Of the 45 books I read in 2025, Here are my Top 5 Picks of 2025 (and Why You Should Read Them!)

2025 was an incredible lineup of books that stirred my imagination, deepened my understanding of history, and helped me understand others more clearly. Of the 45 good books I read in 2025, here are my top five favorite of the year and why they made such an impact on me.

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The Wright Brothers by David McCullough

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David McCullough brings the legendary brothers — Orville and Wilbur Wright — to life with his signature storytelling genius. This richly researched biography follows their stubborn curiosity, mechanical genius, and unwavering dedication to solving the puzzle of human flight. McCullough weaves personal letters, historical context, and vivid scenes to show how two bicycle makers from Ohio changed the world. I loved the contrast with Langley’s government-funded failure and the brothers’ self-taught success, but this book isn’t just about aviation – it’s about perseverance, innovation, and believing in the impossible. You can’t help but root for these brothers and be amazed at the ingenuity, thriftiness, and hard work!

Read if you enjoy inspiring true stories, American history, biographies that read like novels, and books about creativity, grit, and big ideas that change the world

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The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles

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My favorite book of the year was The Lincoln Highway, by Amor Towles. Can I be honest, I thought this was going to be a book about Abraham Lincoln. I was wrong. This book follows 18-year-old Emmett Watson, planning a fresh start with his little brother after the loss of their father and family farm. Unexpected detours and unwanted companions take them on a memorable road trip across America. The compelling characters and fantastic writing make this book easy to love and impossible to forget.

Read if you enjoy character-driven novels, nostalgic Americana, road trip stories, and books about second chances and family. This would also be an excellent book to listen to on a road trip.

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Meriwether Lewis by Janet and Geoff Benge

It was genuinely hard to choose just one Janet Benge biography as my favorite this year because her books are SO fantastic, but I decided that Meriweather Lewis deserves to be on this list. For lovers of history and real-life adventure, this book dives deep into the life of the leader of the iconic Lewis and Clark Expedition. Janet Benge brings to life both the brilliance and struggles of a man tasked with exploring the West. This is an inspiring story of courage, curiosity, ingenuity, and leadership in the face of the unknown.

Not only was Lewis a fascinating person, but so was Sacagawea. She is tasked with traveling with the expedition while pregnant. She gives birth to her baby during the expedition, then continues the journey!! What a remarkable testament to strength and resilience.

Read if you enjoy history, exploration, true adventures, strong leadership narratives, or biographies that make history come alive.

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Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

During my senior year of high school in 1994, I was given a list of “required reading,” and Rebecca was on that list. I dutifully worked my way through the books, and while most either left no impression or bored me to tears, Rebecca was different. I was completely enthralled.
That story has stayed with me for 31 years, until I finally re-read it this year and found that I loved it even more the second time. My life has changed completely since that naive 17-year-old was trudging through her senior year, trying to figure out who she was and what she wanted to do with her life. Now, a million moves, a million life events, and a million children later, this book still resonates and still leaves a lasting impression

Rebecca is a haunting, romantic, and beautifully written book. The author brings scenes to life so fully that you can smell the flowers, feel the breeze, and become a guest in their home. Du Maurier’s tale of a young bride who marries a wealthy widower only to find his estate ruled by the lingering presence of his first wife is captivating. The book is drenched in suspense. If you haven’t read this classic, 2026 is a perfect year to discover it.

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Steps by John Ortberg

Steps was my favorite NON-FICTION book of the year. It’s a hopeful, grace-filled rewrite of the 12 steps. Accessible, practical, and life-giving. A must-read for anyone seeking freedom, healing, or deeper authenticity. I took 6 pages of notes on this book but here are my top ten takeaways (which was HARD to narrow down).

10 powerful takeaways:

• A true spiritual journey begins when we admit we are not in control. God is.
• God is Creator, Sustainer, Redeemer, and Comforter. He is present and powerful.
• The essential question: Do I believe there is a Power greater than myself?
• Faith is a gift. Ask God for helpful faith, even in the presence of doubt.
• In some ways God’s biggest miracle was his smallest: He condensed all his being into a single human body and came down to earth to be with people.  
• We often want God to change our circumstances, while God wants to use our circumstances to change us. 
• We cannot be in a relationship of love with Jesus and continue to harm the people around us. If we aren’t willing to make amends, we don’t really want to be forgiven, we just want to avoid pain.
• Forgiveness is rarely one-and-done. It’s a lifelong maintenance practice.
• Healing matters because healed people become a force for good in the world.
• The antidote to fear is awareness of God’s presence: God is able. God is here. God is good.

