Remember all those books you didn’t read in high school because you thought you had better things to do with your time?
Guess what: those books contained valuable life lessons you missed out on.
Good thing I’m going to recap some of my favorites in the post. (Side note: if you really are averse to reading some of the most beloved literary classics of all time, most of these movies have film adaptations. You really are missing out, though.)
To Kill a Mockingbird
One Sentence Summary: Six-year-old Scout and her brother Jem learn the harsh realities of human nature as their father Atticus defends a black man accused of rape in a small Alabama town.
Collegiate Lesson: Don’t pass judgment on something just because you’re not familiar with it. This is applicable for almost anything: students, classes, even the food.
The Great Gatsby
One Sentence Summary: Jay Gatsby accomplishes his dreams then watches as they unravel before his eyes.
Collegiate Lesson: Money does not buy happiness, so take advantage of all the things you can do on campus for free. Also, don’t cheat on your significant other. That never ends well.
The Catcher in the Rye
One Sentence Summary: Holden Caulfield is expelled from boarding school and decides instead to explore New York City.
Collegiate Lesson: Don’t be afraid to be a little different from everyone else. However, if you do feel like you’re veering into a path of mental instability, go to your health center.
The Prince
One Sentence Summary: Get what you want and don’t feel sorry about it.
Collegiate Lesson: Assert yourself! Talk in class. Get to know your professors. Others may think it’s sucking up, but you’re almost guaranteed to walk away with a better grade than them.
Hamlet
One Sentence Summary: Death, death, to be or not to be, death.
Collegiate Lesson: Revenge is messy. Talk things out with someone who’s wronged you before you decide to hide behind a tapestry and stab them.
