As graduation season approaches, we're reminded that the journey of learning is lifelong and boundless. While graduates embark on new adventures, the pursuit of knowledge remains a timeless pursuit for all. In celebration of this milestone, we've curated a selection of books to inspire continued learning and personal growth.
As we honor our graduates, we offer these recommendations as tokens of wisdom and inspiration. Each book represents a broad topic, intended to spark curiosity and fuel the thirst for knowledge. Remember, these are merely starting points—a glimpse into the vast world of literature awaiting exploration. Let your imagination roam as you share the gift of reading with others.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. - 2 Timothy 2:15
The Illuminated Bible ESV version, illustrated by Dana Tanamachi
The ESV Illuminated Bible places the full ESV text alongside over 500 elegantly hand-lettered gold ink illustrations by renowned artist Dana Tanamachi. Printed on thick cream-colored paper, the Bible's single-column text setting and wide margins provide generous space for additional notes, prayers, and designs—inviting readers to creatively engage with and reflect on the beauty of God's Word (from the publisher).
Curious if this is a good translation for you? We highly recommend this article. Ambre personally uses the First Nations Version and really wishes it had more than just a New Testament available.
The Other Half of Church: Christian Community, Brain Science, and Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation by Jim and Michel Hendricks
Could brain science be the key to spiritual formation? Why does true Christian transformation seem fleeting? And why does church often feel lonely, Christian community shallow, and leaders untrustworthy? For many Christians, the delight of encountering Christ eventually dwindles—and disappointment sets in. Is lasting joy possible? These are some of the questions Michel Hendricks has considered both in his experience as a spiritual formation pastor and in his lifetime as a Christian. He began to find answers when he met Jim Wilder, a neurotheologian. Using brain science, Wilder identified that there are two halves of the church: the rational half and the relational half. And when Christians only embrace the rational half, churches become unhealthy places where transformation doesn’t last and narcissistic leaders flourish (from the publisher).
Rules for a Knight by Ethan Hawke
Ethan Hawke invites readers on a journey of introspection and growth, delving into the timeless virtues and principles that shape our lives. With wisdom that transcends gender, his words resonate deeply, inspiring both men and women to embrace a life of purpose and meaning.
Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler, MHP
This insightful guide empowers women with essential knowledge about their bodies, fertility, and reproductive health. Offering invaluable tools and strategies, it equips women with the confidence to take control and make informed decisions, fostering a sense of empowerment and well-being.
Real Sex: The Naked Truth About Chastity by Lauren F. Winner
In Real Sex, author Lauren F. Winner tackles the topic of sexual chastity from a Christian perspective, drawing from her own experiences and struggles with celibacy. With refreshing honesty and wit, she delves into the challenges of maintaining sexual purity in today's culture, grounding her discussion firmly in Scripture. Winner addresses cultural misconceptions about sex and offers biblically grounded insights and suggestions, particularly valuable for unmarried Christians navigating the complexities of modern sexuality. As someone who read this book at twenty and wept, I found it to be everything I wish I'd been handed at 16 instead of the damaging Purity Culture books I read like Beautiful Girlhood and I Kissed Dating Goodbye.
Good to Great by Jim Collins
"Greatness is not a function of circumstance. Greatness, it turns out, is largely a matter of conscious choice." - Jim Collins
In this seminal work on leadership, Collins presents research-based principles that distinguish good companies from great ones. A must-read for aspiring leaders, this classic offers invaluable insights into the strategies and characteristics that drive organizational excellence.
Scaling People: Tactics for Management and Company Building by Claire Hughes Johnson
Ambre has been thoroughly engrossed in this impressive tome, despite its substantial length of 480 pages. This highly accessible guide to collaboration and entrepreneurship proves to be a delightful read, making it an ideal gift for anyone navigating the world of business or considering the entrepreneurial path.
Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828 Facsimile Edition
word: noun
1: a speech sound or series of speech sounds that symbolizes and communicates a meaning usually without being divisible into smaller units capable of independent use
Every home should have a dictionary, even in today's digital age. While it may seem redundant with the abundance of online resources, when the zombie apocalypse strikes, word nerds will be grateful to have this essential tool to aid in rebuilding civilization. With its clear definitions and straightforward black-and-white text, a dictionary becomes an invaluable asset in times of need.