From John Ortberg in Steps:

Write someone a note. Give someone a gift. Pause to serve someone. Notice a person most will overlook. Relax. Unclench your fists. Unfurrow your brow. Forgive someone. Laugh. Go outside and look up at the sky and say thank you. Be polite. Drive slower. Mention to someone that you believe in God even if it’s scary. Volunteer. Think about something noble, beautiful, good. Ask for help. Give someone a compliment. Look in the mirror and say, “You are fearfully and wonderfully made, you good-looking thing.” Take a deep breath. Smile.

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What Books Did You Love in 2025?

Those were my top five, but I want to hear from you! Drop your favorites in the comments by clicking that little icon by the title. I’m always looking for great recommendations!

Thanks for reading!

Click here for my favorite books of 2024.

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Four of my Favorite PARENTING books? Click here.

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FIVE Inspiring books for WOMEN!

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Reading is one of my favorite hobbies. If you asked whether I’d rather go to the movies or stay home and read, there’s no contest… I’m already curled up under a blanket with a book in my hand, two more on the coffee table, and at least one lost somewhere in the house.

My 2025 “read” list wandered all over the map: fiction, biography, faith, parenting, personal growth, and a few books I picked up simply because everyone else was talking about them and I needed to know what the buzz was about. (Spoiler: sometimes the hype is earned… sometimes it’s not.)

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Here’s a look at what I read in 2025, along with ratings and reflections

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Fiction

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The Lincoln Highway – Amor Towles (10/10)

Possibly my favorite fiction book ever. Brilliantly written, unforgettable characters, deeply moving. I didn’t want it to end.

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The Dutch House – Ann Patchett (10/10)

I listened to the audiobook read by Tom Hanks—HIGHLY recommend. Beautifully crafted story.

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Rebecca – Daphne du Maurier (10/10)

Atmospheric, haunting, masterful. I read this in high school – loved it then and still love it!

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The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston  (9.5/10)

A surprisingly moving story about how one life touches many others. Delightful!

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The Summer House – James Patterson (7/10)

 I had to read at least one book by this prolific writer. It was an interesting, well-written mystery. 

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The Academy – Elin Hilderbrand (7/10)

I was curious about this book because so many people seemed to be talking about it, and with Elin Hilderbrand teaming up with her daughter on their first dual project – I had to see what the buzz was about. It’s an interesting peek into the dramatic, glamorous, and sometimes messy lives of rich and famous teens at an elite boarding school.

The story is entertaining, but I didn’t love it. Still, it was a fun, well-written book worth checking out if you enjoy YA drama with a luxury twist.

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A Gentleman in Moscow – Amor Towles (8/10)

Slow start, beautiful finish. The story follows a man confined to a room inside a hotel for decades, yet he still finds delight in the little things: a game, a book, a meal, or a song.

I resonated with the author when he said that time seems endless until you have a child ready to leave the nest – then you begin to notice and treasure each day.

Overall this was good book, but a GREAT one (by the same author) is A Lincoln Highway.

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All the Light We Cannot See – Anthony Doerr (8/10)

Beautiful writing and interesting characters. I didn’t love the nonlinear timeline, but the themes of hope and courage were impactful.

Favorite quote:

Open your eyes and see what you can with them before they close forever.

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The Alternate End of Cassidy Marchand by Tracey Barski (9/10)

I originally picked up this book to support the author (a friend), but I ended up genuinely loving the story. It’s creative, engaging, and full of clever twists that kept me turning the pages faster than I expected. The characters are memorable, and the plot moves with the perfect balance of mystery and momentum. Highly recommend!

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The Story She Left Behind by Patti Callahan Henry (10/10)

Once I started this book, I couldn’t put it down. Patty Callahan Henry has a way of crafting stories that pull you in, and this one was no exception. I first fell in love with her writing after reading Becoming Mrs. Lewis, and this novel only deepened my appreciation for her storytelling.

