10+ Best Inspirational Books for 17-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the lookout for something that sparks motivation and wonder in your life? Discover our curated selection of inspirational books for 17-year-olds, perfect for fueling your dreams and expanding your horizons as you stand on the brink of adulthood. Whether you're seeking guidance, a surge of motivation, or a transformative experience, these books are just what you need. Keep reading to explore various lists of inspirational books that are tailor-made to inspire and challenge young adults like you!

Fun Inspirational Books for 17-Year-Olds

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Santiago, a young shepherd who dreams of finding a worldly treasure located somewhere in Egypt. Along the way, he meets various spiritual messengers and learns about the Language of the World and the importance of following one's dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires readers to pursue their passions and listen to their hearts, making it a perfect motivational read for young adults at a pivotal moment in their lives.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone at a crossroads in life.

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel takes the form of letters written by Charlie, a sensitive and introspective teen, to an anonymous friend. Charlie navigates the challenges of adolescence, including friendships, first loves, and personal identity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses complex issues like mental health and self-discovery with sensitivity and honesty, resonating deeply with teenagers.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking for a book that reflects their own experiences and emotions.

• Educated by Tara Westover
  • Genre(s): Memoir
  • Synopsis: Tara Westover recounts her journey from growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho with no formal education, to earning a PhD from Cambridge University. This true story is a testament to the power of education and the strength of the human spirit.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful example of resilience and the pursuit of knowledge, encouraging readers to value their education and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Anyone interested in stories of overcoming adversity and the transformative power of education.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a future society where books are banned and "firemen" burn any that are found, fireman Guy Montag begins to question his role and the values of the society he lives in.
  • Why we recommend this book: It champions the importance of critical thinking and resistance in the face of censorship and conformity.
  • Perfect for: Young adults interested in politics, freedom of expression, and the impact of technology on society.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through multiple perspectives, the novel explores themes of kindness, friendship, and acceptance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, regardless of physical appearance.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories and those looking to understand and appreciate diversity in others.

Educational Inspirational Books for 17-Year-Olds

• Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: Based on Neil Gaiman's commencement speech at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, this book is a manifesto for creativity in the modern world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, artistic inspiration, career advice
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages young artists to persevere, embrace their unique visions, and make incredible art despite the challenges.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring artists and creatives looking for motivation and guidance.

• The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—And How to Make the Most of Them Now by Meg Jay
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Psychology
  • Synopsis: This book offers essential advice on how to make the most of your twenties by building a foundation for later life through personal growth, career development, and meaningful relationships.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Career planning, relationship skills, personal development
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides practical strategies and compelling case studies that underscore the importance of the twenties as a critical developmental period.
  • Perfect for: Young adults entering their twenties, seeking guidance on personal and professional growth.

• Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Self-help
  • Synopsis: Angela Duckworth explores the power of grit—a combination of passion and perseverance—as a key to success, arguing that talent alone is not enough to achieve one's goals.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Perseverance, goal setting, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a compelling argument and scientific insights into how determination and hard work can often outweigh natural talent.
  • Perfect for: Students and young professionals interested in personal development and achieving long-term goals.

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Communication
  • Synopsis: First published in 1936, this classic book offers timeless advice on how to communicate effectively, influence others positively, and build meaningful relationships.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Interpersonal communication, persuasion skills, relationship building
  • Why we recommend this book: Its principles on handling people, winning friends, and influencing others are just as relevant today as they were at the time of writing.
  • Perfect for: Anyone looking to improve their social skills and ability to influence others in both personal and professional contexts.

• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Psychology
  • Synopsis: James Clear presents a practical framework for improving every day by mastering the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Habit formation, self-discipline, performance improvement
  • Why we recommend this book: It breaks down complex behavioral psychology into simple, actionable steps for building better habits.
  • Perfect for: Individuals looking to make positive changes in their lives through the development of small, yet impactful, habits.

Challenging Inspirational Books for 17-Year-Olds

• Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Psychological Fiction, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This novel delves into the mind of Raskolnikov, a desperate and impoverished student in St. Petersburg, who commits a murder and then struggles with guilt, paranoia, and the moral consequences of his action.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel presents complex themes of morality, redemption, and the psychological turmoil of its protagonist, intertwined with deep philosophical questions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound exploration of moral dilemmas and the human capacity for evil and good, providing a deep, introspective experience for advanced readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in psychology and classic literature that challenges moral perceptions.

• Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
  • Genre(s): African-American Literature, Social Commentary
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of an unnamed African American man whose color renders him invisible. It addresses the social and intellectual issues facing African-Americans early in the twentieth century, including black nationalism, the relationship between black identity and Marxism, and the reformist racial policies of Booker T. Washington, among others.
  • Why this book is challenging: Ellison's work is dense with symbolism and complex themes concerning individuality and identity, demanding a high level of interpretative skills from its readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and stirring look at race and identity in America, offering insightful perspectives that are relevant to today's societal issues.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in American history, racial issues, and those looking for a book that combines deep social commentary with compelling storytelling.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel chronicles the peripatetic appointments and encounters of Leopold Bloom in Dublin in the course of an ordinary day, 16 June 1904. The novel is highly allusive and also imitates the styles of different periods of English literature.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its stream-of-consciousness writing style and dense allusions to a vast body of other works, "Ulysses" is considered one of the most challenging books in the English language.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a landmark work that pushes the boundaries of narrative structure and the possibilities of literature. Engaging with it can be a rewarding, albeit complex, experience that enhances critical thinking and comprehension skills.
  • Perfect for: Avid readers who appreciate literary innovation and are up for the challenge of engaging with a complex text.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophical Novel, Crime Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov and the subsequent attempt to solve the mystery of who among his sons is responsible. It explores deep philosophical themes including faith, doubt, free will, and morality.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative dives deep into philosophical discussions about the existence of God, the nature of free will, and the struggle between good and evil, requiring thoughtful contemplation from the reader.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides profound insights into human nature and the moral struggles individuals face, making it a timeless and deeply engaging read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy deep philosophical questions and complex characters within a richly plotted narrative.

• Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
  • Genre(s): Historical Novel, Social Critique
  • Synopsis: This epic novel follows the lives and interactions of several characters, particularly the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his experience of redemption.
  • Why this book is challenging: It extensively discusses French history, politics, moral philosophy, law, and justice, interwoven with the detailed lives of a vast array of characters over a span of several decades.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a monumental work that not only tells a compelling story of love, justice, and redemption but also offers a rich historical context that can educate and inspire.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in a comprehensive narrative that combines deep moral questions with a historical exploration of 19th-century France.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Reading inspirational books can be a transformative experience, especially for 17-year-olds who are on the brink of adulthood. To get the most out of these books, developing good reading habits is key. Here are some exercises that can help you do just that:

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Establishes a consistent reading pattern and makes the task manageable.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances focus.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting to encourage longer reading sessions.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books regularly.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and exposes you to different perspectives.
  • Tips: Choose a club that reads books from genres you enjoy or want to explore more.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology to track and plan your reading.
  • How it helps: Keeps you organized and motivated with reminders and achievements.
  • Tips: Many apps offer features like reading time tracking and social sharing which can enhance your reading experience.

• Read Aloud or Listen to Audiobooks
  • What it is: Alternate between reading the text and listening to it.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention by engaging different senses.
  • Tips: Try to mimic the narration style to improve your own reading fluency.

• Reflect on Your Reading
  • What it is: Take time to think about what you've read after each session.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and appreciation of the material.
  • Tips: Write down your reflections or discuss them with others to deepen your insights.

By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you'll not only enhance your reading skills but also gain more from the inspirational books you choose to explore. Happy reading!