December 26, 2025, marks the conclusion of another year, prompting reflection on the literature that shaped readers’ experiences throughout 2025. A recent entry in the “What Are You Reading?” series provides a comprehensive overview of significant titles completed over the past year.
Among the noteworthy books listed is Obsession: The Life and Times of Octavia E. Butler by Susana M. Morris, a profound exploration of the renowned author’s impact on literature and culture. Additionally, How to Travel with a Salmon and Other Essays by Umberto Eco offers a unique blend of humor and insight, a fitting companion for the literary journey.
The list of finished readings is diverse, showcasing a variety of genres and perspectives. Titles such as Open Socrates: The Case For a Philosophical Life by Agnes Callard, The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy, and Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a World of Strangers by Kwame Anthony Appiah highlight both classic and contemporary philosophical discussions.
Other significant reads include The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of Dorothy Day and The Bostonians by Henry James, alongside My Life in France by Julia Child, which reflects on culinary arts and personal passion. The year also featured Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer’s Legendary Editorship by Dana A. Williams, bringing attention to editorial excellence.
Despite the impressive list, the author notes that it feels like more books were read than recorded. There were several unfinished titles, including Edmund White’s biography of Jean Genet and the second volume of Thomas Merton’s journal. Yet, Zena HItz’s Lost in Thought: The Hidden Pleasures of an Intellectual Life, though it may seem pretentious, was positively received.
As the author reflects on the year, there is an acknowledgment of the desire to read more works by women. The completion of biographies on pioneering women stands out as a notable achievement. The year was not solely dedicated to serious literature; there is a yearning for more “trashy” and enjoyable reads, underscoring the importance of balance in reading habits.
For those interested in exploring literature further, the “Readers and Book Lovers” series offers a robust schedule. Every Sunday at 4:00 PM, Angela Marx leads a discussion on various book topics, while other evenings feature genres ranging from LGBTQ literature to contemporary fiction. Notably, DrLori hosts “The Language of the Night” on Mondays at 8:00 PM, promising engaging conversations on language and literature.
For avid readers wishing to stay updated, joining the “Readers and Book Lovers” group on Daily Kos is highly encouraged. This community stands out as the most followed on the platform, ensuring that members receive a steady stream of literary discussions and insights.
As 2025 closes, the reflections on reading habits serve as both an invitation and a challenge to engage more deeply with literature in the coming year. Whether through classics or contemporary works, the journey of reading continues to inspire and educate.
