2025 Reading List: 12-24 Books to Entertain, Educate, and Empower Your Year
As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to embrace books that not only entertain but also inspire self-improvement, cultivate new perspectives, and foster growth. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just beginning your literary journey, this year’s reading list is a mix of diverse genres that offer something for everyone—from thrilling page-turners to life-changing non-fiction. Let’s make 2025 a year of reading better and doing better!
1. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre: Historical Fiction
Synopsis: This captivating novel follows the glamorous life of a reclusive Hollywood icon, Evelyn Hugo, who finally agrees to tell the truth about her seven marriages and the sacrifices she made for fame and love. With vivid storytelling and a dash of mystery, this book explores themes of identity, love, and the price of success.
Why it makes the cut: It’s a compelling tale about the complexities of fame and identity, offering readers a glimpse into the sacrifices made in the pursuit of greatness. It’s perfect for those who enjoy powerful female characters and intricate relationships.
2. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Genre: Self-Help / Non-fiction
Synopsis: James Clear’s best-selling book delves into the science of habit formation and how tiny changes can lead to significant improvements in your life. By focusing on small, incremental habits, Clear outlines how to break bad habits and form good ones.
Why it makes the cut: A must-read for anyone looking to make lasting changes in their life. Clear’s insights are actionable, motivational, and transformative, setting you up for a productive and fulfilling 2025.
3. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Genre: Fiction / Fantasy
Synopsis: In this thought-provoking novel, Nora Seed finds herself in the Midnight Library, a place between life and death, where she gets to explore alternate versions of her life. With each book she opens, she experiences what her life could have been like if she had made different choices.
Why it makes the cut: A beautifully written exploration of regret, purpose, and the infinite possibilities life offers. It’s a story of second chances and reminds readers that it’s never too late to change direction.
4. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Genre: Mystery / Drama
Synopsis: Set in the swamps of North Carolina, this bestselling novel follows Kya Clark, a young girl abandoned by her family, who grows up isolated in the wild. When a local man is found dead, Kya becomes the prime suspect, leading to a suspenseful exploration of love, survival, and the natural world.
Why it makes the cut: A gripping mystery with poetic prose and themes of resilience, connection, and nature’s healing power. It’s a perfect choice for fans of atmospheric settings and emotional depth.
5. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
Genre: Mythological Fiction
Synopsis: Retelling the story of Achilles and Patroclus, Madeline Miller’s modern adaptation of Greek mythology brings their legendary love story to life. With breathtaking prose, it blends romance, tragedy, and heroism in a retelling that resonates with contemporary readers.
Why it makes the cut: This novel brings classic mythology into the modern world with a beautiful narrative. It’s a poignant tale about love, fate, and the human cost of war that will leave you reflecting long after the last page.
6. Educated by Tara Westover
Genre: Memoir
Synopsis: Tara Westover’s memoir tells the inspiring story of her upbringing in a strict, survivalist family in rural Idaho. Despite her lack of formal education, she eventually escapes her upbringing to pursue learning, eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University.
Why it makes the cut: A powerful, transformative story that showcases the importance of education, resilience, and self-discovery. It’s a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge can change lives.
7. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
Genre: Fantasy
Synopsis: In this novel, Addie LaRue makes a Faustian bargain for immortality, only to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Over 300 years, she experiences a life of solitude and longing until she meets a man who remembers her.
Why it makes the cut: A beautifully written exploration of loneliness, identity, and the human desire to leave a mark on the world. Addie’s journey through history and time is both poignant and magical.
8. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Genre: Fiction / Philosophy
Synopsis: A young shepherd named Santiago embarks on a journey to find a hidden treasure, only to discover that the true treasure lies in the wisdom and experiences gained along the way.
Why it makes the cut: This timeless fable is perfect for those looking for inspiration and motivation. It teaches readers to pursue their dreams, trust their instincts, and listen to the whispers of their hearts.
9. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Genre: Historical Fiction
Synopsis: Narrated by Death, this novel takes place during World War II in Nazi Germany and follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books to escape the harsh realities of her life. Through the power of words, she finds hope and connection.
Why it makes the cut: A poignant and deeply moving story about the power of stories and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a beautifully written exploration of love, loss, and survival in the face of war.
10. Circe by Madeline Miller
Genre: Mythology / Fantasy
Synopsis: This retelling of the Greek myth of Circe, the powerful witch who transforms men into pigs, explores her complex character and the forces that shaped her. It’s a tale of self-discovery, transformation, and rebellion against the gods.
