Top 10 Best Books for Freshmen

This novel offers a soldier’s personal recollections of the war and his youth spent amid bombings and chaos. It reflects deep sorrow for the comrades lost in battle, the haunting awareness of human fragility during times of conflict, and a poignant exploration of a generation born into war. Above all, it conveys a profound sadness intertwined with the individual experiences of those who lived through it. The book moves away from the traditional glorification of national victories and instead emphasizes the destructive and dehumanizing nature of war.

When it was first published in the late 1980s, “The Sorrow of War” was one of the pioneering modern Vietnamese novels to offer a new perspective on the war, focusing on the individual’s role in society and asserting the human rights to life, happiness, and suffering. The novel was awarded the Vietnam Writers' Association Prize in 1991.

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“We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand.” - Randy Pausch

In reality, many professors have been invited to deliver a “Last Lecture” before retiring. These lectures often include reflections on both failures and the most meaningful life lessons learned throughout their careers. As the audience listens, they often wonder: If this were truly the last opportunity to speak, what would we want to say to others? If tomorrow were the end, what legacy would we leave behind?

When Randy Pausch, a Professor of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon, was asked to give such a lecture, he knew it would be his final lecture, as he had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer. However, his lecture—“Achieving Your Childhood Dreams”—was not about death, but about overcoming obstacles, inspiring others to pursue their dreams, and never wasting a single moment of life (because “Time is all you have. One day, you’ll realize you have less than you think”). This was the philosophy that Randy had distilled from his own life.

In this book, Randy Pausch masterfully combines humor, engaging writing, and profound wisdom, making his lecture a phenomenon that resonates deeply with readers of all generations. This will undoubtedly be a book passed down through future generations.

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Can an ordinary person live an extraordinary life? The answer, of course, is yes! And can a student from a second-tier university still achieve top-tier success? The answer remains just as positive! In the book “University Without Losing Your Way,” author Ly Shun Long presents a fresh perspective on how any student, regardless of the university they attend, can follow a remarkable path to personal growth and success.

Why not become a “slash” youth?

A “slash” youth is someone who juggles multiple careers or works freelance, earning income from various skills. So, why should you consider becoming a slash youth?

In “University Without Losing Your Way,” Ly Shun Long discusses this idea by using the metaphor of a shelf, with your main profession as one of the legs supporting the shelf. A three-legged shelf is stable, a two-legged shelf wobbles, and a one-legged shelf cannot stand at all. Therefore, in a world that is constantly changing, we must acquire new skills and master multiple jobs to adapt and thrive.

Ly Shun Long explores four types of “slash” youths and provides practical advice for each. This book offers invaluable insights that you certainly don’t want to miss.

Can one year transform your life? Ly Shun Long answers affirmatively: “Yes, one year can change you completely, and more comfortably than you might think.” However, why does it take some people five or ten years to change a bad habit or build a good one, while others can do it in just one year?

The key is “persistence.” Some say it’s easy to be persistent for a day, a week is manageable, but the challenge is sticking with it for an entire year. However, in “University Without Losing Your Way,” the author explains that persistence isn’t as difficult as it seems—once you can stay committed for just a few weeks, the momentum will help you form a habit, and the rest is up to time. With the right strategies and the author’s advice, you can stay persistent for a year and transform your life.

Energy - The key difference for an effective person. Sometimes, we don’t understand why some people manage to get so much done in a day while still feeling full of energy, while others seem drained after doing very little. The difference is that the effective person unknowingly or consciously knows how to manage their energy. Ly Shun Long identifies four components of energy: physical strength, emotional balance, mental clarity, and willpower. These influence each other, and managing your energy is crucial for success in work and study.

In “University Without Losing Your Way,” you’ll not only learn how to manage your energy but also how to maintain, use, and elevate it in the most scientific way possible. Lastly, ask yourself: “If tomorrow were your last day, would you regret not doing something?” If not, congratulations! If you do have regrets, consider yourself lucky that the question begins with “if” and take action before it’s too late. As a university student, you may feel lost or directionless, but just like a ship sailing out to sea, if it doesn’t set a course, it will drift aimlessly. So, start asking yourself the important questions now to navigate your way through university and ultimately through life, and let this book be your guide on that journey. You won’t regret it.

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Unlike other authors in this genre, Jamson shares his experiences within the context of Singapore but helps readers explore their own personalities. After fifteen years in education, I've often encountered students who felt lost after graduation, having focused all their attention and effort on obtaining their degree. The majority of this book addresses this issue by guiding readers on how to set and achieve their goals for a successful future.

Let me clarify: This is NOT a typical self-help manual with motivational quotes or stories of rising from rags to riches. It doesn't provide a one-size-fits-all formula for success.

Instead, Jamson speaks from the heart as an ordinary Singaporean who faced societal expectations and shares the lessons he learned through small, personal anecdotes. Through these stories, readers will gain insight into how the author responded and thought, ultimately regaining control over his life. In true Singaporean study guide fashion, each chapter concludes with a succinct, key takeaway to maximize the effectiveness of the reading.

Whether you're freshly graduated, soon to graduate, or planning to attend university, I highly recommend this book as a valuable guide for life beyond the textbooks.

