautiful prose invites readers to experience a story that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable, leaving you with a renewed perspective on the relationships and moments that shape who we are. It’s the kind of book that changes you, making it a must-read for anyone looking to embrace life in all its highs and lows.
Stay True is a deeply moving memoir that captures the bittersweet essence of friendship, loss, and self-discovery.
Set against the backdrop of 1990s college life, this book beautifully explores the bonds we form during our younger years and how they shape us in unexpected ways. Hsu’s writing is heartfelt and reflective, making it a perfect book to navigate your 20s. It reminds us to cherish the connections we make, even as we grapple with the ever-changing nature of adulthood.
What makes this book so powerful is how relatable it feels—those years when everything feels at once overwhelming and exhilarating, when the people you meet can change your entire outlook on life. Hsu’s reflections on culture, loss, and self-discovery resonate deeply, reminding us of the value of connection and the lessons we learn through love and loss. If you're searching for a thoughtful, heartfelt read that speaks to the highs and lows of your 20s, this is the kind of book that will linger in your heart long after you’ve closed the cover.
This is the kind of book that gently guides you through one of the most transformative times in your life: your 20s.
The Pivot Year is like a daily companion, offering 365 meditations that encourage you to embrace the process of change and growth. This book is perfect for anyone in their 20s who feels caught between where they are now and where they want to be. It’s a gentle reminder that the person you're striving to become is already within you; it's just about having the courage to act on what your heart knows. Wiest doesn’t just give advice—she provides thoughtful reflections for every day of the year, making it an ideal book to read in your 20s when you’re navigating life’s big shifts.
It’s a beautifully crafted guide that helps you build the confidence to trust yourself and take the steps necessary to become the person you've always wanted to be. Whether you’re tackling career choices, relationships, or your own sense of self, this book will give you the encouragement and clarity you need to embrace your own pivot and trust the journey ahead.
Now, this is the kind of book that feels like having a heart-to-heart with your best mate, complete with all the laughs, eye-rolls, and moments of profound realisation.
In this memoir, Alderton beautifully reflects on her experiences with love, friendships, and the chaos of navigating your 20s. From the disastrous dates and messy breakups to the deep and lasting bonds that shape us, Alderton’s honesty and vulnerability are both refreshing and comforting. She doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff, but she also celebrates the joy and the wild freedom that come with this decade of life. It’s packed with lessons about self-love, personal growth, and the importance of the people we surround ourselves with.
If you're trying to figure out relationships, your career, or just life in general, Everything I Know About Love is a must-read book to read in your 20s.
If you're looking for a book to read in your 20s that offers real, no-nonsense wisdom, 101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think is a must.
This collection of thought-provoking essays delves into everything from understanding your emotions to building better habits, all while challenging the way you approach life. What makes this book so special is its ability to break down complex concepts into digestible, bite-sized pieces, making it perfect for those moments when you need a mental reset. Each essay feels like a mini pep talk, giving you fresh perspectives on topics like self-worth, relationships, and personal growth.
Whether you're grappling with big life decisions, looking for direction, or simply want to expand your mindset, this book is an invaluable resource. It's a perfect companion for anyone looking to navigate the ups and downs of their 20s with a clearer, more confident outlook on life.
In this book, Dolly Alderton draws from her popular agony aunt column in The Sunday Times Style, offering advice that's both comforting and insightful.
This book is a must-read in your 20s, as it tackles everything from breakups and body image to navigating friendships, dating, and the chaos of social media. What makes it truly special is Dolly’s ability to approach each topic with warmth, humour, and a refreshing lack of judgement. Her personal experiences and empathetic responses create a sense of camaraderie, reminding us that no matter the situation, we’re all in this together. It’s like having a wise, witty friend to guide you through the maze of adulthood—making it an essential read for anyone looking for a bit of clarity and reassurance in their twenties.
Navigating your 20s can feel like a rollercoaster, but thankfully, there are books to help you ride out the highs and lows with a bit more ease and understanding. Whether you're looking for wisdom on love, life, or friendship, these seven books offer something for every moment—whether you need a bit of guidance, a good laugh, or simply some reassurance that you're not alone. So, why not pick one up and dive in? These reads will not only make your 20s a little bit clearer, but they'll also remind you that it's all part of the journey, and you're doing just fine.
P.S. Ladies, if you’re looking for more reading recommendations then check out the links below.