Discover our list of the best books for twenty somethings to guide you as you move into the next chapter of your adult life.
Our twenties are a whirlwind of emotions! As young adults, we start to really step into the adult world, facing new challenges and building a new life for ourselves. With so much on our shoulders, it can often feel overwhelming. But thankfully, we have plenty of people to turn to for advice, from family members to podcasts, to must-read books; everyone has a story to share about life in their twenties.
Good books can give twenty-somethings some much-needed life advice and inspiration, helping them navigate this exciting and demanding time. Whether you’re looking for practical advice on career development, personal finance, relationships, or just a good story to escape into, there’s something for everyone. Check out the best inspirational books to spark motivation!
Contents
- 1. It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor by Rebecca Shambaugh
- 2. How to Write the Perfect Resume by Dan Clay
- 3. Women & Money by Suze Orman
- 4. Dress For Success by Cydey McMillon
- 5. Ashkettle Haunted by A.M. Goetz
- 6. What Color is Your Parachute? by Richard Bolles
- 7. Martha Stewart’s Cooking School by Martha Stewart
- 8. Clothesline by Kate Supino
- 9. The Queen of the Big Time by Adriana Trigiani
- 10. Believe It. Own It. Do It. by Jeffrey Alan Smith
- 11. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- 12. The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, Ph.D.
- 13. Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella
- 14. Feel the Fear…And Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
- 15. Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score
- 16. The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
- 17. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
- 18. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
- 19. Invent It, Sell It, Bank It! by Lori Greiner
- 20. My Life in France by Julia Child
- 21. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
- 22. Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best books for twenty somethings about personal finance?
- What books help twenty somethings advance their careers?
- Why should twenty somethings read self-improvement books?
- Are there books specifically written for women in their twenties?
- How many books should a twenty something read for self-development?
1. It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor by Rebecca Shambaugh
The best books for twenty somethings include career guides, personal finance resources, and self-development titles designed to help young adults navigate their twenties. Key titles include ‘Women & Money’ by Suze Orman, ‘It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor’ by Rebecca Shambaugh, and ‘How to Write the Perfect Resume’ by Dan Clay. Studies show 69% of millennials report feeling unprepared for adult financial responsibilities.
Refuting the notion of the glass ceiling that purportedly keeps women in business from reaching the higher echelons of office, It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor explores the self-limitations that women place on themselves. According to the author, Rebecca Shambaugh, there are seven kinds of “sticky floors.”
She explains what those self-imposed career blocks are, along with guidance on overcoming them with advice on achieving work/life balance, overcoming perfectionism, being heard in the workplace, and more.
“It’s important for women to look at what they might be doing, or not doing, to hold themselves back.”
Rebecca Shambaugh, It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor
2. How to Write the Perfect Resume by Dan Clay
Twenty-somethings are on the job hunt, looking for that promising, fulfilling career of their dreams. But a vast majority lack the skills to craft a compelling resume that will get them noticed over their peers. This book details how to word resumes that make the candidate stand out so they get that all-important interview. How to Write the Perfect Resume is laid out in an easy-to-follow methodical way, detailing the step-by-step approach the author has mastered over ten years.
“There are far more people who fail to land a job than there are those who succeed.”
Dan Clay, How to Write the Perfect Resume
3. Women & Money by Suze Orman
Women & Money focuses on the unique financial challenges faced by women. The author draws on her experience as a financial advisor and the stories of women she has worked with to provide practical advice and strategies for achieving financial security. Women & Money covers saving for retirement, paying off debt, investing, buying a home, and starting a small business.
Orman also addresses money’s emotional and psychological aspects, such as the fears and limiting beliefs that can hold women back from achieving financial success. It’s ideal for twenty-something women who want to start life equipped with the essentials of being financially successful.
“We have a right to be proud of our progress. I am so honored to witness this revolution in my lifetime. I only wish it told the whole truth.”
Suze Orman, Women & Money
4. Dress For Success by Cydey McMillon
The author of Dress For Success is a life coach and founder of a style brand. As a successful businesswoman, she knows what she’s talking about regarding how a person’s dress influences their brand. This book offers guidance and advice on defining and developing your brand to achieve success in your personal and professional life.
The author outlines specific tips and strategies for creating a personal brand that aligns with your values, personality, and goals by creating a signature style. She covers how to dress for various occasions and build a wardrobe. The book is filled with interesting anecdotes and is written in an accessible style that twenty-somethings will easily relate to.
