(Content warnings: Mentions of SA)
Megan Grimston - Sports sub-editor
While the experience of being a fresher will constantly bring new experiences right until the very end of the year, nobody is expecting the constant strain of energy and social battery. The only expectation is that you take it at your own pace including the time to recharge, regather, and read a book. It's no easy feat to choose what books to leave at home and which ones to bring to university so here's my top two recommendations to get you through first year!
Before the Coffee Gets Cold, by Toshikazu Kawaguchi. Magical realism seems like the most appropriate genre to help the struggles of first year. Something about the comfort of fiction grounded in true, comprehendible life experiences combined with the twist of something just beyond the imagination provides an unwavering bravery to tackle the freshers fear.
Less, by Andrew Sean Greer. Arthur Less experiences life a lot like that of a fresher; with fear, caution, and a constant overhead of panic. Arthur Less is also about to turn 50 and running away from a mid-life crisis. The story of Less, although like that of a first year, also serves as a reminder that everything works out. If you feel like your fresher experience is reflective of Arthur Less, take the time to read Less and remind yourself that this feeling does not last forever.
Keira Gratton - Art sub-editor
Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Tsukimura’s novel follows the timid Kokoro, a Japanese Junior High Student who refuses to go to school. Shut in by her anxieties, she finds her escape passing into the fantastical world beyond her bedroom mirror. Taking orders from a little girl in a wolf mask and playing video games with her rivals, her life in the lonely castle couldn’t be more different.
This book’s magical realism speaks to the difficulties of new learning environments and making friends as a young adult. To those feeling lonely or directionless in their first year, this book is a hopeful reminder of the communities and new beginnings just out of sight. (Content warnings: bullying, mental health, brief mention of SA)
Amelie Baker - Opinion sub-editor
I think my biggest recommendation, as a massive re-reader of books myself, is to go back to those comfort novels/series. Moving to university, away from everything that you know, is hard. But books will always offer a familiar home, no matter where you are.
However, if you are looking for a new read, I have two that will get you in the mindset for life at Newcastle University. My first is a very feminist murder mystery set in Newcastle, Speak of the Devil, by Rose Wilding. This is a real page turner, although some trigger warnings: rape is a prevelant theme as well as emotional manipulation and blackmail, alongside the murder. It is a book that will wholly engross you though, a classic who-dun-it with very satisfying themes of female empowerment and justice, set against the physical and social backdrop of our beloved toon.
Another good one, again following the lines of murder, is A Secret History, by Donna Tartt. I read this during my first year of university, and it is perfect to curl up with on a cold, Northern-winters day. Set in Vermont, it follows four linguistic students studying Ancient Greek and Latin, until they follow their obsession with the classics a little too far. It's not exactly a light read, but definitely a good one - the definition of dark academia.
Marina Snyder - Head of Life & Style
One book I’d really recommend for getting through university is ‘Everything I know about Love’ by Dolly Alderton. Though it won’t help you with your academics, I truly think everyone should read it at least once when navigating your new adult life. The book feels like receiving advice from an older sister, gaining perspective on topics such as love, relationships and friendships and is just a comforting read if you’re ever feeling lost in life or at university.
Another book I’d recommend is the Alchemist. I’m currently amid reading the Alchemist, which follows the story of a shepherd boy who travels on a journey as he dreams of finding treasure. The plot itself however is not what is important, but it’s the messages and life lesson the novel entails. On his journey, he must overcome multiple obstacles and deal with themes such as dreams, destiny, love and faith. I feel as though at a time when university can often feel a bit daunting and you can feel a bit lost, this book can be a bit like a north star to guide you through life and all of its many lessons!
