Unlike fiction, where imagination shapes the story, nonfiction anchors us in truth. There is something surreal about reading nonfiction — the realization that those stories, as shocking or remarkable or heartbreaking as they may be, actually happened. Each genre, whether it’s a memoir, self-help book, or historical nonfiction, connects us to real people and events that shape our world. They invite us to the truth, something we didn’t see or know about beforehand. Real events, real people, and real lessons all told for you. Learn why nonfiction genres matter, and discover a few captivating books that bring each one to life.
Trigger Warning: Some of the books included in this article address sensitive topics, including trauma, abuse, grief, mental health struggles, and death. Please focus on your well-being as you read.
Biographies
Biographies not only provide insight into the real experiences of extraordinary people based on extensive research, but they also include a variety of practical lessons by exploring their values, choices, and character. We gain insight into how eminent people handled conflict and made important decisions that ultimately led to their success. Biographies encourage self-awareness through someone else’s experiences, situations, and limitations. If you are looking for your next great biography or hoping to begin exploring the genre, here are two notable reads I highly recommend.
Beyond the Keys by Jeeyoon Kim
Part biography, part concert, and part inspriational motivator, this book by pianist Jeeyoon Kim will open our world to the riches that life has to offer. The journey this compelling read takes you on will open your world to the beauty within the hardships of your life. Accompanied by original artwork and soul touching solo piano perfomances, the 52 stories that make up Kim’s book will leave you with a sense of wonder and peace.
Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
I’m sure we all know about Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple. That’s all I honestly knew about him before reading Walter Isaacson’s biography titled Steve Jobs. After conducting a series of interviews with Jobs — as well as communicating with his family, friends, rivals, and colleagues — Isaacson presents a full portrait of Jobs’ life and legacy. He does not romanticize Jobs; instead, he portrays him with honesty, capturing both his brilliance and flaws. Both his accomplishments and persona are discussed, revealing him to be one of the world’s greatest and inscrutable entrepreneurs.
This book is extremely fascinating in the way it exposes Steve Jobs’ character, something not many people know about. Walter Isaacson does a fantastic job of highlighting Jobs’ success, flaws, and oddities. It also serves as an inspiration and reminder for readers that the pursuit of excellence requires risk and perseverance.
The Last Train to Memphis by Peter Guralnick
The Last Train to Memphis by Peter Guralnick is an in-depth, compelling look at the life of Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock and Roll.” Based on hundreds of interviews and almost a decade of research, Guralnick masterfully presents the evolution of Elvis and his impact on the music industry. He doesn’t just chronicle fame; he uncovers the story behind the legend, exploring how Elvis’s passion, vulnerability, and ambition ultimately transformed an era of music that still resonates today.
It’s more than a story of fame; it walks us through Elvis Presley’s passion for music, affection for his family, and relationships with friends, girlfriends, mentors, etc. Guralnick frequently includes Presley’s own words and recollections from others who knew him best, which adds a raw authenticity to the biography. Elvis Presley was a revolutionary individual, and his story is worth exploring.
Autobiographies
Similar to biographies, autobiographies provide insight into a person’s life, but with the added intimacy of hearing the story in their own words, making their journey feel immediate and personal. They offer thoughts, feelings, and motivations when recounting triumphs and challenges, allowing readers to connect with the human experience on a deeper level. Autobiographies are an essential part of nonfiction reading that give a first-hand account of the authors’ lives and experiences. Check out a few that will keep you intrigued the entire time you read.
Spare by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex
Billions of people worried about Prince Harry after the death of his mother and were intently curious about the impact it had on his life. In 2024, he shared his story in the release of his autobiography, Spare. In it, Prince Harry candidly addresses the grief, loneliness, and anger he experienced from childhood to adulthood. Spotlight was something he strongly struggled with, constantly being watched and criticized. And when he married Meghan, the scrutiny intensified, which further shaped his perspective. He found the only way to prevent it was to flee his country.
After many narratives being formed about his character and life choices, Prince Harry’s autobiography tells his own truth, shutting down speculation and giving readers a raw look at his experiences. His story reminds us that we will never know someone’s entire story from a strictly outside perspective. That there’s a deeper truth behind everyone and their story. This is the perfect book to read if you want to understand the person behind their public image.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a modern American classic autobiography that shares her journey of adversity to self-discovery, touching the hearts of generations of readers. From a young age, she faces abandonment, prejudice, and abuse — experiences that leave a lasting mark. Years later, Maya learns self-love, draws strength from her resilience, and finds hope through the kindness of others. She decides not to let her past define her anymore, finally allowing herself to be happy and free.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is one every single person needs to read. I’ll be forever grateful that it was required to read in one of my college classes, because it truly does have a lasting impact. The fact that it’s a true story makes it all the more inspiring. No matter what your life looks like, Angelou’s journey reminds you of the power of hope and diligence.
Memoirs
A memoir is about a pivotal time period or theme in one’s life, focusing on personal experience and lessons learned rather than their entire life story. Feelings and assumptions are crucial to the story. Compared to an autobiography, there is more flexibility with memoirs. The events in them are still factual, but the author tells the story as they remember it and the impact it had on them. As a lover of memoirs, take a look at two noteworthy ones, guaranteed to captivate and enlighten.
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
In When Breath Becomes Air, Paul Kalanithi is forced to confront the question of “what makes life worth living in the face of death,” after being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. One day, he was a neurosurgeon treating patients; the next, he became the patient. And everything he imagined for his life vanished. While fighting cancer, Kalanithi reflects on the challenges and confronts his own mortality. In March 2015, he died while working on the book, but his words live on.
Paul Kalanithi’s memoir provides a unique perspective on life and death. It’s not just about illness; it’s about what makes life worth living. When Breath Becomes Air encourages readers to reflect on their own lives, priorities, and relationships that matter most. It’s a beautifully written, deeply personal story with a valuable lesson and lasting impact for readers.