The author masterfully blends history, mystery, and emotion, making this book a GREAT read.

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The Voice We Find by Nicole Deese (8/10)

A tender, faith-filled story of loss, love, and restoration. It’s an emotionally rich story that gently points readers toward trust, healing, and God’s presence in hard seasons

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The House of Spirits by Isabel Allende (6/10)

Isabel Allende is a talented writer, and her storytelling is rich with detail. However, The House of the Spirits didn’t resonate with me. While the writing itself is strong, I found the story to be slow-moving at times, making it difficult to stay engaged. Additionally, some of the themes explored in the book didn’t align with my personal beliefs, which made it challenging for me to enjoy.

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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (5/10)

I kept seeing this pop up on everyone’s lists so I decided to check it out. I felt it was like watching a train wreck – compelling but left me feeling disappointed. PASS!

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The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by VE Schwab (4/10)

I just couldn’t connect with this book. It begins with a young girl accidentally making a deal with the devil to escape an arranged marriage, only to live a life where no one remembers her. While the writing itself was well-crafted, the premise felt too far-fetched for me, and I had to force myself through to the end (it never got better). If you’re looking for engaging fiction, try Where’d You Go, Bernadette?, Remarkably Bright Creatures, or The Women. Interesting book club discussion though!

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Non-fiction

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Steps by John Ortberg (10/10)

A hopeful, grace-filled rewrite of the 12 steps. Accessible, practical, and life-giving. A must-read for anyone seeking freedom, healing, or deeper authenticity. I took 6 pages of notes on this book but here are a few highlights:

• A true spiritual journey depends on our sincere recognition that we are not in control.
• God created the word, makes the sun rise, answers prayer, moves mountains, provides wisdom, offers hope, comforts, blesses, calms, invents, brings justice, forgives, redeems, gives breath, loves. He is in control.
• Are you willing to believe that there is a Power in the universe greater than yourself? Pause and Reflect on the immense importance of that question.
• Ask God for the gift of helpful faith. 
• You can have doubts and go to heaven. You can be certain and go to hell.
• In some ways God’s biggest miracle was his smallest: He condensed all his being into a single human body and came down to earth to be with people.  
• Wise (self-aware) people practice self-examination because they understand that “the unexamined life is not worth living.”
• We often want God to change our circumstances, while God wants to use our circumstances to change us. 
• One must realize that he cannot be in a relationship of love with Jesus and continue to harm the people around him. If we aren’t willing to make amends, we don’t really want to be forgiven, we just want to avoid pain. 
• Unforgiveness is a toxic emotional cocktail that involves anger, fear bitterness, stress, hurt and resentment and refilters neurochemically throughout our body.
• The deeper the hurt, the longer the journey of forgiveness will take. Our hearts are sneaky. We may forgive someone then doubt our forgivness. Forgiveness is rarely one and one. It’s a maintenance program.
• Write about your hurt. Ask God to help you forgive. Ask him to help you find the GOOD along with the hurt. How did it cause you to grow, allow you to help others? The person who hurt me is another broken person. Let God do the avenging. 
• We want to heal so that we can be a FORCE for GOOD in the lives of those around us.
• Be DELIBERATE about fixing your mind on what is LIFE-GIVING! The thoughts we allow our minds to dwell on determine the kind of life we will lead and the person we will become. 
• Generous people are healthier, happier, friendlier, calmer, live longer, and die older than ungenerous people. Generous people make more friends, learn more ideas, tap into more networks and job opportunities and end up with more money than ungenerous people. Miser and Misery are only one letter apart. 
• The only real antidote to fear is conscious awareness of the presence of God. God is able. God is here. God is good. 

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How to Know a Person – David Brooks (10/10)

David Brooks offers a thoughtful guide to building meaningful relationships. Blending psychological insight, storytelling, and reflection, this book encourages us to slow down, listen attentively, and cultivate empathy. In a noisy world full of distractions, Brooks reminds us that knowing another person – truly knowing them – is both an art and a discipline worth mastering.

