5 Best-Selling Authors Share the Best Books to Give to New Graduates

Inspiring, instructional, and humorous, books are possibly one of the most useful gifts for a high school or college graduate. And who better to ask for book recommendations from than a best-selling writer? So we chatted with the founding authors of Friends & Fiction, the popular weekly Facebook Live webcast that celebrates reading, books, and the art of storytelling. Fan-favorite authors Kristy Woodson Harvey, Kristin Harmel, Patti Callahan, Mary Kay Andrews, and Mary Alice Monroe started Friends & Fiction at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic as a way to connect with fans and support independent bookstores across the U.S. Since April 15, 2020, they've produced more than 50 episodes and have chatted with authors like Kristin Hannah, Delia Owens, Brit Bennett, Elin Hilderbrand, and more (wow!).

These five New York Times–bestselling authors—with more than 80 published titles to their credit—gave us the scoop on their favorite new-grad book recommendations. From advice from the Dalai Lama to the most powerful speeches that changed the world, these five books will offer your new graduate a fresh perspective, a dash of humor, and a set of new skills that will better equip them to take on adulting with ease. Pair it with a graduation celebration to remember and an inspiring quote, and you'll have a heartfelt graduation gift they're sure to love.