With 2025 coming to a close soon we asked around for our staff member's favorite books they read this year. Here's a few of their picks, what's yours?
Author: aleemyapl
Friendship Stories
From laughs on the playground to unlikely animal pals, these friendship stories for kids celebrate the magic of having a best buddy. These books are great for bedtime or classroom reading. Curated by Bonita Bignar.
Plot Twist!
You'll never know what happens next with these twisty books from a variety of genres. These titles will keep you guessing until the very last page. The best tales are the ones that surprise you when you least expect it. If you love being kept on the edge of your seat, this list is made for you. Curated by Ashley Lee.
In Their Own Voice: Picture Books
Dive into picture books that know exactly who they are and what they want to say. These stories come alive with character, charm, and heart. If you believe picture books are for everyone, you're in the right place. Curated by Bonita Bignar.
Saying Farewell to Downton Abbey
Grab your tissues and dress in your best gown, Downton Abbey: Grand Finale (in theaters September 12th) will take viewers back to the infamous Downton Abbey one last time. Say goodbye to the Crawley Family, their domestic staff, and all the drama. Don't want to wave goodbye just yet? Then check out these books and DVDs. Curated by Ashley Lee.
Completed YA Duologies
Love to read YA but don't have time for a long complicated series? We've got you! Here's a list of duologies (a book series that only has 2 books). Best part, both books are already out so you can read them back to back. Happy reading! Curated by Ashley Lee.
Historical Fiction: A Different Story
Do you love historical fiction but want to read something a little different? Maybe delve into some history that's less familiar? Step back in time to historical events and time periods that inspired engaging stories despite being less well-known. Curated by Ashley Lee.
Storytime Standouts
Check out Ascension Parish Library's staff favorite read alouds for storyime! Reading with your babies, toddlers, preschoolers is important for literacy skills. If you want to share laughs, get the wiggles out, and create memories, read these books with your children. Curated by Bonita Bignar.
Christian Suspense
Christian fiction not only offers a powerful blend of faith and inspiration but also introduces an element of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. These stories balance gripping mystery with themes of hope, redemption, and divine intervention. These titles combine suspense and spirituality for an unforgettable reading experience that both thrills and uplifts. Curated by Ashley Lee.
Book to Screen: Thunderbolts*
In 1997 Marvel Comics introduced a group of reformed supervillains, antiheroes who step in when the real heroes, The Avengers, are too busy to help. Featuring some familiar and some new faces May 2, 2025 the Thunderbolts* will make their big screen debut. Curated by Ashley Lee.
Shelf Analysis 