As a child, award-winning author Carmen Maria Machado was drawn to her library’s banned books display. The simple fact that they were banned compelled her — she wanted to read every single one. Eventually, her fascination grew so strong that she had to be reminded not to borrow the entire display. The paradoxical effect of highlighting art that has been removed from the public’s view is a powerful one.

As a WashU student likely flooded with work, you deserve a show (or a StudLife article) that takes no brain energy to understand.

Whether you are graduating in May or getting ready to move in this fall, here are the books that I think you should read before you graduate.

Author Naomi Jackson came to Washington University to give a reading in Hurst Lounge on Friday April 19. Brought by the English Department and the Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI), Jackson read from her debut novel “The Star Side of Bird Hill,” as well as her forthcoming book “Behind God’s Back” and an essay. She is currently an associate professor at City College in New York.

At the risk of sounding like a cantankerous old woman, I’m going to make a not-so-bold statement: people should read more.

It’s easy to forget all the wonderful things about school, but getting in touch with your creativity can really boost your energy level. Presumably, you’re here because you love learning. Here are some ways to reinvigorate yourself out of the mid-semester slump by tapping into your creative flow.

Back in grade school, I was an unabashed bookworm. If I wasn’t spending time with my friends or doing homework, I was probably curled up somewhere reading a book. Even in high school, when I was slowly seduced by the mindlessness of television and the internet, I still spent a lot of time reading.

Rows upon rows of eclectic books line the shelves of the Loop’s Subterranean Books. As the only independent bookstore on the street, Subterranean Books provides a welcome oasis from the surrounding bustling restaurants and shops.