Being a millennial can be exhausting. It can also be confusing. The millennials often have it tougher than the rest, and honestly, why not. This is the generation that is stuck in a limbo, not on either side. So if you feel confused and lost. Here are a few books that will help you gain perspective. A mix of fiction and non-fiction, these are books that offer great take-aways.
1. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
A love affair between the Count Vronsky and Anna Karenina, doomed from the start. This plotline shows that conflict is everywhere. So much that human existence is almost synonymous with conflict. All relationships, whether familial, romantic or pertaining to society and class, conflict is everywhere. It helps to understand and accept that conflict arises, often in the most unexpected places. It is a lesson to know.
All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.
Anna Karenina
2. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
People tend to take children’s books lightly; the case is the same with this book. But the fact is, this is another book that drives home some very important meanings, especial for millennials in a limbo. Growing up, it is easy to forget things from your childhood. It is easy to let go of things from your childhood. The best way to gain perspective is by remembering who you are and where you come from. Don’t hesitate to integrate your childhood into your present adult life. Sometimes answers are simple, as simple as childhood memories.
All grown-ups were once children… but only few of them remember it.
The Little Prince
3. The Essential Rumi (Translation) by Boleman Barks
Rumi is the Persian equivalent of the West’s Shakespear. His poetic verses take the reader through raw human emotions, and the millennials will find something to relate to in his words. Be it love, grief, awe or plain longing, Rumi’s words speak to all who listen. The translation by Coleman Barks has newer poems that were previously undiscovered. Although originally written in a different language, Rumi’s feelings were just like those of another human. This is perhaps why his verses relate with one so well.
Stop acting so small. You are the universe in ecstatic motion.
Rumi
4. The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy
The story of twins, Rahel, and Estha that takes the reader through the tragedy that changed their lives. Roy won the Booker Prize for this marvelous book. The innocence of the protagonist, facing the consequences of naivety and others’ wrongdoings forms a bond with readers. The wit and humor are the icings on this wonderful cake.
If you’re happy in a dream, does that count?
The god of small things
5. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
The world right now can seem like a broken place. At a time when terrorists continue to blow up the world, industries continue to destroy the environment and politicians continue to ignore the problems of an ordinary person, it’s easy to lose hope. This book, however, shows you why it is important to hold on to hope, especially in the difficult times. The author talks about how he survived the concentration camp and the power of belief and hope.
But there was no need to be ashamed of tears, for tears bore witness that a man had the greatest of courage, the courage to suffer
Man’s Search for Meaning
6. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
When the book was first published, only 2 copies were sold in the first 6 months, Paulo Coelho revealed in the 25th Anniversary Edition of the book. This book went on to earn the Guinness Record for being the most translated book. A shepherd who sold his flock to fund his treasure quest teaches us how important it is to choose a life that gives purpose and meaning to your soul and heart. Growing up, decision making can be the biggest obstacle, especially in the fast-paced lives of the millennials. But to make the right one, follow dreams. Your dreams.
One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving.
The Alchemist