As 2025 comes to a close, we’re looking back at the most popular items at Naperville Public Library this year.
For the first time in a long time, our top circulating item of the year was a nonfiction book. “The Left Them Theory” by Mel Robbins was checked out nearly 800 times! The next closest title was “The God of the Woods” by Liz Moore with 549 circulations.
Napervillians were also swept away to the distant lands of Panem, Oz and the world of Peppa Pig with these most popular picks of 2025. Whether you’re looking for a great read or other entertainment to pass the time at home this winter break, we hope these serve as inspiration for your next library adventure!
Top Nonfiction Book: “The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed or frustrated with where you are, the problem isn’t you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Two simple words, “Let Them,” will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manage everything and everyone around you. The Let Them Theory puts the power to create a life you love back in your hands. In this book, Mel Robbins teaches how to stop wasting energy on what you can’t control and start focusing on what truly matters: YOU.
Top Fiction Book: “The God of the Woods” by Liz Moore
When Barbara Van Laar is discovered missing from her summer camp bunk one morning in August 1975, it triggers a panicked, terrified search. Losing a camper is a horrific tragedy under any circumstances, but Barbara isn’t just any camper. She’s the daughter of the wealthy family who owns the camp as well as the opulent nearby estate and most of the land in sight. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared in this region: Barbara’s older brother went missing 16 years earlier, never to be found. How could this have happened yet again?
Top Teen Book: “Sunrise on the Reaping” by Suzanne Collins
As the day dawns on the 50th annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. In District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight … and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena.
Top Children’s Book: “Dog Man: Big Jim Begins” by Dav Pilkey
In the 13th volume of the “Dog Man” graphic novel series, Dog Man, Big Jim and others join forces to stop the Space Cuties from destroying their city. Will the past predict the future for Dog Man and his friends? Will goodness and bravery prevail? Can anything happen if you truly believe?
Top Movie: “Wicked”
In the film adaptation of the beloved Broadway production “Wicked,” Elphaba, a young woman misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, and Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the two forge an unlikely but profound friendship. But when their friendship reaches a crossroads, their lives take very different paths. Their extraordinary adventures in Oz will ultimately see them fulfill their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
Top Video Game: “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate”
Gaming icons clash in the ultimate brawl you can play anytime, anywhere with this Nintendo Switch game. Smash rivals off the stage as new characters Isabelle, Simon Belmont and King K. Rool join Inkling, Ridley and every fighter in Super Smash Bros. history. Enjoy enhanced speed and combat at new stages based on the Castlevania series, Super Mario Odyssey and more.
Top Board Game: Pictureka! Jr.: Peppa Pig Edition
Bring the fun and laughter of Peppa Pig to family game night with this lively seek-and-find adventure designed especially for young children. The preschool-friendly board game combines the energy of quick spotting with the charm of Peppa’s world. The colorful tiles come alive with scenes featuring Peppa, George and all their friends, encouraging kids to look closely, think fast and shout “Pictureka!” when they find what they’re looking for.
Top CD: “Mayhem” by Lady Gaga
Enjoy the latest album from 14-time Grammy winner, Academy Award winner and two-time Golden Globe winner Lady Gaga. The album includes previously released singles “Die With A Smile,” “Disease” and “Abracadabra.”
Trente Arens is the director of marketing and communications at Naperville Public Library.