You can tell when graduation season is upon us by the annual appearance of
Oh, The Places You'll Go on bestseller lists. The Dr. Seuss classic
about the ups and downs of life is really not a book for little kids; rather; its description of life's journey and overcoming the 'perils' of indecision, loneliness, and too much waiting has made it a graduation gift favorite for more than two decades.
If you're looking for something different, there are a crop of new titles to choose from this year; here are a few that might be good gifts for grads in your life.
Congratulations, By the Way: Some Thoughts on Kindness by George Saunders. This is an expanded version of a commencement address given last year by author and MacArthur Genius
grant winner Saunders (
Tenth of December) at Syracuse University, where he teaches creative writing. A transcript of that speech, which spoke of a desire in all of us to lead kinder, more fulfilling lives was posted on the website of
The New York Times, where its simple, uplifting message struck a deep chord. Within days, it had been shared more than one million times. A slim volume that delivers a nice full message.
You Are Not Special: And Other
Encouragements by David McCullough. Another popular commencement speech, this one delivered in 2012 by English teacher McCullough and viewed by millions on YouTube. In this elaboration on the original address, he
uses humor to take on hovering parents, ineffectual schools, professional college prep, electronic distractions, club sports, and, generally, the manifestations and consequences of privilege. By acknowledging that the world is indifferent to them, McCullough takes pressure off of students to be extraordinary achievers and instead exhorts them to roll up their sleeves and do something useful with their advantages. Not a bad thought.
Lean In for Graduates by Sheryl Sandberg. The hit manifesto for women in the workplace has been
expanded and updated exclusively for grads just entering the workforce. It includes six additional chapters from experts, including advice on finding and getting the most out of a first job; resume writing; best interviewing practices; negotiating your salary; listening to your inner voice; and owning who you are.
