The college packing list is extensive, as one makes the shift from home to a whole new life. There’s clothing, toiletry products, room decorations and most likely a good book, or a few. The books one brings to college should have some self-reflection, light stories and characters going on adventures. Certain books should be on the packing list when making the move from home.
“People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry is a book with a lot of exploration. It is focused on travel, adventure and meeting new people; however, it is also a twisting and turning romantic story.
Poppy, one of two main characters and the narrator, is a travel journalist, and the reader gets to feel as if they have met all the people Poppy has and done all the same exhilarating activities. She and her longtime friend and travel partner, Alex, see so much of the world together, and the quick read makes it feel like one is a part of their traveling duo. The film adaptation will also be released on January 9, 2026, and is something exciting to look forward to while on winter break.
Taylor Jenkins Reid is another author with many great books; however, “Malibu Rising” is a great pick for school, as it reimagines history through fiction. This novel takes place in the past, jumping between the 1950s and the 1980s. Readers go through the perspective of multiple characters, part of a fictional, famous family. It keeps one engaged while also providing a whole world to dive into from old Hollywood. Reid even includes a map of where each location in the story would be in real-world California. The book does a seamless job of blending fantasy with reality while following the map down the Pacific Coast Highway.
“Malibu Rising” is a decent, easy read with many perspectives in a beautiful setting. Reading about multiple perspectives can allow for a great chance of connection to characters.
Making large life changes can often be an opportunity for reflection. College is one of the biggest life changes many people face. Being in a new place and surrounded by new people can bring many different thoughts and emotions.
A deeper and thought-provoking read is “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. This book goes through life choices and how they lead us to where we are. This book is for those looking to self-search and dive into a deep read on a journey of their own.
Nora, the protagonist, is led by her old school librarian to consider where she might be in life if she hadn’t made the same decisions. The book does discuss very sensitive topics, such as suicide, and this should be considered before reading. Overall, though, the book does a beautiful job of showing the wonders of life and the decisions that shape our worlds.
The books we bring to college or on any travel mission are important. It's the place we choose to escape while evolving. Sitting out on campus with a coffee from Brenen’s Cafe and the right book can make a simple day better. Bring a book that is either relatable, self-reflective or one that reimagines a world of the past.
Kyra Dapore is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Kyra know by emailing her at kd364521@ohio.edu.