Three favorite takeaways:

• Humans long to be seen with loving respect. We need recognition as much as food and water.
• Well-being depends less on objective events, but more on how these events are perceived, dealt with, and shared with others.
• Wisdom comes not from knowledge but from lived experience. You can be knowledgeable with other men’s knowledge but you can’t be WISE with other men’s wisdom.

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The Watchmaker’s Daughter by Larry Loftis (9/10)

A wonderful companion to one of my favorite books of all time: The Hiding Place. This one provides a fuller context, more stories, and a deeper understanding of the Ten Boom family and their bravery.

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84 Charing Cross Road – Helene Hanff (9/10)

A gift from a friend. I found it charming, sweet, and endearing. It’s a short book of letters written between a book-lover/writer and a book seller during and after World War 2.

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Biographies

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Heroes of History & Christian Heroes (Janet & Geoff Benge)

Heroes of History is my favorite series of biographies. These books make history come alive. This year I read:

• Ben Carson (10/10) – So inspirational.
• Count Zinzendorf (9/10) – Interesting story about Moravian christians and missionaries.
• Dwight D. Eisenhower (10/10) – What an incredible life. Loved this glimpse into one of our former presidents.
• Merriweather Lewis (10/10) – A fascinating peak into history as a brave group of men and women explored and mapped the unknown western territory of America!
• Captain John Smith (10/10) – An action-packed and vivid biography that brings early American history to life. Captain John Smith was an adventure, a soldier, and a leader who shaped America’s first colony. Smith traveled the world, was captured by pirates and negotiated with Native American leaders. Great book for middle school aged readers and up who are interested in adventure-packed history!
• Eric Liddell (5/5) – Fantastic story about an Olympic runner!
  

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Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson (9/10)

A well-written biography about a brilliant, yet complicated man.

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From Here to the Great Unknown – Lisa Marie Presley  (5/10)

This book left me feeling sad and disappointed – there’s a lack of depth or true soul-searching. It feels like Lisa Marie skimmed the surface of her life without ever finding any depth. With such a unique and complex story to tell, I kept hoping for more reflection, more vulnerability, more connection.

The audiobook is read by Julia Roberts and Lisa Marie’s daughter, Riley Keough. Riley’s parts were my favorite. Her voice is calm and grounded, and knowing the immense loss she’s endured – from her mom’s drug and alcohol addiction she observed and tried to help with – to losing both her brother and mother, adds weight to her words. I hope that she finds her purpose and peace that her mother never found.

Lisa Marie said she didn’t think there should be a book about her – and honestly, I agree. I wouldn’t recommend the book

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Through Gates of Splendor – Elisabeth Elliot (9/10)

Powerful, moving book about the life of missionary and martyr, Jim Elliot.

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The Wright Brothers – David McCullough (10/10)

A favorite of the year. The Wright brothers’ perseverance, ingenuity, and humility were extraordinary. I loved the contrast with Langley’s government-funded failure and the brothers’ self-taught success.

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Faith & Spiritual Growth

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The Reason for God – Timothy Keller (10/10)

A fantastic book! Timothy Keller writes that:

• The Bible tells us that God did not originally make the world to have disease, hunger, and death in it. Jesus has come to redeem the wrongs and heal the world where it is broken.
• His miracles are not just proof that He has power but also a wonderful taste for what He is going to do with that power.
• Jesus’s miracles are not just a challenge to our minds, but a promise to our hearts, that the world we all want is coming.
• Since God claims He’s the Messiah, He’s either a lunatic or He is who He says He is.

Favorite insights:

• Beauty and meaning themselves point to God.
• Shalom means absolute wholeness – the life we were created for.

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Raised to Stay by Natalie Runion (9/10)

I really appreciated my friend Natalie’s vulnerability and her deep love for the church – even in the midst of hurt, disappointment, and rejection. She writes with honesty, compassion, and a steadiness that feels both comforting and challenging. Her stories remind us that faithfulness doesn’t mean avoiding pain, but choosing to stay rooted in grace and purpose despite it.

A heartfelt, encouraging read for anyone who has ever wrestled with church wounds yet still longs to serve and belong.

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Encouragement for Today (10/10)

A great daily devotional.

