Studying abroad is an exciting yet challenging journey, and the right books can make all the difference. From cultural adaptation to academic success, reading the best books for students studying abroad helps in navigating new experiences with confidence. Whether you’re looking for travel guides, language learning resources, or personal development books, this curated list offers must-read recommendations to enhance your international education and make the most of your adventure.
If you are a student who is planning to study abroad or is already studying there, check out the list below to pick the best books to read –
Table of contents
Self-Help Books To Read For Students
Sometimes, it is very much needed to introspect oneself in this fast-paced life. This is where self-help books play a crucial role. There are various self-help books for students that help in shaping a person. They can provide you with the knowledge and perspective that you need to excel in your studies and create a balance in your life. Some of the best self-help books that work as important life hacks for students are-
Self-help books for Students
Atomic Habits
Atomic Habits by James Clear is a self-improvement book that explores how small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable results over time. It provides actionable strategies for building good habits, breaking bad ones, and mastering the tiny behaviors that drive long-term success.
Writer: James Clear
Quote: “Your actions reveal how badly you want something. If you keep saying something is a priority but you never act on it, then you don’t want it. It’s time to have an honest conversation with yourself. Your actions reveal your true motivations.”
Key Takeaways: Atomic Habits is said to be one of the best books to read for students who want to improve their everyday lives. This is one of the most actionable books that can help you improve the good habits for students for growth.
Also Read: If you are a book enthusiast and studying in Liverpool, check out these best bookshops in Liverpool that are worth exploring.
The Psychology of Money
The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel explores how people’s behaviors, emotions, and psychology influence financial decisions more than technical knowledge. The book shares timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness through engaging stories and insights.
Writer: Morgan Housel
Quote: “Spending money to show people how much money you have is the fastest way to have less money.”
Key Takeaways: The Psychology of Money stands out from the other personal finance books because it focuses on behavioural skills instead of guiding you on making money. This is one of the best books to read for students. Housel explores the power of financial tools while guiding you on money habits. Study abroad aspirants can take inspiration from these books and earn money like a pro through these amazing money-earning apps for students.
Bhagwat Gita
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu scripture that presents a conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. It teaches profound lessons on duty, righteousness, devotion, and the path to self-realization.
Writer: Maharishi Veda Vyasa
Quote: “For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his mind will remain the greatest enemy.”
Key Takeaways: Humans are complicated beings so this book tries to simplify and help us understand human behaviour via art, stories, and literature. One of the most important lessons of the Bhagwat Gita focuses on doing your deeds if you want to lead a better life.
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson is a self-help book that challenges conventional positivity, emphasizing the importance of choosing what truly matters in life. It advocates for embracing struggles, accepting limitations, and focusing on meaningful values rather than seeking constant happiness.
Writer: Mark Manson
Quote: “Life is essentially an endless series of problems. The solution to one problem is merely the creation of another.”
Key Takeaways: This book is not about being delusional about your problems by avoiding looking at them rather it teaches how you can master the art of not wasting your energy on things that don’t matter. For those who are struggling, this book is one of the best self-help books for students that teaches them how to focus on what matters.
Tuesdays with Morrie
Tuesdays with Morrie is a heartwarming memoir by Mitch Albom that captures his weekly visits with his former professor, Morrie Schwartz, who shares profound life lessons while battling ALS. The book explores themes of love, purpose, and the importance of human connection, making it a timeless guide to living a meaningful life.
Writer: Mitch Albom
Quote: “The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in. Let it come in. We think we don’t deserve love, we think if we let it in we’ll become too soft. But a wise man named Levin said it right. He said, “Love is the only rational act.”
Key Takeaways: The book focuses on the art of letting go and not getting stuck on regrets while living life. Morrie also teaches us that being compassionate might help us lead a better and happier life.
Also Read: Whether you’re in the mood for a classic or a new book, bookshops in Bath will never let you down.
Best Motivational Books To Read For Students
Reading motivating books is a transformative experience for students. It offers a wealth of inspiration, guidance, and empowerment. These books motivate, ignite the spark of ambition and drive students towards their goals.
