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50 of the Funniest Books Ever Written

By Nina Braca|August 10, 2026 at 4:00AM

Looking for a laugh? We've got your covered. From the dark and dry to the witty and wry, from the ficticious to the factual, from travel logs to comedic blogs, this extensive collection of funny books, both classic and new, includes something for everyone. Get ready to read ‘em and weep...with laughter, of course.

The Most Anticipated Books of Fall

The Biggest Books of Fall 2026: Fiction Edition

By Nina Braca|June 21, 2026

It’s hard to believe the year is nearly halfway done, but believe it or not, that crisp autumnal air will be here before you know it. Now is the time to plan your fall reads. Do you prefer to dive into literary fiction or a fast-paced thrill ride? Are you a horror lover, or a cozy rom-com reader? You’re in luck: we’ve got them all. Check out the biggest books we can’t wait to get our hands on this fall.

The Biggest Books of Fall 2026: Nonfiction Edition

By Margarita Polkowska|June 21, 2026

From fresh historical perspectives and unforgettable memoirs to fascinating explorations and mouthwatering cookbooks, discover the biggest nonfiction books of fall.

The Biggest Books of Fall 2026: YA & Fantasy Edition

By Margarita Polkowska|June 21, 2026

From magical worlds to coming-of-age stories and the latest installments in some of the most popular fantasy series, these are the biggest YA and fantasy books coming this fall.

The Biggest Books of Fall 2026: Kids’ Edition

By Nina Braca|June 21, 2026

Even though this summer is just beginning, there are so many great books for kids coming out this fall to get excited about. With graphic novels and chapter book adventures for young readers, plus adorable picture books for little ones, start prepping your shelves for these must-have kids' books.

Cozy Reads & Pumpkin Spice Make Fall Twice as Nice

By Margarita Polkowska|August 12, 2026

Whether you’re in the mood for a spooky mystery, an enchanted love story or a small-town romance, these are the cozy reads that will wrap you up in autumn feels.

Where to Start Reading Jodi Picoult

By Nina Braca|August 11, 2026

Jodi Picoult keeps her readers hooked with emotionally driven tales that focus on complex characters who face difficult choices. From a small-town tragedy in Nineteen Minutes to the ambitious story of art and courage in By Any Other Name, dive into one of Picoult’s thought-provoking stories ahead of her upcoming novel, Hollow Bones.

Where to Start Agatha Christie's Miss Marple

By Nina Braca|August 1, 2026

Miss Jane Marple is the lead sleuth in nearly a dozen of Christie's beloved mysteries, making her one of the most popular amateur detectives in fiction. Lucy Foley brings Miss Marple back for a tantalizing new tale in Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel, so here are the must-read Marple stories to introduce yourself ahead of time.

Where To Start Reading Liane Moriarty

By Nina Braca|July 26, 2026

Whether it’s the women of Sydney in Big Little Lies, the prestigious Delaney family in Apples Never Fall, or the lavish guests at a remote wellness retreat in Nine Perfect Strangers, Moriarty seamlessly weaves plot and characters for her edge-of-your-seat dramas that will keep you guessing until the very end. If you're looking to dive into her thought-provoking stories, here is the best place to start.

The Best Mythology Retellings to Read Right Now

By Nina Braca|July 19, 2026

Whether you’re looking for a recommendation or just want to make sure you haven’t missed anything, here are our picks for the best mythological retellings to read right now.

The Best Productivity Books For Students

By Nina Braca|August 10, 2026

Not everyone is naturally productive. Some people work years to map out their goals, others thrive under a time crunch. Whatever your style is, there are always more ways to improve your routine. Here are the best books to help set you up for success and set attainable goals.

Back to School Books to Beat First Day Jitters

By Margarita Polkowska|July 1, 2026

We are still enjoying summer, but the first day of school will be here soon enough. And we know that starting school again — or for the first time — can stir up emotions big and small. This is why we put together a list of gentle, funny and reassuring picture books that will help […]

Top Graphic Novels for Kids Heading Back to School

By Margarita Polkowska|July 1, 2026

Whether they're navigating life as the new kid, transitioning to middle school or figuring out where they fit in, here are our top graphic novels for kids heading back to school.

