From board books to adult fiction, here are the best books I read in 2025—favorite family read-alouds, kids’ books, YA, and meaningful adult reads.
Picture Books
Book Review: Classic Fairy Tales
Discover Classic Fairy Tales by Scott Gustafson—an exquisite collection of ten beloved stories featuring stunning oil-painted illustrations. Perfect for ages 5–12, this beautifully crafted fairy tale anthology is ideal for family read-alouds, classroom shelves, and lovers of traditional retellings.
Book Review: Millie Fleur Saves the Night
Millie Fleur Saves the Night by Christy Mandin is a beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates the wonder of nighttime and the importance of darkness. Perfect for ages 4–8, this enchanting story teaches kids about light pollution, courage, and seeing beauty in the dark — a cozy pick for Halloween or bedtime.
Book Review: Pepper & Boo: A Cat Surprise
Looking for a fun early reader book about cats and dogs? Pepper & Boo: A Cat Surprise by Charise Mericle Harper is a hilarious, heartwarming story about two curious dogs learning all about their feline friend. Perfect for ages 5–8 and early readers who love pets and humor.
10 Faith-Filled Picture Books for Ages 2-6: Read-Alouds That Build Family & Faith
Discover 10 faith-filled picture books for ages 2–6 that grow your child’s faith and family connection through fun, meaningful read-alouds.
Catching Kindness Read-Aloud
Watch the Catching Kindness read-aloud by Charlotte Glaze! This heartwarming picture book by Kara M. Mitchell shows how small acts of kindness can ripple through a whole day. Perfect for ages 4–8.
Book Review: Stuck
Read why Stuck by Oliver Jeffers is a hilarious picture book kids love. A boy tries to rescue his kite from a tree by throwing everything imaginable—shoes, pets, even a front door! Perfect read-aloud fun.
Book Review: The Book That Almost Rhymed
Discover why The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed and Hatem Aly is a must-read picture book. A hilarious sibling story full of rhymes, surprises, and read-aloud fun for ages 5–8.
Book Review: The Noisy Puddle
The Noisy Puddle is a vibrant picture book that explores the changing life of a vernal pool through the seasons. With lyrical text and cut-paper illustrations, this nature book is a wonderful read-aloud for kids who love animals and the outdoors.
Book Review: Feathers Together
Feathers Together is a sweet picture book about two storks who stay connected even when they’re far apart. With beautiful illustrations and themes of friendship, love, and resilience, it’s a wonderful read-aloud for families.
Book Review: There’s No Place Like Gnome’s
Discover There’s No Place Like Gnome’s by Scott Magoon—a sweet picture book about a hardworking gnome, displaced animals, and rebuilding home together. Read this family-friendly review.
Book Review: The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors
Looking for a hilarious picture book your kids will love? Read this review of The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors by Drew Daywalt and Adam Rex—an epic, laugh-out-loud tale perfect for read-alouds and playtime fun.











