The Most Anticipated Books, According to USA TODAY

These books are in the public domain

A new year means new works entering the public domain. In this way, we get the necessary interpretations of classics such as: Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey. NPR has created a cultural work that is “still free to use, share, and adapt almost a century later.” This includes movies such as All is quiet on the Western Frontmusic like “Georgia on My Mind”; Characters like Betty Boop, whose resemblance is already set to compete with Pooh in the horror movie category. The works we are most interested in are literature, and the big news for me personally is the world of mystery, the first four books in the Nancy Drew series, and Agatha Christie’s The Parsonage Murder (the first Miss Marple book). Be prepared for different adaptations of these popular works, and check out NPR’s highlights here.

Everyone is still raving about Jane’s 250 years old

This year marks the millionth anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth (December 16th). Los Angeles Times He talked about the sold-out event at New York’s famous bookstore “The Strand.” Brandon Taylor, Sandra Cisneros, and other esteemed authors who will be writing new forewords for six of Austen’s titles, which will be reissued in fresh packaging, got together to talk about the one-of-a-kind author who really does it for me when it comes to primal sexual tension. The best part of Leigh Haber’s production is Matilda, a fifth-grader in attendance. Matilda represents all of us Austin fans when we were younger. I, too, endlessly explore classics centered around women and girls, and remember enjoying the first book I ever read (basically call me Eleanor Shellstrop, but it was Pride and Prejudice). Keep indulging in Jane Austen love and cosplay while these waning days of the year last.

Personal curriculum for 2026

Hey, have you signed up for our big feature newsletter yet? If you’re part of the club, you’ll have a blast in your inbox this morning with all things related to enriching your reading life in the new year. From reading more books better to more contrarian and exhilarating reading goals, Rebecca and Jeff explain it all. Sign up here for interesting information about the world of books and reading.