The Greatest "Nonfiction, Autobiography, History, Biography" 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.

History

The category of "History" in books refers to the study and interpretation of past events, societies, and cultures. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including political, social, economic, and cultural developments, as well as the lives of individuals and groups who have shaped the course of history. History books can be written from various perspectives and may focus on specific time periods, regions, or themes. They aim to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

Biography

Biography is a genre of literature that focuses on the life story of a person, typically a historical figure or a celebrity. It provides a detailed account of the subject's life, including their upbringing, achievements, struggles, and personal relationships. Biographies can be written in various formats, including memoirs, autobiographies, and third-person narratives. This category of books offers readers an opportunity to gain insight into the lives of notable individuals and their impact on society.

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  1. 1. Night by Elie Wiesel

    This book is a memoir of the author's experiences during the Holocaust, specifically in the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps. The narrative focuses on the relationship between a father and son under the most extreme circumstances, the loss of faith in God, humanity, and in each other, and the horrifying reality of the systematic genocide of six million Jews during World War II. The book is a poignant and stark examination of the depths of human evil and the enduring power of hope and survival.

    The 635th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang

    This book is a biographical account of three generations of women in China, spanning the years 1909 to 1991. The narrative follows the lives of the author's grandmother, a warlord's concubine; her mother, a high-ranking official in the Communist Party; and the author herself, who grew up during the Cultural Revolution before moving to the West. The book presents a vivid portrayal of the political and social changes in China during the 20th century, as seen through the eyes of these three women.

    The 1023rd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. A Time Of Gifts by Patrick Leigh Fermor

    The book is a vivid memoir that chronicles the adventures of a young man as he embarks on a remarkable journey on foot across Europe in the 1930s. Starting from the Hook of Holland, he traverses through landscapes and cities, encountering a diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and historical remnants. Along the way, he is welcomed by a variety of individuals, from aristocrats to peasants, who enrich his experience with their stories and hospitality. His travels provide not only a physical journey through the continent but also a journey through time, as he reflects on the complexities of Europe's past and the ominous shadows cast by the approaching Second World War.

    The 1119th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Long Walk To Freedom by Nelson Mandela

    "Long Walk to Freedom" is a powerful autobiography that chronicles the extraordinary life of Nelson Mandela. From his humble beginnings in a rural village to becoming the first black president of South Africa, Mandela's journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Through his personal experiences, he provides a vivid account of the struggle against apartheid, his 27 years of imprisonment, and the eventual triumph of democracy. This book serves as an inspiring testament to Mandela's unwavering spirit and his lifelong fight for freedom and human rights.

    The 1252nd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Witness by Whittaker Chambers

    "Witness" is a gripping autobiography that chronicles the author's life as a Communist party member, his espionage activities for the Soviet Union, and his eventual renunciation of communism. The book also details his role as the key witness in the 1948 Alger Hiss trial, a high-profile case that had a major impact on American politics during the Cold War. The narrative explores themes of ideology, betrayal, and redemption, and provides a unique perspective on the ideological battles of the 20th century.

    The 1751st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

    This striking narrative non-fiction tells the real-life story of a young man who turns his back on society to live in the Alaskan wilderness. Despite a privileged background and a promising future, he donates his savings to charity, abandons his car and most of his possessions, and embarks on a journey into the wild. His solitary existence in the wild, his struggles for survival, and his untimely death provide a profound exploration of the allure of wilderness and the human yearning for solitude and self-discovery.

    The 1811th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Hell's Angels by Hunter S. Thompson

    This book provides an immersive exploration of the infamous motorcycle gang, the Hell's Angels, as seen through the eyes of a journalist who spent a year living and riding with them. The narrative delves into the lifestyle, mindset, and public perception of these notorious figures, offering a raw and unfiltered look into their world. It also examines the wider cultural context of the 1960s, including societal anxieties and the counterculture movement, and how these factors intersect with the Hell's Angels' existence.

    The 1878th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. All But My Life by Gerda Weissmann Klein

    "All But My Life" is a poignant memoir of a young woman's six-year ordeal as a victim of Nazi cruelty. The narrative follows her life from a peaceful, upper-middle-class childhood in Bielitz, Poland, through her horrifying experiences and loss during the Holocaust, to her miraculous survival and marriage to an American soldier. It is a story of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of hope.