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Teatime Discipleship for Mothers and Daughters by Sally Clarkson (7/10)

A warm book written to help mother’s disciple young ladies/daughters.

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Help, Thanks, Wow – Anne Lamott (9/10)

Honest and funny. Even when I disagreed theologically, her insights on gratitude, surrender, and wonder were beautiful. She explores 3 simple prayers that carry us through life’s messiness: Help. Thanks. Wow! Anne invites readers to be real with God and others, to breathe, slow down and pay attention.

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Favorite parts:

• Prayer doesn’t change God; it changes me.
• Imagination is a gift from God and we get to choose which thoughts to follow.
• When you are aware of all that has been given to you, if is hard not to be humbled and pleased to give back. God’s idea of a good time is seeing us share what we’ve worked hard to have.
• Gratitude is peace. Practice gratitude EVEN in disappointment.
• Wow means we are not dull to WONDER. Look around in AWE at the gifts we’ve been given like landscapes, seascapes, forgiveness, healing. We have SO many things for which to give thanks.

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A Curious Faith – Lore Ferguson Wilbert (7/10)

A contemplative exploration of asking questions in faith. Beautiful writing, though not fully what I expected.

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Favorite idea: Knowing you are loved is better than knowing all the right answers.

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Prepare Him Room by Susie Larson (10/10)

Phenomenal book to read at Christmas time!

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The Passion Translation Bible (10/10)

Though I don’t always mention it, the Bible is woven into everything I read. It’s my lifeline – a constant source of encouragement, direction, and wisdom. My father-in-law gifted me The Passion Translation, which I’ve come to love deeply. This year, I reread the New Testament alongside The Bible Recap videos on YouTube, and it was incredibly grounding.

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Memoir

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The Many Lives of Mama Love – Lara Love Hardin (7/10)

This book was an emotional rollercoaster for me. The first half felt frustrating, heavy and was tough for me to read (3/10). The second half completely shifted my experience. It became redemptive, powerful, and beautifully written, ultimately landing with deep impact. As someone who has loved people struggling with addiction, her story resonated in painful and meaningful ways. Lara Love Hardin is an exceptional writer (The Sun Does Shine remains a favorite), but this memoir was especially hard for me to read as a fellow mom of four sons. Still, the honesty and hope in the ending made it worth the journey.

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If Life’s a Bowl of Cherries, Why Am I in the Pits? Erma Bombeck (6/10)

She’s undeniably a talented and witty writer, but I just didn’t connect with her stories the way I hoped.

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Read Aloud with my kids

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• Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain (9/10) – A Classic.
• Front Desk by Kelly Yang (9/10) – Heartwarming and meaningful.
• Odder by Katherine Applegate (8/10) – Sweet and poetic.

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Personal Growth, Parenting & Life

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Same As Ever – Morgan Housel (9/10)

Wise and practical. A simple yet profound thought from the book: Every American should be HAPPY. We have electricity, indoor plumbing, modern medicine – but we often base our happiness by comparing ourselves to the people around us. Luxuries soon become necessities. We no longer think to be grateful for the many blessing we have, we just expect them and want more. Lower expectations = more happiness

We often safeguard the things we BUY and neglect what is truly priceless – our relationships, health, freedom, and faith.

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Back Away From the Cookies – Nancy Holte (10/10)

Written by a friend. Hilarious, relatable, and surprisingly deep.

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321 Magic: Teens (8/10)

This is a helpful and easy-to-read book for raising teenagers. 

I like that the chapters are short but provide insight and tools to address common issues like attitudes, tech use, boundaries, and communication (or lack there of).

The author points out four cardinal sins that parents commit with their teens:
1. Arguing
2. Nagging
3. Spur of the moment ‘problem’ discussions
4. Lecturing

Instead, the author recommends these four things for strengthening the bond with your teen:
1. Sympathetic listening
2. Sharing your own stories (rather than continually pointing out what they are doing wrong)
3. Having fun together
4. Positive reinforcement (catch them doing what’s RIGHT)

This book reassured me that some of the things I’m experiencing are very normal and NOT to take it personally. I liked the tips the book provided on what to do and what not to do.

If you are a parent struggling with your teen, or just need insight into how to have a better relationship, this book is for you! 

