Top 10 Books to Read This September [2025 Edition]

September always feels like a fresh start. The summer holidays fade into memory, students return to their studies, and the first hints of autumn appear. For many of us, it’s the perfect month to pick up a new book. Whether you’re heading back to school, looking for motivation at work, or simply want something to curl up with as the evenings grow darker, there are plenty of excellent choices.

In this guide, we highlight the best books September 2025 has to offer. From trending books this month to popular new releases, and even recommended reads for September, we’ve put together a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s favourites.

1. Fourth Wing – Rebecca Yarros

Fantasy is having a major moment, and Fourth Wing is leading the charge. With dragons, romance, and gripping twists, it’s the book everyone is talking about.

Why it’s trending:
The sequel Iron Flame is also out this month, so readers are racing to catch up. Perfect if you love an immersive escape.

2. Iron Flame – Rebecca Yarros

Hot on the heels of Fourth Wing, Iron Flame is already one of the most popular new releases September 2025 has produced.

Why read it now:
If you want to be part of the conversation this autumn, this sequel is essential. Expect queues at bookshops, so bulk ordering for schools or book clubs could be the easiest way to secure copies.

3. Atomic Habits – James Clear

Although not brand new, Atomic Habits remains one of the recommended reads September audiences continue to love. Its message of building small, sustainable habits is ideal for the new school and work year.

Why it works in September:
A reset month needs practical guidance. This book delivers strategies for anyone looking to start fresh.

4. The Fraud – Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith’s powerful novel set in Victorian London combines history, social commentary, and wit.

Why it’s a top pick:
Smith remains one of Britain’s most celebrated authors, and The Fraud has quickly become a trending book this month.

5. Lessons in Chemistry – Bonnie Garmus

Still riding high after its television adaptation, Lessons in Chemistry blends humour, feminism, and science.

Why it’s perfect for September:
It’s sharp, funny, and inspiring—exactly the kind of book to energise readers for the new season.

6. The Midnight Library – Matt Haig

Matt Haig’s uplifting novel about regrets and choices continues to strike a chord.

Why it’s recommended now:
For students, professionals, or anyone facing change, September is the ideal moment to reflect on possibilities, and this book provides a thoughtful companion.

7. Wonder – R.J. Palacio

A modern classic for children, Wonder tells the heart-warming story of Auggie, a boy with a facial difference navigating mainstream school life.

Why schools love it in bulk:

• Promotes empathy and kindness.

• Ideal for group reading.

• Frequently chosen as a September class set.

Many schools across the UK order Wonder in bulk at the start of term, making it one of the most consistent educational choices.

8. The Gruffalo – Julia Donaldson

For younger readers, Julia Donaldson’s The Gruffalo remains a perennial favourite.

Why it appears on September lists:

• Perfect for introducing Reception and Key Stage 1 pupils to stories.

• Simple, rhyming language makes it fun to read aloud.

• Affordable in classroom sets.

It’s no surprise schools often purchase The Gruffalo in bulk every autumn term.

9. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – J.K. Rowling

Even after decades, the first Harry Potter book continues to inspire new generations.

Why bulk orders matter:
Book clubs often revisit it for nostalgia, and schools frequently use it to ignite a love of reading in students. It’s consistently one of the best books September 2025 can recommend to younger audiences.

10. The Book of Hope – Jane Goodall and Douglas Abrams

As environmental issues take centre stage, this inspiring work by Jane Goodall feels especially timely.

Why now:
It’s uplifting, practical, and encourages collective action—an excellent September read for individuals and organisations alike.

Popular Children’s Books Schools Often Buy in Bulk

In addition to the titles above, schools often refresh their libraries and classroom sets at the start of term. Some bulk favourites include:

• The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

• Matilda by Roald Dahl

• The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf

• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

In addition, these books are ideal for shared reading, assemblies, or even as gifts for pupils. Bulk buying allows schools to stretch their budgets while ensuring every child has their own copy.

Why September is the Perfect Month to Buy Books

There are practical reasons why September is such a strong month for book buying:

• New releases: Publishers often save their biggest launches for the autumn season.

• New budgets: Schools and universities allocate funding at the start of term.

• Book clubs restart: Many groups return from summer breaks and plan fresh reading lists.

• Seasonal mood: Shorter days and cooler evenings make reading even more appealing.

In addition, placing a bulk book order in September ensures availability before the peak Christmas season.

Final Thoughts

September is a month full of opportunity, and books are the perfect way to embrace it. From epic fantasies like Iron Flame to inspiring non-fiction like The Book of Hope, and from children’s favourites like The Gruffalo to modern classics like Wonder, there’s something for every type of reader.

However, for teachers, HR managers, event organisers, and book club leaders, the real value lies in bulk book orders. Buying multiple copies at once saves money, guarantees consistency, and ensures everyone in your group has the same high-quality edition.

📚 Ready to Order Your Bulk Books This September?

At Books4Less, we make it simple and affordable to buy books in bulk in the UK. Whether you’re stocking up for a classroom, rewarding employees, planning a book club, or organising an event, we offer wholesale discounts, fast delivery, and thousands of titles to choose from.

👉 Visit Our Bulk Orders Page Today and explore how easy it is to buy books in bulk this September.