The week's bestselling books, Sept. 21

The Week's Bestselling Books, Sept. 21

As we delve into the Southern California Independent Bookstore Bestsellers list for Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, several titles stand out across both fiction and nonfiction categories. This list, compiled by the California Independent Booksellers Alliance, highlights the varied literary interests of readers in the region.

Hardcover Fiction

• The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown: Dive into a new symbological mystery with Robert Langdon, exploring human consciousness and ancient mythology.
• Katabasis by R. F. Kuang: A tale of dark academia, this deluxe limited edition follows two rival graduate students on a descent into hell.
• Buckeye by Patrick Ryan: The interconnected lives of two Midwestern families from WWII to the late 20th century.
• Clown Town by Mick Herron: The disgraced spies of Slough House find themselves caught between MI5's past and future.
• My Friends by Fredrik Backman: A group of teenagers from 25 years earlier impacts a budding artist's life profoundly.

Hardcover Nonfiction

• All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert: A memoir detailing the author's intense and ultimately tragic love story.
• Invest Like a Billionaire by Bob Fraser, Ben Fraser: A guide to investment strategies used by the top 1%.
• Art Work by Sally Mann: The artist explores the joys and challenges of the creative process.
• The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins: Insights on conserving energy by not focusing on uncontrollable factors.
• The Little Frog’s Guide to Life by Maybell Eequay: Humor and wisdom from the internet's beloved mushroom frog.

Paperback Fiction

• Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir: A gripping sci-fi narrative that continues to captivate readers.
• All Fours by Miranda July: A unique exploration of relationships and self-discovery.
• The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon: A historical fiction that weaves intrigue and drama.
• The Life Impossible by Matt Haig: A tale that challenges the boundaries of possibility and reality.
• I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman: A profound look at humanity and isolation.

Paperback Nonfiction

• On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder: A timely examination of political systems and power.
• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron: A perennial favorite offering inspiration for creatives.
• The Art Thief by Michael Finkel: A thrilling account of art heists and the allure of stolen masterpieces.
• All the Beauty in the World by Patrick Bringley: A reflection on finding beauty in unexpected places.
• Autocracy, Inc. by Anne Applebaum: An analysis of autocratic regimes and their impact.

How to engage

• Visit your local independent bookstore to explore these bestsellers and support community businesses.
• Participate in community book clubs or library reading groups to discuss these titles, fostering a shared love for reading.
• Attend author events or book signings in your area to gain deeper insights into the creative processes behind these works.
• Engage with the California Independent Booksellers Alliance to learn more about supporting local booksellers and literary events.

These bestselling titles offer a glimpse into the diverse interests of readers, from thrilling mysteries and historical sagas to insightful memoirs and guides on creativity. Whether you're seeking fiction or nonfiction, there's something for everyone on this list.