Alta Journal’s California Bestsellers List (November 6, 2025)
This week’s top-selling books at independent bookstores in Northern and Southern California include Twice by Mitch Albom, The God of the Woods by Liz Moore, and The Black Wolf by Louise Penny. The list, reported by the California Independent Booksellers Alliance, reflects sales for the week ending November 2, 2025.
Notable Authors Featured on This Week’s List
Journalists who have transitioned into authorship stand out in this week’s selections. In Kingmaker, British reporter Sonia Purnell explores the complex life of political activist and socialite Pamela Harriman. Known primarily as Winston Churchill’s daughter-in-law, Harriman is revealed as a skilled diplomat and driven figure through Purnell’s detailed biography.
Meanwhile, music writer and filmmaker Cameron Crowe shares his memoir, The Uncool. The story behind the 2000 film Almost Famous, Crowe reminisces about his childhood in Palm Springs and his experiences touring with iconic musicians such as Bob Dylan and Led Zeppelin.
Additional Information
For more titles and categories, refer to the California Independent Booksellers Alliance.
“This week’s bestselling titles include Twice by Mitch Albom, The God of the Woods by Liz Moore, and The Black Wolf by Louise Penny.”
“In Kingmaker, British reporter Sonia Purnell depicts the nuanced life of political activist and socialite Pamela Harriman.”
“The inspiration behind the 2000 film Almost Famous, Crowe recounts his childhood in Palm Springs and adventures touring with legendary artists.”
About the Editor
Elizabeth Casillas is an assistant editor at Alta Journal. She graduated from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and has written for the Poly Post and Enspire Magazine.
Summary: Alta Journal highlights bestselling independent bookstore titles featuring compelling biographies and memoirs by journalists-turned-authors, showcasing rich stories of politics and music.