my must-read books of 2025
I read a lot of incredible nonfiction this year and narrowed it down to my favorites. If you’re into psychology, memoir, emotional intelligence, or understanding people (and yourself) a little better, there’s something here you’ll love.
Listed in no particular order:
How to Know a Person – The premise: modern society feels disconnected, and much of that comes from our inability to truly see one another beyond surface-level impressions and our own snap judgments. Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and real-world stories, the book offers practical tools for deeper connection. It offers simple, practical tools for listening more fully, asking better questions, and staying genuinely curious about others. A great read for improving connection at work, in networking, or in everyday relationships.
Good Morning, Monster – By far my favorite book of the year. The author, a psychotherapist, shares five real-life stories from her patients. The stories are intense and heavy at times, but incredibly hopeful. A fascinating, impactful, and inspiring account of trauma, recovery, and resilience. A must-read for psychology lovers.
Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended on It – The premise: negotiation isn’t about logic, winning, or a cold, analytical game. It’s a deeply human, emotionally intelligent art. I went into this thinking it was just a business book—and it’s that, but also much more. Written by a former FBI hostage negotiator, the author teaches negotiation as an act of human connection. I found it to be interesting and helpful. Perfect for anyone looking to boost their persuasion skills.
Hidden Potential – Extraordinary achievement isn’t reserved for the naturally talented. Using science-backed insights and relatable examples, the book shows how growth often comes from unglamorous habits, persistence, and the right environment. And why failure, discomfort, and slow progress are essential parts of growth. I found it insightful and easy to read.
Strangers to Ourselves – The book explores how mental health diagnoses shape identity, and how diagnoses and narratives shape how people see themselves. Through deeply human stories, it challenges the idea that labels tell the full story. A powerful reminder that the stories we internalize can either constrain or expand who we believe we are.
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone – The premise: a therapist unexpectedly becomes a client herself. A behind-the-scenes look at therapy that’s both insightful and entertaining. Through her clients’ stories and her own, the author explores grief, relationships, fear, and self-understanding. I loved how the author made something as complex as therapy feel relatable. A thoughtful, relatable read about being human and the power of feeling understood.
Happy reading!
