Books I read in 2025
Even though I didn't read as much as I hoped, here are the books I managed to get through in 2025. The reason I am composing this list is to keep track of my reading habits and to share some recommendations with others.
This wasn't a particularly stellar year for reading, but I did find some gems along the way.
You can also check out my Goodreads for more details on my reading journey.
Fiction
James by Percival Everett
James is a powerful and provocative novel that delves into themes of race, identity, and freedom in America. It is a re-imagination of Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, told from the perspective of the enslaved Jim. I loved this book and should be read by everyone.
White Nights by Fyodor Dostoevsky
I am a bit late to this masterpiece, but Dostoevsky's exploration of loneliness and human connection is timeless. The narrative follows a solitary dreamer who encounters Alena, leading to a poignant exploration of love and longing. A beautiful read.
If you have not read White Nights yet, do yourself a favor and pick it up.
Non Fiction
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami
This is a memoir by the renowned Japanese author Haruki Murakami, where he reflects on his experiences as a long-distance runner and how it intersects with his writing life. The book offers insights into discipline, perseverance, and the creative process. A must-read for both runners and writers.
It has inspired me to take up running again.
Islamic
I managed to go through the following books which I found quite enlightening and thought-provoking.
Sealed Nectar by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
This is a comprehensive biography of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), detailing his life, mission, and the early days of Islam. The book is well-researched and provides a deep understanding of the historical context and significance of the Prophet's life. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Islamic history.
Fiqh -us- Sunnah By Shaykh Muhammad Asim Al-Haddad
This book is an essential resource for understanding Islamic jurisprudence based on the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It covers various aspects of Islamic law and practice, making it a valuable reference for both students and scholars of Islam. A great addition to any Islamic library.
The Concise Collection on Creed and Tauhid
This book provides a clear and concise overview of Islamic beliefs and the concept of Tawhid (the oneness of God). It is an excellent resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Islamic theology and creed. A must-read for anyone interested in the fundamentals of Islam. It has multiple authors and is compiled by Darus Salam.
Still in Progress
Sadly, I couldn't finish my target of 12 books this year and I am still reading the following
- The Molecule of More by Daniel Z. Lieberman and Michael E. Long
- The Personal MBA by Josh Kaufman
- The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt