Today's Read Contributor In its December 9, 2025, arts coverage, The Washington Post presented a thoughtfully curated holiday genre guide that invites readers to explore an exciting selection of contemporary fiction. The guide, compiled by critic Michael Dirda, shines a spotlight on a wide array of works across genres, featuring unexpected mysteries, eerie ghost stories, and thrilling adventure novels. With its mix of reissued classics and recent publications, the guide aims to provide a diverse and rich cross-section of literature that will captivate readers during the festive season.
Dirda’s selections reflect both timeless favorites and new voices in the literary world, with a strong emphasis on literary quality and storytelling depth. Some of the titles come from renowned publishers like Pushkin Vertigo and Picador, ensuring that these works are not only engaging but also represent the best of contemporary genre fiction. The guide includes a variety of formats, from full-length novels to anthologies and short story collections, offering readers flexibility in their choices. These anthologies in particular are a great way to dive into different styles and themes, with each story providing a unique take on the genre.
What makes this guide stand out is its focus on books that push the boundaries of their respective genres. Many of the works featured in the guide challenge the conventions of mystery, ghost stories, and adventure fiction, blending elements of suspense, fantasy, and even horror in new and unexpected ways. These are books that offer more than just escapism—they explore complex themes and provide thought-provoking narratives that are sure to resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the final page. Whether it’s a mystery with a twist, a ghost tale that lingers in the mind, or an adventure novel that sweeps the reader off on a journey, each of Dirda’s recommendations promises to be a compelling read for any literary enthusiast.
The guide’s balance between classic works and modern creations also speaks to its broad appeal. For those who love revisiting old favorites, the guide includes reissued versions of genre classics that have stood the test of time. These books, many of which were once groundbreaking in their day, offer an opportunity to revisit familiar stories in a new context or share them with younger generations of readers. At the same time, the inclusion of fresh voices introduces new perspectives that will excite even the most seasoned readers, keeping them on the edge of their seats with innovative storytelling and unexpected twists.
For holiday shoppers looking for the perfect gift for the book lover in their life, this guide provides an excellent starting point. Whether you’re picking out a book for a friend or family member or simply seeking something to read yourself, the Washington Post’s holiday genre guide offers a wealth of options that promise to entertain, provoke, and captivate. The carefully chosen mix of ghost stories, mysteries, and adventure novels creates an eclectic reading list that appeals to a wide variety of tastes, making it easy to find something for everyone.
Dirda’s curated selection highlights how genre fiction has evolved, offering readers an opportunity to immerse themselves in both the familiar and the novel. For those who seek an engaging and thought-provoking reading experience, this guide offers the perfect balance of entertainment and literary depth. With the holiday season in full swing, this collection of books is sure to become a go-to resource for anyone looking to add a touch of literary excitement to their celebrations, making it an essential companion for those who enjoy a good read during the colder months.