Required Reads for Today’s and Tomorrow’s Syllabus

By Margarita Polkowska|June 30, 2026

While classics like Lord of the Flies and The Great Gatsby will probably always be required reading — our world is changing. This is why we have compiled a curated mix of today’s required reads paired with new titles destined to join required reading lists of tomorrow.

The Best Kids' Books of August 2026

By Nina Braca|July 26, 2026

New adventures await! Silly jellyfish, loyal pups, magical dragons and more lead the new kids’ books that hit shelves this month. Young readers can check out a new graphic novel adventure, discover an exciting chapter book, or ride alongside the Tiny Blue Truck in a new picture book. Whatever they like, we have a story for them.

The Best Paperbacks of August 2026

By Margarita Polkowska|July 26, 2026

Have no fear, new paperbacks are here. August’s paperback releases offer ancient spells, thrilling adventures and lyrical explorations.

The Best Books of August 2026

By Nina Braca|July 26, 2026

August is here, which is also known as the Sunday of Summer: the perfect month to kick back, relax and read the books you’ve been saving for summer, before the fall chaos creeps up. This month, we have exciting new releases from Riley Sager, Jill Lepore, Chang-rae Lee and more, so you’re sure to find something you’ll love.

Our Monthly Picks July 2026

By Nina Braca|July 1, 2026

Summer is in full swing, which means your reading list needs a fresh update. This month's picks include an edge-of-your-seat hotel mystery, an oceanic survival story and our 2026 Discover Prize Winner, so every reader has something to look forward to.

The Best Books of 2026 (So Far)

By Nina Braca|June 3, 2026

As summer slowly approaches, we are thrilled to announce The Best Books of the Year (so far), featuring the best of the best from this year’s publishing. With books from both debut authors and household names, memoirs to picture books, thrillers to rom-coms, these are the stories that have everyone talking — and we have something for every reader.

The Best YA Books of 2026 (So Far)

By Margarita Polkowska|June 3, 2026

From fairytale reimaginings and fae romantasy to dangerous secrets, dystopian worlds and high school crushes, this year’s favorite reads for teens are packed with magic, adventure and unforgettable characters.

The Best Audiobooks of 2026 (So Far)

By Emily Coleman-Johnson|June 3, 2026

It's hard to believe 2026 is half over, and we have half a year of publishing out in the world. We've already seen blockbuster hits from new and seasoned authors alike with a variety of award-winning narrators and said authors bringing those stories to life. This is only a sampling of all the great publishing we've seen so far, so be sure to shop here to find more favorites for your digital library.

The Best Kids' Books of August 2026

By Nina Braca|July 26, 2026

The Best Kids' Books of 2026 (So Far)

By Nina Braca|June 3, 2026

As we reach the halfway point of 2026, it’s time to take a look back on the exceptional releases that you might have missed, especially when it comes to kids’ publishing. From picture books to chapter books, these are the tales that invite young readers to think differently about the world around them and inspire a lifelong love of reading and storytelling. Here are our picks for the Best Kids Books of 2026 (So Far).

New LEGO® Releases to Check Out This Month

By BN Editors|August 1, 2026

With every LEGO release comes a new assortment of exciting builds for both casual LEGO users and professional constructors. This month, a new batch of LEGO hits shelves, and we are excited to share some Harry Potter sets, including an exclusive new book nook to add a touch of magic to your shelves. Explore a whole new side of Hogwarts with these unique builds, perfect for wizards and muggles alike.

12 Kids’ Books for Every Summer Day: Rain or Shine

By Margarita Polkowska|June 20, 2025

Summer is for lazy days by the pool. Summer is for catching fireflies in the back yard. Summer is for riding bikes at the park and making a splash at the beach. Summer is a time to unwind, and a time to keep young minds active in the best possible way — through reading. And […]

10 Best Activity Books for Long Summer Days

By Nina Braca|May 19, 2026

Swimming, sports, camping and other outdoor activities are a natural part of the summer for many kids. But spending some quiet time (or even some active time!) with books can also be a fun and engaging way to spend those long, carefree summer days. Here are a few engaging books to get kids off the iPad, away from the television, and to spur them into thinking creatively.

