Here are 8 novels NPR staff and critics loved in 2025
Every year, we ask NPR staff and book critics to share their favorite titles in our annual Books We Love guide. Here are 8 fiction picks that were standout stars.
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Postal traffic to U.S. drops over 80% after trade exemption rule ends, U.N. agency says
The de minimis rule that allowed small packages worth less than $800 to be exempt from tariffs ended on Aug. 29. -
This is what could happen to a child who doesn't get vaccinated
An estimated 14 million kids don't get any vaccines. They face serious threats from measles, diarrhea, pneumonia and more. -
Estate of Jeffrey Epstein gives Congress 'birthday book' allegedly signed by Trump
Democrats on the House Oversight Committee said the book included a tawdry drawing and note that appeared to include President Trump's signature. Trump had previously denied its existence. -
Cracks in the U.S. economy: Job growth slows 75% from a year ago
The U.S. job market showed more signs of weakness Friday, as the Labor Department reported just 22,000 jobs added in August. Revised figures show the economy lost jobs in June, for the first time since the pandemic winter of 2020. -
Why the medical community is thrilled by U.S. support for a 'breakthrough' HIV drug
Lenacapavir has the potential to end the HIV epidemic, researchers say. The Trump administration says backing this kind of effort will be a model for how it does global health work in the future. -
Senators from both parties grilled RFK Jr. on vaccines and more
In a blistering hearing, Senators from both parties challenged the health secretary to defend his actions, including on vaccines access and CDC leadership. -
Maine residents hold a party to toast with their future neighbors... at the cemetery
In Weld, Maine, anyone who owns a plot at the Mountain View Cemetery is invited to a yearly gathering at the undertaker's home -- a chance to "get to know who you'll spend eternity with," locals say. -
PBS cuts 15% of jobs in wake of federal funding cut
After Congress clawed back public media funding, PBS says it's cutting 15% of its staff, or more than 100 jobs.
