Today's Read Contributor As 2025 came to a close, the literary world paused to reflect on a year of compelling stories, unforgettable characters, and bold new voices. On December 24, the results of the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards were officially revealed, offering a clear and democratic snapshot of the books that resonated most deeply with readers throughout the year. Unlike traditional literary prizes decided by panels of critics, the Goodreads Choice Awards are determined entirely by public vote, making them a rare and authentic reflection of popular reading tastes. With over 7.5 million votes cast globally, the awards stand as a powerful endorsement of the stories that truly moved people.
Topping the fiction category was acclaimed Swedish author Fredrik Backman, whose novel My Friends earned the distinction of Best Fiction. Known for his emotionally rich and deeply human storytelling, Backman struck a chord once again with a tale that blends humor, melancholy, and compassion. My Friends delves into the lives of people struggling to make sense of their past while finding hope in unexpected connections. The win continues Backman’s streak of reader-driven success and cements his reputation as one of the most empathetic voices in contemporary fiction.
In nonfiction, the award for Best Nonfiction went to bestselling author John Green for Everything Is Tuberculosis, a book that surprised many with its blend of memoir, science writing, and social commentary. Green, known primarily for his young adult novels, turned his attention to a global health crisis that remains under-discussed despite its devastating impact. In his signature introspective style, Green used tuberculosis as a lens through which to explore broader themes of vulnerability, public health inequity, and the tension between science and politics. The book was praised for its clarity, emotional depth, and the personal urgency it brought to a topic many readers had never engaged with in such detail.
Beyond these headline-grabbing wins, the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards reflected the vast range of genres and voices shaping today’s literary landscape. Historical fiction fans were captivated by Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Atmosphere: A Love Story, which was named Best Historical Fiction. The novel paints an evocative portrait of women in the early days of the space race, weaving romance and ambition into a narrative that resonated with both critics and the reading public. In mystery and thriller, Holly Jackson took top honors with Not Quite Dead Yet, a gripping tale that balanced suspense with a deeply personal exploration of trauma and trust.
Romance remained one of the most competitive and passionate categories, and 2025 was no exception. Emily Henry’s Great Big Beautiful Life captured the Best Romance award, further solidifying her position as a fan favorite. Henry’s ability to write emotionally intelligent love stories with witty dialogue and complex characters continued to endear her to a broad readership. Meanwhile, the rapidly growing romantasy genre had its moment in the spotlight as Rebecca Yarros’s Onyx Storm swept both the Best Romantasy and Best Audiobook categories, a testament to its cross-platform popularity and immersive storytelling.
In fantasy, V.E. Schwab took home the prize with Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil, a haunting, lyrical tale exploring legacy, identity, and power. Aisling Rawle’s The Compound, which earned Best Science Fiction, pushed the boundaries of speculative fiction with a high-concept story that combined psychological tension with cutting-edge technological speculation. For horror enthusiasts, Grady Hendrix once again thrilled readers with Witchcraft for Wayward Girls, which combined supernatural elements with sharp social commentary.
The awards also highlighted promising new talent. SenLinYu, known for her origins in online fan fiction communities, made a striking transition to traditional publishing with her debut Alchemised, which won Best Debut Novel. Her fresh take on fantasy, rich with worldbuilding and emotionally resonant themes, earned her a passionate following and critical acclaim. In young adult literature, Suzanne Collins returned to the top with Sunrise on the Reaping, the latest installment in her Hunger Games universe, winning Best Young Adult Fantasy & Science Fiction. Lynn Painter’s Fake Skating, which won Best Young Adult Fiction, charmed readers with its blend of sports drama and coming-of-age romance.
The memoir and biography categories also reflected the evolving nature of nonfiction storytelling. Shari Franke’s The House of My Mother was named Best Memoir, offering a moving and intimate portrait of family dynamics, identity, and personal growth. Meanwhile, How to Kill a Witch: The Patriarchy’s Guide to Silencing Women by Zoe Venditozzi and Claire Mitchell won Best History & Biography. The book provided a deeply researched and provocative exploration of historical witch hunts, drawing parallels to contemporary issues surrounding gender and justice.
Together, the winners of the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards represent a diverse and dynamic literary year. They highlight how deeply readers continue to engage with stories that reflect the complexities of the world around them—whether through fiction that provides escape, nonfiction that sparks dialogue, or genre-bending works that defy easy classification. These awards serve not only as recognition for authors but also as a celebration of a global reading community that continues to champion storytelling in all its forms. As readers head into 2026, the Goodreads Choice winners offer a rich and varied starting point for anyone looking to rediscover the joy of a truly beloved book.
