New Delhi: If you are a book lover who might be looking for a recommendation, your work has been done easily. Former US President Barack Obama has continued his long-standing tradition of sharing his annual list of favourite books as 2025 comes to a close. The carefully curated selection reflects his deep interest in history, politics, social change, and intimate human stories. Over the years, Obama’s reading lists have become influential, often boosting global interest in meaningful literature that challenges perspectives and sparks thoughtful conversations.
This year’s book recommendations range from fiction to non-fiction, featuring acclaimed authors and powerful narratives. The theme of these books includes explorations of government and economics to personal identity and memory, and each book offers a distinct reason to be read. Here is a closer look at Obama’s favourite books of 2025 and why they may resonate with you.
Why you should read Barack Obama’s favourite books of 2025
1. Paper Girl by Beth Macy
It is a 2025 memoir blending personal history with deep reporting on a fractured America, as Macy returns to her hometown of Urbana, Ohio. It appeals to readers interested in real-life struggles, systemic issues, and narratives that humanise overlooked communities.
2. Flashlight by Susan Choi
It is a globe-spanning, Booker Prize-shortlisted novel exploring family, memory, and identity through the mystery of a Korean émigré father’s disappearance at sea in 1978, affecting his American wife and daughter across decades and continents, delving into hidden histories and the fragmented lives of Koreans, Japanese, and Americans caught in geopolitical currents.
3. We The People by Jill Lepore
Lepore’s work offers a powerful examination of American democracy. The book is ideal for readers who want historical context behind modern political debates.
4. The Wilderness by Angela Florney
This novel delves into moral complexity and personal survival. It attracts readers who enjoy layered storytelling with psychological and ethical undertones.
5. There Is No Place for Us by Brian Goldstone
A timely exploration of housing inequality and displacement. The book provides insight into one of the most pressing social issues affecting urban societies today.
6. North Sun by Exhan Rutherford
This story focuses on migration, belonging, and cultural identity. It is compelling for readers interested in global perspectives and lived experiences.
7. 1929 by Andrew Ross Sorkin
A gripping account of the events leading to the Great Depression. It offers lessons on financial systems, economic cycles, and leadership failures.
8. The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai
A deeply emotional novel that examines love, exile, and generational conflict. The book stands out for its lyrical writing and cultural insight.
9. Dead and Alive by Zadie Smith
A collection that blends sharp observation with social commentary. Ideal for readers who enjoy essays that question modern culture and identity.
10. What We Can Know by Ian McEwan
This novel reflects on truth, technology, and memory. It appeals to readers who enjoy intellectually driven fiction with contemporary relevance.
11. The Look by Michelle Obama
A personal and reflective work that offers insight into identity and self-expression. It resonates with readers interested in personal growth and authenticity.
Obama’s summer book recommendations and why they matter
12. Mark Twain by Ron Chernow
A definitive biography that captures the complexity of an iconic writer. The book offers historical depth and literary insight.
13. The Book of Records by Madeleine Thien
An experimental narrative exploring time, memory, and connection. Ideal for readers who appreciate innovative storytelling.
14. King of Ashes by SA Cosby
A gripping crime novel that examines morality and violence. It appeals to fans of fast-paced yet socially grounded fiction.
15. Rosarita by Anita Desai
A subtle exploration of identity and artistic life. The book is valued for its emotional restraint and introspective tone.
16. Audition by Katie Kitamura
A psychological novel about performance and selfhood. It suits readers drawn to quiet tension and character-driven narratives.
17. The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones
A genre-blending work rooted in history and folklore. It offers a unique perspective on cultural storytelling.
18. Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson
A forward-looking analysis of economics and innovation. The book appeals to readers interested in solutions-driven policy thinking.
19. A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirat
A poignant exploration of relationships under pressure. It resonates with readers who enjoy intimate human stories.
20. Who Is Government by Michael Lewis
A sharp investigation into public institutions and power. The book provides clarity on how governments function behind the scenes.
21. The Siren’s Call by Chris Hayes
A thoughtful examination of attention, media, and influence. It is relevant for readers navigating the modern information age.
Barack Obama’s 2025 book recommendations reflect a thoughtful blend of storytelling, social insight, and intellectual curiosity. This list is a valuable guide for meaningful reading.