    The 2690th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. My Forbidden Face by Latifa

    The book is a powerful autobiographical account of a young woman's life under the repressive Taliban regime in Afghanistan. It provides an intimate look at the brutal conditions women had to endure, including the denial of basic human rights, education, and healthcare. The author's courage and resilience shine through as she secretly documents the atrocities and injustices, providing a unique perspective on this dark period in Afghanistan's history.

    The 2887th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Good Company by Frances Partridge

    "Good Company" is a reflective memoir that offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a central figure within the Bloomsbury Group, an influential circle of intellectuals and artists in early 20th-century England. The book weaves personal anecdotes, diary entries, and letters to paint a vivid portrait of the author's friendships, loves, and the cultural milieu in which she lived. It provides an honest and often poignant exploration of the author's relationships with key literary and artistic figures of the time, their shared experiences during the tumultuous years of the World Wars, and the enduring impact of these relationships on her life and work. The memoir stands as a testament to the power of intellectual companionship and the profound influence of community on individual creativity.

    The 3264th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Guests Of The Sheik by Elizabeth Warnock Fernea

    The book is an autobiographical account of a young American woman's experience living in a small Iraqi village in the late 1950s. As the wife of an anthropologist, she immerses herself in the local culture, particularly the lives of the women, navigating the complexities of gender roles, traditions, and the veil. The narrative offers an intimate glimpse into the domestic lives, social customs, and familial bonds of the villagers, while also reflecting on the author's own cultural assumptions and the process of cross-cultural understanding. Through her journey, the author gains a deeper appreciation for the community's way of life and confronts the challenges of being an outsider in a tightly-knit society.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Crusade For Justice by Ida B. Wells

    "Crusade for Justice" is an autobiography that chronicles the life and work of a pioneering African American journalist and activist who bravely led an anti-lynching crusade in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book details her personal experiences with racial discrimination and her tireless efforts to document and fight against the injustices faced by African Americans. Her narrative provides a powerful insight into the civil rights struggles of her time and her unwavering commitment to justice and equality, making her one of the most significant figures in American social reform.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Hannah Senesh by Hannah Senesh

    This book is a collection of the diaries, letters, and poems of a young Jewish woman who emigrated from Hungary to Palestine in the 1930s, driven by her Zionist beliefs. She joined the Haganah and later volunteered for a daring military operation to parachute into Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II, with the aim of aiding Allied forces and rescuing Hungarian Jews from the Holocaust. Her writings reflect her courage, literary talent, and the depth of her commitment to her cause. Tragically captured, tortured, and eventually executed by the Nazis, she became an enduring symbol of bravery and sacrifice in the face of tyranny.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Proud Shoes by Pauli Murray

    "Proud Shoes" is a poignant memoir that chronicles the complex history of an African American family through the lens of the author's own lineage. The narrative delves into the lives of the author's grandparents, delving into the antebellum South, the impact of the Civil War, and the enduring legacy of slavery and racial discrimination. The book weaves personal stories with broader historical events, offering a rich tapestry of resilience, struggle, and the quest for racial equality. It is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the author's quest to understand and honor her ancestors' experiences and the social forces that shaped their lives.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Walls: Resisting The Third Reich by Hiltgunt Zassenhaus

    "Walls: Resisting The Third Reich" is a powerful memoir of courage and defiance, recounting the experiences of a young German woman during World War II who risked her life to oppose the Nazi regime. Working as an interpreter in the German courts, she secretly aided Scandinavian prisoners of war, passing along messages and providing them with hope and support. Her clandestine activities, carried out under the constant threat of discovery and execution, showcase the profound bravery and moral conviction required to resist oppression from within the very heart of a totalitarian state. The narrative not only captures the personal struggle against tyranny but also serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for resistance and solidarity in the face of overwhelming adversity.

    The 3462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Women Of The Shadows by Ann Cornelisen

    "Women of the Shadows" is a poignant exploration of the lives of five Italian women in the impoverished region of southern Italy during the mid-20th century. The book delves into the personal narratives of these women, revealing the harsh realities and societal expectations they face. Through intimate portraits, the author uncovers the strength and resilience of these women as they navigate a world of limited opportunities, traditional gender roles, and the struggle for self-determination. The work serves as both a testament to the enduring spirit of these individuals and a critique of the cultural and economic conditions that shape their lives.

