2025–2026 Literary Landscape: Top Book Fairs, Reading Trends, and How to Read More This Year

The world of books is buzzing with energy, connection, and reinvention. As we step into 2026, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the literary milestones of 2025 and look ahead to what’s coming next. Whether you’re a passionate reader, a journaling enthusiast, or someone simply trying to read more in a distracted world, the current literary landscape offers inspiration at every turn.

This year promises more opportunities to engage with stories, authors, and global communities, both in person and online. Let’s explore the major events that defined 2025, what’s on the horizon in 2026, and the rising trends helping readers discover, share, and savor more books than ever.

The 2025 Literary Calendar: Major Book Fairs & Global Gatherings

2025 was a landmark year for literary events, marking a strong return to in-person gatherings and a growing emphasis on inclusivity, digital innovation, and global voices.

Frankfurt Book Fair 2025
Held every October in Germany, the Frankfurt Book Fair remains the largest publishing event in the world. In 2025, it welcomed over 200,000 attendees from 100+ countries, featuring a focus on sustainability in publishing and the growing role of AI in content creation. The Guest of Honor was South Korea, spotlighting its vibrant literary scene and fostering new translation opportunities. Panels on reader data, hybrid publishing models, and audiobook growth drew major industry players, making it a hub of forward-thinking conversation.

Brooklyn Book Festival
Back in full force in September 2025, NYC’s flagship literary festival brought together over 280 authors, including debut voices and BookTok sensations. A significant highlight was the “Read Local” initiative, which prioritized NYC-based writers and independent bookstores, reinforcing community-driven reading culture.

Jaipur Literature Festival
Known as the “greatest literary show on Earth,” the 2025 edition in India attracted a record audience. With themes centered on climate storytelling and decolonizing narratives, the festival featured global authors like Margaret Atwood and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, alongside emerging South Asian writers. Its hybrid format allowed international audiences to participate virtually, expanding its reach.

These events didn’t just celebrate books, they sparked conversations about who gets published, who gets read, and how stories can drive change.

What’s Next in 2026: The London Book Fair and Beyond

Mark your calendars: The London Book Fair 2026 kicks off on March 10–12 at Olympia London. With over 32,000 expected attendees, this year’s fair will spotlight “Stories for a Changing World,” focusing on diverse voices, inclusive publishing, and the future of literacy in the digital age.

Early previews suggest a strong emphasis on:

• The rise of African and Caribbean authors in global markets
• Innovations in audiobook production and accessibility
• How independent publishers are adapting to AI-assisted editing and marketing

Additionally, plans are underway for the 2026 Toronto International Festival of Authors (TIFA) and the Tokyo International Book Fair, both expected to highlight manga, graphic novels, and cross-media storytelling trends.

For readers unable to attend in person, many of these events will offer live streams, virtual panels, and on-demand content, making literary engagement more accessible than ever.

2025–2026 Reading Trends: What Readers Are Loving

While book fairs set the industry pulse, reader behavior is increasingly shaped by digital communities and personal discovery. Here are the top reading trends emerging from 2025 and accelerating into 2026:

1. Audiobooks Are No Longer “Cheating”

Once seen as a passive alternative, audiobooks are now a dominant format. In 2025, audiobook sales grew by 18% globally, driven by high-quality narrations, exclusive content, and platforms like Audible and Libro.fm. Listeners are diving into full series, nonfiction deep dives, and even poetry, proving that listening is reading, too.

Pro tip: Many libraries now offer free audiobook access through apps like Hoopla and Libby. Try a “listen-only” week to explore the format.

2. BookTok & Bookstagram Continue Driving Sales

Short-form video content remains a powerhouse. Books like Fourth Wing and The House in the Cerulean Sea saw massive sales spikes due to viral recommendations. But 2025 also saw a shift toward slower BookTok, thoughtful reviews, author interviews, and emotional reader reactions, that deepen engagement.

3. Reading Challenges with Purpose

Generic “read 52 books in a year” challenges are being replaced by themed prompts with intent. Popular 2025 challenges included:

• Read a book originally written in another language
• Finish a book you started but abandoned
• Read a novel with multiple narrators
• Support indie authors by reading 3 self-published books

These encourage deeper engagement and personal growth, not just volume.

4. Demand for Diverse & Global Voices

Readers are actively seeking stories from underrepresented cultures and identities. Translated fiction, especially from Korean, Nigerian, and Arabic authors, saw a surge in popularity. Publishers responded with expanded translation programs and inclusive acquisition policies.

How to Read More in 2026: Practical Tips for Real Lives

If your 2025 reading goals felt out of reach, you’re not alone. Distractions are everywhere. But small, intentional changes can make a big difference:

• Set a “bedtime book” rule: Replace 20 minutes of screen time with reading. Even just 10 pages nightly adds up to dozens of books a year.
• Carry a book everywhere: Whether physical or on your phone, having reading material on hand turns waiting time into reading time.
• Join a micro-community: A small Discord group, a local book club, or a Reddit thread can keep you motivated.
• Use a reading journal: Track not just what you read, but how it made you feel. Notes, quotes, and ratings help books stay with you longer.

The Power of Tracking Your Reading Journey

Books shape us, our thoughts, emotions, and worldview. But without reflection, even the best stories can fade.

That’s where intentional tracking comes in. Not as a numbers game, but as a way to honor your relationship with reading.

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