Best Books of 2025 So Far

Since the year is nearly half over (what?) I figured it was worth reflecting on this year's reads thus far. So far I've given eight books 5 stars:

Is a River Alive by Robert MacFarlane

Spoiler: The answer is yes. I've been a fan of MacFarlane for years, and this book didn't disappoint. He explores three major rivers around the world, presenting qualitative and quantitative evidence for why we should view rivers as entities deserving of rights. There's a point in the book where I actually teared up, so highly recommended.

Chocky by John Wyndham

I fell in love with The Day of the Triffids awhile ago, and I'm not sure why I haven't picked up Wyndham again until now. I think it's because his work makes me slightly uncomfortable; most of his books are categorized under sci-fi but he could neatly slot into the horror section. I think this story is best enjoyed if you don't know much going in, but know it's a short read that packs a punch.

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Okay, I don't think I need to write a dissertation on a classic. But there was something special about reading Dickens in England, you know? I may pick up A Tale of Two Cities again soon.

Complete Cosmicomics by Italo Calvino

This one is actually a re-read. Probably my favorite ever short story collection, I can wax lyrical on this one for longer than you'd be willing to listen. If you're at all interested in an immortal being describing what it's like to be a single atom at the beginning of the universe, give it a go.

Her Body Among Animals by Paola Ferrante

Another short story collection. I'll be honest, I don't remember much about it; my review just reads "Yes!" with 5 stars, so it must have been good. The feeling's definitely stuck with me, whatever the plot points may be.

Guns of the Dawn by Adrian Tchaikovsky

I can't have a book list that doesn't feature Tchaikovsky. (Sad side note: I'm officially caught up on all his novels. Luckily he releases several a year.) This is historical and fantastical and....weird? I don't know, I just love the guy and anything he writes.

The Western Wind by Samantha Harvey

This is probably the most "contemporary" book on the list. It's a small-town murder mystery set in 15th century England, but not in a kitschy way. It follows a priest over five days, but in reverse, and touches on some really powerful concepts.

Some Body Like Me by Lucy Lapinska

I was lucky enough to get an arc of this one. Look, it's...odd, and I feel odd recommending it, but the writing is incredible and the futuristic worldbuilding is impressive. Again, this is another one that I'd recommend reading without knowing much going in.

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As far as the rest of the year goes, we'll see. I'm currently halfway through Birdwatchingwatching by Alex Horne, one of my favorite English comedians, and loving it so far; I'm also working through some financial books to better understand the UK business landscape. Tchaikovsky's Tyrant Philosopher's series comes out with a new novella this fall, and I'd like to return to some old favorites on my shelf. But we shall see.