The Greatest "Nonfiction, Autobiography" Books Since 1950

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Nonfiction

Autobiography

Autobiography is a literary genre that focuses on the life story of the author. It is a first-person account of the author's experiences, thoughts, and emotions, often including significant events and milestones that have shaped their life. Autobiographies can be written by anyone, from famous public figures to ordinary people, and can cover a wide range of topics, including personal growth, career achievements, struggles, and relationships. This genre provides readers with a unique insight into the author's life and perspective, making it a popular and engaging category of books.

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  1. 501. Bossypants by Tina Fey

    This book is a humorous autobiography that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the author's journey from a nerdy, awkward childhood to becoming a successful comedian and writer on one of television's most iconic shows. Through a series of witty essays, the author shares her thoughts on beauty, feminism, and the entertainment industry, while also recounting hilarious anecdotes from her personal and professional life. Known for its sharp wit and insightful commentary, the book not only entertains but also provides a candid perspective on the challenges and triumphs of a woman navigating the male-dominated world of comedy.

    The 10918th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 502. Those Guys Have All The Fun by James Andrew Miller

    This book provides an in-depth oral history of one of the most influential sports broadcasting networks, chronicling its rise from a risky venture into a dominant media empire. Through a compilation of interviews with its founders, executives, journalists, and athletes, the narrative reveals the behind-the-scenes struggles, triumphs, and scandals that shaped the network. It offers readers a comprehensive look at the personalities, business decisions, and cultural shifts that contributed to the network's success, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of sports, media, and American culture.

    The 10918th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 503. Swimming Studies by Leanne Shapton

    This memoir offers a unique and introspective look into the world of competitive swimming and how it shapes one's identity and life beyond the pool. The author, a former Olympic trial swimmer, uses her experiences in the water to explore broader themes of discipline, memory, and the passage of time. Through a blend of personal narrative, vivid watercolor illustrations, and photographs, the book delves into the minutiae of swimming - from the smell of chlorine to the textures of different pools - and how these sensory experiences and the rigorous demands of training have influenced her artistic career and personal growth. It's a reflective and beautifully crafted exploration of the intersection between athleticism and artistry, and how past passions can continue to influence and inform our lives in unexpected ways.

    The 10930th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 504. Slow Getting Up by Nate Jackson

    This book offers an unvarnished glimpse into the life of a professional football player, far removed from the glamor and glory often associated with the NFL. Through the lens of his own career, the author reveals the physical and emotional toll the sport takes on those who play it. Chronicling his journey from a young hopeful to a seasoned veteran, he shares the highs of winning, the lows of injury, and the reality of what it means to dedicate one's life to football. The narrative delves into the challenges of staying in peak physical condition, the culture of pain management, and the personal sacrifices made by players. It's a candid and often poignant exploration of the human side of professional sports, offering readers a deeper understanding of the complexities and demands faced by those who live the game.

    The 10949th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 505. Whipping Girl by Julia Serano

    In this thought-provoking work, the author explores the intersection of feminism and trans issues through a collection of personal essays. She delves into societal perceptions of femininity and critiques the way trans women are often marginalized, even within feminist circles. The book argues against the common conflation of gender and biological sex, and it challenges the stigma associated with femininity. It's a call to embrace diverse expressions of gender and to recognize the impact of transmisogyny on both trans individuals and society at large. The author's insights are grounded in her experiences as a trans woman, making it an influential contribution to gender studies and feminist discourse.

    The 11019th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 506. Redefining Realness by Janet Mock

    This book is a powerful and candid memoir that charts the journey of a trans woman growing up in America. It delves into her experiences of developing self-awareness, grappling with her gender identity, and navigating the challenges of transitioning, all while confronting the multilayered difficulties posed by society's expectations and norms. The narrative provides an intimate look into the life of someone who has battled with the complexities of identity, love, and acceptance, ultimately emerging as a strong advocate for the trans community and offering an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

    The 11057th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 507. My Body by Emily Ratajkowski

    The book is a candid memoir and essay collection where the author reflects on feminism, sexuality, and the commodification of the female body within the entertainment industry and society at large. Through personal anecdotes and critical analysis, the author explores her experiences as a model and actress, dissecting the power dynamics and exploitation that often underlie the surface glamour. The narrative delves into themes of consent, body image, and the complex relationship between self-empowerment and the objectification inherent in her line of work. The book serves as both an intimate autobiography and a thought-provoking critique of contemporary culture's obsession with female beauty and the cost it exacts on women's lives.

    The 11096th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 508. Memoirs by George Frost Kennan

    This memoir offers an intimate look into the life and career of a prominent American diplomat and historian, known for his significant role in shaping US foreign policy during the Cold War. The book provides a detailed account of his experiences in various diplomatic posts, his influence in developing the policy of containment against the Soviet Union, his views on nuclear weapons, and his critique of American foreign policy. It also shares personal reflections on his family, education, and personal life, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of his life and work.

    The 11117th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 509. Fortunate Son: The Autobiography of Lewis B. Puller Jr. by Lewis B. Puller

    This autobiography chronicles the life of Lewis B. Puller Jr., a decorated Marine who served in the Vietnam War. The narrative explores his experiences in the war, the severe injuries he sustained that led to the amputation of his legs, and his subsequent struggles with depression and alcoholism. Despite these challenges, Puller displays resilience and determination, eventually becoming a successful lawyer and advocate for veterans' rights. His story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

    The 11274th Greatest Book of All Time

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