Alta Journal’s California Bestsellers List (November 6, 2025)
The weekly ranking of California's most popular books features outstanding works by both veteran and debut authors. Based on data provided by the California Independent Booksellers Alliance, Alta Journal highlights the bestselling titles across Northern and Southern California for the week ending November 2, 2025.
Top Fiction and Nonfiction Titles
- Twice by Mitch Albom
- The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
- The Black Wolf by Louise Penny
These titles capture readers’ attention with emotional storytelling, intricate plots, and memorable characters.
Spotlight on Journalist-Authors
Former journalists make a strong showing this week. In Kingmaker, British reporter Sonia Purnell paints a vivid portrait of activist and socialite Pamela Harriman.
“Best known for being Winston Churchill’s daughter-in-law, Harriman was also a shrewd diplomat and an ambitious woman,” writes Purnell.
Through this biography, Purnell emphasizes Harriman’s influence both in politics and in society.
Cameron Crowe’s Memoir
Music writer and filmmaker Cameron Crowe returns to his roots with his memoir The Uncool. The work reflects on his upbringing in Palm Springs and chronicles his days touring with legendary musicians like Bob Dylan and Led Zeppelin.
“The Uncool” serves as a personal exploration of the creative spirit that inspired the film Almost Famous.
About the Contributor
Elizabeth Casillas, assistant editor at Alta Journal and graduate of California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, previously contributed to The Poly Post and Enspire Magazine.
Source: California Independent Booksellers Alliance
Author’s Summary
This week’s California bestsellers list celebrates dynamic storytelling, highlighting authors who merge journalism, biography, and memoir into captivating literary voices.