What are the best books for high school graduates not going to college?

I'm planning on taking a gap year and not going straight to college after graduation. Can anyone recommend some insightful books that can help me prepare for the real world and different career paths? Thanks!

Sure, there are several insightful books that can be of immense help to those taking a gap year or navigating life after high school without immediately heading off to college.

1. "The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter--And How to Make the Most of Them Now" by Dr. Meg Jay. This book can offer valuable insights into making important life decisions in your 20s, which applies to high school graduates.

2. "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. It’s a classic for a reason - this book will teach you the fundamental skills you need to interact effectively with others, something that will be extremely helpful in the working world.

3. "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey provides a holistic approach to becoming an effective and successful individual. It covers not only professional success but also personal happiness and fostering a strong moral character.

4. "Your Money or Your Life" by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez provides a comprehensive framework for managing personal finances which is an essential skill to have as you enter adulthood.

5. "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki. This book presents financial education in a digestible manner and can help you understand how to make money work for you rather than the other way around.

6. "What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers" by Richard N. Bolles. While primarily aimed at people changing careers, the advice can be very helpful for those just embarking on their careers too.

These books offer a good starting point. Good luck with your gap year!