Today's Read Contributor The December 15, 2025, Publishers Weekly bestseller list highlights a continued strong showing for children’s books, with the latest entries in the Dog Man and Diary of a Wimpy Kid series continuing to dominate the seasonal sales charts. These beloved titles are a staple of the holiday season, with their widespread popularity contributing to their consistent ranking among the top-selling books.
The success of Dog Man and Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a reflection of their broad appeal to readers of all ages, but especially to younger audiences. The ongoing success of these series illustrates how well-loved characters and engaging storylines can maintain their relevance year after year. Their strong showing on the bestseller list is a testament to the enduring power of these franchises, which have long been a fixture in children’s literature.
In addition to these perennial favorites, the mid-December bestseller roundup also notes a holiday surge in other genres. Self-publishing successes and crossover nonfiction books are seeing increased visibility as the year-end gift-giving season peaks. While many readers continue to enjoy the convenience of digital books, physical books are still enjoying a strong demand, particularly during the holiday season when gifts are traditionally given in tangible form. Publishers have reported that despite the growth of e-books and audiobooks, physical copies of books remain popular, especially for children’s titles and holiday-themed releases.
This surge in book sales during the holidays is not by accident. Publishers, authors, and retailers have adopted a variety of strategies to ensure that the top titles remain visible throughout the competitive year-end period. Effective marketing campaigns, book tours, and active engagement on social media have all played significant roles in maintaining the visibility of bestselling titles. These efforts help to keep the books in the public eye, ensuring that readers, whether they are parents buying for children or adults searching for gifts, are aware of the books they might want to buy. Social media buzz, in particular, has proven to be a powerful tool for sustaining interest in these titles and generating excitement as the holiday season approaches.
Beyond just the well-established series, this period also marks a time when self-published books and nonfiction titles that have crossed into mainstream appeal see a spike in sales. These books often have a unique edge in the market due to their personal connections with audiences, and they can become highly sought after as holiday gifts. The rising prominence of self-publishing has shifted the traditional book industry dynamics, allowing previously unknown authors to reach larger audiences and thrive during the most lucrative time of the year.
The ongoing success of both established and emerging titles highlights a shift in how books are marketed and consumed. With digital platforms still holding a strong presence in the market, there is an undeniable resurgence in the popularity of physical books, especially for those searching for thoughtful gifts during the festive season. Whether through the charm of beloved series like Dog Man and Diary of a Wimpy Kid, or through the innovative voices emerging from self-publishing, the book industry remains strong, with robust sales marking the end of another successful year.
Overall, the December 2025 bestseller list serves as a reminder of the importance of the holiday season to the book industry. It shows that, despite the rise of digital formats, physical books continue to be a cherished gift and a significant part of holiday traditions. As publishers and authors continue to employ new strategies to promote their books, the sustained popularity of both children’s literature and other genres proves that the magic of books is far from fading.
