THE ECHO

By Cayce Hansel

Recently, “BookTok,” a trend where users post short book reviews in 30-second clips, has exploded in popularity, with new and old book recommendations flooding social media daily. With several highly anticipated book releases this year; the literary world is sure to keep readers on their toes. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect in 2025. 

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins – March 25 

Perhaps the most anticipated release of the year is Sunrise on the Reaping, the fourth installment in Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games universe. Set to be released on March 25, this prequel follows Haymitch Abernathy during the Third Quarter Quell, chronicling his journey from a tribute to his eventual role as Katniss and Peeta’s mentor. This release comes after The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, which focused on a young President Snow. Fans are already buzzing, and with the movie adaptation scheduled for November 20, 2026, Sunrise on the Reaping is set to be a major event in both the literary and film worlds.  

Royal Heirs Academy by Lindsey Duga – Jan. 7 

 Although already released, Royal Heirs Academy by Lindsey Duga deserves a mention. Released on Jan. 7, the book is already drawing comparisons to Katharine McGee’s American Royals. Set in an elite boarding school, Royal Heirs Academy follows four students vying for the royal crown. The premise sounds intriguing, though the book’s official description remains vague.  

And They Were Roommates by Page Powars – May 27 

 Coming in May is And They Were Roommates by Page Powars, a book whose title may ring a bell for fans of the viral “old vine” meme. This coming-of-age novel follows a trans man navigating his second year at an all-boys school—only to find that his new roommate is the boy who broke his heart before he transitioned. The book promises to explore themes of love, heartbreak, and healing.  

‘Needy Little Things by Channelle Desamours – Feb. 4 

Releasing on Feb. 4, Needy Little Things by Channelle Desamours is a debut YA novel that centers on Sariyah Lee Bryant, a girl who possesses the unique ability to know what people need. After helping a friend, Sariyah’s world is turned upside down when the friend goes missing. Determined to uncover the truth, Sariyah embarks on a quest to find her before she becomes just another face on a missing person’s poster.  

‘Everything is Tuberculosis’ by John Green – March 18 

 An honorable mention outside the YA genre is Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green. Set for release on March 18, this will be Green’s eighth book. Known for writing mostly about young adults in his hometown of Indianapolis, Green shifts his focus to a new subject matter: tuberculosis. Everything is Tuberculosis explores the history of the disease through the story of Henry, a young tuberculosis patient at a hospital in Sierra Leone. Interwoven with scientific and social histories, this book seeks to shed light on how tuberculosis has shaped society and what future challenges it may hold. 

With these books and many others on the horizon, 2025 promises to be an exciting year for readers. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting the latest installment from a beloved author or discovering a fresh voice, there’s no shortage of literary adventures to dive into this year.