Must-reads to be a smarter student and writer

As a final-year English Literature and Creative Writing student, I can say with confidence that finding time to read for pleasure while completing a course focused on books is a struggle. However, there are occasional times when a book that you’ve heard of online or even had to read as part of your course is so good that it not only feels easy to read but actually changes the way you are. Throughout my three years at Warwick and abroad, these are the ones I find any student should read, especially if you are pursuing a creative degree or like to write.

…it prepared me for the kind of analysis and reading that university essays expect

1. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King

Anyone who knows me knows what a huge horror and thriller fan I am. I practically never shut up about it. So, when I had to read this book as part of my course, I went out of my way to buy it as soon as possible. This book is littered with King’s personal experiences and hardship when it came to his writing. It gives you an honest retrospective account, his advice for writing, and words of encouragement. I personally don’t read many memoirs, but with this book, you get more than just a life story. The tone makes it easy to read and enjoyable. But the best part? It makes you want to write. For me, this is what made me fall in love with On Writing, as any writer knows that getting into a writing mood is a whole process. So, if you are a writer or want to get into writing, I couldn’t recommend this book more.

2. Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado

While this book may not directly make you a better student, it definitely helps in reading beyond the story on the page in front of you. I think this is why I fell in love with Machado’s writing. Her work opens itself up to multiple readings and interpretations with its feminist and queer themes paired with elements of horror. I think it’s a must-read for students who struggle to interpret and engage with layered stories. I first read this text for my NEA, and honestly, it prepared me for the kind of analysis and reading that university essays expect. I’d also recommend her creative memoir In the Dreamhouse.

Part of being a ‘successful’ student is not only getting the grades but also dealing with setbacks and navigating the world as an independent adult

3. Life According to Vincent by Vincent Van Gogh

This recommendation is a bit different from the other ones so far. I picked up this book in Amsterdam while undertaking a Game Design and Development course. The book itself is a collection of quotes from Van Gogh’s letters on different topics, such as art, ambition, and the future, to name a few. I think, as a student, it’s perfect to shape the way you see yourself and how you approach situations that life throws at you. Part of being a ‘successful’ student is not only getting the grades but also dealing with setbacks and navigating the world as an independent adult. This collection of quotes offers bite-sized wisdom and helps you reframe and question how you look at the world.

4. Uncanny: The Origins of Fear by Junji Ito

Everyone knows that starting university is a mix of anxiety, excitement, and fear. While this book might not make you a better student, it unpacks fear and dives into the thought process of creating horror. I think it’s worth a read to see how fear can be utilised and turned into a piece of work that is personal and yet engaging for others. I’d recommend this not just for fans of horror and Junji Ito, but to anyone who is interested in how horror artists think and create. It’s also oddly comforting to read memoirs of others who have achieved great things despite hardships and their own setbacks. In this way, I think this suggestion will inspire you as a new university student!

With that, my short list comes to an end. These recommendations are just a taste of the kind of books you can discover to make yourself stronger and better as a person, student, and writer. The best part is that most of these books are available through the library, so nothing is stopping you from giving them a go. Of course, everyone has different tastes and different goals to achieve while in university and in life. My ultimate recommendation is to trust your gut and find the things that work for you and help you become the best version of yourself.