As a vibrant year of book discussions and shared readings concludes, we look back at the stories that connected us and the new perspectives they offered. Initiated as a singular narrative, this reading journey has grown into a tapestry of shared literary experiences.
To honor our collective year of literary exploration, we invited previous contributors to share their top book recommendations from 2025.
With 2026 just around the corner, it’s time to start building the next to-be-read list.
Amber Viola, Podcast Host
Book: “Circe”
Author: Madeline Miller
Amber Viola highlights “Circe” by Madeline Miller, known for “Song of Achilles,” as her standout choice. “Circe” delves into the life of a woman born among gods yet seeking her true identity and power. Viola describes it as a tale of inner strength, danger, and self-discovery, offering a compelling narrative about love and triumph.
Amber Viola recommends “Circe”
Brigid Lawrence, Owner, Friendly Alien Books
Book: “The Everlasting”
Author: Alix E. Harrow
Brigid Lawrence is captivated by “The Everlasting” by Alix E. Harrow, a book that seamlessly blends a love story with themes of historical manipulation and the power of narrative. Through a time-traveling historian’s quest, Harrow explores the complexities of truth and the impact of propaganda, while also crafting a memorable romantic tale.
Brigid Lawrence recommends “The Everlasting”
Brittany Shoemaker, The Charming Churchmouse
Book: “You are Fatally Invited”
Author: Ande Pliego
Brittany Shoemaker highlights “You are Fatally Invited” by Ande Pliego, a thriller that takes readers to a private island retreat where famous authors with dark secrets gather. The plot thickens with mystery and suspense, echoing classic whodunits like Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None,” while adding modern twists and surprises.
Brittany Shoemaker recommends “You are Fatally Invited”
Lydia McFarlane, WVIA Healthcare Reporter
Book: “Heart the Lover”
Author: Lily King
Lydia McFarlane shares her passion for “Heart the Lover” by Lily King, a novel that explores the intensity of young love and the profound impact of past relationships. As a prequel and sequel to “Writers and Lovers,” the book captures the essence of youthful mistakes and the enduring memories that shape adult life.
Lydia McFarlane recommends “Heart the Lover”
Brian Ferguson-Avery, Author and Tax Preparer, Williamsport
Book: “Meet Me at the Museum”
Author: Anne Youngson
Brian Ferguson-Avery recommends “Meet Me at the Museum” by Anne Youngson, which features an intriguing correspondence between a curious farmwife and a Danish curator, set against the backdrop of the 2,400-year-old Tollund Man. The novel beautifully unfolds themes of connection, discovery, and the significance of small choices.
Brian Ferguson-Avery recommends “Meet Me at the Museum”
Glynis Johns, Founder and CEO, Black Scranton Project
Book: “Something, Someday”
Author: Amanda Gorman
Illustrator: Christian Robinson
Glynis Johns highlights the children’s book “Something, Someday” by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Christian Robinson, for its universal message of hope and change. The story, accompanied by warm, collage-like illustrations, emphasizes the power of small actions to bring about significant change, resonating with Johns’ mission at the Black Scranton Project.
Glynis Johns recommends “Something, Someday”
Clare Ryan, Gouldsboro
Book: “The Nightingale”
Author: Kristin Hannah
Clare Ryan praises “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah for its deeply emotional portrayal of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France. Through their divergent paths of quiet endurance and active resistance, the novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the varied forms of bravery during wartime.
Clare Ryan recommends “The Nightingale”
Isabela Weiss, WVIA Rural Government Reporter and RFA Corps Member
Book: “The Thief of Always”
Author: Clive Barker
Isabela Weiss is enchanted by Clive Barker’s “The Thief of Always,” a fable that questions the value of life and the importance of living in the moment. Through the eyes of 10-year-old Harvey Swick, readers are drawn into a mystical world where facing one’s fears is a path to self-discovery.
Isabela Weiss recommends “The Thief of Always”
Autumn Granza, Content Marketer and Photographer
Book: “Human Acts”
Author: Han Kang
Autumn Granza chose “Human Acts” by Han Kang, a novel that delves into the lasting impact of trauma following the Gwangju Uprising in South Korea. Through interconnected voices, the book examines resilience and empathy amid dehumanization, leaving a profound impression on its readers.
Autumn Granza recommends “Human Acts”
Fawn Contreras, Head of Youth Services, Valley Community Library
Book: “Here I Am”
Author: Shaunta Grimes
Fawn Contreras found “Here I Am” by Shaunta Grimes to be a powerful YA novel tackling issues like body image, bullying, and self-discovery. The book’s emotional depth and relatability earned it the 2025 Carolyn W. Field award for its impact on youth literature.
Book: “The Chaos Machine: The Inside Story of How Social Media Rewired Our Minds and Our World”
Author: Max Fisher
In non-fiction, Contreras recommends “The Chaos Machine” by Max Fisher, an exploration of how social media has fundamentally altered human interaction and perception. The book provides a thought-provoking examination of the digital age’s influence on society.
Fawn Contreras recommends “Here I Am” and “The Chaos Machine”
Sarah Scinto, WVIA Morning Edition Host and Reporter
Book: “If We Were Villains”
Author: M.L. Rio
Sarah Scinto was captivated by “If We Were Villains” by M.L. Rio, a novel that intertwines mystery, dark academia, and Shakespearean drama. The story follows Oliver Marks, who revisits the events leading to his imprisonment, revealing a tangled web of intrigue and deception.
Sarah Scinto recommends “If We Were Villains”
That’s all for this edition of Bookmarks, but we’re not going away any time soon. Join us again on Jan. 24. I’ll be looking for your favorite classical works.
Want to talk about your favorite book from the classics section? Email sarahscinto@wvia.org with Bookmarks in the subject line.