    The 3695th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Ghana: The Autobiography Of Kwame Nkrumah by Kwame Nkrumah

    This autobiography tells the story of Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana and a key figure in the country's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Nkrumah recounts his early life, his education abroad, and his political journey, providing insights into his vision for a united and prosperous Africa. He reflects on the challenges faced during his presidency, including the economic and political obstacles that hindered Ghana's progress. Overall, this book offers a personal account of Nkrumah's life and the pivotal role he played in shaping Ghana's history.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Memoirs by Raymond Aron

    The book in question is an intellectual autobiography by a prominent French philosopher and sociologist, chronicling his life from his early years through the tumultuous events of the 20th century. It delves into his experiences during World War II, his observations on the Cold War, and his relationships with other notable intellectuals of his time. The author reflects on his philosophical and political evolution, offering insights into his analytical approach to history, politics, and society. His memoirs serve as a window into the mind of a thinker deeply engaged with the ideological and historical challenges of his era, providing a personal perspective on the broader intellectual currents that shaped the modern world.

    The 4119th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. The Roots Of Ticasuk by Ticasuk Brown

    "The Roots of Ticasuk" is an autobiographical work that delves into the rich cultural heritage and personal history of an Alaskan Native educator. The book provides an intimate look at the author's upbringing, traditions, and the wisdom of her people, offering insights into the indigenous ways of knowing and living in harmony with the land. Through her narrative, the author shares her experiences growing up in a remote community, her educational journey, and her dedication to preserving and teaching her native language and culture, highlighting the importance of identity and the resilience of her community in the face of change and modernization.

    The 4358th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Cash by Johnny Cash

    This autobiography provides an intimate look into the life of one of country music's most iconic figures, chronicling his journey from a humble upbringing in rural Arkansas to international superstardom. The book candidly explores his struggles with addiction, his experiences with the highs and lows of fame, and his deep spirituality. It also delves into his relationships with family, friends, and fellow musicians, offering personal anecdotes and reflections on a life filled with both triumphs and tribulations. Through his own words, the narrative captures the essence of a man who faced his demons, found redemption, and left an indelible mark on the world of music.

    The 4495th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Womenfolks: Growing Up Down South by Shirley Abbott

    This book is a heartfelt memoir that delves into the complexities of Southern womanhood, family, and tradition through the lens of the author's personal experiences growing up in Arkansas during the mid-20th century. It paints a vivid portrait of the cultural and social landscape of the American South, exploring themes of identity, gender roles, and the powerful influence of matriarchal figures. The narrative weaves together stories of the author's ancestors with her own coming-of-age tale, offering a poignant reflection on the bonds of family and the enduring legacy of Southern women.

    The 4506th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. I Have Lived a Thousand Years by Livia Bitton-Jackson

    This memoir tells the harrowing story of a 13-year-old Jewish girl's survival during the Holocaust. The narrative follows her life from her quiet existence in Hungary through the horrors of Auschwitz and other concentration camps, and finally to her liberation and the struggle to rebuild her life in the aftermath of such trauma. The memoir is a powerful testament to human resilience and the will to survive against all odds.

    The 4773rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Falling Leaves by Adeline Yen Mah

    "Falling Leaves" is a heartbreaking autobiography that recounts the life of a young girl who grows up in a wealthy but abusive family in 20th century China. Despite being the daughter of a prosperous businessman, she is treated as an outcast and blamed for her mother's death, who died shortly after her birth. The story portrays her struggle for acceptance and love within her family, her journey through the cultural revolution in China, and her eventual success as a physician in the U.S. It's a poignant exploration of the themes of familial bonds, resilience, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

    The 4777th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Getting Home Alive by Aurora Levins Morales and Rosario Morales

    "Getting Home Alive" is a poignant collection of stories and poems that weave together the experiences of a mother and daughter, reflecting on their rich Puerto Rican heritage, their lives in the United States, and the intersection of their personal and political struggles. The work delves into themes of feminism, identity, colonialism, and social justice, offering a raw and intimate exploration of what it means to navigate the complexities of culture, family, and survival. Through a tapestry of vivid narratives and lyrical reflections, the book captures the resilience and determination of two women bound by blood and their shared journey toward empowerment and belonging.

    The 4787th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Pride Of Family by Carole Ione

    "Pride of Family" is a non-fiction work that delves into the rich and complex history of an African American family across four generations, from the antebellum era through the civil rights movement. The narrative weaves together personal memoir, historical documentation, and oral testimony to explore the lives of both free and enslaved ancestors, revealing the intricate social fabric of black life in America. The author embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unearthing stories of resilience, dignity, and survival, while confronting the legacies of slavery and racial identity. This book is a testament to the endurance of family bonds and cultural heritage amidst the challenges posed by a society deeply scarred by racial divisions.

    The 4969th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download