The Classical Mind Our Top Reads of 2025
Dec 30, 2025
Hosts dive into their top five books of the year, highlighting unexpected gems like Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' and the rich themes of brotherhood in Ratzinger's work. They explore the artistry behind George MacDonald's 'Phantastes' and the epic nature of Tasso's 'Liberation of Jerusalem.' With a nod to Kierkegaard's critique of state Christianity, they recommend the imaginative 'Daevabad Trilogy' and reflect on the deep nostalgia of rereading Tolkien's classic. Personal favorites, including Nayeri's touching memoir and Edman's compelling play, add emotional depth.
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Frankenstein's Hidden Depths
- Dr. Junius Johnson was surprised by Frankenstein's depth and beauty despite his low expectations.
- He found the novel's atmosphere and subtlety unexpectedly powerful.
Reread To See Hidden Structure
- Re-reading reveals interweaving and foreshadowing you miss the first time.
- Dr. Junius Johnson recommends rereading worthwhile books to deepen understanding.
Teaching Reveals New Layers
- Dr. Junius Johnson recounts teaching Phantastes and finding interpretive gold on any page.
- He enjoys sharing discoveries through teaching those rereads.