The Greatest American "Nonfiction" Books Since 2000

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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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  1. 51. Scar Tissue by Anthony Kiedis

    "Scar Tissue" is an autobiography that delves into the tumultuous life and career of a rock band's lead singer, chronicling his journey from a rebellious childhood in Hollywood to international fame. The book candidly explores his struggles with addiction, relationships, and the challenges of the music industry, while also recounting the formation and success of his band. It offers an intimate look at the author's personal demons, his quest for creativity, and the redemptive power of music, all set against the backdrop of the evolving rock scene.

    The 5384th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. Just Kids by Patti Smith

    "Just Kids" is a poignant memoir that explores the journey of two friends in New York City during the late 1960s and 70s. The book delves into their dreams, struggles, and successes as they navigate their way through the city's vibrant art and music scene. It's a tale of love, friendship, and the pursuit of artistic inspiration, providing a raw and intimate look into their lives as they strive to make a name for themselves in the world of art and music.

    The 5385th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. The Rest is Noise by Alex Ross

    "The Rest is Noise" is a comprehensive exploration of 20th-century classical music, examining the social, political, and cultural contexts that influenced its development. It provides a detailed study of the works of renowned composers, their inspirations, and their impact on the musical world. The book also explores the ways in which classical music has intersected with major events and movements of the 20th century, including two World Wars, the Cold War, and the rise of totalitarian regimes.

    The 5422nd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Storm-Ravaged Hospital by Sheri Fink

    The book provides an in-depth investigation into the crisis at a New Orleans hospital in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. It delves into the harrowing five days where staff, patients, and their families were trapped in the hospital without power or a functioning evacuation plan. The narrative explores the ethical dilemmas faced by the medical staff, including alleged euthanasia of critically ill patients, and the subsequent legal battles, raising profound questions about end-of-life care and disaster management.

    The 5455th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. The Passage Of Power: The Years Of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro

    "The Passage of Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson" by Robert Caro is the fourth volume in his acclaimed biography of the 36th President of the United States. This book covers the years from 1958 to 1964, including Johnson's ascent to the presidency following the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Caro explores Johnson's struggles to pass civil rights legislation, his relationship with Kennedy's family, and his efforts to establish his own presidential legacy. The book also delves into Johnson's personal life, including his marriage to Lady Bird Johnson and his health issues. Overall, "The Passage of Power" provides a comprehensive and insightful look into one of the most complex and consequential figures in American political history.

    The 5468th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

    "Wild" is a memoir that recounts a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing. After facing numerous personal tragedies and feeling lost, the author embarks on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail, a challenging 1,100-mile trek. Through her physical and emotional struggles, she finds solace in nature and learns valuable lessons about resilience, forgiveness, and embracing the unknown. This inspiring story explores themes of redemption, growth, and the power of nature to heal the human spirit.

    The 5468th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. The War Of Art by Steven Pressfield

    The book in question is a motivational guide that explores the concept of Resistance, an internal force that hinders creativity and productivity. It delves into the struggles faced by artists, writers, and anyone pursuing a creative endeavor, providing insights into how to overcome obstacles and self-doubt. The author presents a framework for battling these mental barriers by emphasizing the importance of discipline, persistence, and adopting a professional mindset. Through a series of short, reflective chapters, the book aims to inspire and equip readers with the mindset and tools necessary to defeat their inner critic and unleash their true creative potential.

    The 5472nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. The Quilts Of Gee's Bend by William Arnett, Alvia Wardlaw, Jane Livingston, John Beardsley

    This book celebrates the remarkable artistic legacy of a small, isolated African American community in Alabama, known for its unique and vibrant quilts that have been crafted by generations of women. It delves into the history, culture, and aesthetics of these quilts, which are characterized by bold patterns, improvisational designs, and a resourceful use of materials. The publication accompanies an exhibition and serves as a comprehensive examination of these works, exploring their visual affinities with modern art and their embodiment of a rich tradition of craftsmanship and creativity within the context of the American South's social and political landscape.

