Navigating your 20s can feel like being handed the keys to a car without much instruction on how to drive. It’s a time of exploration and confusion, where you’re stepping into adulthood, balancing newfound independence with a whole lot of uncertainty.
One of the best ways to navigate this phase is through books—books that offer guidance, relatable stories, and sometimes a much-needed escape. Whether you’re figuring out your purpose, navigating love, or just trying to be kinder to yourself, these books can be your go-to companions, offering insights and lessons that make this rollercoaster of a decade a little less dizzying.
You don’t have to have it all figured out
I know it may look like everyone around you has already gotten their shit together. However, you’re still young, and your 20s are about learning, growing, and allowing yourself the space to evolve.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of personal growth, fiction, and inspiration, all curated to help you carve out your path with more clarity and confidence. Life in your 20s may be unpredictable, but the right book can make it feel a little more manageable.
Best books to read in your 20’
Here are a few highly recommended books for women in their 20s that address self-discovery, personal growth, and navigating the challenges of early adulthood:
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
This book explores the idea of living out your “what-ifs” in parallel lives through the character Nora Seed. It’s a deeply moving story about regrets, possibilities, and ultimately choosing to embrace the life you’re in. Perfect for when you’re feeling lost or unsure, this book gives perspective on how every choice shapes your story.
Educated by Tara Westover
A memoir about a woman’s journey from an isolated, survivalist family to earning her doctorate at Cambridge. It’s a powerful reminder that education, in any form, is transformative. Westover’s raw story of self-invention shows that no matter where you start, you can decide where you go.
You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
This amazing encouraging boosting book is a blend of humor and tough love. It’s a pep talk and self-help guide all in one, encouraging readers to break out of self-doubt and embrace their potential. Sincero’s message is clear: you are a badass, and it’s time to start living like it.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson
Are you an overthinker? This book may be just right for you. It focuses on what truly matters and encourages readers to stop pretending everything’s fine when it isn’t. It’s an essential read for when life in your 20s feels overwhelming. It teaches that life is about choosing better problems to care about.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed
If you haven’t heard about Cheryl Strayed, maybe it’s about time you would. This book is a memoir about a solo journey through the wilderness. After personal tragedies leave her feeling lost, Strayed confronts her pain and rediscovers her strength. This book is about finding clarity and purpose amid life’s challenges.
And if you loved the book, you might want to check out Cheryl’s podcast too. Co-hosted with Steve Almond, “Dear Sugars” offers heartfelt advice to listeners letters with empathy and insight.
These books not only entertain but also provide inspiration, guidance, and a sense of connection as you navigate life’s twists and turns in your 20s.
