The Greatest "Nonfiction" Books Since 1980

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

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.

Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
Follow on:

Genres

Nonfiction

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Date Range

Filter

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

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
  1. 151. Personal History by Katharine Graham

    "Personal History" is an autobiography of a woman who inherited a media empire, The Washington Post, following her husband's suicide. The book explores her journey from a privileged yet sheltered upbringing to leading one of the most influential newspapers in the United States. It provides an intimate look into her personal life, including her struggles with self-confidence and her role in the coverage of significant historical events such as the Pentagon Papers and the Watergate scandal.

    The 3637th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 152. Second World War by John Keegan

    "Second World War" is a comprehensive account of the global conflict that took place from 1939 to 1945. The book offers a detailed examination of the political, military, and social aspects of the war, from the rise of Hitler and the attack on Pearl Harbor, to the Holocaust and the dropping of the atomic bomb. The author provides an in-depth analysis of the strategies and tactics used by the major powers, and presents a vivid picture of the human cost of the war. The book also includes a variety of maps and photographs to help illustrate the events and locations discussed.

    The 3639th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 153. Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand

    This book is a gripping true story of a WWII veteran, who was an Olympic runner before the war. His plane crashes in the Pacific during a reconnaissance mission, and he survives for 47 days on a raft, only to be captured by the Japanese Navy and sent to a series of brutal prisoner of war camps. Despite the immense suffering, he remains unbroken, maintaining his dignity and hope, and eventually finds redemption after the war.

    The 3645th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 154. E=Mc2 by David Bodanis

    The book provides a layperson-friendly explanation of the world's most famous equation, delving into the history, science, and people behind its development. It explores the biographies of the scientists who contributed to our understanding of energy and mass, including the equation's originator, and the practical and philosophical implications of the equation's assertion that energy and mass are interchangeable. The narrative also discusses the equation's role in the development of atomic energy and its impact on modern physics, offering an accessible journey through the annals of scientific thought and the revolutionizing discoveries that shape our understanding of the universe.

    The 3664th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 155. English Society In The Eighteenth Century by Roy Porter

    This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the social landscape of 18th-century England, delving into the diverse aspects of daily life and the remarkable transformations that characterized the era. It examines the intricate fabric of English society, from the lives of the aristocracy to the conditions of the poor, and how the age was shaped by factors such as urbanization, commercialization, and the Enlightenment. The narrative captures the contrasts and contradictions of the period, revealing how advancements in education, culture, and industry coexisted with persistent inequality and social strife, painting a vivid picture of a dynamic and evolving society.

    The 3690th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 156. Last Train to Memphis by Peter Guralnick

    "Last Train to Memphis" chronicles the early life and rise to fame of a young musician from Tupelo, Mississippi. It details his humble beginnings, his love for gospel music, and his eventual rise to stardom as a rock 'n' roll icon. The book also explores his complex relationships, his military service, and his struggle with fame, providing a comprehensive and intimate look at a cultural icon's journey to stardom.

    The 3706th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 157. Centesimus Annus by Pope John Paul II

    "Centesimus Annus" is a papal encyclical where the Pope explores and reaffirms the Catholic Church's teachings on social and economic issues. It was written on the hundredth anniversary of "Rerum Novarum," an earlier encyclical addressing issues of labor and the economy. The document discusses the dangers of both socialism and capitalism, and emphasizes the importance of a moral and ethical approach to economics, one that respects human dignity and prioritizes the common good above personal gain.

    The 3707th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 158. Voices from Chernobyl by Svetlana Alexievich

    This book is a haunting collection of personal accounts about the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl in 1986. The author has meticulously gathered and woven together interviews from survivors, including former workers of the plant, residents, and soldiers. Each narrative reveals the physical and psychological impact of the disaster on individual lives, creating a deeply moving oral history of an event that has had profound consequences on the people of Belarus and Ukraine.