    The 5472nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. Zeitoun by Dave Eggers

    The book is a non-fiction account of a Syrian-American contractor named Zeitoun who decides to stay in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. Despite the chaos, he paddles around the city in a canoe, helping those he can. However, he is arrested and accused of looting, leading to a harrowing experience in prison. The narrative explores themes of family, survival, and the breakdown of civil liberties in times of crisis.

    The 5489th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. Finishing The Hat: Collected Lyrics With Attendant Comments, Principles, Heresies, ­Grudges, Whines And Anecdotes by Stephen Sondheim

    "Finishing The Hat" is a collection of Stephen Sondheim's lyrics from his illustrious career in musical theater, along with his personal commentary and insights on the creative process. Sondheim shares his principles, heresies, grudges, whines, and anecdotes, providing a unique look into the mind of one of the most celebrated composers and lyricists of our time. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the art of musical theater and the creative process behind it.

    The 5675th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. Hillbilly Elegy by J. D. Vance

    "Hillbilly Elegy" is a memoir that explores the author's personal journey from a troubled upbringing in a working-class Appalachian family to achieving success as a Yale Law School graduate. Through his own experiences, J. D. Vance delves into the challenges and complexities faced by the white working class in America, addressing issues such as poverty, addiction, and the cultural dynamics that shape their lives. This poignant and thought-provoking account offers a compassionate and insightful examination of social and economic struggles, while also reflecting on the importance of family, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

    The 5723rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson, David Oliver Relin

    The book tells the true story of a man who, after a failed attempt to climb K2, the world's second highest mountain, is taken in by the people of a small village in Pakistan. Touched by their kindness and noticing their lack of educational facilities, he promises to build them a school. The story follows his journey of fulfilling this promise, which expands into a mission to build schools, especially for girls, in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan, despite numerous challenges, including financial struggles, cultural barriers and threats from the Taliban.

    The 5739th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. Dark Money: The Hidden History Of The Billionaires Behind The Rise Of The Radical Righ by Jane Mayer

    "Dark Money" by Jane Mayer is an investigative book that delves into the secretive world of political funding by wealthy individuals and corporations. Mayer exposes the hidden history of the billionaires behind the rise of the radical right, including the Koch brothers and their network of donors. She reveals how these donors have used their enormous wealth to shape American politics and policy, pushing their own interests and agendas while undermining democracy. Mayer's book is a sobering reminder of the dangers of unchecked political influence by the ultra-wealthy.

    The 5821st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. Dress Your Family In Corduroy And Denim by David Sedaris

    This book is a collection of autobiographical essays that delve into the quirks and complexities of family life, as seen through the author's sharp and often humorous lens. The stories explore the bonds of sibling rivalry, the eccentricities of parents, and the awkwardness of childhood, all while navigating themes of identity, belonging, and the search for connection. With a mix of poignancy and wit, the author reflects on his experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family, coming to terms with his sexuality, and finding his place in the world. The essays are both deeply personal and universally relatable, showcasing the author's talent for turning the mundane into the profound.

    The 5823rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. The World Without Us by Alan Weisman

    This book is a thought-provoking exploration of what would happen to the natural and artificial world if humans suddenly disappeared. It delves into how our massive infrastructure would decay and how, over time, the Earth would heal from human impact, erasing all traces of our civilization. The author uses this premise to illustrate the lasting impact of humanity on the planet, providing a unique perspective on issues like climate change, pollution, and deforestation.

    The 5854th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. A Million Little Pieces by James Frey

    The book is a controversial memoir that details the author's intense struggle with addiction, chronicling his experiences from the depths of substance abuse to the painful path of recovery. It vividly portrays his time in a rehabilitation facility, the colorful characters he meets there, and the personal demons he battles along the way. The narrative delves into themes of redemption, the harsh realities of addiction, and the complex journey towards self-forgiveness and healing, despite later being revealed to contain fabrications and embellishments of the author's experiences.