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Value Creation Kid – Scott Donnell (9/10)

Value Creation Kid by Scott Donnell encourages parents to raise children who are confident, self-sufficient, and focused on adding value to the world. The book challenges the idea that kids should be shielded from all difficulty, instead teaching that “any struggle can be leveraged to bring value to the world if we choose.” Problems are not happening to us but for us, they are opportunities to grow and help others. By cultivating curiosity, replacing excessive screen time with meaningful engagement, and encouraging the mindset that everything is “figure-out-able,” parents can help their kids develop into capable adults with purpose and resilience.

Donnell introduces practical strategies like giving kids jobs or “gigs” to build skills and confidence. Action gigs like as cleaning the garage, organizing the pantry, or doing yard work, develop practical responsibility. Brain “gigs” like watching a TED talk, learning a foreign language, or planning a family trip, strengthen creativity and problem-solving. These activities not only build competence but can also strengthen family bonds. Parents are encouraged to ask, “What’s a problem you found that you could help with this week?” and “Who was a person you helped this week?”

By helping children understand that God made them, loves them, and has a purpose for their lives, we can inspire them to “create positive emotional value” that improves the atmosphere around them and equips them to live lives of meaning and impact.

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Final Thoughts

2025 was a rich reading year – full of stories that made me think, biographies that inspired me and fiction that swept me away.

If I had to pick my top five, they’d be… CLICK HERE!

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MY FAVORITES Of 2024!

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CLICK HERE to follow me on Goodreads!

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Book or Movie? Which Should You Choose?

As a mom who loves reading, I’ve always enjoyed comparing books and their movie adaptations. There’s something fun about reading a book, imagining the characters and settings, and then watching how Hollywood brings it to life – sometimes it’s fantastic, and sometimes it falls short. Over the years, I’ve noticed there are some stories where the book is unforgettable, some where the movie steals the show, and a few rare ones where both are equally wonderful. Here are a few of my favorites lately:

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The Boys in the Boat

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I love, LOVE this book. It’s one of my all-time favorites! It’s beautifully written, full of grit, teamwork, and history. The movie was good, but lacked the depth, detail, and emotion that made the book so powerful. Perhaps I would have liked it better if I hadn’t just finished the book.

Verdict:The book is a MUST READ. The movie would be a good family night options (for kids ages 10 and up), but the book is SO MUCH BETTER.

Click here for the audio book! Listen while you work or drive.

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Redeeming Love

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The book, written by Francine Rivers, goes deep into themes of forgiveness, redemption, and unconditional love. The movie does a good job staying true to the story, but like most adaptations, it misses some of the emotional layers and character development that make the book unforgettable.

Verdict: Read or listen to the book first, but both the book and movie are powerful, emotional and well done.

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All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

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Both are beautifully done, and the story itself is a little sad, but rich and hopeful. I watched the Netflix series first, so the book didn’t hold the same suspense for me.

Verdict: If you’re short on time, the series is lovely. If you want rich, poetic writing, go for the book. Click here for the audiobook.

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Because of Winn-Dixie

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Both versions are wonderful! The book by Kate DiCamillo is charming, heartfelt, and timeless. The movie captures that same sweetness perfectly. This is a rare case where both are wonderful.

Verdict: You can’t go wrong either way. Read it with your kids, then make popcorn and watch the movie together.

Considering downloading the audio book and listening together as a family? Click here to find the audiobook.

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The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

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The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is one of the best children’s books ever written.. It’s full of wonder, imagination, and deep meaning. When I finished reading this book with my two youngest sons, they said, “Can you find another book JUST like this.” That’s a hard task because this book is one-of-a-kind. The movie is a great family film that brings Narnia to life beautifully, but it can’t quite match the depth of the book.

Verdict: Read the book first. The movie is a wonderful follow-up.

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Click here to listen to the audiobook together!

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Books and movies each have their place, sometimes one outshines the other, and sometimes they work hand in hand. But if I had to choose, I almost always recommend starting with the book. There’s just something special about imagining the story for yourself before seeing it unfold on screen.

Personal Note: I just finished a fascinating biography about Eric Liddell and can’t wait to finally watch Chariots of Fire. Some stories are worth enjoying in both formats!

