One of my favorite ways to connect with new readers is through daily writing prompts—especially when they revolve around books that leave a lasting impression. Today’s post is all about the most impactful books I’ve read so far in 2025.
Rather than repeat a list I’ve done before from my post about kickstarting your reading goals, I wanted to take a more current angle. So, let’s define “impact” first. According to the dictionary, impact means to “have a strong effect on someone or something.” These are three books that truly hit me in that way—books that have stuck with me, shaped my thoughts, or inspired me to share them with others.
Book 1: The Spooky One
Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay
I’ve been diving deep into horror this year—it’s one of my favorite movie genres, but until recently, I hadn’t explored much of it in book form. Horror Movie is easily my favorite read of 2025 so far. I won’t go too in-depth here because I wrote a full review you can check out here, but I had to include it on this list.
Tremblay plays with narrative structure in fascinating ways: cutting between timelines, layering in a fictional movie script, and building tension through an unreliable narrator. It’s creepy, clever, and tailor-made for readers like me who love stories that bend reality and embrace mystery. If you like horror that feels more atmospheric than gory, this is one you shouldn’t miss.
Book 2: The One for My Kids
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Growing up, there was a certain series about a wizarding school that shaped my love of books. I once imagined reading it with my kids—but as I’ve gotten older and the legacy of that author has grown more complicated, I’ve looked for other meaningful stories to share with them someday.
That’s what led me to finally read The Hunger Games. My daughter is still a bit young for it (she’s six), but I’m actively looking for books with strong, empowering female leads. Katniss Everdeen is exactly that: a total badass.
Revisiting this dystopian world has been powerful. While I had seen the movies before, reading the book gave me a much deeper connection to the characters and the stakes. The premise, if you’re unfamiliar, is that in a dystopian future, twelve districts must send a boy and girl each year to fight to the death in a televised competition. Katniss, from District 12—a coal mining district—volunteers to protect her sister and becomes a symbol of resistance.
I can’t wait to read Catching Fire next—and eventually experience this whole series with my daughter when she’s old enough.
Book 3: The Important One
There There by Tommy Orange
Of the 30 books I’ve read so far this year, There There by Tommy Orange might be the most important. Originally, I picked it up because Orange was supposed to appear at a local author event. He couldn’t make it in the end, but I’m so glad I read it anyway.
This novel weaves together the lives of multiple urban Native American characters, all heading to a Powwow in Oakland. Through their stories, Orange explores generational trauma, addiction, loss, identity, and survival in a modern setting. His writing is raw and powerful. Every thread feels purposeful, and the way everything comes together is masterful.
It opened my eyes to experiences I haven’t read much about, and it’s stayed with me long after I turned the last page. I’m looking forward to reading his follow-up, Wandering Stars, soon.
What About You?
If you’re new here, welcome! I’d love to hear what books have made the biggest impact on you—whether it’s something you read this year or an all-time favorite.
And if you’re into book reviews, reading prompts, or pairing books with movies (a new blog feature I’ve been playing with!), make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future posts.
Cole Talks Books 
Leave a comment