Whether you’re a budding scientist, aspiring artist, or sports enthusiast, regardless of your academic pursuits, there’s a book (or a few) out there just for you. If you’re stuck in a reading slump or just want to tuck into a great story in between lectures and study breaks, here’s a list of books to choose from with topics relating to different majors from all corners of campus life.
I, Robot for Computer Science Majors
This work of speculative fiction is arguably the most famous book in Asimov’s Robot series. Through this collection of nine short stories, the author explores the evolution of robots governed by the “Three Laws of Robotics” in a futuristic society. Exploring topics such as the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and humankind’s relationship with modern technology, I, Robot is a must-read for all Tech majors and sci-fi enthusiasts out there.
Oxygen by Carol Cassella for Medical Majors
For the Med students, we have the essential element, I mean the book, Oxygen. In this novel, Dr. Marie Heaton, an experienced anesthesiologist at a hospital in Seattle, is charged with a malpractice suit following a fatal mistake made during surgery. She seeks support from her best friend and ex, Dr. Joe Hillary, as she deals with the lawsuit, and her father’s deteriorating health forces her to reconnect with old family ties. As her organised routine is upheaved, Marie must evaluate her life choices and navigate the challenges in both her personal and professional lives.
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus for Chemistry Majors
A story that has since been adapted into a series starring Brie Larsen but originally a novel, Lessons in Chemistry is about a young, ambitious Chemist, Elizabeth Zott, trying to prove herself in the male-dominated world of chemistry in the 1960s. After falling for Calvin Evans, a member of her all-male Hastings Research Institute team, a few years down the line, Elizabeth finds herself a single mother and star of a cooking show. She finds innovative ways to inspire women as she showcases her skills and expertise in chemistry through cookery.
Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton for Biology Majors
Now a major film franchise, Jurassic Park is a must-read for all students interested in exploring the potential consequences of cloning dinosaur DNA through Crichton’s imaginative and creative world. Through impressive feats of genetic engineering, an attraction is filled with ancient creatures resurrected from eons ago. People travel from far and wide to marvel at the spectacle, and the business booms and prospers until something terrible happens…
The Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu for Physics Majors
Sharing the same name as the theory in classical mechanics, The Three-Body Problem is a sci-fi novel set during China’s Cultural Revolution. The military is conducting a top-secret operation to establish contact with alien lifeforms by sending signals out to space. An alien race facing extinction intercepts the signals, and a plan to conquer Earth is their response. The threat of an imminent invasion divides the citizens of Earth between those who hope to welcome the interstellar visitors and those who intend to fight back.
The Martian by Andy Weir for Engineering Majors
The Martian centres around the astronaut Mark Watney, who was part of the first set of humans to walk on the face of Mars. But he doesn’t have much time to bask in the achievement before a duststorm separates him from his crewmembers. This leaves him stranded alone on this foreign planet, with dwindling supplies and no way to signal for help. Armed with his intellect and the few resources he has available to him, Mark employs his engineering ingenuity to propel his survival in this daring tale.
Babel by R.F. Kuang for History Majors
A fitting read for the History majors, Babel is set in an alternate reality of Victorian Britain. The book follows the story of orphan Robin Swift, who travels with Professor Lovell from Canton to London to master multiple languages in preparation for one day enrolling in Babel, the Royal Institute of Translation at Oxford University. Babel is the world leader in both translation and magic that fuels the British imperial machine. Robin has spent most of his life aspiring to be part of Babel. However, with Britain intent on waging war against China, he’s caught in the middle between his duty to the Institute as they uphold colonial forces and his ties to his homeland.
The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose for Law Majors
Sarah Morgan is a hot-shot criminal defense attorney with a perfect case record and a blazing career. Her husband’s writing career, on the other hand, has been failing, leaving him bitter and envious of his wife’s success as he feels it’s negatively impacting their relationship. For two years, Adam engages in an illicit affair with Kelly Summers until her body is found at the couple’s lake house, and Adam is the prime suspect in the murder. Adam’s defender in this case? None other than the woman he cheated on. Adam’s mistress is dead, and it’s left to his wife to prove his innocence.
The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger for Business Majors
A classic corporate narrative for the business majors. Adapted into the iconic movie starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway, The Devil Wears Prada is the story of Andrea Sachs, fresh from College, who lands herself the “once in a lifetime” role working as a personal assistant to Miranda Priestly, top editor of the Runway magazine. Miranda is critical and cut-throat and has Andrea working long, arduous hours. Struggling to keep up with her “employer from hell,” Andrea wonders if it’s worth surviving in this killer corporate role.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde for Art Majors
A literary classic and artistic masterpiece in its own right. The Picture of Dorian Gray is set in the late Victorian era and follows the story of a young man who sells his soul to lead a double life whilst preserving his beauty and youth. As he descends into a life filled with evil and debauchery, he is able to maintain an innocent and upstanding visage in High Society. Meanwhile, a painting of him grows more and more hideous, reflecting the true dark nature of his soul and his grotesque actions.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides for Psychology Majors
For students eager to take a deep dive into the mysteries of the human psyche, Michaelides delivers a mind-bending journey complete with unexpected plot twists in this Psychological Thriller. Six years ago, Alicia Berenson allegedly shot her husband in the face six times and hasn’t spoken a word since. Theo Faber, her new psychotherapist, aims to get to the bottom of the domestic murder mystery and hopes to “prove” Alicia’s innocence. But first, he must get her to talk.
Let the Games Begin by Rufaro Faith Mazarura for Sports Majors
For Sports Majors, Mazarura’s debut novel is a must-read. Hardworking and driven, Olivia Nkomo aims to secure an internship fresh out of University as the first step in one day getting her dream job at the Summer Games. Ezekiel “Zeke” Moyo, the track star of the British team, is determined to succeed and make his mark in the athletic world. Olivia and Zeke first cross paths during training season, discovering undeniable chemistry between them. As they strive to achieve their goals, the two must find the balance between chasing their dreams and nurturing their blossoming romance.
From literary classics to contemporary fiction, there’s something for everybody here. Hopefully, you found at least one book that piques your interest. Good luck with your studies, and happy reading!
Read this article for some suggestions on useful supplies for bookish students.
Be sure to check out the Bookstr bookshelf on Bookshop.org for more books to add to your TBR.