    The 3740th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 159. The Russian Revolution by Richard Pipes

    "The Russian Revolution" offers a comprehensive and detailed account of the events leading up to, during, and following the Russian Revolution of 1917. The author presents a thorough exploration of the socio-political climate of the time, the key figures involved, and the profound impact the revolution had on Russia and the wider world. The book also delves into the ideologies that fueled the revolution, the subsequent rise of the Soviet Union, and the enduring influence of these events on global history.

    The 3749th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 160. Life is a Carawanserai Has Two Doors I Went in One I Came out the Other by Emine Sevgi Özdamar

    This novel follows the life of a young Turkish girl growing up in the 1950s and 60s, exploring her experiences in a rapidly changing society. The protagonist navigates the complexities of her family life, her struggle with her identity and her eventual emigration to Germany. The book explores themes of female empowerment, cultural clashes, and the immigrant experience, all told through a unique narrative style that blends reality with dreams and folktales.

    The 3757th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 161. Killing The Black Body by Dorothy E. Roberts

    This book is a critical examination of the ways in which the reproductive rights of African American women have been controlled and violated throughout American history. It delves into the intersection of race, gender, and class, revealing how black women's bodies have been subjected to coercive policies and practices, from the era of slavery to contemporary issues of forced sterilization and unequal access to reproductive healthcare. The work challenges readers to confront the systemic racism embedded in America's reproductive policies and to recognize the ongoing struggle for autonomy and justice faced by black women in the realm of reproductive freedom.

    The 3769th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 162. Brother, I'm Dying by Edwidge Danticat

    "Brother, I'm Dying" is a memoir that explores the author's life growing up in Haiti, her immigration to the United States, and the lives of her father and uncle. The story delves into her father's struggle with illness in America, her uncle's experience as a pastor in Haiti during political turmoil, and his subsequent death in U.S. immigration custody. The book serves as a poignant exploration of family, immigration, love, and loss.

    The 3790th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 163. The Andy Warhol Diaries by Andy Warhol

    This book offers an intimate glimpse into the complex life of a seminal figure in the pop art movement, chronicling his experiences over the last decade of his life. Through its pages, readers are privy to the author's candid thoughts and observations about the art world, his personal relationships, and his own celebrity status. The diary entries are filled with anecdotes involving other cultural icons, musings on the nature of fame, and reflections on the creative process. This compilation provides a unique look at the day-to-day existence of an artist who was as enigmatic as he was influential, revealing the man behind the public persona.

    The 4018th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 164. Out Of The Fire by Ales Adamovich, Yanka Bryl, Vladimir Kolesnik

    "Out Of The Fire" is a powerful collection of stories that vividly depict the horrors and resilience of the human spirit during World War II. Through the eyes of various characters, the book explores the devastating impact of war on individuals and communities, capturing their struggles, sacrifices, and moments of hope amidst the chaos. With hauntingly beautiful prose, the authors bring to life the unimaginable atrocities of the war, reminding us of the importance of remembrance and the enduring strength of the human soul.

    The 4026th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 165. The Glenn Gould Reader by Glenn Gould

    "The Glenn Gould Reader" is a compilation of writings by a renowned Canadian pianist, known for his unique and insightful perspectives on music and culture. This collection offers a window into the artist's mind, featuring a diverse range of essays, articles, reviews, and interviews that explore his philosophies on performance, the intricacies of musical interpretation, and the role of technology in the arts. His articulate and often provocative commentary extends beyond classical music to touch upon a variety of subjects, reflecting his broad intellectual interests and distinctive voice in the world of music and beyond.

    The 4035th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 166. Great Heart by James West Davidson, John Rugge

    "Great Heart" is a riveting historical account of the 1903 expedition across Labrador, one of the most inhospitable regions in North America. The book details the journey of four men and their struggle for survival against the harsh elements. The narrative is enriched with the explorers' own words, taken from their journals, giving readers an intimate look into their extraordinary adventure. The book is a testament to the human spirit and the will to survive, even in the face of insurmountable odds.

