Libraries  |  6 Jan 2026

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Jack Reacher fans have helped authors Lee and Andrew Child take out the most popular book at Christchurch’s libraries for the eighth year running.

Christchurch City Libraries staff compile a list each year of the most issued books, with In too deep from the Jack Reacher series coming in at number one for 2025.

Second and third on the list went to We solve murders by Richard Osman and We all live here by Jojo Moyes while former Prime Minister Jacinda Arden’s memoir A different kind of power was number four. Taking out fifth spot was Intermezzo by Sally Rooney.

Head of Libraries and Information Erica Rankin says the Jack Reacher series are always a hit with readers.

“The Secret by Lee and Andrew Child was also on the list, coming in at number six. Reacher fans are always ready and waiting to read the latest book in the series and this year was no different.”

Ms Rankin says it was good to see an autobiography featuring in the top five.

“It’s an engaging read that chronicles Jacinda Ardern’s extraordinary rise and offers inspiration to a new generation of leaders.

“We know people often love to read over the summer holidays and it they are looking for inspiration – the list is a great place to start. We also compile lists of most popular New Zealand books, adult fiction, non-fiction, rangatahi teen, tamariki kids and comics/graphic novels, which are definitely worth checking out.”

Find the full list of most popular books in 2025 here.

Check out the most popular titles of 2025 in different categories.