Welcome to ABC Arts’ much-anticipated wrap of the best books of 2025. Our literary critics have undertaken the formidable task of selecting their favorite books of the year, eager to share their top picks with avid readers everywhere.
This year’s list features a diverse array of works, including a much-vaunted novel shortlisted for the 2025 Booker Prize, an inventive Groundhog Day-esque narrative by Danish writer Solvej Balle, and a raw, generous memoir by literary heavyweight Arundhati Roy. Roy’s memoir delves into her complex relationship with her formidable mother, offering readers an intimate glimpse into her life.
Also featured is a memoir by Australian author Hannah Kent, which details daily life in Iceland and the story behind her acclaimed debut novel, “Burial Rites.” Additionally, a subversive collection of very short fiction by an up-and-coming Melbourne wordsmith promises to captivate readers. Be warned: your “to be read” list is about to grow significantly longer.
Exploring Personal Narratives and Memoirs
Mother Mary Comes to Me by Arundhati Roy
Arundhati Roy’s memoir, “Mother Mary Comes to Me,” is a poignant exploration of her relationship with her mother, who spent decades declaring her impending death with dramatic flair. Despite years of false alarms and admonitions to “Get out of my life,” Roy dared not write about her mother until after her passing. The memoir is more than a mother-daughter story; it chronicles Roy’s journey to find her voice as an architect, scriptwriter, novelist, and activist.
Always Home, Always Homesick: A Memoir by Hannah Kent
In her memoir, Hannah Kent reflects on her journey from a young Australian writer to the author of the internationally acclaimed novel “Burial Rites.” The memoir explores themes of belonging, friendship, and creativity, as Kent recounts her transformative experience living in Iceland on a Rotary Exchange at 17. Her narrative is a blend of memory, research, and introspection, offering a candid look at the making of her debut novel.
Fictional Worlds and Cultural Reflections
Tenderfoot by Toni Jordan
Toni Jordan’s eighth novel, “Tenderfoot,” is a deeply personal narrative set in 1970s Brisbane. The story follows 12-year-old Andie Tanner, who dreams of becoming a greyhound trainer like her father. When her parents separate, Andie is left with her volatile mother and faces challenges at school. Narrated by Andie as an adult, the novel explores themes of childhood cruelty and emotional truth, showcasing Jordan’s skillful storytelling.
Flashlight by Susan Choi
American author Susan Choi’s “Flashlight,” a 2025 Booker Prize shortlistee, captivates readers with its flawed yet intriguing characters set against the backdrop of North Korean history. The novel opens with a young girl, Louisa, washing up on a Japanese beach with no memory of her father’s disappearance. As Louisa and her mother return to the US, the narrative unravels the mystery of her father’s fate, offering a profound exploration of human frailty.
Inventive Narratives and Emerging Voices
On the Calculation of Volume l by Solvej Balle
Danish writer Solvej Balle’s “On the Calculation of Volume l” presents a unique take on the time loop concept. The protagonist, Tara, relives November 18 repeatedly, navigating the rules of this new existence. The novel is a clever, inventive exploration of time, relationships, and identity, promising readers a fresh and absorbing experience.
Plastic Budgie by Olivia De Zilva
Adelaide author Olivia De Zilva’s debut novel, “Plastic Budgie,” offers a series of family vignettes that evolve into a haunting meditation on connection. De Zilva weaves a narrative that is both funny and disquieting, capturing the complexities of familial and cultural entanglements with a sardonic tone reminiscent of Nora Ephron and Lynne Tillman.
Implications and Future Literary Trends
The selection of the best books of 2025 highlights the diverse narratives and voices that continue to shape the literary landscape. From personal memoirs to inventive fiction, these works reflect a wide range of human experiences and cultural reflections. As readers explore these stories, they are invited to consider the broader implications of identity, belonging, and the power of storytelling.
Looking ahead, the literary world is poised to embrace even more diverse voices and innovative narratives, offering readers a rich tapestry of stories that challenge, inspire, and resonate deeply. As new authors emerge and established writers continue to push boundaries, the future of literature promises to be as dynamic and compelling as ever.