Our Discover Prize Winner 2026

By Nina Braca|June 25, 2026

Our Discover Prize aims to celebrate debut authors who put out exceptional, thought-provoking stories that stick with readers. After months of debate and deliberation, our booksellers from across the country are ecstatic to announce the winner.

Announcing the 2026 Women's Prize Winners

By Margarita Polkowska|June 11, 2026

This year’s winners were selected from two brilliant shortlists featuring sweeping novels and illuminating works of nonfiction. Without further ado, we congratulate the winners of the 2026 Women’s Prize.

Presenting Our 2026 Discover Prize Finalists

By Nina Braca|June 5, 2026

The 2026 Barnes & Noble Children's & YA Book Awards Winners

By Nina Braca|May 20, 2026

The 2026 Barnes & Noble Children's & YA Book Awards celebrate the best in children’s literature written by emerging writers. We are delighted to share this year’s winners, which showcase the brightest in fiction that will inspire the next generation of readers.

Announcing the 2026 International Booker Prize Winner

By Margarita Polkowska|May 19, 2026

Chosen from a shortlist of gripping, mesmerizing and deeply moving stories, the 2026 International Booker Prize goes to Taiwan Travelogue by Yang Shuang-zi, translated by Lin King.

2026 Pulitzer Prize Winning Books

By Margarita Polkowska|May 4, 2026

Celebrating outstanding voices in storytelling, journalism and the arts, the 2026 Pulitzer Prize winners have been announced.

The 2026 Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction Shortlist

By BN Editors|March 25, 2026

Amplifying women’s voices from around the world, the Women’s Prize for Non-Fiction honors global excellence in narrative nonfiction written in English. The 2026 shortlist features six standout titles that grip, inform and inspire including enlightening explorations of art, science, history, politics and a deeply moving memoir. Without further ado, we’re excited to share this year’s […]

Fiction You’ve Always Meant to Read

By BN Editors, Margarita Polkowska|January 1, 2026

We all have those fiction books we’ve always meant to read — the classics we never finished and the modern favorites we could have sworn we’ve read but actually hadn’t. That dusty TBR pile from when we were younger that still haunts us in our sleep. From timeless masterpieces like A Tale of Two Cities […]

Nonfiction You’ve Always Meant to Read

By BN Editors, Margarita Polkowska|January 1, 2026

Some books feed us information; others change the way we see the world. Maybe there are nonfiction books you’ve always meant to read, captivating titles you were sure you’d get to someday… but never did. Reading nonfiction is one of the most accessible ways to explore history, science, nature, the people we share this planet […]

Kids’ Books You’ve Always Meant to Read

By BN Editors, Margarita Polkowska|January 1, 2026

You love to read now, but that dusty childhood TBR pile still haunts you. The good news? It’s never too late to revisit the kids’ books you’ve always meant to read. Meet beloved characters like Aslan, Anne Shirley, Despereaux or Percy Jackson. Step into splendid imaginary worlds and time-travel to different eras. From epic journeys […]

Take a Vacation: A Guest Post by Laura Lippman

By Laura Lippman|June 1, 2026

Devilishly clever and powered by a charming protagonist, this cozy caper through Paris is a fun and fruitful mystery with the perfect blend of playful and propulsive. Read on for an exclusive essay from author Laura Lippman on writing Murder Takes a Vacation. Murder Takes a Vacation — and so did I! I have set […]

Monthly Roundups

What We're Reading

Fiction

Nonfiction

Kids

The Most Anticipated Books of Fall

What We're Reading

Back To School Prep

Monthly Roundups

The Best Books of 2026 (So Far)

Kids

Awards

The Books You've Always Meant to Read

From Your Favorite Authors

Audiobooks and eBooks

Monthly Roundups

What We're Reading

Fiction

Nonfiction

Kids

The Most Anticipated Books of Fall

What We're Reading

Back To School Prep

Monthly Roundups

The Best Books of 2026 (So Far)

Kids

Awards

The Books You've Always Meant to Read

From Your Favorite Authors

Audiobooks and eBooks

Monthly Roundups

What We're Reading

Fiction

Nonfiction

Kids

The Most Anticipated Books of Fall

What We're Reading

Back To School Prep

Monthly Roundups

The Best Books of 2026 (So Far)

Kids

Awards

The Books You've Always Meant to Read

From Your Favorite Authors

Audiobooks and eBooks