Through the wisdom and experiences shared within these pages, students gain invaluable insights into overcoming obstacles and achieving goals. Check out some of the best books to motivate students and overcome these common study abroad problems–
Books to Motivate Students
5 AM Club
The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma is a self-improvement book that emphasizes the power of early rising to maximize productivity, mindset, and personal growth. Through a compelling story, it introduces the 20/20/20 formula, guiding readers to structure their mornings for success and peak performance.
Writer: Robin Sharma
Quote: “All change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end.”
Key Takeaways: This book emphasises the importance of utilising your morning hours and making them the most productive ones. Combining fictional stories, entrepreneurial experiences, scientific research, and personal experiences, this book engages students and motivates them to do better in life.
The Power of Habit
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg explores the science behind habit formation and how understanding habits can lead to personal and professional transformation. The book delves into the habit loop—cue, routine, and reward—offering insights on how to break bad habits and build positive ones for lasting change.
Writer: Charles Duhig
Quote: “Change might not be fast and it isn’t always easy. But with time and effort, almost any habit can be reshaped.”
Key Takeaways: Delving deep into the science of the formation of habits, this book helps us understand and reshape our habits by which we can lead a better personal as well as professional life.
Forty Rules of Love
The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak is a captivating novel that intertwines two parallel stories—one set in contemporary times and the other in the 13th century—exploring the transformative power of love through the teachings of Rumi and his companion Shams of Tabriz. The book delves into themes of spiritual awakening, self-discovery, and the profound wisdom found in unconditional love.
Writer: Elif Shafak
Quote: “Whatever happens in your life, no matter how troubling things might seem, do not enter the neighbourhood of despair. Even when all doors remain closed, God will open up a new path only for you. Be thankful!”
Key Takeaways: Weaving together historical facts, mythology, and experiences, while weaving a tapestry of interconnected stories and connections, this book explores the themes of self-love, friendship, the power of faith, and self-discovery and is often referred to as one of the best books to read for students. Inspired by the life of Rumi, this appears to be one of the best motivational books of all time.
Also Read: If you are studying in Canada, we highly recommend you check out some of the bookshops in Canada to explore the art and culture of this beautiful country.
Mindset
“Mindset” by Carol S. Dweck explores how the way we think about our abilities—whether with a fixed or growth mindset—shapes our success and resilience. The book emphasizes that embracing challenges and continuous learning leads to greater achievement in all areas of life.
Writer: Carol Dweck
Quote: “We like to think of our champions and idols as superheroes who were born different from us. We don’t like to think of them as relatively ordinary people who made themselves extraordinary.”
Key Takeaways: People need to have a flexible mindset. Those who have a growth mindset see failures as opportunities while those who have a fixed mindset are unable to improve themselves.
The Last Lecture
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch is an inspiring memoir based on his final lecture, where he shares life lessons and the importance of pursuing dreams. Written with wisdom and humor, the book serves as a heartfelt guide to living with purpose and resilience.
Writer: Randy Pausch
Quote: Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want. And experience is often the most valuable thing you have to offer.
Key Takeaways: This book has a scientific approach in which we can see that the writer has asked a few questions and has collected data. The book emphasises the importance of honest feedback, accepting reality, the value of shattering stereotypes, and prioritising people over materialistic things.
Best Novels to Read For Students
For students looking to balance their studies with the benefits of part-time jobs, certain novels can offer valuable insights and inspiration. Some of such novel is The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe and much more.
Additionally, The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss presents unconventional strategies for achieving financial independence and creating a flexible work-life balance. Reading these is not just fun, but it also helps students learn new things and understand the world better. Check out the other best novels for students-
Best Novels for Students
The Alchemist
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a philosophical novel about a young shepherd, Santiago, who embarks on a journey to discover his Personal Legend and fulfill his destiny. Through mystical encounters and self-discovery, the book explores themes of fate, dreams, and the power of following one’s heart.
Writer: Paulo Coelho
Quote: “There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve: the fear of failure.”
Key Takeaways: If you really want something, then it becomes a lifegoal,l then all your efforts are redirected towards it.
