How to Find Good Books to Read in College

It's hard to read books as a college student.

Reading is very important. By the time you’re in college, people will remind you to read wherever you go. But the hard part for college students is to actually find a book worth reading. Then, taking some time to read it. And lastly, having the will to continue reading. 

It’s easy to do this when you have the time, but us college students already have to read textbooks and excerpts from other classes. This can be quite daunting.

But no worries. Here are some things I picked up from some really smart people that changed the way I read books.

Be selective in what you read

It’s very EASY to read about things you’re already interested in. Remember this. Sometimes, people get carried away and try to read everything that other people recommend. Put simply, if it’s not interesting to you, don’t read it. There’s a big chance that you won’t finish the book at all (especially in college). 

Look at the 3 and 4-star ratings on Amazon

Looking at the Amazon ratings of a book is a really good way to tell if it’s good or not. If it’s close to a 5 star, then that’s an indicator you should probably give it a shot. But don’t just depend on the overall star ratings. Also, look at what other people are saying. Particularly, you should read ratings from people who gave 3 and 4 stars. These are the people who really thought about their ratings, so rest assured, they’ll probably be the most objective.

You don’t have to finish the book

Finally, you’re ready to read the book. You read the first couple of pages and are contemplating whether to read more or not. Here’s a good rule of thumb for how many pages you should read before calling it quits.

100 - your age = # of pages you should read before stopping

It’s okay to stop reading a book. If it’s not interesting, then put it down. Don’t force yourself to finish it. Some of the best authors in the world like Tim Ferris (Author of The 4-Hour Work Week) and Ryan Holiday (Ego is the Enemy), know this by heart. 

While in college, read things that challenge your values and beliefs

While you’re in college, it’s really important that you learn to think for yourself. This is going to be one of the most important skills you’ll ever develop. So, try to read books that challenge your values and go against your beliefs. You’ll be forced to form your own opinions and learn very interesting things about yourself. I promise. 

Takeaway

• Don’t read just to read. Be selective about what you read. 

• Look at 3 and 4-star ratings on Amazon to get an objective view on the book

• Use Goodreads’ top quote feature to get a trailer of the book

• Not all books are meant to be read to the last page. 

• Remember to read books that challenge your values and beliefs

Bonus: Use this website which tells you how long it will take you to read a book

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Resources of the Week

• How Long to Read - Website that tells you how long to read a book

• Management Leaders for Tomorrow - Diversity career prep program that lands students in top companies

• Sapiens - A very interesting book about the brief history of humankind to get you started

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