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
“There is a difference between being poor and being broke. Broke is temporary. Poor is eternal.” - Robert T. Kiyosaki
"Rich Dad, Poor Dad" chronicles the contrasting teachings of two father figures, each imparting valuable lessons on mindset and financial literacy essential for achieving success and prosperity in life. Through this compelling narrative, readers are guided on a transformative journey toward building wealth and cultivating the mindset needed to thrive.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
“Decide the type of person you want to be. Prove it to yourself with small wins.” - James Clear
Atomic Habits offers a transformative perspective on the power of habits in shaping our lives and achieving our goals. Through practical and effective strategies, the book guides readers in creating new habits while shedding old ones, paving the way for lasting personal growth and success.
The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You by John Maxwell
“True leadership cannot be awarded, appointed, or assigned. It comes only from influence, and that cannot be mandated. It must be earned.” - John C. Maxwell
The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership offers indispensable insights into timeless principles that shape effective leadership, making it essential reading for graduates embarking on their professional journey. This foundational book provides practical wisdom that will serve as a guide for navigating various leadership challenges and opportunities throughout one's career. By mastering these core principles, graduates can cultivate the skills and mindset needed to lead with confidence and impact in any endeavor they pursue.
How to Read a Book: The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading by Mortimer J. Adler
“Enlightenment is achieved only when, in addition to knowing what an author says, you know what he means and why he says it.” - Mortimer J. Adler
Originally published in 1940, this timeless book offers invaluable insights into the art of reading with comprehension. Exploring different levels of reading, the author provides practical strategies for improving reading skills and achieving deeper understanding. A must-read for anyone looking to enhance their reading proficiency and become a more effective reader.
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
“So the only way on earth to influence other people is to talk about what they want and show them how to get it.” - Dale Carnegie
Learn timeless strategies for winning friends and influencing people with Dale Carnegie's classic book. Packed with practical wisdom and actionable advice, it's essential reading for anyone looking to enhance their interpersonal skills and achieve success in both personal and professional endeavors.
Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving Others Without Losing the Best of Who You Are by Lysa TerKeurst
Dive into the complexities of setting boundaries in relationships with Lysa TerKeurst's insightful book. Drawing from extensive counseling and theological research, TerKeurst offers practical guidance for establishing healthy boundaries while maintaining love and integrity. Learn how to navigate difficult relationships, interpret scriptures accurately, and implement effective strategies for communication and closure. Discover the transformative power of boundaries in fostering healthier connections and personal growth.
In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness by Peter A. Levine
Discover how trauma affects the body and learn about the potential for healing and resilience in this book. Drawing from his extensive clinical experience and expertise in stress science, Levine explores trauma's nature and transformation, offering insights into navigating life's challenges and fostering personal healing.
Even If He Doesn’t: What We Believe About God When Life Doesn’t Make Sense by Kristen LaValley
"Even If He Doesn’t" is a raw and honest exploration of faith and suffering by Kristen LaValley. Through her own journey of life-altering trials, Kristen reveals the nuances of belief amidst adversity. With compassion and grace, she encourages readers to find strength and renewal in embracing the gentleness of Christ during times of pain. This book offers hope and healing for those navigating heartache, reminding us that true faith is not defined by formulas but by a trust enriched by suffering.
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Viktor Frankl offers a poignant account of his survival in the Holocaust, weaving together personal experiences and profound insights. Amidst unimaginable suffering, Frankl highlights the transformative power of finding meaning and purpose in life as a source of resilience and inner strength. Through his narrative, he illuminates the human capacity to endure even the darkest of circumstances and emerge with a renewed sense of purpose and hope.
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom
"The Hiding Place" is a remarkable memoir recounting the true story of the ten Boom family's courageous efforts to shelter Jews and members of the Dutch underground during World War II. Despite facing imprisonment and hardship in concentration camps, Corrie ten Boom's unwavering faith and resilience offer a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for hope and forgiveness in the darkest of times.
