Natalie Portman’s Book Club: A Glimpse into the Actress’s 2025 Literary Picks
Natalie Portman, the esteemed Hollywood actress, is not only known for her captivating performances on the big screen but also for her profound love for literature. In 2025, she proudly steers Natalie’s Book Club, an online sanctuary for bookworms around the globe. With each passing month, Portman introduces a new literary gem, engaging in enlightening discussions with the authors, which are later shared with her followers.
The essence of Portman’s book club lies in her desire to select books that enrich our perception of ourselves and the world we inhabit. She articulates this sentiment on the book club’s platform, stating, “I try to find books that deepen our understanding of ourselves and of the world around us.” This ethos underpins her meticulous selection process as she aims to foster a sense of empathy and connection through the power of storytelling.
Empathy takes center stage in Portman’s book club philosophy, as she believes that reading serves as a gateway to understanding. She explains, “We feel for characters in stories as we might for ourselves or our own friends. Whenever we imagine someone else’s life — their hopes and fears, their feelings and thoughts — we are practicing empathy.” This emphasis on compassion and emotional intelligence sets the tone for the diverse range of books featured in her club.
As we delve into the curated list of Portman’s 2025 book club selections, we encounter a tapestry of narratives that traverse various genres and themes. From the empowering memoir of Jacinda Ardern to the introspective musings of Amanda Nguyen, each book offers a unique perspective, inviting readers to explore the complexities of the human experience through literature.
In July, Portman spotlighted ‘A Different Kind of Power’ by Jacinda Ardern, chronicling the remarkable journey of New Zealand’s trailblazing Prime Minister. This memoir delves into Ardern’s historic rise to power and her navigation of motherhood amidst a demanding political landscape, offering a glimpse into resilience and leadership.
June brought ‘The English Understand Wool’ by Helen DeWitt, a novel that follows a young girl’s quest for identity amidst cultural nuances and familial obligations. Set against the backdrop of Marrakech, this coming-of-age story challenges societal norms and celebrates the beauty of self-discovery.
May’s pick, ‘Consider Yourself Kissed’ by Jessica Stanley, unfolds the tale of Coralie, an expat in London, as she embarks on a transformative journey of love and self-realisation. The witty narrative captures the essence of human connections and personal growth, resonating with readers on a profound level.
In April, Portman introduced ‘Autocracy, Inc’ by Anne Applebaum, a thought-provoking exploration of authoritarian regimes in the 21st century and the implications for democratic societies. Applebaum’s scholarly insight sheds light on the fragility of governance systems and the imperative of collective action in safeguarding democratic principles.
March brought ‘Saving Five’ by Amanda Nguyen, a poignant memoir that sheds light on the harrowing aftermath of sexual assault and the resilience of the human spirit. Nguyen’s courageous account resonates with readers, underscoring the importance of advocacy and empowerment in the face of adversity.
The month of February saw the inclusion of ‘The Coin’ by Yasmin Zaher, a compelling narrative that follows a Palestinian teacher’s quest for identity in the bustling metropolis of New York City. Zaher’s poignant storytelling captures the protagonist’s emotional journey, intertwining past memories with present realities in a nuanced exploration of belonging and self-discovery.
Portman kicked off the year with ‘Saving Time: Discovering a Life Beyond the Clock’ by Jenny Odell, a timely examination of productivity culture and the quest for meaningful engagement in a fast-paced world. Odell’s insightful analysis prompts readers to reevaluate their relationship with time and productivity, advocating for a more balanced and introspective approach to life.
In essence, Natalie Portman’s book club serves as a beacon of literary exploration and communal dialogue, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a diverse array of narratives that provoke thought, inspire empathy, and celebrate the transformative power of storytelling. Through her curated selections, Portman continues to foster a community of avid readers who seek solace, inspiration, and enlightenment in the pages of a book.