As 2025 begins, I reflect on the books that have shaped my worldview and provided both solace and inspiration through the years. These works, from timeless classics to philosophical treatises, offer rich explorations of humanity, society, and the individual spirit.
Below is a selection of my favourite books—each a unique window into the human experience.
1. War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
An epic tale set during the Napoleonic Wars, War and Peace explores themes of fate, free will, and the intersection of personal lives with historical events. Tolstoy’s mastery in weaving philosophy and history creates a profound narrative that continues to resonate with readers worldwide.
2. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
A tragic exploration of love, infidelity, and societal pressures, Anna Karenina follows the life of its titular character, whose affair leads to her eventual downfall. A complex portrait of 19th-century Russian aristocracy and the consequences of human desires.
3. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
This psychological thriller delves into the mind of Rodion Raskolnikov, a student who believes he is above the law and commits murder. Crime and Punishment explores morality, guilt, and redemption in the context of the human psyche.
4. The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
One of Dostoyevsky’s greatest works, The Brothers Karamazov delves into profound themes of faith, doubt, free will, and morality. The story of three brothers and their deeply flawed father offers a powerful philosophical exploration.
5. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
A timeless romance that critiques the social structures of 19th-century England, Pride and Prejudice follows the spirited Elizabeth Bennet as she navigates love, societal expectations, and personal growth. Austen’s wit and keen observations of human nature make this a must-read.
6. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
A gothic novel that explores themes of independence, morality, and love, Jane Eyre tells the story of an orphaned girl who grows into a strong, self-assured woman. Brontë’s rich narrative continues to inspire readers with its exploration of personal integrity.
7. The Prophet by Khalil Gibran
A beautiful, poetic work that offers philosophical musings on life, love, work, and death, The Prophet is filled with timeless wisdom. Gibran’s lyrical prose has made this book a cherished guide to living a thoughtful and meaningful life.
8. To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf
In this modernist classic, Woolf explores the internal lives of her characters during a summer vacation at a family home. Themes of time, identity, and the passage of life permeate the novel, making it a profound and introspective read.
9. Modigliani: A Life by Meryle Secrest
A compelling biography of the legendary Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani, this work delves into his life, his creative genius, and his tragic early death. It paints a portrait of a man consumed by both his art and his inner demons.
10. Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair by Pablo Neruda
This passionate and sensuous collection of poetry explores the complexities of love, longing, and loss. Neruda’s evocative language has made this one of the most beloved collections of modern poetry.
11. In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin
A fascinating travelogue that takes readers through the remote and rugged landscape of Patagonia. Chatwin’s lyrical writing and exploration of human history make this more than just a travel book—it’s a reflection on adventure and the natural world.
12. Shaking Hands with the Devil by Romeo Dallaire
A powerful and haunting memoir by the Canadian general who witnessed the Rwandan Genocide firsthand, this book is an unflinching look at the failures of international intervention and the depths of human cruelty.
13. The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
A surreal and satirical novel that blends political commentary, religious allegory, and romance. The Master and Margaritais a fascinating and complex narrative that explores the nature of good and evil through the lens of Soviet Russia.
14. The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels
This foundational political text outlines the principles of communism, advocating for the abolition of class structures and private property. It remains a crucial text for understanding modern political thought and social theory.
15. The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir
A landmark feminist text that examines the ways in which women have been historically oppressed. de Beauvoir’s philosophical analysis continues to influence feminist theory and gender studies to this day.
16. The Stranger by Albert Camus
A cornerstone of existentialism, The Stranger follows Meursault, a man who reacts indifferently to the events around him, including the death of his mother. Camus’ exploration of the absurd and the meaninglessness of life remains thought-provoking and influential.
17. The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus
In this philosophical essay, Camus explores the absurdity of life and the concept of existential rebellion. He uses the Greek myth of Sisyphus to illustrate how humans can find meaning in a world devoid of inherent purpose.
18. La Nausée by Jean-Paul Sartre
A key work of existential philosophy, Sartre’s novel follows Antoine Roquentin, who grapples with feelings of nausea and the absurdity of existence. This novel challenges readers to confront their own understanding of freedom and identity.
19. The Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary Wollstonecraft
A foundational text in feminist philosophy, Wollstonecraft argues for the education and empowerment of women. Her early advocacy for gender equality has influenced generations of thinkers and activists.
20. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
A masterful work of magical realism, One Hundred Years of Solitude follows the Buendía family over multiple generations. Márquez’s exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time has made this one of the most important works of Latin American literature.
21. The Beauty of Everyday Things by Soetsu Yanagi
A philosophical exploration of beauty in the mundane, Yanagi examines the Japanese concept of folk art and the quiet elegance found in everyday objects. This book inspires readers to see beauty in the simplest aspects of life.
22. Play It as It Lays by Joan Didion
A haunting exploration of the fragmentation of American society, Play It as It Lays delves into the disillusionment and existential despair of a Hollywood actress. Didion’s spare and precise prose is a masterclass in modern storytelling.
23. Ways of Seeing by John Berger
A groundbreaking work on visual culture, Ways of Seeing challenges how we perceive art, media, and culture. Berger explores the politics of vision, gender, and identity, making this an essential text for art lovers and cultural critics alike.
24. 1984 by George Orwell
A dystopian classic that explores totalitarianism, surveillance, and the manipulation of truth. Orwell’s vision of a society where the government controls every aspect of life remains eerily relevant in today’s world.
25. The Art of War by Sun Tzu
An ancient Chinese text on military strategy and tactics, The Art of War is also widely applied in business and leadership. Its teachings on conflict resolution, preparation, and leadership offer timeless insights.
26. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
This collection of personal writings by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius offers timeless wisdom on Stoic philosophy. The reflections cover themes such as self-discipline, humility, the nature of human existence, and the pursuit of inner peace. Meditations serves as a guide to living a virtuous life in the face of adversity.
These books are more than just words on paper—they are windows into the hearts and minds of those who have sought to understand the human condition. Whether you are looking to delve into philosophical reflections, powerful narratives, or transformative journeys, each of these books offers something profound. I invite you to explore them as we move forward into another year, one page at a time.
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