As 2025 draws to a close, many readers are taking stock of their literary journeys over the past year. This reflection is particularly significant for those who have explored a wide range of genres and authors. Among them, a noted reader has shared insights into their reading habits, revealing a mix of classic literature and contemporary essays.
This year, the reader focused on a variety of impactful titles. They completed notable works such as Open Socrates: The Case for a Philosophical Life by Agnes Callard and The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy. A diverse selection also included Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a World of Strangers by Kwame Anthony Appiah and The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of Dorothy Day. The reader also enjoyed My Life in France, co-authored by Julia Child and Alex Prud’homme, highlighting the rich experiences of culinary exploration.
Despite acknowledging a year that did not feature as many female authors as intended, the reader found value in engaging with the biographies of women who were pioneers in their respective fields. Completing Toni at Random: The Iconic Writer’s Legendary Editorship by Dana A. Williams and Lost in Thought: The Hidden Pleasures of an Intellectual Life by Zena Hitz further enriched their reading experience.
The reader expressed a desire to incorporate more light-hearted and fun literature into their lists, indicating a need for balance between serious and entertaining reads. They also noted unfinished titles, such as Edmund White’s biography of Jean Genet and the second volume of Thomas Merton’s journal, highlighting the ongoing journey of discovery in literature.
Engaging with the Literary Community
To further enhance the reading experience, the reader is actively involved in various literary discussions. The Readers & Book Lovers series offers a platform for exchanging thoughts and recommendations. With multiple events scheduled throughout the week, readers can participate in discussions ranging from contemporary fiction to LGBTQ literature. Each session, hosted by different editors and enthusiasts, fosters a vibrant community of book lovers.
The weekly schedule includes notable events such as:
– **Sundays at 4:00 PM EST**: Let’s Talk BOOKS, hosted by Angela Marx
– **Mondays at 8:00 PM EST**: The Language of the Night, with DrLori
– **Tuesdays at 10:00 PM EST**: Nonfiction Views, led by DebtorsPrison
– **Wednesdays at 8:00 PM EST**: Bookchat, featuring a mix of contributors
Readers interested in joining can easily follow the group on the platform to stay updated on the latest discussions and diary entries.
As the year comes to a close, the reflections on 2025 underscore the importance of embracing a diverse range of literature. Whether through classics or contemporary essays, each book enriches the reader’s perspective and invites deeper engagement with the world of literature.
