For some readers, real life is much more compelling than fiction, and real people are far more interesting than any character an author could dream up. If you're one of those readers, then biographies, autobiographies and memoirs are for you.
The types of true stories are endless—there are romantic memoirs and tragic memoirs. There are short, essay-length memoirs that give you just a taste of an author’s writing. Perhaps you’re interested in a travel memoir that will make you feel as though you’ve walked the same steps as the writer, or you’re an American history buff looking for a bucket list of biographies on every American president. You could read a first-hand account from a former slave who became a dressmaker for Mary Todd Lincoln, or immerse yourself in Ruth Gruber’s own account of how she helped 1000 refugees find asylum.
From biographies of politicians, business leaders, artists and celebrities, to memoirs that tell unforgettable true stories with unflinching honesty, these are the books that let you fully step into someone else's shoes.
Powerful stories from those who have been there.
Add some nonfiction to your TBR list.
By Orrin Grey
If you can dream it, you can do it.
There’s no arguing with the NYT list.
“By writing to Richard and addressing him in the second person present, I felt close to him again. Through those words he is once again alive.”
Celebrities are just like us…sort of.
By Orrin Grey
Everything comes with a price.
“I dare do all that may become a man; Who dares do more, is none.” —Shakespeare
“A person is a fool to become a writer. His only compensation is absolute freedom.” —Roald Dahl
Meet the men and women behind the curtain.
By Orrin Grey
From catty, low-class writers to the dirty dogs of the elite, society is a zoo.
By Orrin Grey
Read an excerpt from Iris Apfel’s memoir that is just as authentic and vivacious as she was.
"I have no intention of being a footnote in someone else’s life.” —Martha Gellhorn, on her relationship with Ernest Hemingway
These directors are excellent storytellers, in any medium.
Stoic philosophy is not just for ancient philosophers.
These picks are definitely “read by the fireplace” worthy.
Introduce your kids to real heroes.
By Orrin Grey
The controversial Christian author defied categorization.
Go beyond the headlines.