“No matter your profession or title, the way that you present yourself to others can propel your lifestyle.”
Cydney McMillon, Dress For Success
5. Ashkettle Haunted by A.M. Goetz
Ashkettle Haunted is book two of a three-part series. This installment is, on the outside, a riveting thriller that keeps readers turning the pages. Between the lines is the tale of a tormented young man haunted by his inner demons, worsened by chronic depression and the verge of mental illness.
This book is great for twenty-somethings because it documents the trials of depression and mental suffering, something many modern twenty-somethings can relate to. Ashkettle Haunted has been described as an in-depth look into PTSD and depression.
“Dack would know; he wants to feel better in the worst kind of way. He’d do just about anything to make it happen.”
A.M. Goetz, Ashkettle Haunted
6. What Color is Your Parachute? by Richard Bolles
Originally published in 1973, What Color is Your Parachute remains one of the best books about finding your dream career that’s ever been written. It’s updated each year to reflect the ever-changing job outlook. Author Richard Bolles says that traditional job search methods, such as responding to job listings and sending out resumes, are not effective. Instead, job seekers should focus on their strengths, skills, and interests.
The book offers exercises and tools to help readers discover their unique skills and passions and to create a plan for finding a job or career that aligns with their values and goals. It also guides networking, interviewing, and negotiating job offers.
“This is your search, and you get to control how it goes.”
Richard Bolles, What Color is Your Parachute?
7. Martha Stewart’s Cooking School by Martha Stewart
A long and healthy life begins with good nutrition, yet many twenty-somethings still eat like teenagers. Martha Stewart’s Cooking School: Lessons and Recipes For the Home Cook is like having your mother teach you how to cook from scratch. Of course, Martha Stewart is the modern maven of all things domestic, but even career-focused twenty-somethings will appreciate learning how to be a culinary master in their own home.
This book will free cash-strapped twenty-somethings from the fast-food drive-in lanes and put them fully in control of their nutrition. The book is written in a friendly tone and is filled with photographs and illustrations that leave nothing to chance. Readers will learn everything from baking and making a green salad and cream butter.
“As you work your way through the “curriculum” here, I am quite sure you will find that you have both the skills and the confidence to improvise and experiment in the kitchen.”
Martha Stewart, Martha Stewart’s Cooking School
8. Clothesline by Kate Supino
Clothesline is a coming-of-age novel that follows the lives of three twenty-something women as they navigate the challenges of starting their own small business. The novel explores themes of entrepreneurship, friendship, love, and self-discovery. Each of the three main characters has unique talents and aspirations, and together they embark on a wild journey of trying out different small business ideas, from door-to-door sales to pet grooming.
As they pursue their dreams, they face challenges and setbacks that test their patience and friendship. The book is perfect for twenty-somethings who dream of someday owning a small business.
“Reading this letter makes me see how much faith my friends have in my ability to come through for them.”
Kate Supino, Clothesline
9. The Queen of the Big Time by Adriana Trigiani
The Queen of the Big Time is the fictional account of a young woman who loses the love of her life when he mysteriously disappears from the small town where they live in Italy. Four years later, on the eve of the protagonist’s wedding to another man, her first love reappears, forcing the young woman to examine her feelings and make an important decision about her future. Trigiani paints a vivid picture of her characters and the landscape where they reside. Readers will enjoy having their heartstrings pulled on this emotional rollercoaster.
“I look around at the couples there for the show and wonder how many of them will marry, and if they do, whether they will be happy.”
Adriana Trigiani, The Queen of the Big Time
10. Believe It. Own It. Do It. by Jeffrey Alan Smith
Believe It. Own It. Do It. is the inspiring story of a 19-year-old man who built a million-dollar real estate business in under three years. The author talks about his childhood, how he always wanted to be a businessman from a young age, and his circuitous path to becoming one of the most successful real estate brokers in the Memphis tri-state area.
This book is ideal for twenty-somethings who may falsely believe they’re too young to start something or won’t be taken seriously in the business world. Jeffrey Alan Smith shares his journey and outlines the steps others can take to achieve the same success in real estate.
“I consider myself a born teacher, and I’ve always strived to share what I learn with others so they, too, can reach their potential, whatever that may be.”
Jeffrey Alan Smith, Believe It. Own It. Do It.
11. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
How to Win Friends and Influence People is a book that will never go out of style. Although modern twenty-somethings may think they have the inside scoop on influencing others on social media, they’ll find they’ve been putting into practice many of Dale Carnegie’s ideas from 1936.
After reading this book, they’ll also realize that they still have to learn from the man born into poverty who became one of the most wealthy and successful individuals of his time. Dale Carnegie’s book is easy to read and relatable to everyone. The principles in the book reflect common sense and follow the basic laws of humanity.
“Try honestly to see things from the other person’s point of view.”
Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People
12. The Defining Decade by Meg Jay, Ph.D.
In The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter – and How to Make the Most of Them Now, clinical psychologist Meg Jay argues that 20-somethings are mired in a flurry of hype and disinformation, much of which has trivialized what she regards as the most transformational decade of our lives. Drawing on more than two decades of experience working with thousands of clients, Jay explains how work, relationships, personality, identity, and even the brain can change more during this decade than at any other time in adulthood. The author gives readers the tools to make the most of this time by fusing the most recent science and studies with the stories of real twenty-somethings she’s worked with.
“As a twenty something, life is still more about potential than proof. Those who can tell a good story about who they are and what they want leap over those who can’t.”
Meg Jay, Ph.D., The Defining Decade
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13. Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella
Confessions of a Shopaholic is a fun read that twenty-somethings will love. Sure, it’s a fun romp through a woman’s struggles with shopping, but it also offers a perspective on materialism that every twenty-something can benefit from. The protagonist can’t resist a good bargain.
Feel the Fear…And Do It Anyway by Susan JeffersThat, combined with her basic misunderstanding of saving money, results in disastrous short-term consequences. But hope is on the horizon as the young woman realizes the folly of her ways and turns her entire life around until the next book in this series!
“OK. Don’t panic. Don’t panic. It’s only a VISA bill. It’s a piece of paper; a few numbers. I mean, just how scary can a few numbers be?”
Sophie Kinsella, Confessions of a Shopaholic
14. Feel the Fear…And Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
Susan Jeffers has written a book that guides overcoming fear and anxiety to achieve personal and professional success. In Feel the Fear…and Do It Anyway, Jeffers author says that fear is a natural part of the human experience, but it should not prevent us from pursuing our goals and dreams.
The book offers practical tools and strategies for understanding and managing fear, such as reframing negative thoughts, practicing positive affirmations, and embracing change. Jeffers emphasizes the importance of taking action, even in the face of fear, and using fear as a motivator for growth and development.
“I know you are probably not jumping up and down for joy just yet, but believe me when I tell you that I have just given you a great piece of news.”
Susan Jeffers, Feel the Fear…And Do It Anyway
15. Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score
Things We Never Got Over is a fiction book described as a rollercoaster ride where everyone laughs instead of screams. In a small town, the characters explore their family and relationships while figuring out how to deal with past hurts and surprising future possibilities. This is a good read for twenty-somethings, as it delves into the complicated sibling rivalry phenomena and asks, are you capable of genuinely forgiving another person?
“You’re the one who has to live your life. Don’t apologize to other people for the decisions you make for yourself.”
Lucy Score, Things We Never Got Over
16. The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
Dr. Norman Vincent Peale explains that one’s thoughts and attitudes have a profound impact on their experiences and outcomes in life. The Power of Positive Thinking provides practical tools and techniques for cultivating a positive mindset, such as affirmations, visualization, and prayer.
Peale encourages readers to focus on their strengths and cultivate a deep sense of faith and optimism, which can help them overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. These tools are especially valuable for twenty-somethings in today’s world.
“What you are determines the world in which you live, so as you change, your world changes also.”
Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, The Power of Positive Thinking
17. Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
In Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!, Robert Kiyosaki explains some basic money management facts that will surprise most twenty-somethings who have little first-hand knowledge of taking care of finances. This book was first published over 25 years ago and has already become a classic that everyone should read.
Kiyosaki discusses his modest upbringing and how his dad did little to prepare him for the world in terms of handling money. It goes to great length about the differences between how the wealthy handle money and how those struggling financially deal with it.
“An asset puts money in my pocket. A liability takes money out of my pocket.”
Robert Kiyosaki, Rich Dad Poor Dad
18. You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero
In You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life, author Jen Sincero offers guidance and encouragement for readers to take charge of their lives and achieve their full potential. The author argues that self-doubt and fear of failure are the biggest obstacles to success and that by changing one’s mindset and taking action, one can achieve their dreams.
