May reading list: 5 books to reset, refresh and recharge
Discover 5 incredible books to read this May that will inspire, entertain, and empower you to make the most of the new month ahead.
May isn’t just the fifth month of the year—it’s a season of transition. As spring matures and summer whispers on the horizon, May feels like a reset button for the soul. The days get longer, the air turns softer, and there’s a growing sense of potential in the world around us. It’s a perfect moment to refresh your reading list, reconnect with your goals, and dive into ideas that stretch your imagination or challenge your perspective.
Whether you’re lounging on a balcony, hiding from the heat, or taking quiet moments between your daily hustle, the right book can do more than pass time—it can energise your thoughts, unlock motivation, and even reroute your path. That’s why we’ve curated a powerful mix of five books—spanning fiction, nonfiction, inspiration, and insight—to elevate your May reading experience. These aren’t just page-turners; they’re mood-lifters, mind-openers, and spirit-nourishers.
5 books to read in May 2025
1. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Genre: Fiction, Philosophical
Why read it: A haunting yet hopeful story about regret, possibility, and second chances. In a mystical library that holds all the lives you could have lived, Nora Seed must decide which version of herself is truly worth living.
Perfect for: Those feeling stuck, burnt out, or caught in the "what ifs" of life.
Quote to remember: "Never underestimate the big importance of small things."
2. Atomic Habits by James Clear
Genre: Self-Help, Productivity
Why read it: This is a masterclass in change—not by overhauling your life, but by tweaking small, consistent habits. James Clear backs up every tip with psychology, stories, and science, making habit-building feel doable.
Perfect for: Anyone looking to refocus mid-year, break bad patterns, or build new, sustainable routines.
Quote to remember: "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems."
3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Genre: Historical Fiction
Why read it: Narrated by Death and set during Nazi Germany, this deeply moving novel explores love, loss, and the power of words. It’s harrowing, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Perfect for: Readers who want a gripping story wrapped in poetic language and profound emotion.
Quote to remember: "I have hated the words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right."
4. Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
Genre: Philosophy, Lifestyle
Why read it: Rooted in Japanese wisdom, Ikigai explores how finding purpose can add meaning—and years—to your life. From daily rituals to lifelong habits, this book offers timeless principles you can implement today.
Perfect For: Those seeking clarity, balance, and direction amid the busyness of life.
Quote to Remember: "Our ikigai is different for all of us, but one thing we have in common is that we are all searching for meaning."
5. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Feminism
Why read it: Set in the 1960s, this novel follows Elizabeth Zott—a chemist turned unlikely TV cooking show host—who uses science and sarcasm to smash gender norms. It’s sharp, funny, and fiercely original.
Perfect for: Fans of strong female leads, wit, and stories that subvert the status quo.
Quote to remember: "Chemistry is change, and change is the core of your belief system."
Final thoughts
These five books each offer something unique—an emotional release, a mindset shift, a historical lesson, or simply a beautifully told tale. Whichever one you pick up this May, let it be a catalyst. Books don’t just fill time; they fill you. So instead of letting another month slide by, take the chance to refuel your mind, reignite your curiosity, and remind yourself that transformation is often just one chapter away.