298 - My Favorite Books from 2025

Pollyanna, written by Eleanor H. Porter, is a timeless classic first published in 1913. The story follows Pollyanna Whittier, a young orphan who moves in with her stern Aunt Polly in Beldingsville, Vermont. Despite the hardships, Pollyanna plays a 'Glad Game,' finding joy in every situation. Her upbeat spirit transforms those around her, including her aunt and the townspeople. However, her optimism is put to the test when she suffers a tragic accident, leaving her temporarily disabled. The novel ends with Pollyanna learning to appreciate her life and the people in it even more after her recovery.

First published in 1936, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie is a timeless guide to improving interpersonal skills. The book is divided into four main sections: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking, and Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment. Carnegie's principles emphasize the importance of genuine interest in others, active listening, and avoiding criticism and argument. The book offers practical advice on how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and influence others by aligning their self-interest with yours. It has been a cornerstone of personal development and business success for generations.

Moderata Fonte's "The Worth of Women" is a significant feminist text from the Italian Renaissance. It takes the form of a dialogue where women of different ages and social standing discuss their experiences and perspectives. The work challenges prevailing misogynistic views and argues for women's intellectual and moral equality. It's a powerful statement of female agency and a valuable contribution to feminist thought. The book's lively and engaging style makes it accessible to modern readers.

Erin Loechner's "The Opt-Out Family" explores the challenges and rewards of minimizing technology's role in family life. The book delves into the potential negative impacts of excessive screen time on children's development and family relationships. Loechner offers practical strategies and insights for creating a more balanced and intentional lifestyle, emphasizing real-world connections and experiences. It encourages families to prioritize face-to-face interactions and activities that foster deeper bonds. The book promotes a thoughtful approach to technology integration, rather than complete avoidance.

Asher Lev is a child prodigy in painting who grows up in a Ladover Hasidic community. His artistic talent and interests conflict with the traditional values of his family and community, leading to significant personal and familial tensions. The novel explores themes of identity, faith, and the pursuit of artistic expression.

In "Born to Eat," Leslie Shilling and Wendy Jo Peterson offer a comprehensive guide to feeding babies and young children. The book emphasizes a respectful and responsive approach to feeding, encouraging parents to trust their children's innate ability to regulate their food intake. It challenges restrictive feeding practices and promotes a positive relationship with food from an early age. The authors provide practical advice and strategies for navigating mealtimes with young children, focusing on creating a supportive and enjoyable environment. The book's emphasis on intuitive eating and avoiding diet culture makes it a valuable resource for parents seeking to raise healthy eaters.

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A short story collection about sex, written anonymously by various authors.

In 'How to Stop Worrying and Start Living', Dale Carnegie provides a set of practical formulas and techniques to help readers overcome their worry habits. The book, first published in 1948, has been updated and remains highly relevant today. It offers advice on how to eliminate business and financial worries, avoid fatigue, improve sleep, and cultivate a mental attitude that brings peace and happiness. Carnegie's approach includes rules such as living in 'day-tight compartments', accepting the worst-case scenario, and keeping busy to crowd out worry. The book is filled with inspiring examples and stories of people who have successfully applied these principles to achieve a more enjoyable and fulfilling life.

In 'This Is the Moment! ', Walter Green recounts his year-long journey of visiting 44 people who have significantly influenced his life, conveying his profound gratitude to them. The book is divided into three parts: 'My Journey', 'The Conversations', and 'Your Moment', providing readers with tools to embark on their own gratitude journey.

When robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time, she finds herself alone on a remote, wild island after a shipwreck. With no idea how she got there or what her purpose is, Roz must adapt to her harsh surroundings by learning from the island's hostile animal inhabitants. She befriends the animals, including an orphaned gosling named Brightbill, and becomes a part of the island community. However, her mysterious past eventually comes back to haunt her, forcing her to make difficult choices that impact her new family and the island itself. The novel explores themes of technology vs. nature, community, and personal responsibility.