1. Home
  2. Entertainment
  3. Bestsellers

5 Books to Give as Graduation Gifts

By Erin Collazo Miller, About.com

Looking for gift ideas for high school or college graduation? A book is an ideal gift for graduates because it helps them reflect on where they have been and where they are going. A book can be sentimental, practical and entertaining. If you need ideas for the perfect book to give for an upcoming high school or college graduation, look no further.

1. 'Oh, the Places You'll Go' by Dr. Seuss

'Oh, the Places You'll Go' by Dr. Seuss
This inspirational picture book reappears on the bestsellers lists every year around graduation. Oh, the Places You'll Go has great illustrations and is the perfect book for sending graduates into a new phase of life.
Compare Prices

2. 'Freakonomics' by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner

Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
Freakonomics is an especially good graduation gift for anyone interested in economics or social issues. Freakonomics will inspire graduates to apply their knowledge in practical ways and think outside the box.

3. 'What Color Is Your Parachute' by Richard Nelson Bolles

'What Color is Your Parachute' by Richard Nelson Bolles
What Color Is Your Parachute by Richard Nelson Bolles has been THE job searching book to use for more than a decade. Know a college graduate who is still not sure how to apply his or her major in the real world? This graduation gift may be more practical than glamorous, but may be appreciated more in the end.
Compare Prices

4. 'Saucepans & the Single Girl' by Jinx Morgan and Judy Perry

Saucepans & the Single Girl by Jinx Morgan and Judy Perry
Saucepans & the Single Girl was originally released in 1965. An updated version was released in 2006 and would make a delightful gift for any gal starting out on her own after graduation. Saucepans & the Single Girl combines practical advice with humorous commentary that will connect women across generations.

5. 'Do What You Are' by Paul D. Tieger and Barbara Barron-Tieger

'Do What You Are'
Do What You Are is another classic that will help graduates choose a career based on personality type after graduation. This is a practical, interesting graduation gift for any recent high school or college grads who want to be more self-aware.
Compare Prices
Explore Bestsellers
About.com Special Features

Is your favorite song on our list? More >

Get a jump on all the new dramas coming soon to your living room. More >

  1. Home
  2. Entertainment
  3. Bestsellers
  4. Recommendation Lists
  5. High School or College Graduation Gift Ideas - Top Books to Give Graduates - Gift Book Ideas for High School or College Graduation>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.