On February 19th, Estonia revealed the winners of the competitions for the '25 Most Beautiful Books' and '5 Most Beautiful Children's Books' for 2025. A record number of publishers participated this year, with the selection of books showcasing bold uses of materials that push the boundaries of traditional book design. Members of the public have the opportunity to vote for their favorite books until March 19th.

A total of 214 books were submitted for these competitions, marking the largest number of entries in the past decade. Karel Korp, chairman of the jury for the 25 Most Beautiful Books, emphasized the continuous innovation in Estonian book design and print quality. He noted that designers have a remarkable ability to evoke admiration and surprise in their audience, often incorporating clever hidden details that delight readers upon discovery.

Among the emerging trends in book design are softcover bindings that feature thin fabric overlays and fluorescent colors on their covers, creating a unique glow-in-the-dark effect. Meanwhile, Pamela Samel, chairperson of the jury for the five most beautiful children's books, remarked on the uncompromising quality of both the content and design in children's literature. She expressed joy over the evident attentiveness to design in children's books, showcasing the dedication to fostering creativity in young readers.