The Barnes & Noble Book of the Year
We are pleased to announce our 2025 Book of the Year winners. These exceptional books delighted our dedicated booksellers and became instant favorites. With a moving story of art, two heartwarming adventures and a celebration of culinary delights, explore all four of our winners below.
The 2025 B&N Book of the Year
Shop NowExperience the beauty of life and the exceptional power of art. We are delighted to announce Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser as the Barnes & Noble Book of the Year. Celebrating bonds between generations, this is a heartwarming story perfect for sharing with the whole family.
"More than a tribute to artists and museums, it's a love letter to the world itself — and the way we learn to see it." — Alex S.
Learn more on Poured Over: The B&N Podcast.
The 2025 B&N Gift Book of the Year
Shop NowThe 2025 B&N Children's Book of the Year
Shop NowThere is one brave pup who stole our hearts this year, and that’s Rebel. We are elated to announce I am Rebel by Ross Montgomery as the Barnes & Noble Children’s Book of the Year! An inspirational tale of courage, loyalty and sacrifice, this timeless story follows one pooch's impossible journey across battlefields to find his beloved human. And good news: the dog survives.
"Animal lovers of all ages will root for Rebel every step of the way as he demonstrates the truly unbreakable bond between dogs and their favorite people." — Stephanie P.
The 2025 B&N Children's Book of the Year
Shop NowGrab your cheese puffs. We are thrilled to announce Growing Home by Beth Ferry, illustrated by The Fan Brothers, as the Barnes & Noble Children’s Book of the Year! This is a sweet story of quirky friendships, found family and a touch of magic that readers of all ages will want to revisit for years to come.
“This story reminds me of Stuart Little and Tale of Desperaux. Such a quirky, cute story with fun illustrations on every few pages... and makes me crave cheese puffs!” — Anna F.
Learn More About Our Book of the Year Picks
Read MoreFinalist: The Artist and the Feast
Shop NowGet enamored by the landscapes of Provence in this deliciously crafted slow-burn romance between a curious journalist and the unexpected artist who emerges from the kitchen.
Learn more on Poured Over: The B&N Podcast.
Finalist: Buckeye
Shop NowLove and war, births and deaths, coming together and falling apart — this intimate portrait of small-town, midcentury America is a must-read. The writing is both straightforward and poetic, and the story is compelling, cathartic and expertly crafted.
Learn more on Poured Over: The B&N Podcast.
Finalist: Katabasis
Shop NowAcclaimed author R.F. Kuang journeys into the depths of the underworld in her latest fantasy swirling with dark academia vibes in this gripping tour de force. This is perfect for fans of Olivie Blake and Leigh Bardugo.
Learn more on Poured Over: The B&N Podcast.
Finalist: King of Ashes
Shop NowEdge-of-your-seat thrills and spills (of blood), an action-packed, high-octane quest for vengeance and a family up against the mob. You'll have to catch your breath after reading.
Learn more on The B&N Blog.
Finalist: The Let Them Theory
Shop NowBestselling author, podcaster and motivational speaker Mel Robbins returns with her most insightful and life-changing book yet. From helping you build friendships to break free from insecurities to finding joy and success in everyday life, The Let Them Theory is a liberating read, perfect for fans of Brené Brown and Glennon Doyle.
Finalist: Mother Mary Comes to Me
Shop NowA triumphant memoir chronicling Arundhati Roy’s journey to becoming an award-winning author. Written after the death of her mother, Roy delicately pieces together how their powerful relationship helped shape her into the celebrated writer she is today.
Learn more on Poured Over: The B&N Podcast.
Finalist: Puzzle Mania!
Shop NowPuzzlers, gamers, Wordle-heads and crossword fiends — meet your new obsession. This invigorating compendium of mental glee and stimulation from puzzle-making masterminds is a guaranteed good time for you and your brain.
Learn more on The B&N Blog.
Finalist: Sunrise on the Reaping
Shop NowThe Fiftieth Annual Hunger Games are about to begin. Who will be tribute? Who will live and die? Return to Panem for more pulse-pounding action than ever before. Oh, and may the odds be ever in your favor.
Learn more on The B&N Blog.
Finalist: There Are No Silly Questions
Shop NowHave you ever wondered why you burp? Will dinosaurs ever walk the planet again? And what is blinking, anyway? This book will help answer some of the world’s funniest conundrums.
Finalist: This Way Up
Shop NowThe Map Men have spent years exploring every type of map out there: the old ones, the new ones and even the fake ones. Here, they share everything they’ve learned in this hilarious debut book.



