The Best Books of 2025: A Year of Literary Excellence
The year 2025 promises an abundance of literary delights, as critics and editors have curated a diverse selection of books across various genres. From captivating fiction to insightful memoirs, thrilling crime novels, and thought-provoking non-fiction, there's something for every reader.
Fiction
Justine Jordan, the fiction editor at The Guardian, highlights Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 'Dream Count' and Thomas Pynchon's latest masterpiece. David Szalay's Booker-winning novel and a collection of short stories also made the cut. Explore these and more at The Guardian's Fiction Page.
Memoir and Biography
Fiona Sturges recommends Anthony Hopkins and Kathy Burke's candid reflections on acting, Arundhati Roy's brave memoir, and Helen Dunmore's prize-winning diaries. Dive into these personal narratives at The Guardian's Memoir and Biography Page.
Crime and Thrillers
Laura Wilson introduces readers to Mick Herron's 'Slow Horses' and Denise Mina's 'The Good Liar'. For a unique twist, try 'The Case of the Japanese Detective' by Uketsu, a YouTube personality. Check out The Guardian's Crime and Thriller Page for more.
History and Politics
Pratinav Anil curates a collection of books that explore the 1970s, modern Russian history, and the fall of the Tories. Jason Burke's 'The Revolutionists' and 'Motherland' offer unique perspectives. Discover these and more at The Guardian's History and Politics Page.
Poetry
Rishi Dastidar selects Seamus Heaney's collected poems, Simon Armitage's 'Animal Spirits', and the Forward prize-winning works of Karen Solie and Vidyan Ravinthiran. Immerse yourself in these poetic masterpieces at The Guardian's Poetry Page.
Children's Books
Imogen Russell Williams recommends a new read-aloud favorite with world-conquering doughnuts, high fantasy from Katherine Rundell, and more. Explore these and other children's books at The Guardian's Children's Books Page.
Science and Nature
Anjana Ahuja curates a collection of books that explore the threat of superintelligent AI, the secrets to a longer life, the evolution of language, and the restless genius of Francis Crick. Dive into these scientific and natural wonders at The Guardian's Science and Nature Page.
Translated Fiction
John Self highlights the return of Nobel laureate Han Kang, Daniel Kehlmann's 'The Director' set during the Nazis, Solvej Balle's 'Life on Loop', Scandinavian thrillers, and essential stories from postwar Iraq. Discover these translated works at The Guardian's Translated Fiction Page.
Food
Bee Wilson presents a collection of recipe books, including Sami Tamimi's celebration of Palestine's culinary heritage, Helen Goh's exploration of baking's psychological benefits, and Roopa Gulati's insights into Indian kitchen tricks. Indulge in these culinary adventures at The Guardian's Food Page.
Graphic Novels
James Smart recommends Alison Bechdel and Joe Sacco's works, 'Black Country Cowboys', 'Vengeful Gods', and an angling classic reimagined. Explore these graphic novels at The Guardian's Graphic Novels Page.
Young Adult
Imogen Russell Williams highlights space-traveling telepaths, LGBTQ+ activism, a war-torn Britain, online alter egos, and feminist trailblazers in YA books from 2025. Discover these young adult reads at The Guardian's Young Adult Page.
Music
Alexis Petridis selects five music books that explore Spotify's impact and the life of Tupac Shakur. Dive into these musical narratives at The Guardian's Music Page.
Science Fiction
Adam Roberts curates a collection of science fiction books featuring icy intrigue, cyberpunkish cyborgs, memory-eating aliens, and new super-fast travel. Explore these speculative worlds at The Guardian's Science Fiction Page.
Sports
Jonathan Liew presents a selection of sports books, including the triumphs and traumas of Olympic cyclist Bradley Wiggins and the secrets of a match fixer. Discover these sporting narratives at The Guardian's Sports Page.
Explore the full list of The Guardian's Best Books of 2025 at GuardianBookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.
