As we welcome 2026, it's the ideal moment for bibliophiles to look back on a stellar year for publishing and plan their reading for the months ahead. The past twelve months have seen a wealth of compelling new releases from literary giants and exciting debut authors alike, making it a challenge to choose what to read next.
From the latest works by celebrated names like Maggie O'Farrell and Douglas Stuart to highly anticipated first novels, 2025 offered an embarrassment of riches for readers. Before you start stacking up your 2026 to-be-read pile, consider these five exceptional titles from the past year that absolutely deserve a spot on your list.
Memoirs That Move and Inspire
Malala Yousafzai's latest memoir, 'Finding My Way', stands out as a profoundly impactful read from 2025. The Nobel laureate and education activist delivers a narrative that is simultaneously humorous, heartbreaking, and deeply inspiring. She reflects on her childhood, the traumatic attack she survived, and her subsequent journey, including her time at Oxford University and her ongoing global advocacy with the Malala Fund.
Another remarkable memoir comes from beloved children's author Michael Morpurgo. In 'Spring', his first adult non-fiction work in four decades, he chronicles the changing seasons on his Devonshire farm. It's a serene, observant piece that connects readers to the British countryside and underscores the importance of protecting our natural world.
Fiction That Transports and Transforms
The hype on #BookTok is justified for Taylor Jenkins Reid's 'Atmosphere'. Departing from tales of Hollywood, this historical fiction novel plunges readers into the high-stakes world of the 1980s US space shuttle programme. It retains the author's signature compelling love stories and character depth, resulting in what many consider her finest work to date.
Although first published in 2024, Yael van der Wouden's debut 'The Safekeep' became the undeniable book of the summer in 2025 with its paperback release. This gripping story, set in the post-war rural Netherlands, explores truth, desire, and survival through the forced coexistence of two very different women. It proved to be a smash hit with book clubs across the country.
A Fresh Take on Ancient Myth
For those craving a dose of classic storytelling, Natalie Haynes's 'No Friend to This House' offers a brilliant and thought-provoking retelling of the Golden Fleece myth. Haynes, renowned for her expertise, brings the story of Jason and Medea to life with impeccable attention to detail and a fresh perspective, cementing her status as a master mythologist.
Whether you missed these titles in the busy literary landscape of 2025 or are simply seeking authoritative recommendations for the year ahead, these five books offer a perfect starting point. They represent the very best in contemporary memoir, fiction, and historical retelling, promising enriching reads for 2026.
