Summer Reading That Actually Matters
Yes, summer is for relaxing – but it’s also a great time to build your college admissions toolkit. Why? Because more and more schools are asking students to talk about the books they read for fun, whether it’s in supplemental essays, short answer questions, or even interviews.
The Columbia and Wake Forest supplements from last year asked applicants to name books they’d read recently. And other schools (like Stanford and Yale) encourage optional reading lists. Plus, interviewers often use a “What’s a book you’ve read recently?” question as an icebreaker – or a test of curiosity. Either way, being able to speak thoughtfully about what you’ve read helps set you apart!
But what should you read?
Nobody expects you to dive into 600-page Russian novels or dense academic theory. Instead, we encourage students to explore books that match their potential majors, interests, or personal narratives. That way, the book becomes more than just a talking point – it becomes a bridge to something meaningful about who you are.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite 2025 picks. These books are smart, compelling, and relevant – and they just might give you something interesting to say in your next college essay or conversation!
‘The Heart and the Chip: Our Bright Future with Robots’ by Daniela Rus & Gregory Mone
Robots are no longer just sci-fi – nor are they here to destroy mankind! From helping in hospitals to farming fields, they’re already changing our world for the better. MIT roboticist Daniela Rus teams up with journalist Gregory Mone to show how robots are being designed to work with people, not against them. Plus, you’ll learn how coding, ethics, and imagination all come together to shape the future.
Recommended for students interested in computer science, engineering, and robotics – or anyone curious about the ethics of AI, an incredibly relevant topic today.
‘The Everything War: Amazon’s Ruthless Quest to Own the World’ by Dana Mattioli
You probably use Amazon all the time, but this book shows how the company grew into a global giant – and what it cost along the way. You’ll find yourself engaged in a wild (but true) story of power, corruption, and competition in the digital age. Before you buy your textbooks from Amazon, you might want to consider what Mattioli has to say.
Recommended for students interested in business, economics, and law – especially those curious about how these fields intersect with technology and global industry. Bonus ethical dilemma: should you order this book from Amazon? 😀
‘Fire in the Sky: Cosmic Collisions, Killer Asteroids, and the Race to Defend Earth’ by Gordon L. Dillow
While apocalyptic meteorite collisions may sound like science fiction, NASA actually has a plan for what to do if a giant asteroid heads for Earth. In fact, many have already struck our planet! This fast-paced book explores that history along with the science of planetary defense and the people working to prevent disaster.
Recommended for students interested in astronomy and physics – and also those who enjoy science writing related to environmental science or history.
‘How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply’ by David Brooks
This one’s all about connection. How can you truly get to know someone? Why do some people make you feel instantly understood? And how can you build better relationships at home, at work, or as you head to college? Brooks explains how to really listen, ask better questions, and become the kind of person others want to talk to.
Recommended for students interested in psychology, sociology, leadership, and education – or anyone who’s a little nervous about making new connections on campus.
‘Grief Is for People’ by Sloane Crosley
When Crosley lost a close friend, she did what she does best – wrote about it. With her trademark wit and insight, she’s crafted a short, powerful memoir. It’s sad, funny, and deeply human in its exploration of love, loss, and the complicated process of keeping going.
Recommended for students interested in psychology, counseling, creative writing, or anyone who appreciates a well-crafted memoir or has experienced grief.
‘Blood in the Machine: The Origins of the Rebellion Against Big Tech’ by Brian Merchant
In the 1800s, factory workers smashed machines to protest unfair working conditions. They weren’t anti-technology – they were anti-exploitation. This book connects their struggle to today’s concerns about AI, automation, and the gig economy. How real is the threat to human labor, and what can we do about it?
Recommended for students interested in political science, technology ethics, and the future of work in an automated world.
‘How to Build a Boat’ by Elaine Feeney
This beautifully-written coming-of-age novel follows a neurodivergent teen, a teacher, and a school caretaker as their lives unexpectedly intertwine. Feeney explores what it means to fit in, form community, and find connection. Emotional, funny, and full of heart – this quiet story lingers long after the last page.
Recommended for students of English literature and education majors – or anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling.
‘Rebel Girl: My Life as a Feminist Punk’ by Kathleen Hanna
If you’ve ever blasted a song that made you feel unstoppable, you’ll love this memoir from the lead singer of Bikini Kill and Le Tigre. Hanna helped launch the Riot Grrrl movement – and this is her fearless, funny story. From touring chaos to activist roots, she shares what it took to succeed as a feminist punk in a male-dominated industry.
Recommended for students interested in gender and cultural studies, activism, music – and any young woman looking to carve her own path!
‘Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet’ by Taylor Lorenz
So, you want to be an influencer? From Vine stars to TikTok millionaires, this is the behind-the-scenes story of how creators took over the internet – and reshaped our culture and economy. Lorenz’s history of digital fame is smart, sharp, and full of insight into what it really means to be “online.”
Recommended for students of marketing, media studies, and anyone curious about how their online presence shapes real-world impact.
‘The Demon of Unrest’ by Erik Larson
This history book reads like a thriller. It covers the five tense months between Lincoln’s election and the start of the Civil War – a period full of backroom deals, bold decisions, and mounting conflict. Larson’s storytelling brings the era’s key figures and national crisis vividly to life.
Recommended for students interested in American history, government, and political science – or anyone who loves immersive nonfiction with high stakes.
Pro Tip: This Isn’t Just for Rising Seniors
Even if you’re not applying to college this fall, summer is the perfect time to explore new ideas, strengthen your reading habits, and get more confident in how you talk about what you care about. That’s a win no matter your grade level.
So whether you're on a beach, at a camp, or just stretched out on the couch — grab a book (or two) from our list. You’ll be reading for fun and for the future!