    The 4060th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 167. A Short History Of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson

    This book is a comprehensive exploration of scientific knowledge, covering a wide range of topics from the Big Bang to the rise of civilization. The author aims to understand how we got from nothing at all to where we are now, exploring subjects such as geology, chemistry, paleontology, astronomy, and particle physics. The book also delves into the lives of the scientists behind the discoveries, making the complex concepts accessible to the average reader.

    The 4064th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 168. Behind the Beautiful Forevers: Life, Death, and Hope in a Mumbai Undercity by Katherine Boo

    This book is a gripping narrative that provides an in-depth look into the lives of residents in a Mumbai slum, focusing on their struggles and aspirations. The author paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of poverty, corruption, and inequality, while also highlighting the resilience and hope of the inhabitants. The narrative is a powerful exploration of the complexities of modern India, revealing the stark contrast between the country's booming economy and the grim living conditions of its underprivileged citizens.

    The 4092nd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 169. Praying for Sheetrock by Melissa Fay Greene

    "Praying for Sheetrock" is a non-fiction narrative that tells the story of racial tension and civil rights struggles in a small coastal town in Georgia during the 1970s. It focuses on the experiences of the African American community who, led by a charismatic shrimp boat worker, stand up against the corruption and racial discrimination perpetrated by the town's white sheriff and his deputies. The book provides an intimate portrayal of the town's residents, their hardships, and their fight for justice and equality.

    The 4100th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 170. Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi

    The book is a memoir that takes place in Iran from 1979 to 1997, during the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. The story focuses on a professor who secretly gathers seven of her most committed female students to read forbidden Western literature in her home. As they read and discuss works by authors such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Jane Austen, and Vladimir Nabokov, they explore their personal dreams and the losses they suffered due to the political, social, and cultural climate of the time.

    The 4109th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 171. Man Made Language by Dale Spender

    The book in question explores the concept that language is not a neutral medium of communication but rather a man-made construct that reflects and perpetuates the patriarchal structure of society. It argues that the way language is used and structured inherently privileges male perspectives and marginalizes women, influencing perceptions and reinforcing gender inequalities. Through a critical examination of linguistic practices, the text challenges readers to recognize the biases embedded in everyday language and consider the implications these have on women's experiences and the broader social power dynamics.

    The 4113th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 172. Portrait Of An Artist: A Biography Of Georgia O'keeffe by Laurie Lisle

    This biography provides an in-depth look at the life and career of a pioneering American artist known for her distinctive paintings of flowers, skyscrapers, and southwestern landscapes. It delves into her personal journey, exploring her relationships, her struggles for artistic independence, and her role in the American modernist movement. The book paints a vivid picture of a fiercely independent and spirited woman who broke boundaries in both her art and her life, offering readers a comprehensive view of her creative evolution and the impact she had on the art world.

    The 4113th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 173. 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
  24. 174. Spheres Of Justice by Michael Walzer

    "Spheres of Justice" presents a theory of justice based on the concept of complex equality, arguing against a single, overarching principle for justice across all societal domains. Instead, it posits that different spheres of society—such as the market, politics, education, and family—each have their own distinct forms of social goods and require separate sets of distributive principles. The book challenges the idea of a dominant currency, like money or power, being allowed to dictate outcomes across different spheres, advocating for a pluralistic approach that respects the unique distributive patterns and criteria of justice within each sphere, thereby preventing the dominance of any one sphere over the others and ensuring a more equitable society.

    The 4119th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 175. Nations And Nationalism by Ernest Gellner

    This book presents a theoretical exploration of the concept of nationalism, the social conditions fostering it, and its role in the modern world. The author argues that nationalism is a product of industrial society, which necessitates a homogenous culture for communication and a centralized education system to sustain the industrial and economic structure. The work critically examines the origins and implications of nationalism, suggesting that it is not an ancient phenomenon but rather a relatively recent one that arises when a society transitions from agrarian to industrial. The author contends that nationalism serves to align the political and national unit, without necessarily corresponding to pre-existing ethnic or cultural identities, and is a political principle that holds that the political and the national unit should be congruent.

    The 4119th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

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