Best Nonfiction Book Recommendations

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.

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10 Unforgettable Vietnam War Books

Go beyond Ken Burns' documentary and discover the landmark memoirs and bestselling novels of the Vietnam War.

A Bunny's Tale: Gloria Steinem's Shocking Exposé That Challenged Hugh Hefner's Playboy Empire

In “Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions” the journalist shares lessons from her brief stint as a Playboy bunny.

First Trailer for Annihilation Promises to Blow Our Minds

The adaptation of Jeff Vandermeer's sci-fi horror novel looks just as chilling and thought-provoking as its source material.

Battle of the Sexes: The Real Story Behind the Billie Jean King vs. Bobby Riggs Tennis Match Up 

In "Game, Set, and Match," sportswriter Herbert Warren Wind tells the story of how this famous tennis match came to be.

"Villainous Perfidy": Benedict Arnold's Betrayal of George Washington

"Washington: The Indispensable Man" examines the character of the first President of the United States, and how the treachery of a man who he considered to be an ally shaped his future.

8 Books That Explore the History of World Religions

Discover the history behind the religions that have shaped humanity.

New TV Show Will Explore Julia Child's Time as a Spy

ABC’s “Julia” will draw from the chef’s experiences at a World War II-era intelligence agency.

10 Touching Memoirs for Fans of The Glass Castle

Dysfunctional families and unconventional upbringings were the norm for these authors.

Portrait of an Icon: 8 Books About Marilyn Monroe

We reflect on the actress' troubled but extraordinary life.

A Wrinkle in Time Trailer is a Visual Feast

Watch the first trailer for the upcoming adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s time travel classic.

10 Books on Tyrion Lannister's Reading List

"A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone."

Secrets and Lies: 7 True Crime Books About Cases with Shocking Twists

The body was discovered … and then the truth was revealed.

Have iPhone, Will Cook: How Digital Cookbooks Are Finally Breaking Through

The appeal of e-cookbooks, plus recommendations to get you started!

Food for the Soul: 10 Best Culinary Memoirs

Feast on these delicious and inspiring reads.

8 Revealing Books About Richard Nixon and the Watergate Scandal

Trump isn't the first president to stir up a storm of controversy.

The Latest Dunkirk Trailer Packs a Serious Punch

Get inside the battle that was truly fought by a nation.

Adult Books for Fans of A Wrinkle in Time

Charlotte Jones Voiklis and Lena Roy discuss their grandmother's incredible adult novels.

6 Necessary Fiction Books About World War I

The Great War not only affected the relationships between countries—it also left a mark on literature.

Inspiring Nonfiction Books About Nature and Animals

Celebrate the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees.