Independent bookstores across the Western Slope of Colorado have reported a diverse selection of popular titles in 2025. From escapist fiction to insightful non-fiction, these local shops reflect the evolving interests of readers seeking solace in literature amid a complex world. The Vail Daily engaged with five prominent bookstores—White River Books in Carbondale, Explore Booksellers in Aspen, The Bookworm of Edwards, Mountain Shire Books in Winter Park, and Off the Beaten Path Books in Steamboat Springs—to uncover the year’s bestselling titles and the significance of local bookstores.
Bookstore owners noted a strong demand for books that provide both an escape and a means to understand current realities. “People are so overloaded with the world around them that I see a lot of requests for escape,” stated Izzy Stringham, owner of White River Books. She emphasized that reading serves as a coping mechanism, helping individuals navigate the challenges of life.
Best-Selling Titles of 2025
Throughout 2025, non-fiction dominated the bestseller lists across most participating bookstores. At Explore Booksellers, “The Serviceberry” by Robin Wall Kimmerer emerged as a universal favorite, securing a spot on all five lists. Clare Pearson, manager at Explore Booksellers, expressed delight at the book’s popularity, highlighting its themes of nature appreciation and sustainability.
Another significant title was “The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins, which appeared in the top ten for four stores. Other notable self-help books included “Book of Alchemy” by Suleika Jaouad and “We Can Do Hard Things” by Abby Wambach, Amanda Doyle, and Glennon Doyle.
The appeal of outdoor exploration literature remained strong, with books like “A Walk in the Park” by Kevin Fedarko continuing to capture readers’ attention. This title chronicles a year-long journey across the Grand Canyon and was featured in both Explore Booksellers and White River Books.
Children’s literature also reflected local interests, with “Ski Patrol Pups” by Megan Butcher becoming a bestseller at Off the Beaten Path Books.
Fictional works, including the prequel to the popular series “The Hunger Games”, “Sunrise on the Reaping” by Suzanne Collins, found favor among younger audiences. Titles from Rebecca Yarros’ romantic fantasy series, particularly “Onyx Storm,” were also well-received.
Emerging Trends and Community Impact
The Western Slope bookstores noted a growing interest in local authors and themes that resonate with the community. Stringham remarked on the success of local titles such as “Bonedale” by Patrick Kitson and “Secrets of the River” by Larry Gottlieb and Katherine Knickerbocker. These books reflect a trend towards supporting local storytelling and fostering community connection.
While independent bookstores face competition from online retailers, they continue to thrive by emphasizing the unique experiences they offer. “People want books on paper. They value them,” Stringham added, countering the notion that digital books would replace printed ones.
Amid rising costs of new books, several bookstores have expanded their offerings of secondhand titles, providing customers with affordable options. Meier-Bilbo from Off the Beaten Path noted a significant increase in interest in this section, which helps cater to budget-conscious readers.
As social spaces, bookstores have become vital community hubs. Events such as craft nights and book clubs foster a sense of belonging, which is increasingly important in today’s society. Pearson of Explore Booksellers highlighted the opening of a café in their store, creating an inviting atmosphere for patrons to connect.
Bookstores are also responding to cultural shifts, with a noticeable rise in demand for books addressing social issues and contemporary challenges. Roskam reported an uptick in sales of history and banned books, as readers seek to support diverse narratives amid growing concerns over censorship.
The 2025 landscape of reading in the Western Slope reveals a vibrant community deeply engaged with literature, reflecting both local identities and broader societal themes. Through the lens of these independent bookstores, the enduring power of storytelling and community connection remains evident.