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Love books but short on time? For a limited time, get an Audible membership for just 99¢/month!

1. Audible has a huge amount of books and podcasts available in audio format – listen on any device, anytime.
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3. Audible allows you to save credits and if you decide to cancel your membership you won’t lose the books you’ve already purchased!

Click here to get this fantastic, limited-time deal!

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Click here to check out my first post: Read the Book or Watch the Movie!

Click here to read last post on “BOOKS vs MOVIES.”

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Click here to read the BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR!

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Are you looking for a good book to read in the New Year? I’ve got you! Of the 42 books I read in 2024 – here are my favorites. Which one are you adding to your “to read” list of 2025? What should I read this year? Leave me a comment by clicking on the little text box by the title of this post!

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1. Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

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My Favorite Book of the Year:

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Daniel James Brown’s The Boys in the Boat masterfully recounts the true story of the University of Washington’s underdog rowing team and their journey to win gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression and the rise of Nazi Germany, this narrative captures not only the physical demands of rowing, but also the emotional and personal struggles faced by the young men who made up the team.

The main character, Joe Rantz, overcomes a heartbreaking childhood of abandonment and poverty. I was incredibly inspired by Joe’s hard work and resilience throughout his young life.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or love a good story, The Boys in the Boat is an amazing true story and was my favorite book of the year!

Recommended For: Fans of historical non-fiction, sports enthusiasts, and anyone who loves stories about overcoming adversity.

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2. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by CS Lewis

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C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a book that has captivated readers of all ages since its publication in 1950 (75 years)! I was honored to get to read this book with my two younger sons this year, and we absolutely loved every page. We laughed, we cried, and we had good discussions about faith, decision making, and courage. When we finished, my 10 year old son asked me to find another book just like it.

This book tells the story of four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—who stumble into the magical world of Narnia through a wardrobe. CS Lewis masterfully weaves themes of bravery, redemption, and sacrifice, making the story meaningful on multiple levels. We fell in love with Aslan – the lion who is a symbol of wisdom and selfless love.

If you’ve, like me, somehow missed reading this wonderful book – add it to your #must-read list this year!!

Recommended For: Fans of fantasy and anyone who loves tales of adventure and good overcoming evil.

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3. Unreasonable hospitality by Will Guidara

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“Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara is part memoir/part restaurant talk. As the former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, Guidara shares his journey to becoming the best restaurant in the world, emphasizing the significance of going above and beyond for both guests and staff.

I loved reading about the ways Guidara and his team created unforgettable experiences, such as running out to purchase a street hot dog for guests who hadn’t tried one during their visit to New York, or overhearing that someone’s meter was running low – so a team member ran out to feed the meter for every guest in the restaurant!

I found the story incredibly engaging, with excellent storytelling and practical insights for hospitality.

Bucket list item since reading this book: Get to one of Guidara’s restaurants!!!

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Recommended For: Leaders, entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals, and anyone interested in creating amazing customer experiences. Also, if you are a fan of The Bear, this book inspired this show!

Click here for a great Ted Talk by the author!

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4. George Washington Carver by Janet Benge

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Review: This inspiring life story traces George Washington Carver’s journey from being an orphaned child born into slavery, to becoming a renowned scientist, educator, and humanitarian.

I absolutely loved this book and have such deep respect and admiration for this man.

I was incredibly inspired by George Washington Carver’s determination to pursue an education. Despite having to work tirelessly just to attend school, he remained committed to his dream. When he finally saved enough for college and was accepted, he faced heartbreaking rejection upon arrival—they hadn’t realized he was Black and refused to let him attend class. Deeply discouraged, Carver nearly gave up on his dream. But with the encouragement of a friend, he applied to Iowa State University, where he was accepted and went on to become their first Black graduate.

After graduating from college, he became a scientist and teacher, but had a passion for helping farmers thrive. When cotton farming became unprofitable, he encouraged farmers to plant peanuts instead. The crops were so abundant that farmers soon found themselves overwhelmed, unsure of what to do with all their peanuts. Carver prayed and asked God for wisdom and what to do about the “Peanut Problem.” God inspired Carver with over 100 innovative uses for peanuts—including one of America’s favorite snacks: peanut butter!