Why it makes the cut: Madeline Miller’s lyrical prose brings a fresh and feminist perspective to an ancient myth. It’s an exploration of power, identity, and the consequences of breaking societal norms.
11. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Genre: Philosophy / Self-Help
Synopsis: Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, this book outlines four simple yet profound agreements that can guide us to a life of freedom and happiness: Be impeccable with your word, Don’t take anything personally, Don’t make assumptions, and Always do your best.
Why it makes the cut: It’s a life-changing book that offers practical wisdom for living with clarity, peace, and authenticity. Perfect for anyone looking to transform their mental and emotional habits.
12. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Genre: Science Fiction
Synopsis: Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there, and discovers that he is humanity’s last hope. He must solve a series of complex scientific challenges in order to save Earth from extinction.
Why it makes the cut: For fans of The Martian, this is another fast-paced, highly engaging novel by Andy Weir. It’s a thrilling, witty, and heart-pounding ride that blends science with adventure.
13. The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
Genre: Historical Fiction
Synopsis: Set during the Great Depression, The Four Winds follows Elsa Martinelli as she navigates the hardships of life in Texas during the Dust Bowl. The novel portrays a woman’s strength as she fights for survival and her family’s future.
Why it makes the cut: Kristin Hannah is known for her emotionally compelling stories, and this one is no exception. It’s an inspiring novel about courage, sacrifice, and the will to survive against all odds.
14. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
Genre: Non-fiction / History
Synopsis: Harari’s bestselling book takes readers on a journey through the history of humanity, from the earliest days of Homo sapiens to the present, offering insights into how our species has shaped the world.
Why it makes the cut: It’s a thought-provoking, eye-opening exploration of human history that will change the way you think about our place in the world. A great read for those who want to learn and grow through knowledge.
15. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Genre: Fantasy
Synopsis: A magical, immersive tale about two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who are bound in a mystical competition set in a magical circus. As they compete, the circus itself becomes a battleground for their powers.
Why it makes the cut: For fans of magical realism, this enchanting story is a spellbinding blend of mystery, romance, and magic. The vivid, atmospheric setting and complex characters will captivate you.
16. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Genre: Creativity / Self-help
Synopsis: Elizabeth Gilbert shares her thoughts on creativity and how to embrace your own creative potential without fear or hesitation. Big Magic encourages readers to follow their passions and let their creativity flow freely.
Why it makes the cut: It’s a motivational read for anyone looking to cultivate creativity and live a more vibrant, inspired life. Whether you’re an artist or simply someone looking to inject more creativity into your daily life, this book will help you get started.
17. The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler
Genre: Philosophy / Self-help
Synopsis: A collaboration between the Dalai Lama and psychiatrist Howard Cutler, this book explores the nature of happiness and how we can train our minds to cultivate it.
Why it makes the cut: A timeless exploration of the mind and heart, The Art of Happiness provides simple but profound insights into living a fulfilled life. It’s a perfect read for anyone seeking more peace and joy in their lives.
18. A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
Genre: Literary Fiction
Synopsis: This emotionally devastating novel follows the lives of four college friends, focusing on one of them, Jude, whose painful past slowly unravels over the years.
Why it makes the cut: Deeply moving, this book offers a profound exploration of trauma, friendship, and survival. It’s not for the faint of heart, but its emotional power and beautiful prose make it unforgettable.
19. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Genre: Fiction
Synopsis: A grumpy, solitary man named Ove’s life changes when new neighbors move in next door, and he begins to form unexpected connections with others.
Why it makes the cut: This heartwarming and often humorous story is about the power of kindness, human connection, and second chances. It’s a story that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the little moments in life.
20. Becoming by Michelle Obama
Genre: Memoir
Synopsis: In her highly anticipated memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama opens up about her life, her challenges, and her journey to becoming the woman she is today.
Why it makes the cut: Becoming is an inspiring and empowering story that will motivate you to follow your own path, embrace your voice, and never stop striving to become the best version of yourself.
Wrapping it up
In 2025, let your reading list be a reflection of your journey toward personal growth, entertainment, and exploration. This year, challenge yourself with books that not only entertain but inspire you to do better, think better, and be better. Each of these titles has been carefully chosen to provide both insight and enjoyment, offering a diverse range of genres, themes, and ideas to make this year your most meaningful yet.
Happy reading!
Mothersense and Miscellaneous 