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Originally published in 1937, "Their Eyes Were Watching God" has become a cornerstone of modern American literature, renowned for its vivid portrayal of Southern life and its compelling protagonist, Janie Crawford. Written with Zora Neale Hurston’s distinctive blend of wit and poignancy, the novel traces Janie's journey from a voiceless teenager to a woman empowered to shape her own destiny. As a tale of awakening and independence, featuring a resilient female protagonist driven by passion and ambition, "Their Eyes Were Watching God" stands as a timeless classic of the Harlem Renaissance and a celebrated masterpiece in the literary canon.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley's timeless tale of classic horror, "Frankenstein," delves into themes of grief, creation, loneliness, ambition, and the destructive force of revenge. This lovely collector’s edition (linked) presents Shelley's chilling narrative in a gorgeously illustrated hardcover format.
The Complete Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson
A book full of comics is guaranteed to bring numerous smiles for days and years to come. Never underestimate a good ole laugh.
The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World
A coffee table book will invite the recent graduate to inspire conversation with others as they flip through the pages of a gorgeous book.
Favorite Poems Old and New Selected by Helen Ferris
Presenting a graduate with a book of poems can ignite their spirit with timeless wisdom, diverse perspectives, and the beauty of language, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for literature and introspection.
All Creatures Great And Small by James Herriot
“Animals are unpredictable things, and so our life is unpredictable. It’s a long tale of little triumphs and disasters and you’ve got to really like it to stick it.” - James Herriot
The most beloved veterinarian’s stories offer charming, funny, and heartbreaking moments that will give the new grad a chance to relax as they forge ahead on their own path.
The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan
Lithos Kids’ Legacy Edition of John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress pays homage to the rich tradition of illustrated editions that have graced bookshelves for centuries. Featuring unabridged text with meticulously updated language and over 150 vintage illustrations, this edition preserves the timeless essence of Bunyan's masterpiece. With its heirloom quality cloth cover, gilded edges, and ribbon page marker, it's designed to be cherished for generations. Additionally, readers will appreciate the inclusion of full ESV Bible references in the margins and a frameable 6.5x8.5" Pilgrim's Journey matte cardstock map. The publisher’s goal is to ensure that this edition continues the legacy of The Pilgrim's Progress, inspiring and impacting readers for years to come. We think they did a beautiful job! (Coupon code below.)
1,000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schult
A travel guide that takes readers on a journey around the world, highlighting must-visit destinations and experiences. It's a great book to inspire graduates to dream of exploring the world and experiencing extraordinary adventures.
Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne
Winnie-the-Pooh is a charming choice for graduates seeking a nostalgic moment from their childhood. It beautifully captures the essence of embracing adventures and imagination, making it a perfect read as they transition into the "grown-up" world.
Life by Cynthia Rylant
This beautifully illustrated book offers a simple yet profound message of encouragement, reminding readers to hold on, even when they feel like giving up. With stunning visuals and a powerful moment of reassurance, it serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring perseverance in the face of the challenges Life presents us with.
The new journey of the graduate will likely involve honing their skills in cooking their own meals. A cookbook is an essential tool for any novice cook.
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking by Samin Nosrat
Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat is a culinary game-changer, offering a fresh and accessible approach to cooking that empowers readers to create delicious meals with confidence. By mastering the four fundamental elements of cooking—salt, fat, acid, and heat—anyone can elevate their dishes to new heights. With charming narrative, illustrated walkthroughs, and 100 essential recipes, this book seamlessly bridges the gap between home and professional kitchens.
We hope these suggestions have sparked excitement and inspiration as you seek out the perfect, unique gift for your graduate!
Remember, you know them best, and don't overlook the power of a sweet, simple note inside the book to commemorate their achievements and celebrate this milestone.
Congratulations to all the graduates out there—you've earned every bit of success that comes your way! 🎓📚✨
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What a great list! There are many on here I have already read, and many I need to read myself. My oldest daughter is finishing 10th grade this year. I want to save some of these suggestions for giving to her the year she graduates.
This list makes me wish my book budget were bigger!