Gretchen Rubin’s Recommendations: Book Gifts for New Grads

It’s graduation season. Here are some of my favorite books for any of the graduates in your life–or for yourself.

This post includes products that I believe in and love myself. It also includes affiliate links, meaning I will receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase from these links. This never comes at any cost to you. 

by Dr. Seuss

The classic book to give a graduate–I love the whimsy and nostalgia. I can still remember when I first read this book. 

by Raffi Grinberg

Based on the wildly popular “Adulting 101” course at Boston College, this book will teach you everything you probably didn’t learn in your formal education. 

by Ann Patchett

“‘What now?’ represents our excitement and our future, the very vitality of life.” In this book from her Sarah Lawrence commencement speech, renowned novelist Ann Patchett highlights the possibilities of the unknown.

by Meg Jay

A listener suggested that I read this book about the 20-something decade, and I did–and I loved it. More significant: my 20-something daughter Eliza also loved it, and has given it to several friends.

by Richard N. Bolles

This classic has been in print for decades. It gives you tools to discover the work, and life, most meaningful to you.

by Suzy Welch

This book helps you understand yourself–your values, your aptitudes, and your interests. Self-knowledge is essential if you want to build a meaningful life.

by Gretchen Rubin

In this short book, I write the “secrets of adulthood” that I’ve learned, through time and experience, about dealing with the perplexities of life.

by Priya Parker

Community and friendships are a key pillar to happiness. This book provides a guide to elevate every gathering.

by Roger Fisher, William Ury, Bruce Patton

Learning to work with other people is a critical part of life and it’ll be even easier with practical tips to prevent and resolve any conflicts that arise.

by Dan Pink

Understanding what motivates you is key to figuring out how to live a happy life.

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