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
The hilarious and talented star of iCarly, Jennette McCurdy, shares the painful truth behind her childhood fame and the complicated relationship with her mother in her memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died. With honesty and humor, she reveals the pressures of early stardom and her mother’s control over her career, body, and emotions. McCurdy struggled with mental and physical health issues in the midst of trying to meet everyone’s expectations at the expense of her happiness and well-being. It’s a story of survival, but more importantly, it’s about growth; she finds the strength to transform her pain into power and reclaim her voice.
This is more than just a celebrity memoir; it’s about the pain she endured as a person. Her willingness to be vulnerable and share her darkest moments makes her story both heartbreaking and inspiring. I’m Glad My Mom Died is a beautiful story about healing and growth, something that everyone can benefit from.
Personal Essays
Like memoirs, personal essays draw from real experiences, but they differ in how those experiences are explored. They focus on one single moment, idea, or realization, being more reflective rather than narrative-driven. In them, we learn what happened and why it mattered. Personal Essays are often short but incredibly powerful due to their honesty, clarity, and emotional truth. Check out these impactful collections of personal essays.
Talking as Fast as I Can by Lauren Graham
The witty, quirky, and energetic star of Gilmore Girls we all know and love, Lauren Graham, shares her collection of personal essays, Talking as Fast as I Can. She addresses specific topics like her time on the Gilmore Girls set, her experiences as a woman, and her journey as a writer. It’s an honest, funny, and insightful look at her journey navigating fame, pressures, and self-discovery.
Graham’s personal essays are both relatable and inspiring for anyone trying to balance ambition and self-discovery. She talks about starting from the bottom, like the rest of us, and her journey to the top. Graham also includes pictures and excerpts from her diary kept during filming, which helps it feel more personal and intimate when reading. If you’re a fan of the infamous Lorelai Gilmore, you will love this inside look into her life and experiences from behind the scenes.
Bad Feminist by Roxanne Gay
Bad Feminist is a culmination of funny and perceptive essays by Roxanne Gay, examining everything from her evolution as a woman to culture. She challenges readers to think critically while also embracing modern life. Her book helps female readers feel less alone and understand feminism in our society. It inspires both critical thinking and meaningful action. Gay highlights the changes that need to be made individually and collectively.
The essays within Bad Feminist are a compelling invitation to confront personal and societal issues. It both challenges and empowers, making it essential to read for anyone to engage thoughtfully with the world around them. If that’s you, this book is perfect for you!
Historical Nonfiction
Historical nonfiction brings the past to life, shedding light on people, events, and decisions that helped shape the world we live in today. Unlike history textbooks, they go beyond dates and facts, uncovering the stories and emotions behind them. History needs to be remembered, and historical nonfiction makes learning about it easier and infinitely more fascinating. Explore these two standout reads that exemplify the power of this genre, and learn more about history!
Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann
Killers of the Flower Moon tells the story of the Osage Nation in Oklahoma, the wealthiest people per capita in the world during the 1920s. After the oil was discovered, they lived lavishly. One by one, the Osage began to get killed off. Grann exposes this dark part of history through meticulous research and brilliant storytelling. He not only reveals the crimes alone, but also the problem of justice, power, and the impact of these events on the Osage community.
This piece of historical nonfiction is an essential read that forces readers to learn of the injustices that have shaped our society. It helps us remember the past and learn from those past mistakes. Read Killers of the Flower Moon for a powerful, eye-opening exploration of a dark chapter in American history.
The Radium Girls by Kate Moore
The Radium Girls by Kate Moore tells the gripping story of the young women who worked with radium-laced paint in the early 20th century, which led to tragic health problems. Moore emphasizes their courage, resilience, and determination as they fought for justice. She brings to the surface this forgotten chapter and heroines who deserve to be heard and remembered.
Moore sheds light on these ordinary people who spark a remarkable change. It’s a blend of a historical account and a tribute. As you read this book, you will be in awe of their spirit and legacy.
Self-Help
The self-help genre is an essential part of nonfiction because it inspires readers to reflect, grow, and heal. They can help people navigate challenges, understand themselves on a deeper level, and build valuable skills. Their goal is to encourage meaningful changes by pushing for self-awareness and personal responsibility. Take a look at two beneficial self-help books that promote personal growth.
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle takes readers on a personal spiritual journey to find their most authentic self. Tolle emphasizes the mind as the biggest enemy, a crucial understanding if you want to live in the present moment fully. Mindfulness, inner peace, and deeper awareness require letting go of past regrets and future anxieties. Through advice, insight, and exercise, The Power of Now helps readers break free from negative thought patterns.
It’s truly a life-changing read for anyone struggling to experience life with clarity and calm. It shows how focusing on the “now” can improve both perspective and well-being. If you’re interested in the enlightenment of the mind, go ahead and read The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Another practical, highly influential self-help book is Atomic Habits by James Clear. It explores how consistent changes can lead to personal growth and success. Clear breaks down habit formation, explaining to readers how to create good habits and break bad ones. He includes strategies, examples, and frameworks that make the challenge feel more realistic and attainable. It equips readers to make improvements to any area of life.
This book encourages readers to take control of their behaviors and reach meaningful goals, proving that tiny changes can have a lasting, rewarding impact. For anyone looking to get rid of bad habits and create new, better ones, this book will help you achieve those goals.
From biographies and memoirs to historical accounts, self-help books, and personal essays, all of these books offer insight, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the world and ourselves. Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoyed it. Make sure to check out some of these fantastic reads!
Looking for more books like these? Check out our Nonfiction Titles for the Enlightened Mind page!
Discover some new, powerful nonfiction releases here!