1984
Writer: George Orwell
Quote: “Power is in tearing human minds to pieces and putting them together again in new shapes of your choosing.”
Key Takeaways: This dystopian masterpiece is one of the most influential books of the 20th century. It focuses mostly on the power of mindfulness. This book also serves as a warning of what could go wrong if we don’t stand up for ourselves and not safeguard our rights and freedom.
A Man Called Ove
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman is a heartwarming novel about a grumpy yet lovable old man whose life takes an unexpected turn when a lively young family moves in next door. Through humor and heartfelt moments, the story explores themes of love, loss, and the power of unlikely friendships.
Writer: Fredrik Backman
Quote: “Men are what they are because of what they do. Not what they say.”
Key Takeaways: A Man Called Ove is a soul-stirring tale woven around love, loss and complex human connections. The key takeaway of this novel is that we shouldn’t just spend our days worrying about trifles and turning down opportunities because we think we are gonna fail, rather we should go for them and make our way to find the joys of life each day.
Also Read: Here’s the list of best bookshops in Brighton to suggest to you that sell diverse collections like best sellers, new releases, debut novels, exclusives, and rare collections.
Book Thief
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a historical novel set in Nazi Germany, narrated by Death, following a young girl, Liesel Meminger, who finds solace in stolen books and storytelling. It explores themes of love, loss, and the power of words amidst the horrors of war.
Writer: Markus Zusak
Quote: “A human doesn’t have a heart like mine. The human heart is a line, whereas my own is a circle, and I have the endless ability to be in the right place at the right time. The consequence of this is that I’m always finding humans at their best and worst. I see their ugly and their beauty, and I wonder how the same thing can be both. Still, they have one thing I envy. Humans, if nothing else, have the good sense to die.”
Key Takeaways: Set around World War 2, the book revolves around life and death. Death being the narrator in the novel, this emotional read is a thought-provoking book that allows the reader to explore the true impact of literature and how to stand against injustice.
Things Fall Apart
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is a powerful novel that explores the clash between traditional Igbo society and British colonialism through the life of Okonkwo, a proud warrior struggling to adapt to change. The book highlights themes of cultural identity, fate, and the devastating impact of colonial rule on indigenous communities.
Writer: Chinua Achebe
Quote: “If you don’t like my story, write your own”
Key Takeaways: Things Fall Apart teaches us how to cultivate wisdom when we encounter difficult situations. It gives us a perspective to see how we find ways to escape pain and suffering and not focus on developing our own happiness.
Other Best Books For Students To Read
Reading the best books for students can be an exciting adventure. From old classics to new favourites, these books are like treasure chests full of stories waiting to be discovered. They take readers on journeys to different places and times, introducing them to interesting characters and exciting adventures. Here are some of the best books for students to read:
Best Books for Students to Read
Rich Dad, Poor Dad
“Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki explores the differences in mindset between the wealthy and the middle class regarding money, investing, and financial independence. The book emphasizes financial education, asset-building, and breaking free from the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle to achieve long-term wealth.
Writer: Robert Kiyosaki, Sharon Lechter
Quote: “In school, we learn that mistakes are bad, and we are punished for making them. Yet, if you look at the way humans are designed to learn, we learn by making mistakes. We learn to walk by falling down. If we never fell down, we would never walk.”
Key Takeaways: In this book, Kiyosaki focuses on creating passive incomes and investing in assets that generate cash flow. More emphasis is given to achieving financial success and independence and seeking financial independence. Besides Kiyoski, you can explore other best books by American authors.
Also Read: With various world-renowned authors coming from the USA, there are several bookshops in San Franciso that you must explore.
Sapiens
“Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari explores the evolution of Homo sapiens from ancient hunter-gatherers to the dominant species shaping the modern world. The book examines the cognitive, agricultural, and scientific revolutions that have influenced human society, culture, and belief systems.
Writer: Yuval Noah Harari
Quote: “This is the best reason to learn history: not in order to predict the future, but to free yourself of the past and imagine alternative destinies. Of course, this is not total freedom – we cannot avoid being shaped by the past. But some freedom is better than none.”