Sincero draws on her own experiences and those of her clients to illustrate how anyone can overcome self-doubt and create the life they want. The book is written in a witty, irreverent, entertaining, and inspiring style.
“What other people think about you has nothing to do with you and everything to do with them.”
Jen Sincero, You Are a Badass
19. Invent It, Sell It, Bank It! by Lori Greiner
Lori Greiner is an inspiring, successful businesswoman who made a name long before the hit show Shark Tank ever came along. In Invent It, Sell It, Bank It!: Make Your Million-Dollar Idea into a Reality, Greiner shares some juicy behind-the-scenes info on the show and delves deep into strategies that readers can put into practice to bring their own million-dollar ideas into reality.
This book should not be passed up for twenty-somethings who would like to make their mark on the world the way this multi-millionaire woman has since it makes a valuable reference book for bringing ideas to market.
“Truly, anyone, at any time, can become an inventor.”
Lori Greiner, Invent It, Sell It, Bank It!
20. My Life in France by Julia Child
For twenty-somethings who dream of a life abroad, My Life in France is a true inspiration. Written with the help of her nephew, this book by the queen of the kitchen, Julia Child, documents her colorful life in France with her beloved Paul.
It’s a story of love, discovering a passion, and a story of overcoming obstacles. It demonstrates that not everyone has a clear path to one’s career in their twenties and shows that sometimes, passion is illuminated gradually over time. Looking for more? Check out our guide with essays about confidence!
“Indeed, shopping for food in Paris was a life-changing experience for me.”
Julia Child, My Life in France
21. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Eat, Pray, Love is a world-renowned book that inspires readers to live life to the fullest. Elizabeth had it all, the husband, the country house, the career, but instead of feeling happy and fulfilled, she is full of panic.
The book follows Elizabeth as she leaves her old life behind and sets off on a mental health and wellness journey, traveling through Itlay, India, and Bali. As Elizabeth tells her story of how she found herself on this exceptional journey, she weaves hilarious anecdotes and heartwarming moments throughout the story. The message of leaving behind the typical marks of success and following your heart speaks to young people and inspires them to live the life they truly want.
“I shut the door behind me. Another solitary bedtime in Rome. Another long night’s sleep ahead of me, with nobody and nothing in my bed except a pile of Italian phrasebook and dictionaries.”
Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat Pray, Love
22. Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
Year of Yes is for all twenty-something-year-olds looking for great books to transform their lives. When writer Shonda Rhimes began saying “yes,” her whole world changed. Shonda Rhimes was an introvert, always declining social invitations and afraid to do more with her life.
This hilarious and heart-warming memoir inspires millennials worldwide — encouraging them to embrace the unknown and say “yes.” With plenty of laughs and relatable moments, this self-help book is unlike any other. Change your life with the power of “yes” to elevate your lifestyle and embrace happiness.
“My sister Delorse said six startling words and changed everything. She said six words and now, as I write this, I have become a different person.”
Shonda Rhimes, Year of Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best books for twenty somethings about personal finance?
‘Women & Money’ by Suze Orman is widely recommended for young adults, covering saving for retirement, paying off debt, investing, and buying a home. Orman draws on her experience as a financial advisor to offer practical strategies for achieving financial security in your twenties.
What books help twenty somethings advance their careers?
‘It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor’ by Rebecca Shambaugh identifies seven self-imposed career blocks that hold women back professionally. ‘How to Write the Perfect Resume’ by Dan Clay also helps young job seekers craft compelling resumes using a step-by-step method developed over ten years.
Why should twenty somethings read self-improvement books?
The twenties are a critical decade for establishing career foundations, financial habits, and personal identity. Self-improvement books provide structured guidance from experienced authors, helping young adults avoid common mistakes and accelerate personal and professional growth during this high-stakes life stage.
Are there books specifically written for women in their twenties?
Yes, ‘Women & Money’ by Suze Orman and ‘It’s Not a Glass Ceiling, It’s a Sticky Floor’ by Rebecca Shambaugh are both written specifically for women navigating career and financial challenges. These books address gender-specific obstacles and provide actionable advice tailored to women’s unique professional and financial situations.
How many books should a twenty something read for self-development?
There is no fixed number, but reading consistently matters more than volume. Warren Buffett famously recommends reading 500 pages daily, but most self-development experts suggest finishing at least one book per month. Starting with targeted titles addressing your current challenges—career, finance, or relationships—maximizes the practical benefit.