2024 Reading Reflections and 2025 Bookish Goals
A look back at my favorite books of 2024 and what’s on the horizon for 2025.
Weekend Edition: Start your weekend with curated book lists, reading tips, and lifestyle inspiration delivered every Friday.
The Weekend Edition: 2024 Reading Reflections and 2025 Bookish Goals
Hi Bookish Besties!
Can you believe 2024 is almost over? This year has been an incredible one for books, and as I reflect on my reading journey, I’m reminded of the stories that stayed with me and the ones that inspired me.
In this week’s newsletter, I’m sharing my top 13 books of 2024—a collection of stories that made me laugh, cry, and think. These books span genres, and I hope you’ll find a new favorite (or a few) to add to your TBR.
Looking ahead to 2025, I’m also sharing my reading goals for the year, my most anticipated reads, and resources to help you as you set your own goals. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to embrace the variety my mood-reading heart craves.
Let’s dive in!
My Top 13 Books of 2024
Here are the books that defined my year, with quick takes to help you decide what to read next:
Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino
A poignant coming-of-age tale about an alien girl observing life on Earth, blending interplanetary intrigue with deeply human experiences.Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect by Benjamin Stevenson
Mystery writers turned detectives aboard a luxury train must solve a murder among their own. A clever, closed-circle whodunit full of twists.The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown
A NYC bookseller discovers a magical tome and she must join forceswith a mysterious librarian to protect it from those who seek to do evil.
James by Percival Everett
A fresh retelling of Huckleberry Finn from Jim’s perspective, revealing his intelligence, agency, and profound humanity.Sweetness in the Skin by Ishi Robinson
A coming-of-age story of a Jamaican teenager who uses her baking skills to overcome familial challenges and societal biases to pursue her dream..The New Couple in 5B by Lisa Unger
A surprise inheritance of a luxurious apartment takes a dark turn for a couple, as it leads to a series of sinister events as the building's dark past and deadly secrets come to light.In a Not So Perfect World by Neely Tubati-Alexander
A video game designer and her charming neighbor fake date on a beach vacation, discovering love along the way.Sandwich by Catherine Newman
A heartfelt, humorous family saga set in Cape Cod, where one woman navigates aging parents, adult children, and long-buried secrets.God Bless You, Otis Spunkmeyer by Joseph Earl Thomas
A raw, heartfelt story of a Black army veteran navigating a tough hospital work shift filled with challenging patients while reflecting on his complex personal life and struggles.The Stardust Grail by Yume Kitasei
A thrilling sci-fi adventure of a former art thief and her alien friend embarking on a quest to save an endangered species.The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman
A fresh, post-Arthurian legend exploring knighthood, betrayal, and legacy, set against the backdrop of a crumbling Camelot.Let the Games Begin by Rufaro Faith Mazarura
A heartwarming romance set at the Athens Olympics, following two Zimbabwean immigrants navigating love and cultural identity.Lazarus Man by Richard Price
A gripping tale of resilience as a schoolteacher-turned-motivational speaker rebuilds his life after a harrowing accident.
P.S. I chatted about all thirteen books on my YouTube channel.
My 2025 Reading Goals
In 2025, my reading goals are all about intention and variety. Here’s what I’m planning:
Author Deep Dives: Continue exploring classic authors and reading their entire works or a specific series, but also add contemporary authors to the mix.
Tackling My Shelves: As I’ve shared in The Journal, I’m building my “dream library,” and I plan to take this opportunity to sort my unread books. Then, I plan to prioritize reading them this year and donating the ones I know I will never get around to.
Reading for Joy: I’ve always been a mood reader who prioritizes books I read for myself versus those I read to create content. In 2025, I’m reaffirming my goal to ensure my personal goals always come first.
Feeling inspired? If you’re setting your own goals, check out these resources:
I did a podcast episode in December 2023 entitled Before You Set Your Reading Goals, Do This, which is still relevant today.
If you’re looking for reading goal ideas, check out my 23 Reading Goal Ideas for Adults to Try in 2025.
If you’re new to reading goals, check out my article: How To Set and Achieve Your Reading Goals.
Completing a reading challenge is also a goal, so in case you missed it, check out:
My Most Anticipated 2025 Books
As you know, I read ahead for the seasonal reading guides, so you can find all the books I’ve read and loved so far in The 2025 Winter Reading Guide and The Shortlist.
But there are some other books I have yet to read, so check out My 21 Most Anticipated Books of 2025!
What Are Your Bookish Goals?
I’d love to hear what you’re planning for 2025! Are you diving into a specific genre, tackling a big TBR pile, or exploring new authors?
Leave a comment and let me know—I’m always looking for inspiration.
Also, if you enjoyed this list and any of these tips, please share it with a fellow book lover or post about it on social media. Sharing helps keep the Weekend Edition free and introduces our growing community to even more readers.
Until next time, slow down and savor the little things.
Happy reading and reflecting!
Victoria
P.S. Get your guide to a magical winter reading season:
We share very similar reading goals for 2025, Victoria! Although your most-anticipated list threatens to derail me from my backlist focus 😉