Ephesians 3:20 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”

Recommended For: Children and teens who are interested in science and nature. Families and educators looking for an incredibly inspiring historical figure.

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5. The Women by Kristin Hannah

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Kristin Hannah’s The Women is a compelling historical fiction book that delves into the experiences of female nurses during the Vietnam War, focusing on the main character, Frankie McGrath. The story captures the harrowing realities of war and the personal sacrifices made by those who served.

I enjoyed this book and was able to get a peek inside the Vietnam War, as well as an idea of what soldiers faced upon returning home from the war.

Recommended for: Women who enjoy historical fiction.

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6. The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

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“The Covenant of Water” by Abraham Verghese is a historical novel that follows the lives of a South Indian family over three generations. The story delves into the family’s mysterious hereditary condition, where members in each generation succumb to drowning, referred to as “The Condition.” 

Verghese’s storytelling is deep and relatable, weaving together themes of love, loss, faith, and medicine.

My only critique is that it is LONG (736 pages), so it will take you awhile to get through this one. If you can overlook the length, it’s an extremely well-written, engaging book!

Recommended for: Someone who loves a well-written novel, with a bit of history, mystery and medicine mixed in.

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7. Elizabeth Fry by Janet Benge

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This book delivers an engaging biography of a lady who dedicated her life to improving the conditions of prisoners, particularly for women and children.

In this fascinating true story, we learn that Elizabeth Fry’s faith, resilience, and compassion for female prisoners, changes the trajectory of their lives. The book highlights her groundbreaking efforts to bring education, humane treatment, and spiritual care to prisoners.

Fry worked at changing the conditions inside prisons, all while being a mother and wife. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when driven by conviction and love for others.

Recommended for: People who enjoy a good biography about an inspiring person.

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8. Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo

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I read this book with my youngest sons, and we all really enjoyed this heartfelt book. The novel follows 10-year-old Opal, who has recently moved to the small town of Naomi, Florida, with her emotionally distant preacher father. When Opal adopts a scruffy stray dog she names Winn-Dixie, her life begins to change in surprising ways. Winn-Dixie isn’t just a dog; he’s a catalyst for connection. Through him, Opal befriends an eclectic group of people..

DiCamillo’s writing is simple, yet deeply moving, capturing both the innocence of childhood and the complexity of human relationships. The story beautifully explores the importance of community.

Recommended for: Family read-aloud or anyone (ages 8 and up) who loves a sweet, heart-warming story!

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9. Prevail by Susie Larson

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If you are looking for an excellent devotional, I recommend this one! It’s designed to guide readers through the entire Bible over the course of a year. Each entry includes a Scripture passage, insightful commentary, thought-provoking questions, and practical application steps, aiming to deepen one’s faith and understanding of God’s Word.

Susie is a phenomenal Bible teacher and I highlighted SO much goodness in this book, here’s just one quote:

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Recommended for: A person of faith looking for a solid daily devotional.

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10. The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

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The Splendid and the Vile is a gripping historical narrative that explores Winston Churchill’s first year as Prime Minister of Britain during World War II. You will feel like you are Churchill’s right-hand man/woman as he leads Britain through the darkest days of the Blitz, when Nazi Germany relentlessly bombed London and other cities.

Things I enjoyed about the book:

• Churchill’s Leadership Under Pressure: Churchill’s resilience, charisma, and ability to rally the British people are amazing. His powerful speeches, courage, and personal resolve helped change the trajectory of a county, and ultimately, the war.
• Personal Stories: Larson doesn’t just focus on Churchill, but also weaves in the experiences of his daughter, wife, and inner circle. The author blends diary entries and letters – which make this story multi-dimensional and really come to life.
• Relationship with the US: It was interesting to read about Churchill’s efforts to get support from the United States and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. He didn’t give up, and ultimately got America’s support, turning the tide of the war.

Recommended for: Those who enjoy WWII history, leadership books, or just a compelling story from our history!

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So now that you’ve read my list of favorites, what are yours? Please leave me a comment by clicking on the little box by the title of this post!

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Click here to read my favorite books of 2023

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