20 Books To Mentally Prepare You For College

Lara Jean's journey continues in this captivating story that beautifully details the trials of young love, family dynamics, and the difficult decisions that accompany the transition to college life. As Lara Jean confronts her future, she learns that growing up means making hard choices — including where to go to college and how to navigate relationships that may change as a result.

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Rainbow Rowell's _Fangirl_ is a heartfelt exploration of identity and fandom. With a focus on Cath's journey from high school to college, the narrative touches upon the challenges of independence, anxiety, and the realities of stepping into the unknown. Cath's love for Simon Snow interweaves with her personal growth, making it a relatable read for anyone transitioning into adulthood.

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In _Emergency Contact_, Mary H.K. Choi crafts a poignant tale of young love and the awkwardness of first encounters. As Penny and Sam navigate the complexities of their lives while attending college, readers are drawn into a narrative that perfectly encapsulates the challenges of communication and connection in the digital age.

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This exciting sequel to _The Kissing Booth_ follows the journey of Elle Evans as she grapples with the difficulties of long-distance relationships while starting college. As Elle faces challenges with Noah being miles away, her emotional struggles resonate with anyone embarking on new experiences while managing complicated feelings.

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With relatable humor and realism, _Freshmen_ tells the story of Phoebe navigating her first year of college. As she attempts to reinvent herself and balances new friendships with the challenges of college life, readers are treated to a genuine portrayal of the ups and downs of college experiences.

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Maya Aziz's life is tumultuous in _Love, Hate, and Other Filters_. As an Indian-American Muslim teen navigating her cultural identity amidst rising Islamophobia, her journey speaks volumes about personal growth and the struggle for acceptance. This compelling narrative is a poignant reminder of the realities many face during college years.

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This vibrant tale by Christine Riccio explores personal reinvention as Shane seeks a fresh start during her semester abroad in London. Faced with the challenge of stepping outside her comfort zone, Shane's exhilarating journey resonates with anyone grappling with life's transitions.

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Nina LaCour's _We Are Okay_ tackles the themes of grief and friendship with stunning poignancy. Marin's journey through loneliness at college as she waits for her best friend to visit offers a deeply moving exploration of past traumas that linger, making it a powerful read for anyone navigating emotional hurdles.

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Gloria Chao's _American Panda_ is an entertaining examination of cultural expectations and personal desires. Mei's battle to adhere to her family's expectations while pursuing her true self provides a humorous yet heartfelt perspective on the pressures that college students can face.

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With a delightful mix of romance and cultural exploration, _When Dimple Met Rishi_ presents a fresh take on love and arranged marriages. As Dimple challenges her family's expectations while attending a summer program, readers witness growth, identity, and the beauty of unexpected connections.

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In _Frat Girl_, the complexities of college life and feminism are explored through Cassie's unique experience pledging a fraternity for her research project. This engaging narrative challenges societal norms while delivering laughs and poignant moments, appealing to both young adults and a broader audience.

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The debut novel _A Little Something Different_ offers a unique perspective on love as told from multiple viewpoints. This sweet romance captures the awkwardness and sweetness of young relationships, making it a charming addition to the college reading list.

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In this sequel to _99 Days_, readers follow Molly as she faces her past during a summer trip in Europe. The intricacies of love, regret, and the complexity of relationships unfold, making it a compelling read for those who have ever struggled with reconciling their past with their present.

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Completing the trilogy, _We'll Always Have Summer_ invites readers into the emotional culmination of Belly's journey as she must finally choose between two loves. The nuances of relationship dynamics during college, intertwined with stomach-churning choices, mirror the reality of young adulthood.

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_Freshers_ captures the essence of the excitement and unpredictability of college life through Phoebe's eyes. As she juggles new friendships and parties, this engaging tale truly reflects the diverse and thrilling experiences of young adults adjusting to college life.

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With a refreshing and hilarious perspective on college life, _I Hate Everyone But You_ follows best friends Ava and Gen as they navigate their first semesters on opposite coasts. Through correspondence, they document the wild ups and downs of growing apart and figuring out who they truly are in the process.

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_Psych Major Syndrome_ explores Leigh's humorous and relatable experiences during her first year at college, filled with overanalysis and miscommunication. This lighthearted approach to college struggles emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and navigating relationships, making it a must-read for new students.

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In this charming narrative, Caroline faces the challenge of reinventing herself and making genuine connections in a new environment. _Finding Felicity_ encourages readers to break free from expectations and embrace their true selves, a message that resonates deeply during college years.

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Sally Rooney's _Normal People_ presents an intoxicating exploration of love, class, and the complexities of relationships during the formative years. As Connell and Marianne navigate the ups and downs of college, their journeys reveal poignant insights into personal growth and connection, making this a captivating and essential read.

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Chosen as a standout among young adult novels, _Flat-out Love_ tells the story of Julie and her interactions with the Watkins family, leading her to navigate the tricky waters of complicated relationships and burgeoning love. It's a quirky and heartwarming read about finding your way through love and connection.

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