How To: survive college in a few simple reads

I am a senior at Colorado State University, set to graduate in December, a double History and Journalism major and totally overwhelmd by readings for every class. The good news is that there is always the option to step away from thick history texts and jump into more lighthearted fair. The books I have found over the last three years have been all over in their content and subject matter, but they all have helped me get through the stress that is being in University.
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

Totally not what you would expect a history buff to read, but as my current fiction this book rocks! It is well written, with beyond the whole vampire thing, few historical mess-ups. As long as you take it for fun, love a narration with flourishing characters, and need something different to enjoy, this is a book for you!
Bossypants by Tina Fey

I did theater in high school so this had a natural draw for me, along with the whole 30 Rock thing oh and Saturday Night Live. Tina Fey is a hoot and a half, the whole book left you laughing from page to page, maybe I related to the stories more than the average 23-year-old (I tend to be more socially awkward than most), but it is not to be missed and will take the edge off of that D you got on that paper you bled your heart into.

The Signature of All Things, by Elizabeth Gilbert


THIS fueled my love of history fires, though it is a fiction it is so well researched, written, pieced together and BEAUTIFUL that it deserves a place on this list. Read it, just read it, it helps with the whole escapism thing along with being very relaxing as you pretend you get to be in these places with the leading lady.
Siddhartha by Herman Hesse

If you are really overwhelmed this is a great read to calm your soul and think at the same time. The book is short and mobile, and perfect for late night stresses or your bus ride, or lunch break between classes.

Of course there are many other beauties out there, and poetry should not be overlooked, I delve into my Rumi, Robert Burns, and Emily Dickinson volumes quite frequently.

What are the books that helped you get through college?
-Rebecca Robinson