In 2025, the literary scene delivered a remarkable array of nonfiction works, featuring authors like Margaret Atwood and Zadie Smith reflecting on a range of themes from childhood to cultural phenomena, and influential titles that shed light on pressing societal issues, reports BritPanorama.
This year saw notable contributions to the genre, including Robert MacFarlane’s insightful exploration of rivers, Ian Leslie’s examination of the Beatles’ creative dynamics, and Corinne Low’s impactful analysis of women’s experiences in juggling professional and personal responsibilities. Furthermore, works with profound real-world implications emerged, such as Sarah Wynn-Williams’ memoir revealing Facebook’s internal chaos and Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s harrowing narrative on Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse.
The selection of the 14 best nonfiction books released this year illustrates the breadth and depth of the genre, with titles satisfying varying interests and concerns.
Is a river alive? by Robert Macfarlane
Macfarlane’s examination of rivers as living entities stands out as one of the year’s most engaging reads. By intertwining themes of travel, environmental issues, and personal reflections, he offers a compelling narrative that reshapes perceptions of the natural world, underscoring its urgency.
Hamish Hamilton, £25
Book of lives by Margaret Atwood
Atwood’s highly anticipated memoir met considerable expectations, revealing the influences that shaped her as a literary figure. Her distinctive blend of humour, scientific insight, and vivid storytelling elevates the narrative of seven decades of her life and work.
Chatto & Windus, £30
John and Paul by Ian Leslie
Amid the numerous publications about the Beatles, Leslie’s work breathes new life into their history. By exploring the duo’s songwriting process, he provides a detailed portrait of their artistic collaboration, marking it as one of the year’s most insightful music publications.
Faber, £25
Careless people by Sarah Wynn Williams
This exposé offers an astonishing insider view of the tumultuous world at Facebook, highlighting themes of power and dysfunction with a mix of dark humour. The struggle against suppression amplifies the book’s importance.
Macmillan, £22
Femenomics by Corrinne Low
Low provides a cogent exploration of the reasons many women feel overwhelmed by their commitments at work and home. Her data-driven approach blends solid evidence with practical strategies, making it both enlightening and useful.
Hodder & Stoughton, £22
Nobody’s girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre
Giuffre’s memoir detailing her abuse by Jeffrey Epstein offers a painful yet necessary insight into a situation of profound injustice. It serves as a testament to her strength and symbolizes the critical changes that her story has spurred.
Doubleday, £25
Get in by Patrick Maguire and Gabriel Pogrund
This comprehensive narrative of Labour’s resurgence captivates with its gripping portrayal of Starmer’s leadership, while also detailing the intricate dynamics and challenges faced by the party.
Bodley Head, £25
Dead and alive by Zadie Smith
Smith’s latest essay collection explores culture, art, and the complexities of public life, showcasing her ability to dissect contemporary issues with remarkable clarity and depth.
Hamish Hamilton, £22
Fly, wild swans by Jung Chang
Chang’s return to her family’s narrative, originally told in her acclaimed Wild Swans, presents a poignant examination of exile and aspiration, illustrating the interconnection of personal experiences and broader political contexts.
William Collins, £25
