2025 Reading List: Ivanka Trump Shares Which Books ‘Shaped’ Her Year

Ivanka Trump gave the public a glimpse into her intellectual world this week by sharing the books that “shaped” her 2025. The former White House adviser posted a curated list spanning fiction, philosophy, history, and spirituality—offering insight into the mindset that’s guided her throughout the year.

“Each one shifted my perspective, some softly, others profoundly,” Trump wrote. “Some I return to again and again, not just for insight, but for alignment.” Her message was paired with a photo of her reading, striking a more reflective tone than the typical social media fare.

Among the standout titles was The Women by Kristin Hannah, a novel she praised for restoring “women to the center of history” and reminding readers that “some of the bravest acts of service happen quietly.” She also included The Odyssey by Homer, noting that she rereads classics her children are assigned in school and is currently exploring it with her daughter Arabella.

Trump’s list reflects a balance between ancient wisdom and modern mindfulness. Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act made the cut, which she called “a meditation on perceiving the world as art in motion.” She also highlighted The Choice by Dr. Edith Eva Eger, calling it “proof that even in darkness, freedom is an inner decision.”

Other selections focused on timeless themes of discipline, personal development, and civilizational insight. Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach, The Almanack of Naval Ravikant by Eric Jorgenson, and The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell all appeared on the list.

She described The Lessons of History by Will and Ariel Durant as “a distillation of human civilization” and praised A History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russell as “an intellectual pilgrimage.” Trump also included The Pursuit of Happiness by Jeffrey Rosen, which she said was “especially resonant as we approach America’s 250th anniversary.”

Rounding out the list was Toward a Meaningful Life by Simon Jacobson, a title that emphasized purpose “not in ambition, but in faith and service.”

Trump closed the post by mentioning a few favorites she keeps on her nightstand year-round, including Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, Stillness Speaks by Eckhart Tolle, The Essential Rumi, and A Poem for Every Night of the Year.

She ended with a request to her followers: “As I begin my reading list for the year ahead, I’d love to hear your recommendations!”