By Lindsey Kundel, Editor in Chief, InGenius Prep
August is a season of sharpened pencils, school schedules, and—for parents of high schoolers—a growing awareness that college deadlines are just around the corner. Whether your student is a rising senior in the thick of essay writing or a younger high schooler just beginning the journey, the college admissions process can feel overwhelming.
That’s why this month’s reading list is for you. We’re spotlighting three essential college application books written specifically for parents—each offering a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how college admissions really works. These aren’t how-to manuals for padding a resume. They’re thoughtful, experience-based reads. We hope they will help your family approach the college application process with insight, empathy, and a bit more calm.
Valedictorians at the Gate – Becky Sabky
Written by a former admissions officer at Dartmouth, this book is part memoir, part myth-buster. Sabky shares real stories from inside the admissions office—students she fought for, moments that stuck with her, and the surprising ways colleges actually evaluate applications. What makes this book stand out is its human approach. It’s less about prestige and more about perspective: how to raise kids who are grounded, curious, and resilient no matter where they end up.
Recommended for: Parents of students in grades 9–12. A compassionate, reality-based look at selective college admissions.
College Admission: From Application to Acceptance – Robin Mamlet & Christine Vandevelde
Consider this your go-to guidebook for the entire college journey. Written by a former dean of admission and an award-winning journalist, this comprehensive resource breaks down every step of the process—from course selection and testing to essays, interviews, and financial aid. What sets this book apart is its balanced tone. It is informative without being alarmist. And it is packed with practical tools that demystify the experience for both students and parents.
Recommended for: Families who want a trusted roadmap. Includes timelines, worksheets, and expert advice that grows with the student year by year.
A is for Admission – Michele A. Hernández
Originally published in the late 1990s and updated since, this book remains a classic in the admissions canon. Hernández, a former Dartmouth admissions officer, offers a frank and sometimes controversial take on how elite colleges make decisions. While some of the strategic advice may feel intense, the book provides an unfiltered view into the criteria top schools use to sort through thousands of applicants. It also delves into why exceptional students don’t always make the cut.
Recommended for: Parents aiming for Ivy League or highly selective colleges. Will help to understand the process in full detail—no sugarcoating.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling anxious about the upcoming school year, you’re not alone. These college admissions reading recommendations won’t guarantee admission. They will offer something better: clarity, confidence, and a reminder that this journey is about more than just where your child goes to college. It’s about who they become along the way.
Need more personalized support? Book a free consultation with an InGenius Prep counselor to get tailored advice for your family.