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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Ball State chapter.

As the weather gets chillier, it’s a no brainer to want to curl up in your comfy PJs and rewatch Gossip Girl for the third time this month or spend two hours aimlessly scrolling through Tik Tok. Instead however, allow me to introduce you to one of my favorite college life destressors:  cozying up in my bed with a good book. Whether you are into classic literature or lighthearted romance, these books will help pass the time and transport you to a whole new world. 

The Goldfinch- Donna Tartt 

While it is a long read, this award-winning book follows the tragic and complicated life of Theo Decker after the accident that killed his mother and brought him into the underworld of art. A juxtaposition of Theo’s childhood and adulthood, the book explores the people he meets, the places he travels, and the little bird painting that is present all along. There is danger, romance, and cynical humor, you won’t want to put it down. The novel is excellent and pairs nicely with the movie starring Ansel Elgort, making this worth your time to read. 

Becoming- Michelle Obama

An autobiography from former First Lady Michelle Obama, this book will inspire you, make you cry, and remind you that hard work can get you anywhere. From the South side of Chicago to the White House, Becoming is the story of Michelle Obama’s life, career, and family. This is my go-to when I am feeling down, as her words never fail to empower me to get back up and reach for the stars. 

Wuthering Heights- Emily Bronte

A tragic romance for the ages, this dark novel explores the life of Heathcliff, an owner of a manor who never truly achieved love. Jealous and resentful for what he never had, he shares his tale with a tenant, reminiscing on his childhood and the love of his life. This is the perfect story for anyone who loves classic literature. 

The Da Vinci Code- Dan Brown

This controversial novel follows Robert Langdon as he attempts to solve the dark and riddle-filled murder of an elderly museum curator who was involved in a secret society of the world’s brightest minds. Fast-paced and intriguing, this novel will keep you on your toes as the ideas of religion, history, and mystery are intertwined in the most engaging way possible. It is the perfect story for October! 

The Awakening- Kate Chopin

Fans of feminist literature, this one is for you. A personal favorite of mine, this short novel is about a woman trapped in her marriage and her attempts to find passion outside of the gilded cage in which she exists. It shocked readers upon its release, with the message of marriage infidelity, but it is a well-written and classic story. 

So the next time you need a relaxing moment, try picking up one of these books and take a trip into a different reality for a little while!

Monet Lindstrand is the Ball State Her Campus chapter's Senior Editor! She is a Political Science and Women and Gender Studies double major with minors in French and Campaign Communications. Outside of Her Campus, she is the Vice President of the Student Government Association, President of the Panhellenic Association, and Director of Alumnae Relations for the Zeta Kappa chapter of Kappa Delta. Monet is a vegetarian and has a passion for women’s rights and politics!