Book Trends to Watch for in 2025: What’s Next in the World of Reading?

As we enter 2025, there is a bold future for books! With emerging technologies, changing social climates, expanding diverse voices, and evolving tastes, it’s clear that the world of books is adapting in thrilling ways. Here’s a look at the top book trends to watch in 2025:

AI-Generated Stories and Collaboration

As artificial intelligence continues to develop, its role in the literary world is set to expand. In 2025, we can expect more collaboration between writers and AI tools. Authors may use AI for generating plot ideas, enhancing creativity, or even creating entire novels. While generating entire novels through AI is controversial and raises question about authorship, artificial intelligence could be beneficial in terms of editing, promotion/marketing tools, help flesh out ideas, etc. Generative AI should be used with caution, however. Creative spaces might not be accepting of AI, and this is likely to come into play even further in the year 2025.

Multicultural and Diverse Voices

The trend toward diverse voices in literature has gained significant momentum in recent years, and by 2025, this will only grow stronger. Readers will continue to seek out stories from underrepresented cultures, identities, and backgrounds, with a focus on authenticity and complexity. Authors who bring fresh perspectives to the table will thrive as readers demand more inclusive narratives.

Environmental and Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi)

Environmental concerns are likely to dominate global discussions in 2025, and literature will reflect this growing awareness. Expect more "cli-fi" (climate fiction) books that explore the impacts of climate change on individuals, societies, and the planet as a whole. These works will blend science fiction with real-world environmental issues, projecting possible futures where climate-related crises shape the lives of characters.

Interactive and Immersive Reading Experiences (Off the Page)

The future of reading is becoming increasingly interactive. With advancements in augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and multimedia content, books in 2025 will offer more immersive experiences. Soon, there could be stories where readers can explore virtual worlds, make decisions that alter the course of the plot, or engage with audio-visual elements that complement the text. These innovations will likely blur the lines between books, video games, and film, allowing readers to experience stories in an entirely new and realistic way. AI could also impact the ability to adapt story to be interactive.

Nontraditional Formats and Hybrid Genres

The boundaries between genres are becoming increasingly fluid, and by 2025, we will likely see more hybrid books that blend different types of storytelling. This could mean genre mashups—such as mystery-romance-horror—or books that combine text with poetry, visual art, or graphic elements. Additionally, nontraditional formats like short stories compiled in digital apps, audio stories, or narrative-driven podcasts will continue to gain traction. How readers will react to this push in what a book can be is up for questioning.

Rise of Graphic Novels and Illustrated Books

While graphic novels have been on the rise for several years, their popularity will continue to soar in 2025. These visually rich stories offer both adults and young readers a deeper, more dynamic way to experience narrative. Graphic novels will likely expand to encompass a wider variety of genres and themes, from historical events to fantasy epics. The illustrated book format will also see growth, especially for adults, as more literary authors embrace visual storytelling to complement their prose.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Narratives

As mental health becomes a more prominent topic in society, books addressing emotional wellbeing, mental illness, and personal growth will see a surge in popularity. Mental health narratives in both fiction and nonfiction will offer readers insight into psychological resilience, healing, and self-discovery. This has already been happening, with Lyla Sage’s Rebel Blue Ranch series being a great example of how mental health can play into romance. This idea is likely to expand among genres.

Self-Publishing Boom and Indie Authors

Self-publishing continues to rise in popularity, and it will continue to be an even more vital part of the book ecosystem. Independent authors will have access to more powerful tools for producing and distributing their work, allowing them to reach global audiences without traditional publishing gatekeepers or publishing houses or literary agents. This will lead to an explosion of niche genres, unique voices, and experimental narratives. While traditional publishing houses will remain important, the indie movement will continue to democratize the literary world, allowing diverse stories to find their audience directly.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Publishing

As environmental concerns take center stage, the publishing industry will likely undergo significant changes to reduce its carbon footprint. Eco-friendly publishing practices—such as print-on-demand, sustainable paper sources, and carbon-neutral shipping—will become more widespread in 2025. Readers might increasingly prioritize sustainability in their book purchases, choosing publishers and authors who adhere to environmentally conscious practices. Digital books and audiobooks may also continue to grow as more environmentally friendly alternatives to physical copies.

The world of books in 2025 promises to be as diverse, innovative, and dynamic as the readers themselves. From AI collaborations to hybrid genres and climate fiction, there’s no shortage of exciting trends on the horizon. Whether you’re a fan of traditional novels or eager to explore new formats, the next few years will bring an exciting variety of reading experiences that reflect our ever-changing world. Trends are bound to shape the future of literature in profound and fascinating ways.