The Best History Books of 2025 (So Far)

Based on on-the-ground research compiled over seven years of travel through thirty countries, An African History of Africa is a meticulously researched, sweeping study of the continent’s culture, people and history. Shining a light on overlooked African scholarship, Badawi presents a decolonized history in this remarkable and accessible account.

Sharp, incisive and necessary, this hands-on and brutally honest assessment of the corrosion of Western values provides added validation to what so many are facing across the United States. With sweeping prose and dynamic reportage, Omar El Akkad delivers the mirror we all need. This is a powerful work that one day, everyone will have always been in favor of. 

This timely and impeccably researched look into the start of the American Revolution showcases harrowing battles, famous historical figures and the fight for democracy.

Imani Perry studies the color blue in all its history and hues in this remarkable analysis. From West Africa to the American South, Black in Blues examines the color’s relation to Blackness and culture from the award-winning author of South to America.

Maybe you already think you know the midnight ride of Paul Revere by heart, maybe not, but even if you know it… do you really? This captivating account of what actually happened pulls in all the tertiary details to paint a complete picture, from the man himself, to the events that led to this most important night, to the lasting impact of “the ride.”

Whether in art, culture, religion, science or, well, you name it, India has long been an essential driver of progress. This expansive survey of India’s contributions is an ode to a nation too often misunderstood.

Bibliophiles, listen up! From writing to printing to binding and more, this is a comprehensive exploration of one of our favorite things.

With a cast of characters as intriguing as the history itself, this little-known chapter of WWII history is compellingly told with exhaustive research and attention to detail.

A deeply human and remarkably interconnected story of the lasting impact of the Holocaust, and finding answers. Borger uses his extensive experience as a journalist to tell a harrowing tale, weaving his own family story with that of others who faced similar.

Dive deep into the life of one of America’s literary geniuses through the eyes of a master biographer. New sources and a critical lens shed light on Twain’s works and world.