
Fri Dec 19 00:56:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Year in Books Reflects Troubled Times: AI Impact and Global Conflicts Dominate Non-Fiction
New Delhi – December 19, 2025 – As 2025 draws to a close, a sobering reality emerges: readership is reportedly declining amidst concerns about the influence of artificial intelligence on the literary world. However, authors are tackling the complex issues of our time, exploring themes of equality, conflict, and the human condition.
The Hindu today released its top 10 non-fiction books of the year, reflecting a global perspective on contemporary society. Several titles address pressing issues like the Palestinian plight in Gaza, while others delve into historical and social complexities within India and beyond.
Historian Audrey Truschke’s “India: 5000 Years of History on the Subcontinent” offers a comprehensive overview, while Sam Dalrymple’s “Shattered Lands” examines the lasting impact of partition in Asia. Anand Teltumbde’s “The Caste Con Census” sparks debate on the role of caste censuses in perpetuating social divisions.
Among the notable selections is Robert Macfarlane’s exploration of rivers as living entities deserving of rights, examining their healing power and resilience. A sweeping historical exploration of the Tamil people and culture also makes the list. Other titles focus on social media’s impact, particularly Facebook’s role in global events, stories of Kashmir facing erasure and Silicon Valley’s ChatGPT launch.
The list includes memoirs offering personal reflections on loss and complex relationships, as well as investigative accounts exposing corporate malpractices.