If you think nonfiction books are boring, think again. They’re not all books about wars or ancient history (though there are plenty of fascinating books on both of those topics, too). You can explore the world by living vicariously through the most talented travel writers. Or read about real-life spies who put James Bond to shame. You can even dive deep into the world of Old Hollywood gossip queens, or channel your inner animal lover and become an expert on birds. The options are literally endless—pick a topic that you’ve always wanted to know more about, and someone has surely written a book about it.
From deep dives on pivotal moments to sweeping world history to American history to the history of the last madam in New Orleans; from biographies of the world's most fascinating figures to poignant memoirs; from self-help to DIY to cookbooks and more, the vast world of nonfiction writing truly has something for everyone. So go ahead—save that novel for another day, and give a nonfiction book a chance.
With eight days of celebration, you're going to need a couple of gift ideas...
By Olivia Mason
The ability to understand a child’s imagination is just one of the reasons why the A Wrinkle in Time author’s work has stood the test of time.
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of her groundbreaking book, Crawford talks about abuse, what she hopes readers take away from her story, and new projects on which she’s focused.
The acclaimed author of A Country Year and A Book of Bees has passed away at 83.
The author of Band of Brothers explores the parallel lives of two formidable 19th-century warriors.
Go up, up, and away into the far reaches of the universe.
By Olivia Mason
Discover the books behind the hit show on PBS Masterpiece.
Set against the backdrop of the Great War, these novels confront love and loss during an unfathomable time.
These artists laid the foundation for their craft and led incredibly fascinating lives.
Learn more about this political leader in Antonia Felix’s new book, Elizabeth Warren: Her Fight. Her Work. Her Life.
Read an excerpt from this music legend’s biography.
The legendary author's sci-fi works were political and realistic, sometimes prescient—and always entertaining.
Take a crash course in the page-to-screen history of George R.R. Martin's hit series.
The 1967 piece on San Francisco hippies is included in the critically-acclaimed collection of the same name.
By Olivia Mason
Historians, journalists, and bestselling novelists explore the conflict that led to the birth of an independent nation.
These books cover everything from tech knowledge to tapping into your creative side.
Through her writing, the feminist icon shares the wisdom she's gained from decades of activism.
The author of Woman on the Edge of Time was way ahead of her own.
Boy, have we got a story for you.
By Allison Wild