Key Takeaways: Harari focuses on the fact that humans are different from other animals because of the complex thinking beings we are today. We believe in fiction, we have money and scientific revolutions so we can lead a better life if we comprehend our history.
To Kill A Mockingbird
“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a powerful novel exploring racial injustice and moral growth in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, it highlights themes of empathy, courage, and the fight against prejudice.
Writer: Harper Lee
Quote: “The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience.”
Key Takeaways: To Kill A Mockingbird is majorly focused on existing racism and how we can deal with it. This book emphasises keeping the moral compass in check. The character Atticus serves as a role model about how a person should be, how he should stand for safeguarding the rights and how to stand up for yourself no matter what society says.
Wise and Otherwise
Wise and Otherwise by Sudha Murty is a collection of real-life anecdotes that highlight human nature, kindness, and societal values. Through simple yet profound storytelling, the book offers thought-provoking insights into people’s behaviors and the lessons learned from everyday experiences.
Writer: Sudha Murthy
Quote: “Life is an exam where the syllabus is unknown and question papers are not set. Nor are there model answer papers.”
Key Takeaways: Consisting of 51 Compelling stories based on Sudha Murthy’s real-life experiences, Wise and Otherwise features it all. From heartwarming tales of experiences, compassion, poverty, injustice and many other thought-provoking emotions, the book compels the readers to question their beliefs and empathise with others.
A Brief History of Time
A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking explores the nature of the universe, covering complex topics like black holes, time travel, and the Big Bang in an accessible way. It delves into the fundamental laws of physics, offering insights into the mysteries of space and time.
Writer: Stephen Hawking
Quote: “Ever since the dawn of civilization, people have not been content to see events as unconnected and inexplicable. They have craved an understanding of the underlying order in the world. Today we still yearn to know why we are here and where we came from. Humanity’s deepest desire for knowledge is justification enough for our continuing quest. And our goal is nothing less than a complete description of the universe we live in.”
Key Takeaways: The book mostly focuses on discovering the underlying truths of nature. It generally answers questions like where we come from, where are we going, when and how the universe was created and what happens next. One can truly learn to manage time as student by reading such books.
Also Read: Are you someone who loves exploring bookshops and now looking for your next ‘bookshop adventure’? Explore these best bookshops in Sydney.
FAQs
The best books to read for students would be Atomic Habits, Psychology of Money, Bhagwat Gita, 1984, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck, Tuesdays With Morrie, 5 AM Club, The Power of Habit, Forty Rules of Love, Mindset, The Last Lecture, The Alchemist, A Man Called Ove, Book Thief, Things Fall Apart, Rich Dad Poor Dad, A Brief History of Time, Wise and Otherwise, To Kill A Mockingbird, and Sapiens.
Yes, reading books is a good habit. Reading can help you increase your attention span, become more focused, improve your mental state, and provide you with a healthy environment to thrive in.
Ideally, it is recommended to read at least 30 minutes a day but one can manage their reading time as per one schedule.
Students should read books on cultural adaptation, travel guides, academic success, language learning, and personal development to help them adjust and thrive in a foreign country.
Students should read a mix of books that deal in different genres. Self-help books and fictional books help one to recharge and non-fictional books enhance knowledge and provide a fresh perspective.
To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the best books to read in English. Based on racism as the main theme, this book teaches one to safeguard their rights and how to stand up for oneself no matter what society says.
The Culture Map by Erin Meyer and Third Culture Kids by David C. Pollock & Ruth Van Reken offer insights into cultural adaptation and navigating diverse environments.
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie and Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo can help students improve their communication and networking skills.
Yes, Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy and Atomic Habits by James Clear help students develop better time management and productivity skills.
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss and So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport provide insights on managing studies while working part-time.
Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By and Get Your Financial Life Together by Erin Lowry is a fantastic book for managing money effectively.
Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands by Terri Morrison provides essential knowledge on cultural behaviors across different countries.
Hope you liked our blog about the best books for students studying abroad. At Team Fly Homes, we’re passionate about empowering students on their study abroad journeys. Our expert editors create informative guides on accommodation, travel, culture, and more. We go beyond the basics, tackling legalities, food options, and creating a comfortable home away from home.
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