Today's Read Contributor Audible’s latest rankings of top nonfiction audiobooks in the United States for the week ending December 26, 2025, reveal a strong listener preference for personal development, financial insight, and emotionally resonant narratives. As the year draws to a close, the diversity of topics on the chart underscores the wide range of interests among U.S. audiobook consumers.
Claiming the number one spot is Mel Robbins’ The Let Them Theory, a motivational guide that has struck a chord with audiences looking to cultivate healthier boundaries and a more grounded mindset. Narrated by Robbins herself, the book delivers a straightforward philosophy: let people behave as they will, and focus your energy on how you choose to respond. Its rise to the top reflects a broader trend in 2025, where many listeners have sought tools for managing stress, improving relationships, and taking control of their emotional wellbeing.
In second place is Atomic Habits by James Clear, a consistent chart-topper since its release in 2018. Clear’s science-backed approach to behavior change continues to resonate with those looking to make lasting improvements in their daily routines. The audiobook’s staying power—seven years after its publication—demonstrates its status as a foundational text in the self-improvement genre. Its emphasis on small, incremental changes as a path to major life transformations remains especially appealing during the year-end period, when many are reflecting on personal growth and setting goals for the new year.
Following closely in third place is 1929 by journalist Andrew Ross Sorkin, a riveting examination of the events leading up to the Wall Street crash and the onset of the Great Depression. Sorkin, best known for his reporting on financial crises and his previous work Too Big to Fail, narrates the audiobook himself, bringing a compelling journalistic lens to the economic unraveling of that era. His detailed storytelling has earned praise for making complex financial history both accessible and emotionally resonant. With ongoing global economic uncertainties, listeners appear drawn to historical parallels that offer context and cautionary lessons.
Also performing strongly is Stop Letting Everything Affect You by Daniel Chidiac, which ranks among the top nonfiction titles for the week. The book offers listeners tools to gain emotional control and avoid being overwhelmed by external circumstances. As more people seek ways to build resilience in the face of constant digital stimulation and stress, Chidiac’s message about self-mastery and mindfulness is proving timely.
In fifth place is Nobody’s Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, a personal memoir that has captivated listeners with its raw, unfiltered narrative. Narrated by Thérèse Plummer and Gabra Zackman, the book delves into Giuffre’s traumatic experiences and her journey toward reclaiming her voice. Its presence on the list highlights the appetite for deeply personal stories that not only bear witness to difficult truths but also serve as a source of empowerment and awareness.
Morgan Housel’s The Psychology of Money, a widely acclaimed exploration of human behavior in relation to wealth and decision-making, holds steady in the top ten. Housel’s insights into why people make irrational financial choices have found a lasting audience, especially as consumers navigate inflation, investment volatility, and shifting economic landscapes. The book’s combination of accessible storytelling and behavioral science has made it a favorite among financial novices and experts alike.
Other titles rounding out the top ten include Don’t Believe Everything You Think (Expanded Edition) by Joseph Nguyen, which offers a guide to challenging limiting beliefs and promoting mental clarity. The Holy Bible: King James Version continues to be a spiritual touchstone for many listeners, especially during the holiday season when themes of reflection and renewal are prominent. Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation brings psychological and sociological insights into the rising levels of anxiety among youth, a timely topic as educators and families grapple with the impact of technology and social pressures on mental health. Meanwhile, Greenlights, actor Matthew McConaughey’s memoir, remains a mainstay on the list thanks to its combination of personal stories, life lessons, and the charismatic voice of the author himself.
Altogether, Audible’s top nonfiction audiobooks for the final week of 2025 reflect a blend of personal growth, historical context, emotional healing, and financial wisdom. The popularity of these titles suggests that listeners are not only seeking entertainment but also transformation and understanding. Whether looking to break old habits, make sense of economic forces, or process personal experiences, American audiences are turning to audiobooks as a powerful and accessible means of self-education and reflection.
