11 Books That Made Both PEOPLE Picks and Amazon’s Best Books of the Year
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/people-book-recs-111225-em-4244fb67c7a14c628c94773b248c328c.jpg)
In a year filled with exceptional literary works, Amazon unveiled its annual selection of the best books on November 12th, celebrating a diverse range of titles chosen by both Amazon Editors and the editors at PEOPLE throughout 2025. From heart-wrenching memoirs to captivating love stories and supernatural adventures, these books have captured the hearts and minds of readers around the world.
As the year draws to a close, it’s evident that some books have managed to stand out by making it to both Amazon’s prestigious list and being selected as PEOPLE’s monthly picks. Let’s delve into the 11 remarkable titles that have garnered recognition from both platforms, offering readers a blend of emotional depth, enthralling narratives, and thought-provoking storytelling.
1. ‘Broken Country’ by Clare Leslie Hall
A gripping family drama intertwined with love and mystery, ‘Broken Country’ follows Beth as she confronts her past in a close-knit village seeped in history. This March 2025 PEOPLE Pick, which also received Reese’s Book Club accolade, has been lauded for its shocking twists and poignant storytelling.
2. ‘The Emperor of Gladness’ by Ocean Vuong
Described as a profound exploration of love, labor, and loneliness in American life, ‘The Emperor of Gladness’ by Ocean Vuong has left a lasting impact on readers. This May 2025 PEOPLE Pick, celebrated for its compassion and grace, was also handpicked for Oprah’s Book Club, adding to its accolades.
3. ‘Katabasis’ by R. F. Kuang
R.F. Kuang’s dark academia masterpiece, ‘Katabasis,’ takes readers on a treacherous journey to hell as two graduate students embark on a mission to save their professor’s soul. Regarded as a modern classic, this compelling tale has captivated audiences and secured its place as one of the Best Books of the Summer.
4. ‘Atmosphere’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Set against the backdrop of the 1980s space program, ‘Atmosphere’ by Taylor Jenkins Reid explores the depths of human resilience and the pursuit of love beyond boundaries. This June PEOPLE Pick, endorsed by Good Morning America Book Club, has been hailed as an exhilarating and enlightening read that transports readers to the wonders of astronomy.
5. ‘Buckeye’ by Patrick Ryan
‘Buckeye’ delves into the enduring repercussions of a wartime kiss shared between two individuals, spanning generations and eliciting a myriad of emotions from readers. An Amazon editor praised its immersive storytelling, while PEOPLE’s reviewers found it mesmerizing, cementing its status as a must-read novel.
6. ‘Paper Girl’ by Beth Macy
Beth Macy’s poignant memoir, ‘Paper Girl,’ offers a reflective account of her roots in Urbana, Ohio, and the evolving dynamics of her hometown. Dubbed as a powerful narrative that triggers action, this Fall 2025 PEOPLE pick sheds light on the profound impact of societal changes on individuals.
7. ‘Replaceable You’ by Mary Roach
Mary Roach’s exploration of replaceable body parts in ‘Replaceable You’ is a riveting dive into the realm of pop-sci nonfiction, blending humor with scientific intrigue. This September PEOPLE pick, recommended for its engaging and informative style, has garnered praise for its unique approach to a fascinating subject.
8. ‘The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny’ by Kiran Desai
In ‘The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny,’ Kiran Desai weaves a rich tapestry of emotions as two young souls navigate a complex web of family expectations and long-held secrets. This September PEOPLE pick has been commended for its depth and rewarding narrative, offering readers a compelling and multilayered story.
9. ‘The Book of Guilt’ by Catharine Chidgey
Catharine Chidgey’s dystopian tale, ‘The Book of Guilt,’ presents a haunting alternate universe where triplets grapple with a mysterious illness and the shadows of a past war. This breathtaking narrative, celebrated for its sinister undertones, offers a unique and immersive reading experience.
10. ‘Heart the Lover’ by Lily King
Exploring the complexities of love, friendship, and ambition, ‘Heart the Lover’ by Lily King delves into a college love triangle with profound implications that resonate through the decades. Hailed as bittersweet and astutely observed, this September PEOPLE pick stands out as a poignant reflection on transformative relationships.
11. ‘Cursed Daughters’ by Oyinkan Braithwaite
Oyinkan Braithwaite’s gripping novel, ‘Cursed Daughters,’ intertwines a family curse with supernatural elements, captivating readers with its compelling narrative. A November PEOPLE pick and a Read With Jenna book club selection, this must-read saga offers a blend of family drama and mystical intrigue.
As readers seek out captivating stories to immerse themselves in, these 11 books have emerged as true gems that resonate across different genres and themes. From intimate family dramas to otherworldly adventures, each title offers a unique perspective and engrossing narrative that has left a lasting impression on literary enthusiasts.