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The title 'Life Changes When We Change' is simple, yet it stirs up fresh emotions within readers. By changing our perspective on life, everything can transform. This book teaches how to fight through difficult phases in life and helps you discover your true self. Our attitude shapes who we are, and if we want the world to treat us well, there is no other way but through effort. The world is already filled with countless pressures, and only those who can turn pressure into joy will find happiness in life.

What I truly enjoy about this book is not just the philosophical life lessons, but also the charming illustrations. I think this is a standout feature of 'Life Changes When We Change,' setting it apart from many other self-help books on the market today. With illustrations, reading becomes far more enjoyable. I hope that after reading this book, you'll learn to view life through a different lens. A positive mindset leads to a positive life.

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Life is short, so why not take the opportunity to walk your own path, creating something unique that brings fresh value to the world? Paint your own picture, making every day you exist on this planet meaningful.

While it's a skills-based book, 'Think Differently and Act Unconventionally' offers much more than profound philosophical lessons; it also delivers entertainment and relaxation. The content is straightforward, without being overly complex or verbose. This is a book every young person should read at least once in their life. It's unlike any book you've read before, and it will help you change and have the courage to follow your own path. While you may not need more than 30 minutes to read it, truly understanding and reflecting on the meaning behind the words will take much longer.

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'How Much is Youth Really Worth?' is a book that avoids heavy-handed dogma or extreme criticism. Instead, it offers simple reflections from a seasoned individual. Rosie Nguyễn provides the youth with the most positive thoughts to help them boldly step into life. This book is especially suitable for young people standing on the threshold of their adult lives.

Rosie Nguyễn's 'How Much is Youth Really Worth?' is another self-help book in this genre. While it has received its share of both praise and criticism, the truth remains undeniable—this book offers valuable insights, but they are meant for those who are truly ready to embrace them.

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There are many books on philosophy, but 'Who Am I – And If So, How Much?' stands out. Never before has anyone guided readers to the profound questions of philosophy with such mastery and subtlety. Drawing from the fields of neuroscience, psychology, history, and even pop culture, contemporary German philosopher Richard David Precht skillfully illuminates core human existence questions like: What is truth? What is the meaning of life? Why should I be good? Presented in a concise, insightful, and captivating style, this book is an exceptional introduction to philosophy.

The result is a journey through the history of philosophy, with a clear introduction to modern brain studies. 'Who Am I – And If So, How Much?' is an excellent gateway to exploring philosophical ideas. It serves as a kaleidoscope of philosophical dilemmas, fascinating and humorous insights, and explores neurobiology, biology, and psychological studies.

The book is divided into three parts:

• 1) What Can I Know? - Focuses on descriptions of the brain, human nature, and the limits of human knowledge, starting with questions explored by Kant, Descartes, Nietzsche, Freud, and other philosophers.
• 2) What Should I Do? - Tackles moral and ethical issues, using neuroscience and sociology to explain why we feel empathy and the need to act ethically. It also covers controversial topics like euthanasia, abortion, and cloning.
• 3) What Can I Hope For? - Explores the most important life questions: What is happiness and why do we love? Does God exist, and how can we prove God's existence? What is freedom? What is the purpose of life?

Designed for a youthful audience, 'Who Am I – And If So, How Much?' is an exciting, intelligent, humorous, and engaging exploration through the vast world of knowledge to discover the true essence of human existence!

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'Your 20s – The Decisive Years of Your Life' (Reprint 2018) is a highly practical guidebook for navigating the uncertain and transformative years of your twenties.

The twenties are a time of great upheaval. This is the period where you can easily start the life you've always dreamed of, and the experiences you go through will have an unmatched impact on your future adult life. This book is an insightful and psychological exploration of the changes that happen in your twenties, explaining that your personality evolves more during this decade than at any other time in your life.

'Your 20s – The Decisive Years of Your Life' helps you understand the challenges that come with this age, offering guidance on how to confidently navigate your twenties and make the most of this crucial time. Start by understanding that the best answer to the question 'Who am I?' is not a long-lasting identity crisis, but rather the accumulation of life's experiences.

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You have $5 and 2 hours to run a business. What would you do? - This is one of the scenarios illustrated in the book 'If I Had Known When I Was 20.' There are countless ways to answer this question, and for each, the author highlights small but valuable lessons.

The book is divided into 10 chapters, each covering a different topic in a clear and logical sequence.

Throughout the book, simple business philosophies are illustrated with concrete, creative examples. Business situations are presented, with both successes and failures, but the key is how you face them.

'If I Had Known When I Was 20' is filled with practical lessons. The language is simple and easy to understand, conveying the author’s profound ideas effectively.

Major turning points in life, like leaving the comfort of school or starting a new career, can often feel overwhelming. Facing a multitude of choices while realizing no one can truly tell you whether you're making the right or wrong choice is scary. There are no set paths or success formulas, and even deciding where and how to start can be daunting.

Understanding these challenges, especially for young people at these crossroads in life, the author – an entrepreneur, teacher, and scientist – pours his heart into sharing simple yet deeply insightful advice. The pages are filled with interesting examples from both classrooms and boardrooms, featuring people willing to push beyond the 'good enough' standard, challenge assumptions, break through old thinking, and seize every opportunity to reach their highest potential, leading to great successes.

Through this book, the author hopes to equip readers, especially young ones, with the confidence to turn stress into excitement, transform challenges into opportunities, and rise stronger after every fall.

The core message of the book can be summed up as: 'Allow yourself to be bold and exceptional!'

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