Source: Radio New Zealand
Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women was issued 159 times SUPPLIED
New Plymouth readers checked out more than 667,000 books from the Puke Ariki library this year with a historical novel set during the Vietnam War topping the list of adult fiction issues – again.
Kristin Hannah’s novel The Women was issued 159 times, capturing top spot as it did last year. Not far behind was her novel The Four Winds with 112. Lee Child’s In Too Deep came in second with 140 issues.
Tumuaki Whare Pukapuka – Puke Ariki Manager, Angela Jowitt, said thriller fans couldn’t get enough of Lee Child and Freida McFadden, with multiple titles by both authors featuring in the top issues list.
“This year’s borrowing stats continue to reflect the interests of our community. So whether you’re after a gripping thriller for the beach or a cookbook to try out a new recipe, or a memoir to inspire you in 2026, our friendly team can help you find your next read.”
The non-fiction list reflected readers’ appetite for inspiration and self-improvement.
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s memoir A Different Kind of Power was the most-borrowed non-fiction title with 95 issues, followed by Mel Robbins’ The Let Them Theory (94).
Memoirs from Ruth Shaw, Jenny-May Clarkson, and Alison Mau resonated strongly with readers seeking authentic Aotearoa stories.
Jowitt said on the teen shelves, Suzanne Collins dominated the list with three Hunger Games titles making the top 10, including prequel The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (issued 33 times) and brand-new release Sunrise on the Reaping (50).
Holly Jackson’s A Good Girl’s Guide… series (133) and Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson adventures (82) also proved addictive for young adult readers.
In Puke Ariki’s Discover It! children’s section, younger readers had an unwavering devotion for graphic novel adaptations of The Baby-Sitters Club (726) and Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series (470) – proving that engaging stories and vibrant illustrations remain timeless.
Jowitt said as summer beckoned and the beach calls, Puke Ariki was encouraging Taranaki readers to borrow one of 2025’s most-borrowed titles from its catalogue for their holiday reading – all free with your library card.
“Leap into your new favourite book this summer at Puke Ariki or any of our community libraries.”
Beyond books, the New Plymouth District Council run Puke Ariki offered free wifi, research support, free events, and digital resources such as film streaming and eBooks accessible 24/7. Joining was easy and free and did not expire.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
