It’s the end of another year in which I read a few books—some by eye, some by ear; some by choice, some by requirement. As with each year’s list (see 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, and 2015, for reference), these are not necessarily books released in 2025 (though several are), but books that I encountered this year. Short reviews follow for a few (with links to longer reviews that I’ve published if available), clustered around some broad categories.

As usual, I’ve listed “also-reads” this year in their respective categories—these books aren’t necessarily “second class”, I just can’t review ’em all. As a reminder, you can also find me on goodreads.com for more regular updates, as well as brief reviews of all these titles.

This year’s list—the first in a long time without any academic obligations—is characterized by curiosity, whimsy, and rest, pursuing what interests me without apology or justification.

It’s also a year in which I fully migrated this list over to my Substack. Thanks to all my long-term subscribers here. If you’re not already following me there, check it out. This space isn’t going away, but will likely be re-imagined in the future as an author website more than a blog.

Happy New Year!