    The 5873rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario

    "Enrique's Journey" is a poignant narrative about a young Honduran boy who embarks on a perilous journey through Central America and Mexico to reach his mother in the United States. The story, based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning newspaper series, explores the harsh realities faced by immigrants, the devastating impact of family separations, and the unyielding determination of a child in search of his mother. It offers a deeply personal and eye-opening perspective on the challenges and perils faced by undocumented immigrants.

    The 5874th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

    "Alexander Hamilton" by Ron Chernow is a comprehensive biography of one of America's founding fathers. The book chronicles Hamilton's life from his impoverished childhood in the Caribbean to his rise as a key figure in the American Revolution and his role in shaping the country's early government. Chernow delves into Hamilton's complex personality, his political and economic philosophies, and his tumultuous personal life, including his infamous affair with Maria Reynolds. The biography sheds light on Hamilton's lasting impact on American politics and economics, and his legacy as one of the most influential figures in the nation's history.

    The 5879th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. The Best We Could Do: An Illustrated Memoir by Thi Bui

    This illustrated memoir captures the story of a Vietnamese family who fled to America after the fall of South Vietnam in the 1970s. The narrative traces their journey and struggles as refugees, while also delving into the family's complex history and relationships. The author uses her own experiences as a new mother to explore themes of parenthood, identity, and the enduring effects of displacement and trauma.

    The 6086th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. American Shaolin by Matthew Polly

    The book is a captivating memoir of a young American's experience in China where he spends two years studying at the Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of kung fu. The narrative follows his journey as he immerses himself in Chinese culture, learns Mandarin, and trains with the monks, becoming the first American to be accepted as a disciple. The author's transformation, both physically and spiritually, is depicted in a humorous and insightful manner, providing a unique perspective on Eastern philosophy and martial arts.

    The 6102nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. Educated by Tara Westover

    In this memoir, a young woman recounts her journey from a sheltered and abusive childhood in a strict and isolated Idaho family to her pursuit of knowledge and education. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including her family's distrust of formal education, Tara Westover manages to escape her oppressive upbringing and eventually earns a PhD from Cambridge University. Through her compelling and thought-provoking narrative, she explores themes of identity, family, and the transformative power of education.

    The 6116th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. Lit: A Memoir by Mary Karr

    "Lit: A Memoir" is a moving and often humorous account of the author's journey through alcoholism, a failed marriage, and a struggle with faith. The author details her descent into alcoholism, her tumultuous relationship with her husband, and her eventual recovery with the help of a spiritual awakening. Throughout the narrative, the author's love for her son and her desire to give him a better life serve as a powerful motivation for her to overcome her struggles and find redemption.

    The 6124th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. The Yellow House by Sarah M. Broom

    "The Yellow House" is a memoir that tells the story of a hundred years of the author's family and their relationship to home in a neglected area of one of America's most mythologized cities, New Orleans. The narrative follows the author's journey from growing up in the titular house in New Orleans East, a largely ignored part of the city, to her pursuit of education and a career as a journalist, and her eventual return to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The book explores themes of race, poverty, and inequity in America, while also being a deeply personal exploration of family, identity, and place.

    The 6150th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron

    This book is a collection of humorous and candid essays reflecting on the struggles and joys of being a woman in the modern world. The author uses wit and honesty to discuss topics such as aging, beauty, marriage, parenting, and feminism. The book is a celebration of womanhood and a contemplation of the inevitable challenges of getting older, offering both laughter and wisdom.

    The 6227th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. On Immunity by Eula Biss

    This book delves into the cultural and ethical dimensions of vaccination, weaving personal narrative with scientific research to explore society's fears and myths surrounding immunity. The author examines the history and science of vaccination, addressing public skepticism and the complex issues of risk and responsibility in a community. Through a thoughtful investigation, the book challenges readers to consider the implications of our interconnectedness in the face of health crises and the moral obligations we share in protecting not only ourselves but also the most vulnerable among us. It is a compelling blend of literature, medicine, and philosophy that invites a deeper understanding of what it means to be immune.

    The 6253rd 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