Common symbols not allowed are €, long dashes (–) and the special quote characters “ ' ' ” which will simply be removed from your statement. So remember to replace long dashes with - and quotes with “ and '.
It is not necessary to mention books in your personal statement, since you can provide evidence that you are genuinely interested in and are independently reading about law by others means.
For books, you could give an overall opinion or mention a specific idea from within the book and argue for/against it, for example. It's also a good idea to describe how one thing led you to another – try to tell a story and keep it engaging.
You can end by explaining how the experiences you outlined in your personal statement inspired you to take the next steps to become a lawyer.
If you're referencing something specific, then yes, it's fine. I did something similar for my PS. Just make sure to cite the article properly by crediting the original authors.
"So if you do list books that you read that you either found interesting or inspired you, make sure you re-read them shortly before your interview so that you can talk about them. And it might be good, if you list any at all, to only limit yourself to one or two books.
9 Important Personal Statement Tips for Law School Applicants Tip 1: Focus on you. Tip 2: Brainstorm broadly. Tip 3: Be genuine. Tip 4: Just write. Tip 5: Remember your “why” ... Tip 6: Be specific. Tip 7: Grab our attention. Tip 8: Know what makes the school tick.
Some universities do not use it at all, such as Brighton and Sussex and St Georges, whilst other universities, such as Manchester, require an alternative form similar to the personal statement but not your personal statement itself.
Your opening should grab the reader's attention and set the tone for your story. Consider starting with an anecdote, a surprising fact about yourself, or a pivotal moment that sparked a passion or interest. This not only makes your statement engaging but also personalizes it from the start.
How to Write a Personal Statement The New Yorker Magazine Joan Didion's essays Tina Fey's memoir, BossyPants When Breath Becomes Air, by Paul Kalinithi The historical travel writing of Sarah Vowell A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson Into Thin Air or Into the Wild by John Krakauer Zeitoun, by Dave Eggers