Staff-suggested materials ahead! RevisedSeptember 2, 2025 You can always count on library staff to recommend some of the year's best books. Here's hoping you discover new favorites! Library staff loved these 53 titles published in 2025. Audience - Any -All agesFamilies-Babies-Toddlers-Preschoolers-Kids-TweensTeensAdults Format - Any -audiobookbook-board book-chapter book-graphic novel-picture book-readermusicvideo Genre - Any -award winnersbook club pickscomics and graphic novelsfamily lifefantasyfictionfood and cookingHispanic Latino heritagehistoryhorrorhumor and satireidentity and cultureLGBTQIA+love storiesmysterynonfictionpeoplereferencescience fictionseasonalsportsthriller and suspense Desi T says:A thrilling and nuanced look at soucouyant or Boo Hag mythology. Fans of spooky tales will be on the edge of their seats. Tim P says:Looking for some cozy, queer fantasy? Step into another endearing world of fantasy and self-discovery from the creator of The Tea Dragon Society. Jodi L says:What to do with a boarding school full of kids on their last chance? Send them off on a scavenger hunt with one rule: don't get caught. Jodi L says:In this enchantingly fun middle grade romcom, West African trickster god Anansi said, "Be careful what you wish for," and Birdie said, "Bet." Jodi L says:"Yay, space!" --Barbie and Taylor Jenkins Reid, probably. Desi T says:A swoon-worthy teen romance between a budding psychiatrist and mellow surfer. The friendship gets you hooked and you stay for the romance. April O says:Timely & powerful. Find the humans and stories behind banned books, learn the importance of the freedom to read and get tools to fight censorship. Carol F says:Dual timelines expose a heart-shattering thread of love, loss, lies and longing that interrupts the life of a couple coming to terms with grief. Annie C says:A character-heavy plot drives this story forward, through hundreds of years. Dark, lyrical and atmospheric. Vampires have never been so good. Ashley B says:Anyone who has ever been "cooped up" with a large family, had the chickenpox, or both, will relate to this humorous slice-of-life graphic novel. Carol F says:Chloe may be dead, but she still calls the shots at the Bruce mansion. Susan A says:A whirlwind time-traveling adventure awaits! Heather W says:Meet another plucky redhead you can't help but root for in this graphic novel twist on the beloved classic. David C says:Full of romance, sadness and spice, this book offers a magical look at a community of queer witches in the wake of the AIDS epidemic. Meredith R says:Hilarious and perfect for kids in early elementary who loved The Book with No Pictures or Mo Willems' Pigeon books. Annie C says:Strong female characters shine bright in this deep, emotional, messy and vibrant work. Adichie's storytelling is as beautiful as ever. Becca B says:A vibrant tribute to both the trash collectors that keep society running and the all-consuming interests of little ones. Morgan H says:Calling all bellies! Dive into a sunny day at the local pool where tummies of all kinds are seen, celebrated and special. Cora S says:Even the font is based on, you guessed it, tuberculosis. Green draws you into his fascination with this disease using his skilled storytelling. Chaz C says:I could not put this one down. If you remember the early aughts, this is a must read. Annie C says:A fun, high-seas adventure with all the creepy vibes. Art that delights and will also make you squirm. Leah B says:A "Freaky Friday" story that explores identity in a fresh, yet timeless, way. Jodi L says:A childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers sapphic romance between two battling valedictorians? Say less. Julie M says:Enjoy a rollicking read-aloud of cooperative make-believe! Hillary K says:Full of mischief and mayhem-- as well as the letter M-- this title will leave your child wanting more, more, more! Hillary K says:Your little one will love following along with Mog and Nicky as they go through their day, each doing things in their own way. Amie W says:A cozy mystery that's just a little bit dark, with a cast of misfit characters. Amie W says:This book felt like it could have been an episode of the TV show "Murder, She Wrote," which I loved! Sarah C says:IMHO Backman is a literary genius. This raw, funny and emotional journey will leave you in tears-- he's sure to cause a tissue shortage with this one. Libby V says:A wholesome and colorful picture book where it is completely normal to be gay. Desi T says:Reality television meets realistic fiction in this novel. Multiple glow-ups and romantic flare-ups make for a really engaging read. Andrew C says:Why wait another month to ferry along a summer wavelength? Hannah M says:Mystery, magic and a local author? Highly recommend! Rachel N says:This beautifully written coming-of-age story weaves magical realism, family trauma and self discovery together on the back of a daring rescue mission. Heather H says:A beautiful book about family traditions! And, yes, it absolutely inspired me to make homemade hummus. Desi T says:An amazing return to the world of the Hunger Games. Haymitch's story and the subsequent characters are worth the cost of admission. Terry M-R says:Brave women work the rails in 1920s Montana, delivering books to isolated communities; it is filled with betrayal, revenge, murder and romance! Eric N says:Vampires in Montana? This ain't your granddaddy's "Yellowstone." Daniel S says:A great new entry in this amusing, Cleveland-set cozy mystery series full of quirky characters, convoluted murders and delicious Chinese cuisine. Stephanie B says:If The Exorcist was a gay love story between a human and a spirit. Hannah M says:Stuck in a reading slump? Pick up a Freida McFadden thriller. You won't be disappointed! Chris V says:A beautiful tale of redemption, found family and finding a way back up when you're one step away from that final fall. Tim P says:A heartbreaking yet beautiful and poignant look into friendships, new beginnings and growing up. I cried, I laughed and then I cried again. Sarah C says:Would you choose to sleep through the heartbreak of grief-- even if it meant risking what you remember? Thought-provoking and perfect for book clubs. Susan A says:A rebel with a cause! Sarah C says:A witty debut blending true crime, historical fiction and romance with dazzling characters and a phenomenal narrator-- a must-listen! Jodi L says:A fourth-wall-breaking narrator + eloquent, anthropomorphic woodland creatures = the autumnal read of your dreams. Julie M says:"To see an owl is magic." Sometimes it takes a lot of effort, time and patience to make the magic happen! Stephanie B says:I openly sobbed at work when I finished this book-- that's how lovely and magical it is. Amy B says:Vera Wong is at it again, using her persistent charm and homecooked food to investigate a mysterious death. A delightful and heartwarming sequel! Cora S says:Read the whole thing or just a snippet-- either way, you'll find plenty of great advice! Becca B says:Seeing my therapist is nice and all, but checking out every Emily R. Austin book on Libby is FREE. Stephanie B says:I challenge you to find another book that is written with more wit, care and thoughtfulness. One of the best books of 2025.
